Where to Watch the 2024 Solar Eclipse

Posted on February 12, 2024

The 2024 Solar Eclipse weekend in the Santa Claus, Indiana, area, is shaping up to be packed with fun activities. But the big show is on Monday, April 8, 2024, and you’ll want to have a front-row seat to this unique phenomenon of approximately two minutes of total darkness. 

And there are plenty of great spots throughout the Santa Claus, Indiana, area to watch the 2024 solar eclipse, like Holiday World & Splashin’ Safari, Lincoln State Park, and more.  

This year’s eclipse will be the last one to touch parts of North America until 2033. So, if you don’t want to get “left in the dark,” make plans to find a prime viewing spot now! 

Eclipse Viewing Locations in the Santa Claus, Indiana, Area 

SANTA CLAUS

Holiday World Legend Parking Lot – The park will open its huge Legend parking lot for free parking/viewing on Eclipse day. While you’re waiting for darkness to descend, enjoy food trucks and music throughout the day. Restrooms available. 

Jim Yellig Park – Visiting with young children? Jim Yellig Park offers a playground, plus a basketball court and trails, to keep them busy until the main event. Free parking and restrooms available.

Santa Claus Brewing Co. – Santa Claus Brewing Co. will be open all day with themed craft beer and delicious menu items. Free parking/viewing for customers. 

Santa Claus Museum & Village – It’s an extra-festive “Eclipsemas” at Santa Claus Museum & Village. Tour the museum, write a letter to Santa, play “reindeer games,” plus, visit with a very special guest—Santa himself! Free parking for museum guests.

LINCOLN CITY

Heritage Hills High School – The school will offer concessions and parking/viewing as a fundraiser in support of tobacco prevention efforts and the school's parent/teacher group. Claim your spot early, as prime spots are expected to sell out in advance. Call (812) 937-2400 for details.   

Lincoln Boyhood National Memorial – The national park will have educational and interactive activities throughout the day, including a presentation by Glen Langston of the National Science Foundation! Plus, enjoy the park’s many amenities, including the Visitor Center, Living Historical Farm, and trails. Free parking/viewing for guests. 

Lincoln State Park – The state park is always a beautiful place to visit—and a perfect place to experience the eclipse. Explore the trails and take in the scenery as you wait for totality. Gate entrance fee will apply ($7 Indiana license plates; $9 out-of-state plates). 

SAINT MEINRAD

Monkey Hollow Winery and Distillery – Wine and eclipse watching just go together! Enjoy specially themed drinks and bottles, plus food, family fun, and more. Free parking for customers.  

Saint Meinrad Archabbey – Monte Cassino Shrine, located just minutes from the Archabbey grounds, will serve as a viewing spot on eclipse day. Explore the beautiful chapel and enjoy the serene surroundings as you wait for this rare phenomenon. 

St. Meinrad Community Center – Eclipse viewing can work up an appetite, so breakfast and lunch will be available to purchase. Plus, have a little fun on the playground next to the community center and enjoy the views of Saint Meinrad Archabbey. Free parking/viewing.

DALE

Lincoln Heritage Public Library (Dale) – Read all about it! The Dale branch of the Lincoln Heritage Public Library will have fun family activities, sweet treats, free viewers, free parking, and restrooms available at the library. Viewing area will be the Dale Ball Field next door.  

Solar Eclipse Fun All Weekend Long 

Solar Eclipse Weekend is going to be a memorable one, so you won’t want to miss a moment. See all of the scheduled solar eclipse events throughout the Santa Claus, Indiana, area so far—more are still to come! 

Need a place to stay? See all available lodging in the area. Plus, check out Lincoln Pines Lakefront Resort, Santa’s Lakeside Cottages, and Santa’s Lodge for Eclipse Weekend deals. 

Want to know what to expect during your visit? We've compiled a list of FAQs to help you stay educated, informed, and safe during the 2024 solar eclipse weekend.

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