As astrological enthusiasts around the world prepare to witness the total solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, an event that according to NASA will be the last total solar eclipse visible from the contiguous U.S. until August 2044, there's no better place to experience this spectacle than in southern Illinois. The Illinois Office of Tourism recently launched its new 2024 Illinois Solar Eclipse Guide, which includes the best places to view the eclipse, road trip ideas, and an ongoing list of events/festivals to plan your eclipse viewing experience.

Hailed as the 'Crossroads of the Eclipse,' Carbondale, a small university town nestled in the heart of southern Illinois, is set to become the ultimate destination for eclipse chasers on April 8, 2024. At 1:59 pm CST, Carbondale will be treated to 4 minutes and 9 seconds of totality, making it one of the longest durations for the eclipse across the USA.

The biggest public event will take place at Southern Illinois University in Carbondale, which is located along the center-line of the path of totality and will experience nearly double the totality time compared to the last eclipse in 2017. The SIU campus promises an unparalleled celestial spectacle with a public viewing planned at the campus football stadium with NASA Edge in attendance, making it a must-visit location for those looking to witness this rare occasion.

Discover the parts of southern Illinois beyond Carbondale that lie within the path, offering a great vantage point and a taste of the local area:

Makanda: The historic Makanda Boardwalk dates back to the 1890s and offers galleries featuring quality handicrafts created by local artisans and a country store. Make sure to visit the Giant City State Park and the Marberry Arboretum.

Garden of the Gods, Shawnee National Forest: Situated in the Shawnee National Forest, a beautiful, unspoiled wilderness, Garden of the Gods is a perfect spot for viewing astrological events.     

Shawnee Hills Wine Trail: The 11 award-winning wineries located along the 35-mile scenic drive in the Shawnee National Forest offer many unique viewing opportunities where visitors can experience locally made and sourced wine, delicious meals and other fun activities. Check here for event updates.

Bald Knob Cross in Alto Pass: Nestled in the rolling hills of the Shawnee National Forest, and close to Carbondale, Bald Knob Cross is one of the highest places in the area and offers the perfect vantage point. This is expected to be a popular viewing location, and tickets are now on sale.

Olney: The allure of small-town charisma awaits in Olney with a delightful blend of family-friendly attractions including the City Park, Miller's Grove, and more.

Golconda: This cozy town lies along the picturesque shores of the Ohio River. Among its attractions include the Golconda Historical Tour and the Main Street shopping district.

Effingham: Whether you're enjoying a farm-to-table meal at Firefly Grill, or viewing a sculpture along the avenues of downtown Effingham, it's the perfect place to unwind after the eclipse.

Marion: Marion beckons with small-town charm and big-time attractions. Explore the town's historic downtown, indulge in local cuisine, and visit the stunning Crab Orchard National Wildlife Refuge for outdoor adventures.

Take a break from driving to take in the natural beauty and star-lit skies around Illinois:

Starved Rock State Park, Utica: Expect seasonal waterfalls, awe-inspiring bluffs, and rugged canyons at Starved Rock. Starved Rock's hiking trails meander through towering trees and scenic overlooks along the Illinois River.

Pere Marquette State Park, Grafton: Offering nearly 8,000 acres of scenic beauty, Pere Marquette State Park is one of the most picturesque and beautiful locations on the Illinois River and the largest state park in Illinois.

LaRue Pine Hills, Wolf Lake: One of the most unique areas in the world. As with many places in the Shawnee National Forest, the beauty we see today is rooted in geologic history.

Middle Fork River Forest Preserve, Champaign County: Experience the night sky like never before at Illinois' only dark sky park. Stargazers will be in for a celestial treat.

If you're heading to southern Illinois from Chicago here are some stops along the way that you cannot miss!

Kaskaskia Dragon, Vandalia: Pull off the highway, drop a dragon coin into a slot labelled "Insert Token Dragon Breathes Fire" and watch the35-foot-long metal monster shoot flames from its sooty snout with a propane roar while its light bulb eyes glow red. One dollar buys you ten seconds.

Big Things Small Town, Casey: Host to a variety of larger-than-life attractions, Casey will make you feel like you've stumbled upon a suburb for giants. According to the Guinness Book of World Records, 12 of the world's largest items can be found in this compact town.

Superman Statue & Museum, Metropolis: Metropolis is the home of Superman! Take a photo with the 15-foot-tall statue of the Man of Steel. A statue of Lois Lane is also located nearby and be sure to visit the world's largest collection of Superman memorabilia at the Superman Museum.

Delve into all things space and time by visiting these planetariums and observation centres before heading to Carbondale to witness the eclipse:

Adler Planetarium: Located in Chicago, America's First Planetarium is more than a museum. It's a laboratory, a classroom, and a community exploring the universe together. The Adler offers interactive exhibitions, live planetarium shows, and Chasing Eclipse exhibits, too.

William M. Staerkel Planetarium: With a state-of-the-art digital projection system and special programs, visitors to Champaign can learn about the stars, planets and more in the second largest planetarium in Illinois.

Strickler Planetarium: Just south of Chicago in Bourbonnais, visitors can witness the history of the universe from its fiery birth to the formation of our own solar system in a full dome show.

Don't miss this opportunity to witness this rare event in southern Illinois, and to explore the best of the rest of the state along the way.

For more information about the eclipse, or to plan your trip, visit enjoyillinois.com/travel-illinois/your-2024-illinois-solar-eclipse-guide

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About the Illinois Office of Tourism:

The Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism manages industry efforts that result in sustainable and significant economic and quality-of-life benefits for Illinois residents. To learn more, visit EnjoyIllinois.co.uk

Media Contacts:
Barry Johnston barry@goshpr.co.uk / Georgia Thornton georgia@goshpr.co.uk