Join us for an unforgettable Solar Eclipse Viewing Party on Monday, April 8, 2024 on the Great Lawn at Discovery Park. Bring your friends and family to witness the magic of the celestial event while enjoying yard games for all ages. Guests will also have the opportunity to observe the solar eclipse through telescopes equipped for safe viewing and expert guidance. Discovery Park is the perfect backdrop to observe such a unique occasion.

The “path of totality” will span across North America. It will begin in Mexico and then pass through several states in the United States before crossing into eastern Canada. While the path of totality for this eclipse won’t cross directly over Discovery Park, it will offer a significant partial eclipse experience at 99.2% coverage of the sun. The eclipse will start at 12:41 p.m., will reach its peak at 2 p.m. and is set to end at 3:18 p.m.

Guests are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets to join in on the fun on the Great Lawn. Food will be available for purchase in Sabin’s Cafe and Eats and Treats near the Great Lawn. 

To safely view the total solar eclipse, you’ll need special solar eclipse glasses. These specialized shades will protect your retinas from damage while you observe the sun.

The Epic Eclipse Race

Embark on a thrilling adventure with our “Epic Solar Eclipse Race.” Explore Discovery Park as you search for clues, solve puzzles and complete challenges related to the solar eclipse. With your team, race against time to be the first to crack the code and uncover hidden treasures. It’s an exhilarating quest filled with excitement and discovery, perfect for families, friends and eclipse enthusiasts alike.

Teams can be made up of one to four people, and all ages are able to participate.

Pre-register your team now to receive a “fast pass advantage” in the race. Discounted rates are offered for non-members.

Your mission: 

• Complete STEAM challenges (science, technology, engineering, art and math) 
• Collect the clues 
• Be the first to solve 
• Win $100 

Rain or shine, the race starts at 12:00 p.m. and ends at the conclusion of the eclipse 3:19 p.m. 

Check-in for pre-registered teams will run from 10:00 a.m. – 11:30 a.m located in Art Hall. 

For more info regarding our Epic Eclipse Race, please email education@discoveryparkofamerica.com. 

This race is sponsored by Little Caesars and Lowe’s and is free with membership or park admission.

Other Eclipse Activities on the Great Lawn (10 a.m. to 4 p.m.)

• Telescope viewing
• Imagination Blocks
• Ladder Ball
• Bocce Ball
• Horseshoes
• Giant “Sorry” board game
• Giant “Clue” board game
• Washer Toss
• Fort Building

While visiting Discovery Park, stop by the Science and Space Gallery to weave your way through the universe starting on planet Earth and then venturing through the solar system, the galaxy, and then beyond. Discovery Park’s STEM Landing is the perfect place for guests to explore STEM principles that shape the world.

See pictures below from the previous solar eclipse event: