April’s total solar eclipse is shaping up to be one of the years biggest events, and Chicagos museums and attractions offer plenty of opportunities to watch the rare astronomical phenomenon.

The Chicago area will experience around 94% totality on Monday, April 8, 2024. A total solar eclipse won’t happen again in the U.S. for 20 years, so don’t miss the opportunity to experience the eclipse for yourself! Just make sure to always look at the eclipse safely with eclipse viewers. 

Check out the Chicago institutions hosting watch parties, including local museums and the oldest planetarium in the Western Hemisphere. 

In this articleWhere can I watch the eclipse in Chicago?When is the next solar eclipse in Chicago?What time is the solar eclipse in Chicago?Where can I watch the eclipse in Chicago?There are plenty of ways to experience the upcoming solar eclipse in Chicago, with viewing parties and exciting watch events across the city. Check out a few local events perfect for families, space aficionados, and anyone curious about this unique celestial event.

Pullman National Historical Park: Park rangers and a NASA ambassador will be available to answer all your eclipse-related questions at this free viewing party in Pullman. Guests can see the eclipse through a solar filter telescope and enjoy themed snacks, interactive activities, and more. Children will be able to earn their Junior Ranger eclipse badge. A limited number of eclipse glasses will be available.

The DuSable Black History Museum: Head to Washington Park to attend the solar eclipse viewing event at The DuSable Black History Museum, with hands-on activities, eclipse viewing glasses, and opportunities to view the eclipse through a telescope. 

Adler Planetarium: Located on Chicago’s lakefront, the historic Adler Planetarium will be hosting an eclipse watch party for the public. This free outdoor event will include safe solar viewing through telescopes, free solar viewers, photo opps, and more. Afterward, get your tickets to explore space exhibits inside the museum. 

Museum of Science and Industry: Come view this amazing scientific spectacle at one of the world’s largest science museums. The Museum of Science and Industry will offer visitors a chance to view the eclipse through solar telescopes, watch a NASA livestream with a NASA ambassador, and take part in family-friendly activities. The eclipse event is included with your museum admission.

City Cruises Chicago: See the eclipse from out on the water with this unforgettable afternoon cruise on Lake Michigan. Enjoy a chef-prepared buffet, admire the city views, and take advantage of unobstructed views of the eclipse. City Cruises will also offer a BYOB Seadog cruise for those looking for a no-frills experience. Eclipse glasses will be provided.

The museum will also be hosting satellite viewing locations at Millennium Park, the Michigan Avenue Bridge, and Oak Street Beach.

Museum of Science and IndustryWhen is the next solar eclipse in Chicago?The next solar eclipse in Chicago will be on Monday, April 8, 2024. The eclipse in Chicago will be a partial solar eclipse with around 94% totality. 

After April 2024, the next total solar eclipse visible in the U.S. will happen in August 2044. 

What time is the solar eclipse in Chicago?Chicago will experience a partial eclipse from 12:51 p.m. to 3:22 p.m., reaching peak totality (around 94%) at 2:07 p.m.