Experience the Eclipse in Missouri
April 8, 2024
A Cosmic Show in the
Show-Me State
Missouri’s dark night skies attract stargazers from across the country. But astronomy and space enthusiasts will be treated to a unique daytime experience on April 8, 2024. The moon will cross in front of the sun and cast a shadow along a narrow band of the Earth, transforming what would be a bright spring day into a soft, ethereal darkness.
While solar eclipses happen routinely throughout the year, a total solar eclipse is more rare, as the moon has to be the perfect distance from the Earth in its elliptical orbit to completely block out the main body of the sun. A partial solar eclipse will be visible through a wide part of North America, but the sun will be completely hidden in a narrow track, called the path of totality, which will run through southern Missouri.
Visitors are encouraged to download the MoDOT Traveler Information Map to stay aware of road conditions and traffic leading up to, during, and after eclipse-related activities.
Beautiful, Remember Safety
People come from around the world to witness this awe-inspiring celestial sight. However, watching a solar eclipse isn’t as simple as craning your neck toward the sky. Before the moon completely obscures the sun, you should use special-purpose solar filters or eclipse glasses. The only safe time to look at the sun without a solar filter is during the short period of totality.
Ordinary sunglasses are not enough to block out the sun’s damaging light. Protect your eyes and use the proper solar filters.
Missouri is the Best Place to View the Eclipse
The Show-Me State is showing up for the eclipse. Themed events are planned in cities and towns throughout southern Missouri. If you want to enjoy totality out in nature, you’ll find the perfect viewing spot in one of the region’s many lakes, forests, fields or other natural escapes.
The Path of Totality
The moon will completely obscure the sun in this region of Missouri, an area almost 200 miles long.
ClickTap on the cities below and discover nearby events and destinations.
Perryville
Start of Partial Eclipse
12:42:03 PM CDT
Start of Total Eclipse
1:58:28 PM CDT
End of Total Eclipse
2:02:15 PM CDT
End of Partial Eclipse
3:18:40 PM CDT
Perryville Solarfest
With out-of-this-world themed activities — like hands-on science demos, balloon launches and unobstructed viewing sites — Solarfest is the perfect place to view the eclipse. The three-day festival also features live entertainment, food vendors and a hot air balloon glow.
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Nearby Parks, Forests and Conservation Areas
Cape Girardeau
Start of Partial Eclipse
12:41:55 PM CDT
Start of Total Eclipse
1:58:22 PM CDT
End of Total Eclipse
2:02:28 PM CDT
End of Partial Eclipse
3:18:55 PM CDT
Watch the Eclipse in Cape Girardeau
From art installations and live music to face painting and food trucks, there are numerous events and activities planned throughout Cape Girardeau.
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Nearby Parks, Forests and Conservation Areas
Poplar Bluff
Start of Partial Eclipse
12:39:44 PM CDT
Start of Total Eclipse
1:56:21 PM CDT
End of Total Eclipse
2:00:29 PM CDT
End of Partial Eclipse
3:17:06 PM CDT
Watch the Eclipse in Poplar Bluff
Poplar Bluff will be a eclipse viewing hot spot, close to many of Missouri’s most famous natural wonders, including springs, waterfalls and historic sites.
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Nearby Parks, Forests and Conservation Areas
West Plains
Start of Partial Eclipse
12:37:30 PM CDT
Start of Total Eclipse
1:54:34 PM CDT
End of Total Eclipse
1:57:37 PM CDT
End of Partial Eclipse
3:14:41 PM CDT
Party in the Path
Enjoy four days of festivities and celebrate this astronomical occurrence in West Plains. Duck races, a mural painting, historic tours and even a 5K run are just a few of the events happening in town, perfect for an unforgettable weekend.
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Nearby Parks, Forests and Conservation Areas
Sikeston
Start of Partial Eclipse
12:41:08 PM CDT
Start of Total Eclipse
1:58:03 PM CDT
End of Total Eclipse
2:01:34 PM CDT
End of Partial Eclipse
3:17:07 PM CDT
Total Eclipse of the Park
Sikeston is a wonderful spot for this astronomical spectacle. Visit the Sikeston Complex for a weekend filled with captivating events leading up to the awe-inspiring eclipse. Stay tuned for more information - it's an experience you won't want to miss.
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Nearby Parks, Forests and Conservation Areas
Ste. Geneviève
Start of Partial Eclipse
12:42:19 PM CDT
Start of Total Eclipse
1:58:59 PM CDT
End of Total Eclipse
2:01:43 PM CDT
End of Partial Eclipse
3:17:13 PM CDT
Watch the Eclipse in Ste. Geneviève
Witness the solar eclipse in one of the oldest European settlements west of the Mississippi River. Surrounded by wineries, natural marvels and cherished historic treasures, it’s an eclipse experience steeped in heritage and natural beauty.
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Kennett
Start of Partial Eclipse
12:39:25 PM CDT
Start of Total Eclipse
1:57:14 PM CDT
End of Total Eclipse
1:59:26 PM CDT
End of Partial Eclipse
3:16:00 PM CDT
Watch the Eclipse in Kennett
Embark on an unforgettable eclipse experience in Kennett. Surrounded by lush, fertile fields, this town promises a front-row view. Swap crowds for tranquility, indulge in local cuisine and discover agritourism delights.
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