oregon il tourism

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Because life's too short to stay home …, on the rock river in illinois, from the town of oregon, visitors follow in black hawk's footsteps..

© Beth Gauper

In the northwest Illinois town of Oregon, a 48-foot concrete figure gazes over a river valley, arms folded.

Over the years, the valley has been home to many ambitious men. Abraham Lincoln joined the militia here. John Deere forged the first steel plow. Ronald Reagan got his first lifeguard job.

Chief Black Hawk, the man who inspired the gigantic blufftop statue, also had an ambition: to keep this beautiful valley for his own people.

In 1804, four Sauk men ceded it in exchange for $1,000 per year in goods, and in 1829, the government kicked out the Indians and sold the land to settlers.

In 1832, Black Hawk tried to reclaim the land, sparking a "war" that ended in the slaughter of his people.

The debacle made a romantic figure of the doomed Black Hawk.

"Rock River was a beautiful country," he said. "I loved my towns, my cornfields, and the home of my people. I fought for it."

Today, banners on Oregon street lights feature Black Hawk's face, and painted tipis can be found in and around town.

Across the river, the statue known as Black Hawk was created between 1908 and 1910 as the Eternal Indian by Chicago sculptor Lorado Taft. Now it is on the National Register of Historic Places.

Visitors can walk through the town's entire history in Lowden State Park, on the blufftop where Lorado Taft founded the Eagle's Nest Art Colony in 1898. Today, it's a field campus for Northern Illinois University.

Oregon makes a fun getaway any time for the three state parks that surround it and for the Rock River, which flows from Wisconsin's Horicon Marsh to the Mississippi at Rock Island and has been named a national water trail.

Excursions on the Pride of Oregon paddlewheeler take tourists upstream. On the east side of the river, Black Hawk rises above the treetops, and on the west side, passenger see the stone turrets of a castle.

It's a Tudor-style manor with 25 rooms and four secret passages, built between 1928 and 1930 by Walter Strong, owner and publisher of the Chicago Daily News. Visits to another publisher's castle — William Randolph Hearst's famous estate in San Simeon, Calif. — inspired it.

Today, the Stronghold Center is a Presbyterian retreat complex, open to the public for tours or overnight group lodgings and at the annual Olde English Faire in October, a gathering of knights and ladies and jesters and jousters, with medieval music and games.

For excursions downstream, outfitters rent canoes and kayaks for visits to Castle Rock State Park or Grand Detour, home of the John Deere Historic Site .

In 1838, the Vermont-born blacksmith figured out how to make a plow that would cut through the dense Illinois soil. After a move to Moline in 1848, his business became the giant farm-equipment manufacturer, still named for John Deere.

Dixon is just around the bend from Grand Detour. It's the boyhood home of Ronald Reagan, who safeguarded swimmers from the banks of the Rock River. The Ronald Reagan Trail includes his first home in Dixon and stops in 12 other northwest Illinois towns.

A third state park is seven miles west of Oregon. White Pines Forest State Park is a lovely oasis of pine forest, creeks and rock outcroppings amid the rolling farm fields.

In spring, the park's trails are lined with wildflowers; in fall, the park is cloaked in bright reds, oranges and golds.

There are inns in Oregon, but the park's White Pines Inn is a special place to stay, with a log lodge and cabins built in the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation Corps.

Its inviting restaurant is famous for its Paul Bunyan buffet on Sundays and serves such classics as chicken pot pie, peach cobbler and apple dumplings. There's a dinner theater, too.

In town, visitors can follow the Trail of Painted Tipis, each created by a different artist, from late April to mid-November.

There are a few antiques stores to visit downtown. Restaurants include the '50s-style Jay's Drive-In , which serves caramel-apple shakes and "the best butter bun burgers around."

Oregon is only two hours from Chicago, but bistros and boutiques haven't reached this town of 3,700. Just as well, because a down-home style suits such a historic place.

Trip Tips: Oregon, Illinois

Getting there: It's 25 miles south of Rockford and 100 miles west of Chicago.

Events: First weekend of October, Olde English Faire at the Stronghold Center and Autumn on Parade in town.

Black Hawk statue : This 48-foot concrete statue looms over the river. Visitors can drive into the park and walk to the overlook at the statue's feet. Admission is free.

During the War of 1832, the only place Black Hawk and his band attacked was a makeshift fort in the village of Elizabeth, near Galena. For more, see Black Hawk on the Apple River .

Abraham Lincoln was a captain in the militia pursuing Black Hawk but did not engage in combat.

For more about War of 1832 sites in Wisconsin, see Road trip: Black Hawk's trail .

Rock River cruises: The Pride of Oregon paddlewheeler offers daily cruises, some including lunch or dinner. It docks at Maxson Riverside Restaurant just north of Oregon on Illinois 2. Reserve at 815-732-4540.

