Credit: @steph_ann_ee on Instagram

There’s no shortage of picturesque Finger Lakes views to pair with your total solar eclipse experience on April 8, 2024. Witness this once-in-a-lifetime event from the sandy shores of Lake Ontario, at multi-day magical eclipse celebrations, alongside a 96-foot Rochester High Falls, and more. Start planning now! Here are some of the Finger Lakes’ best viewing spots to get totally ready for the total solar eclipse.

Rochester Museum and Science Center 

Eclipse viewing glasses on the lawn in front of the RMSCCredit: @rocsolareclipse on Instagram

Plan for a four-day eclipse-filled weekend with the Rochester Museum and Science Center’s ROC The Eclipse festival. This vibrant event is expecting several thousands of visitors each day and will feature live speakers, hands-on activities, music, food, and more. While you’re in the area why not explore the museum itself? Indulge your curiosity with more than 200 hands-on exhibits, spectacular live science shows and programs at the museum or travel through the universe under the 65-foot dome theater of the Strasenburgh Planetarium. More exciting information regarding the ROC The Eclipse Festival and related events will be released as the date approaches. 

Rochester’s High Falls

Rochester's High Falls surrounded by the city at sunsetCredit: @bg_imaging on Instagram

Admire the eclipse alongside the roaring waters of the tallest waterfall on the Genesee River. On any normal day, High Falls is a spectacular and unique view - where else can you see a 96-foot waterfall amid a bustling cityscape? But when April 8, 2024 rolls around, this already wonderful view will get that much better. Exceptional angles of the falls can be seen from the Pont de Rennes bridge, the overlook in High Falls Terrace Park, or the rooftop of one of the largest and oldest continually operating breweries in America, the Genesee Brew House. The 9,200-square-foot former century-old packaging center also features interactive exhibits, historical artifacts, a pilot brewery and tasting room, and pub-style restaurant to explore after the celestial event.      

Sodus Point Beach Park

White lighthouse completely surrounded by the Sodus Bay and Lake OntarioCredit: @maxphotographix on Instagram

Witness this celestial phenomenon from the sandy beaches of Sodus Point Beach Park alongside the mingling waters of the peaceful Sodus Bay and the spirited coast of Lake Ontario. You won’t have any trouble finding a great spot on the 1,150-foot pier with views of the original 140-year-old Sodus Point Lighthouse and Lighthouse Museum to the west, the magnificent Chimney Bluffs to the east, and the Sodus Outer Lighthouse straight ahead. Pack a lunch or grab a bite to eat from one of the village’s restaurants and settle into one of the pavilions, or explore the local shops and businesses while you’re in the area. Admission to Sodus Point Beach Park is free. 

Fair Haven Beach State Park

Orange sunset reflecting over the Lake Ontario watersCredit: @steph_ann_ee on Instagram

Enjoy the eclipse from 1,500 feet of sandy beaches at one of the finest public lakefronts on the eastern shoreline of Lake Ontario. Immerse yourself among dramatic shoreline bluffs, hilly woodlands, and endless scenic views for this historic event. Make a weekend out of the cosmic display and book a few nights at the campground! There's tons to explore like hiking and biking trails, picnic areas, a ball field, an 18 hole golf course, and more. Choose from 29 cabins, one cottage, and tons of campsites nestled among the gentle rolling woodlands that can be booked now at ReserveAmerica.com. Admission to Fair Haven Beach State Park is $9 per vehicle.

Letchworth State Park

A colorful hot air balloon flies over a waterfall at Letchworth State Park
CREDIT: @KRYPTONIST ON INSTAGRAM

What better place to watch the eclipse than from the “Grand Canyon of the East”? Spectacular views can be found year-round throughout the 14,000-acre park, which means you’re bound to find a stunning spot to view the total solar eclipse. Admire totality alongside one of the three magnificent waterfalls, named upper, middle, and lower falls, or on a hike through 66 miles of scenic trails. The best part is if you’re not a hiker, various scenic views can be accessible by bike or car throughout the park. Make it an eclipse weekend and stay at one of Letchworth's 19 cabins and cottages, which can be booked now at ReserveAmerica.com. The Glen Iris Inn is also located on-site and provides a unique viewing experience next to Middle Falls where it might even get a little misty. Check website for booking information. 

Green Lakes State Park

Forests surrounds the turquoise waters of Seneca Lake sparkling in the sunCredit: @dennis.inbliss on Instagram

Admire the wonder of the eclipse alongside the geological and biological wonders of two deep glacial pothole lakes. Green Lakes State Park is filled with 2,100 acres of forested hiking trails, a sandy public beach with swimming access in the summer, seven cabins, 137 campsites, a playground, an 18-hole golf course (opens mid-April), and the famous Crystal Kayak rentals with glass bottoms (available to rent on weekends from mid-May until early-October). The park’s focal points are the two green lakes which were carved out of bedrock by glacial-melt waterfalls, making them very deep (195 feet!). Because of this, the lakes have a still, mirror-like appearance, revealing ancient plant and animal life and creating an amazing photo and viewing spot. 

Seneca Lake State Park

Orange and purple sunset over Seneca LakeCredit: @steph_ann_ee on Instagram

A relaxing eclipse viewing experience awaits overlooking the blue waters of the largest of the Finger Lakes. You’re sure to find a great spot in 141-acre park located on the northern end of Seneca Lake. Stroll alongside the lake for an unobstructed view of the beautiful blue waters and wide open skies or pack a lunch and settle in at one of the many picnic tables throughout the park. Plan to stick around after the celestial event for an unforgettable sunset over the lake.  

You can also view the Eclipse at these spots:

Visit Total Solar Eclipse 2024 in Finger Lakes, Rochester Eclipse 2024, LivCo Sol: 2024 Total Solar Eclipse, Explore Steuben: Experience the Solar Eclipse, and Eclipse Geneva to stay up to date on the latest events, deals, and other eclipse offerings in the Finger Lakes.