Across Illinois, preparations are in full swing to welcome the throngs of visitors expected for the total solar eclipse on April 8th.
The southern part of the state will be in the path of totality, and various government departments are working together to guarantee a safe and unforgettable experience for eclipse observers.
“For those who want to experience the magic of a total solar eclipse, come to Illinois,� said Governor JB Pritzker. “My administration is diligently working to ensure that spectators safely experience this celestial event, while supporting southern Illinois� local economy.�
Nicknamed the "Eclipse Crossroads of America," the ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Illinois region will experience totality for nearly double the duration of 2017, where the sun will be completely covered for an impressive 4 minutes and 9 seconds on April 8.
To celebrate this astronomical event, packed with educational activities and fun events.
The festivities culminate in a public viewing at the university's football stadium on April 8, along with other activities.
With such a lengthy eclipse and exciting events, the weekend is expected to draw thousands of visitors to the region.
“We are glad to offer four days of festivities, education and research leading up to the eclipse, and we are proud to partner with NASA EDGE and Adler Planetarium on Eclipse Day for an unforgettable experience at Saluki Stadium,� SIU Carbondale Chancellor Austin A. Lane said. “This is an exciting time for SIU Carbondale and the community.�
"The solar eclipse is an incredible opportunity for Illinois to welcome visitors from across the Midwest and beyond, allowing them to discover the natural beauty of southern Illinois," Daniel Thomas, Deputy Director of the Illinois Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity, Office of Tourism said. "We recommend visitors arrive early to enjoy the weekend leading up to the eclipse and?experience the many new hotel options in the area including the many outdoor activities, including hiking, biking, rock climbing, horseback riding, ziplining and embrace a real change of pace during this rare event."
The Illinois Department of Transportation anticipates increased traffic volume on rural roads and highways in southern Illinois, as well as on interstates and major highways leading to and from Chicago, St. Louis, and other cities, following the eclipse.
“Illinois is once again proud to lay out the welcome mat for some of the best viewing in the world for the upcoming eclipse, but we need your help if you are making special plans and traveling,� said Illinois Transportation Secretary Omer Osman. “Traffic will be congested, with more much more activity in areas where people are congregating. Give yourself plenty of extra time and exercise special caution if you’re behind the wheel. We are proud to do our part at IDOT in creating another safe, memorable event.�
“The Illinois State Police, working with our local law enforcement partners and other state agencies, is ready to assist the public during this unique phenomenon,� said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “We encourage people traveling to the area to plan ahead, be prepared for traffic congestion, and be patient when driving.�
Hitting the road during the eclipse? Here's what to remember:
- Keep moving:ÌýDon't stop on roads, bridges, or rest area ramps. Park in designated areas only.
- Watch for pedestrians:ÌýExpect more people on foot, so be extra cautious.
- Eyes on the road:ÌýFocus on driving, not the eclipse. No photos or special glasses while behind the wheel.
- Stay prepared:ÌýHave a charged phone, full gas tank, and water on hand.
- Spread out the crowds:ÌýArrive early, enjoy the eclipse, and leave a bit later to avoid peak traffic.
“The Illinois State Police, working with our local law enforcement partners and other state agencies, is ready to assist the public during this unique phenomenon,� said ISP Director Brendan F. Kelly. “We encourage people traveling to the area to plan ahead, be prepared for traffic congestion, and be patient when driving.�
Over 30 Illinois parks and wildlife areas will be directly in the eclipse's path, with dozens more offering fantastic views nearby.
“Illinois state parks are among the premier public spaces to view the eclipse in Illinois. There is no better place than a state park to be at one with nature and enjoy this rare celestial event,� said Natalie Phelps Finnie, director of the Illinois Department of Natural Resources. “I want to invite visitors to camp at our beautiful parks, view the eclipse, and make plans to stay an extra day or two to explore the many outstanding restaurants, attractions, and scenic views southern Illinois has to offer.�
Illinois state park campgrounds still have availability for the eclipse. However, some popular locations like Giant City, Ferne Clyffe, and Fort Massac State Parks have been booked for a while.
A few parks will offer first-come, first-served camping on the day of the eclipse.
For availability and reservations, you can visit or call 866-716-6550.
Park camping fees are minimal, and there's no additional charge for park entry at any Illinois state park.
Several resources are available to help plan your trip to southern Illinois for the eclipse. Both the Illinois Office of Tourism and the Illinois Department of Natural Resources have websites with information for visitors, including frequently asked questions, a map of the eclipse path, viewing times at state parks, and suggestions for other activities and attractions in the region.
To help manage traffic flow, visitors are encouraged to consider extending their stay in southern Illinois. This allows for a more relaxed experience and provides additional time to explore the many sights, activities, and restaurants the area has to offer. The ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓýmost Illinois Tourism Bureau can assist with finding lodging and planning your itinerary.
“Visitors are welcome across Shawnee Forest country and the southern Illinois region for this awesome event. There won’t be another chance quite like this in the United States for 20 years, so people should take advantage of this rare opportunity,â€� Carol Hoffman with the ¾ÅÓÎÌåÓýmost Illinois Tourism Bureau said. “In addition to fun activities in Carbondale, there are watch parties and opportunities for quiet viewing across the region.â€�
The (IDPH) wants everyone to enjoy the solar eclipse safely. Here's what you need to know:
- Protecting your eyes is crucial. Looking directly at the sun, even during an eclipse, can cause serious eye damage. Regular sunglasses, regardless of darkness, are not safe. To view the eclipse directly, use that meet the .
- offers a safe alternative view. Turn away from the sun and look at its shadow on the ground. You can create this shadow with a hole punched in an index card, objects with small holes like a colander, or even your interlaced fingers.
- Prepare for potential delays. IDPH recommends keeping food, water, and any necessary medications in your car in case of heavy traffic.
- Medical care will be accessible. A map of hospitals, urgent care facilities, and other medical providers in the eclipse area will be available on the IDPH website by mid-March.
“It is important that Illinoisans experience the unique experience of this solar eclipse safely and carefully,� said IDPH Director Dr. Sameer Vohra. “Planning ahead and knowing where to turn for help in an emergency can ensure an enjoyable experience for everyone involved.�
¾ÅÓÎÌåÓý Illinois' spring turkey season kicks off on April 8, the same day as the total solar eclipse.
This means both public land turkey hunters and eclipse watchers will be sharing the state parks that day.
For Turkey Hunters: Be aware of potentially larger crowds than usual. If needed, consider scouting and hunting in more remote, designated areas of the park. Remember, mushroom hunting is only allowed after 1:00 p.m. in these areas.
For Eclipse Watchers: Leave no trace! Pack out all trash and use designated garbage cans, or bring your own bags for easy disposal. Campers take extra care to leave campsites tidy and free of litter. Remember, designated campsites exist for a reason � use them and avoid setting up makeshift camps in other areas. This includes parking � stick to designated parking spots to avoid getting stuck.
Illinois state parks offer amazing hiking trails, but please enjoy them responsibly by staying on designated paths. Finally, be aware that some parks, especially those in the path of totality, may have limited or no cell service or Wi-Fi. Consider printing maps and driving directions beforehand.
