NEWSLETTER
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With endless waterside vistas, unobstructed skies, and so many towns and cities in the path of direct totality, plan to be in the Thousand Islands-Seaway for this cosmic phenomenon taking place on April 8, 2024. Choose from awe-inspiring lighthouses, historic battlegrounds, or vibrant celebratory atmospheres to pair with this once-in-a-lifetime experience. Here are some of the best places to view the total solar eclipse from the Thousand Islands-Seaway.
Total Eclipse of the Park at Thompson Park
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Celebrate the total solar eclipse in the direct path of totality at the historic Thompson Park in Watertown. You’re going to want to clear the whole weekend for a series of eclipse related festivities starting April 5, with the grand finale viewing event on April 8, Total Eclipse of the Park! The park itself is 574 acres and sits atop a hill that overlooks the city of Watertown which means you’ll be able to look up at a once-in-a-lifetime event and look out across a beautiful city. Check the official Watertown eclipse website for more information as the date approaches.
Tibbetts Point Lighthouse
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Frame your eclipse experience at the point where the sparkling St. Lawrence River meets the powerful Lake Ontario at the Tibbetts Point lighthouse in Cape Vincent. Lay out a blanket on the 600-acre grounds that surround the landmark and take in the relaxing lakeside view. After, get a closer look at the lake and river through the telescope or explore the historic lighthouse which was built in 1827 and features the only working fresnel lens on Lake Ontario!
Fort Ontario State Historic Site
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Witness this star-studded celestial occasion from the star-shaped fort dating back to the 1840s at the Fort Ontario State Historic Site. This clear sky viewing spot is right on Lake Ontario offering 36-acres of open air and beautiful waterside views to pair with the eclipse. While the beautiful scenery might be the first thing you notice, this destination also boasts a rich history, being the site of many monumental battles from the French and Indian War and War of 1812, as well as a US Army-occupied site during WWII. After the eclipse, explore it all on a guided tour where you’ll get to see officer quarters, the Enlisted Men’s Barracks, the Storehouse, and more. Admission to the site is $4 for adults, $3 for seniors (62+) and students, and free for children under 12 and active military.
Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site
Gaze up at the sky from a site that’s as monumental as the eclipse itself at Sackets Harbor Battlefield State Historic Site. Pairing this cosmic occurrence with 70 acres of gorgeous and historic views, open fields, and lookouts of Lake Ontario will create a truly amazing experience. Afterward follow the Battlefield Historic Trail. It’ll take you through Centennial Grove and the Navy Yard, and provide sweeping views of Black River Bay. Still craving more history? Follow the trail to the village's War of 1812 Bicentennial Trail connection for a six-mile circuit featuring even more lakeside views, monuments, and historic markers.
Robert G. Wehle State Park
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Look to the skies next April from the 17,000-foot shoreline of Lake Ontario at Robert G. Wehle State Park. The 1,100-acre park was once the estate of Robert G. Wehle, who was an avid conservationist, sculptor, and lover of English pointers (hence the canine sculptures you’ll find throughout the park). Today, it’s home to wonderful unobstructed skies and waterfront views, some of which are visible from 80-foot limestone cliffs overlooking the lake, creating the perfect pairing for once-in-a-lifetime celestial events. Be sure to stick around after to explore the Wehle residential compound. It’s open to the public and features the main rooms, gardens, and guest quarters. You can even make a reservation for up to eight people to stay at the cottage overnight for the ultimate secluded eclipse weekend.
Wellesley Island State Park
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Peer up at this cosmic event while you peer out at the sparkling waters of the St. Lawrence River at Wellesley Island State Park. With 2,600 acres boasting sandy beaches, miles of scenic hiking trails, and of course, breathtaking Thousand Islands views, you’re sure to find a totally great spot for the total solar eclipse. Completely immerse yourself in this rustic paradise and plan an eclipse weekend at the campground with 21 cabins and cottages to choose from year-round. Book your reservation now at ReserveAmerica.com to secure a spot for the big day. Be sure to stop by the Minna Anthony Common Nature Center on the way out. It’s one of the largest nature centers in the NYS park system.
You can also view the Eclipse at these sites:
Fort de La Présentation/AbbéPicquet Trail
Visit NY Eclipse 2024 in the 1000 Islands and Total Eclipse of the Park to stay up to date on the latest events, deals, and other eclipse offerings in the Thousand Islands-Seaway region.