Canoeing and kayaking: White Pelican rents canoes, kayaks and tubes and provides shuttles, by reservation only.

Horseback-riding: Five miles west of Oregon, White Pines Ranc h offers trail rides.

Stronghold Camp & Retreat Center : For a Castle Tour, call in advance to arrange, 815-732-6111.  The blufftop grounds also include a labyrinth, a high-ropes course and walking trails.

Bison tours: Just east of Dixon, the Nature Conservancy's Nachusa Grasslands has a herd of more than 100 bison . Volunteers give free two-hour tours . Sign-ups are posted at 7 a.m. the first day of each month, and places fill quickly.

Accommodations: The 1927 White Pines Inn in White Pines Forest State Park west of Oregon rents 13 small log cabins and 12 cabin suites, each with gas fireplaces and mini-fridges. They're air-conditioned.

There are many packages, and watch for specials in winter, spring and late fall. The restaurant is open from March to Christmas.

Near the river in Oregon, the 1840s Patchwork Inn has nine rooms.

There's a camper cabin in Lowden State Park.

The Stronghold Center has accommodations for groups from 10 to 100 in lodges in the woods, dorm rooms in the Castle, the hotel-style Heritage Lodge, rustic cabins or camping. Meals can be arranged.

Camping: There's camping in the blufftop Lowden State Park across the river from downtown Oregon and White Pines Forest State Park west of Oregon.

Dining: The restaurant at the White Pines Inn serves home-style food, including a large Sunday buffet, in a very attractive setting. Reserve at 815-946-3817.

In Oregon, Hazel's Cafe serves sandwiches and salads as well as coffee drinks and smoothies. It delivers to the adjoining Cork & Tap , which offers wine, beer and mixed drinks.

Nightlife: The Pines Playhouse offers music, plays and comedy at the White Pines Inn.

Information: Northwest Illinois tourism , 800-678-2108.

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THE 15 BEST Things to Do in Oregon

Things to do in oregon.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castle Rock State Park

2. Lowden State Park

3. The Eagle's Nest Art Colony Collection

4. Conover Square

5. Ogle County Historical Society and Museum

6. The Soldiers’ Monument

7. Ogle County Courthouse

8. oregon illinois depot, 9. lions park, 10. oregon park east, 11. oregon park district kiwanis park.

12. White Pines Ranch

13. Rustic Ridge Axe Throwing

14. silver ridge golf course.

15. White Pelican Inc.

16. The Blissful Heart Wellness Center

17. locus coworking and wellness space.

18. Pride Of Oregon Paddlewheeler

19. TJ's Canoe Rental

What travellers are saying

• Lowden State Park
• Castle Rock State Park
• The Eagle's Nest Art Colony Collection
• Ogle County Historical Society and Museum
• Conover Square
• Oregon Park District Kiwanis Park
• Oregon Park East
• White Pelican Inc.

Sublime Intermission

My Research. Your Next Sublime Adventure.

17 Things to See and Do in Oregon, IL

It’s time to give my home state some love. Most people visit Illinois to see the fine city of Chicago. Until a few years ago, I also didn’t pay much attention to the rest of Illinois. Honestly, it always seemed more fun to travel to another state. However, I now have a bucket list of Illinois destinations and have come to appreciate my home state’s offerings.

Introduction

While much of Illinois is flat farmland, there are pockets of more unique landscapes. Everyone in the Chicagoland area knows of Starved Rock and neighboring Matthiessen State Parks. The parks are beautiful and the lodging and restaurant options are plentiful. It can also be very crowded.

The Oregon area allows you to see some similar sights without the crowds. It’s home to some great state parks that border the Rock River. It also has the beautiful bluffs and a lot of the same activities.

Trip Length:  2-3 days Distance from Chicago:  1 Hour 45 Minutes Travel “Flavors”:  Outdoors, Food, Culture

Itinerary Suggestions

Outdoor activities.

Lowden State Park – the park offers beautiful views of the Rock River, but it’s most west know for the statue of Chief Black Hawk. The statue is titled “The Eternal Indian.” and is the work of sculptor Lorado Taft. Don’t miss the trail to Ganymede Spring on your visit. It was named by Margaret Fuller, journalist and women’s rights activist.

Castle Rock State Park – see the rock formations and ravines that this area is known for and take in some great views across the Rock River. Activities include hiking, boating and picnicking.

White Pines Ranch – the ranch is a full service dude ranch offering weekends for youth, adults or families. They also offer horseback riding on their beautiful property, eve if you’re not a guest.

White Pelican – You can tube, raft, paddle board, canoe, or kayak down the Rock River with the help of White Pelican. They offer rentals as well as a shuttle service.

Journey Through Time Kayak Tours – Do you want a history lesson while you’re out enjoying the outdoors? If so, then these kayak tours are definitely for you.

