On April 8, 2024, a solar eclipse will occur across North America from Mazatlan, Mexico, to Newfoundland, Canada. Called the Great American Eclipse, its totality (the phase when the moon’s disk completely covers the face of the sun) will last for four minutes, 26 seconds and cover 123.4 miles as it crosses the continent.
Right in the path of the eclipse is the city of Plano, Texas outside of Dallas (the nearby town of Southfork Ranch was the setting for the TV series “Dallas”) and it is having what it calls an “Out of this World” experience for the occasion. That includes hotel package deals and prime viewing areas. Plano also has several rooftop patios at restaurants and bars to view the spectacle with a drink in hand. For singles and fun couples, it’s going to be a party.
It is only safe to view the eclipse using special protective glasses. Visit Plano has purchased a limited supply of these glasses and is making them available free of charge while supplies last at the Visit Plano Visitor Center. City departments will also be on site at the two official Plano viewing locations distributing eclipse viewing glasses while supplies last.
Where To Watch The 2024 Solar Eclipe In Plano Texas
The City of Plano is encouraging Plano residents to view the total eclipse within their neighborhood communities. For those visiting Plano, there are two official viewing locations: Oak Point Park Nature Preserve and Windhaven Meadows Park. Eclipse viewers are encouraged to bring folding chairs, blankets, picnics and water, and are asked to dispose of their trash properly to keep Plano parks beautiful.
Where To Stay In Plano Texas For the 2024 Great American Eclipse
While eclipse lodging can be prohibitively expensive in many parts of the country, Plano hotels aim to offer reasonable prices for places to stay with special packages. Several hotels are offering up to 20% off best available rate, while others are offering rooms as low as $129 per night. Many offer an “Out of this World” package that includes commemorative eclipse glasses, memorabilia and space themed snacks. Of course, it’s best to book soon to take advantage of these savings. For a listing of all deal details and participating properties, click here.
Fun Things To Do In Plano, Texas
There are many things to do in Plano, Texas other than seeing the Great America Eclipse. For starters, there are those roofttop bars. You can also walk the brick-lined streets of Plano’s historic downtown and visit one of North Texas’ best farmers’ markets, shop sleek Legacy West, take in nature’s beauty at Oak Point Nature Preserve, enjoy cuisine including one of the top food halls in the country, or try out the newest craze – a hybrid of football and bowling at the only Texas location of The Fowling Warehouse.
Of course, you can also put on a Texas-sized cowboy hat and visit Southfork Ranch.
For more information, please see visitplano.com.
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