Where to watch the April 8 solar eclipse in Pittsburgh

If you’re fascinated by all things space, the experts agree that Dallas, Cleveland, and even Erie roughly two hours away are your best chance to see this spring’s total solar eclipse.

Still, that doesn’t mean all is lost if you plan on staying in the Steel City when April 8 arrives. Around 3:17 pm, Pittsburgh will see a 97% eclipse, and there are several ways to enjoy it.

We’ve rounded up some of your best local options below. If you know of another bar, park, museum, library or other organization hosting an event on the day of the eclipse, tell us: pittsburgh@technical.ly.

Important note: Wherever you’re viewing the eclipse, it’s important to wear eye protection. Some April 8 events will hand them out, but you can also order American Astronomical Society-approved glasses here, here, and here.

Party on a rooftop

In Downtown Pittsburgh the Kimpton Hotel Monaco Pittsburgh is hosting a viewing party that is sold out already.

Head to Space [Bar]

For $5 you can head to Market Square in Downtown Pittsburgh and attend the Space Bar’s viewing party from 2 until 4:30. Admission includes a pair of eclipse glasses, and there will be space-themed beverages on the menu.

Hop on a plane

Believe it or not, a plane is a great way to watch an eclipse. With that in mind, Southwest Airlines is promoting flights that offer the best views. If you care to travel from Dallas to Pittsburgh or Chicago to Indianapolis, these flights give you the best chance to see the eclipse in a very unique way.

Hit the Science Center

The Carnegie Science Center is hosting an all-day, family-friendly event. The morning is filled with solar eclipse-themed activities, followed by NASA programming related to the eclipse in the Buhl Planetarium, until the big moment finally arrives.

Go to the library

Several Southwestern PA libraries are hosting eclipse parties or pre-eclipse events, including the Andrew Carnegie Free Library, Springdale Free Library, Greensburg Hempfield Area Library, and the Murrysville Community Library.

Watch online

You don’t have to leave your desk to watch. NASA, timeanddate.com, and the Nationwide Eclipse Ballooning Project led by Montana State University will host live streams on platforms such as YouTube throughout the day.