Stronghold Camp and Retreat Center – The retreat center is housed in a Tudor-style castle. If you’d like to stay at the castle, you can book a retreat. If you stay elsewhere, you can still see the castle on a tour. During the first weekend in October, the castle is transformed into an Olde English Faire with performances, merchants, and activities.

Lorado Taft Field Campus of Northern Illinois University – the field campus offers space for conferences and retreats. You can reserve a spot in one of their outdoor education programs or use their space for your own event. They offer lodging and meeting space.

Agritourism

Berryview Orchard – The orchard is open from mid-August through the end of October. Their season starts with opportunities to pick the Aronia berry in late summer. Aronia berries are considered a super-fruit due to a high level of antioxidants.

Oregon Depot Museum – the depot is listed on the National Register of Historic Places and houses a museum.

Jarrett Prairie Center Museum – Illinois is the “prairie state”, so take some time to learn how prairies benefits the environment. Explore the exhibits and walk the nature preserve. They even have some live native animals. And it’s FREE!

Pride of Oregon – this authentic 102 foot paddle wheel boat offers scenic lunch and dinner cruises on the Rock River.

Byron Dragway – the dragway is home to NHRA Drag Racing. Check to see if there is a race while you’re in town.

Historical Marker

Brick Road – there is a small section of historic brick road in Oregon. A historical marker at the site provides more information.

Lodging, Food, and Shopping

Hairy Cow Brewing Company – after a fun day of exploring, head north to nearby Byron for some craft beer and artisan, brick oven pizza. Hairy Cow is named after the founders Scottish Highland cows. They brew a full selection of beer onsite.

Blackhawk Steakpit – juicy steaks cooked over an open charcoal pit! If red meat is not your thing, seafood options are also available.

Lake LaDonna – Do you enjoy family campgrounds that are loaded with amenities? Then this is the place for you! No camper, no problem. They also offer rentals.

Ukulele Station America – housed in a historic service station, this fun shop has over 100 ukuleles to chose from.

Travel Accessory

I’m a huge fan of the product and gift lists you see floating around the internet because I usually find some new-to-me product for myself, a friend or family member. I’d like to offer you the same inspiration by highlighting a travel accessory in each post.

This section contains an affiliate link. If you use this link to buy something I may earn a commission.

Sometimes you find yourself in need of a tool on your travels, but space to bring everything you may need is always an issue. That’s where a great multitool comes in. Need to hammer in your tent stakes, this tool can help. Kick back and enjoy a beer? Here’s your bottle opener! Need to cut open a package? This tool has you covered (and it even looks nice!). Just don’t take it on an airplane.

Those are just the highlights that stood out to me.  For more information, check out Oregon’s Visitor Information page . If you use my trip suggestions or if you’ve visited any of these locations in the past, please provide your reviews in the comments. Did I miss something?  Please add other itinerary suggestions in the comments, especially if they are off the beaten path. Happy vacationing!

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Rock River Retreat

• Oregon, IL, 61061
• (815) 509-8432
• Complimentary Wifi
• ADA Accessible Rooms
• Laundry Facilities

Rock River Retreat boasts an INDOOR POOL and can sleep over 20 guests. With seven bedrooms, five full baths, and two half baths, this vacation rental is the ultimate Airbnb for a staycation or getaway.

Located near downtown Oregon, Illinois, and within walking distance to Maxson’s Manor, The Pride of Oregon Paddlewheel Boat, and Blackhawk Steakpit, the property also features gorgeous views of the Black Hawk Statue and Rock River.

With over 6,500 square feet of living space, the floor plan includes two master suites, a large dining room, spacious living rooms, and an eat-in chef’s kitchen equipped with Viking Appliances. Tastefully updated and aesthetically pleasing, showcasing modern furniture and decor throughout, there is no doubt that you and your guests will enjoy your stay.

#visitNWillinois

Dixon`s Ladies Night Out returns on April 18 from 3–8 pm! 🎉 Discover exclusive deals, delightful drinks, and dazzling prizes at various shops. Spread the word to friends and find all the details in the event listing. It`s an evening you won`t want to miss! 💃🍹 Go to EVENTS in our BIO link. #visitNWillinois #enjoyillinois #middleofeverything #discoverdixon #ladiesnight #shopping #dixonIL #ShopLocal

Are you an outdoorsy or indoorsy person? Our latest blog article picks just 5 favorite outdoor adventures in #NWillinois! 🥾 Scenic hikes, 🥏 disc golf, 🪂 skydiving...pick your pleasure! 😄 Visit our travel blog section at bio link!

Can`t help fallin` in love with this show! "𝗘𝗹𝘃𝗶𝘀 𝗧𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘂𝗴𝗵 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗬𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀" hits @WhitePines_Resort April 17-18. Don`t miss it! Visit link in bio under "Events" for ticket info.

Fall in love with the magical charm of Mount Carroll 🏞️. Unravel its rich history, relish the delectable dishes at Mt. Carroll Cafe and lose yourselves amidst the cobblestone charm, with VisitNW Illinois! Your perfect small-town escapade awaits here! 🍁#MountCarrollAdventure #VisitNWIllinois

Immerse yourself in a slice of Dutch history, right here by the Mississippi. Standing tall, Fulton`s De Immigrant Windmill is more than an engineering marvel - it`s a living testament to ingenuity and tradition 🇳🇱 Ever witnessed the magic of a working windmill up close? We`d love to hear your stories! 🌾 #FultonWindmill #HistoricLandmark #VisitNWIllinois

Buckle up, folks! Your new go-to weekend activity is here with the Chicagoland Skydiving Center 🪂 Enjoy the adrenaline rush while basking in the beautiful Rochelle landscapes from above. Who`s diving into this adventure with you? Tag your skydiving partner-in-crime 👯‍♂️ #SkyIsTheLimit #ChicagolandSkydiving #AdrenalineJunkies #VisitNWIllinois

Embrace the call of Mother Nature as you embark on an adventure at Nachusa Grasslands! 🌼🚶‍♂️ Be prepared for encounters with fluttering butterflies, chirping birds, and the thundering step of bison. Join us in cherishing and protecting these natural wonders! 🦬💚 #StepIntoTheWild #NachusaMagic #VisitNWIllinois #NatureLovers

The Coliseum Museum in #OregonIL is hosting its #SPRINGconcert, "Hot N` Cole: The Music of Cole Porter"" on April 5! Matt & Cynthia Gruel take you on a musical journey through the genius of #ColePorter, featuring iconic hits like "Too Darn Hot" & "Let`s Do It!" Go to event link in bio (UNDER EVENTS) for ticket info.

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PLAN YOUR TRIP

Ideas and resources to help plan your next real getaway in NW Illinois.

Top Things to Do in Oregon, IL - Oregon Must-See Attractions

Things to do in oregon.

• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for Kids
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Big Groups
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Adventurous
• Hidden Gems
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Castle Rock State Park

2. Lowden State Park

3. The Eagle's Nest Art Colony Collection

4. Conover Square

5. Ogle County Historical Society and Museum

6. The Soldiers’ Monument

7. Ogle County Courthouse

8. oregon illinois depot, 9. lions park, 10. oregon park east, 11. oregon park district kiwanis park.

12. White Pines Ranch

13. Rustic Ridge Axe Throwing

14. silver ridge golf course.

15. White Pelican Inc.

16. The Blissful Heart Wellness Center

17. locus coworking and wellness space.

18. Pride Of Oregon Paddlewheeler

19. TJ's Canoe Rental

What travellers are saying

• Lowden State Park
• Castle Rock State Park
• The Eagle's Nest Art Colony Collection
• Ogle County Historical Society and Museum
• Conover Square
• Oregon Park District Kiwanis Park
• Oregon Park East
• White Pelican Inc.

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There is a lot to do in Southern Oregon! Be the first to hear about local events, seasonal highlights and a get local’s perspective on the region.

Search the Site

Illinois valley, the illinois valley is home to the oregon caves national monument and the wild & scenic illinois river..

Recreational, cultural, and educational opportunities abound in countless local parks, galleries and non-profit centers. The famous Redwood Highway–Highway 199 from Redwoods National Park in Crescent City to Grants Pass–runs right through the Illinois Valley wine country, river swimming holes and other delightful outdoor spots.

Illinois Valley Cities

Cave Junction

Spranging to life during the gold rush, it was the discovery of the Oregon Caves National Monument in 1874 that put Cave Juncion on the map. The underground marble halls is just one reason to visit the foothills of the Siskiyou Mountains. Go wine tasting, float the Illinois River, or enjoy the national forest.

Wilderville

Nestled along the Applegate Wine Loop between Historic Jacksonville and rugged Grants Pass. Exploring Wilderville brings scenic wonders and tasty treats.

Visit the Illinois Valley

Venture into the heart of the Illinois Valley in Southern Oregon, a land of enchanting beauty, rich history, and boundless adventure. Tucked away in the southwestern part of the state, this hidden treasure offers a unique blend of natural wonders, cultural richness, and outdoor activities that cater to every type of traveler. From the majestic forests to the serene rivers, the Illinois Valley is a testament to the unspoiled charm of Southern Oregon.

Discover Natural Splendors

The Illinois Valley is a sanctuary for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Home to the renowned Oregon Caves National Monument, a marvel of underground caves formed millions of years ago, visitors can explore the depths of the earth on guided tours. Above ground, the valley is surrounded by the lush landscapes of the Siskiyou Mountains, offering endless hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails that meander through ancient forests, past cascading waterfalls, and along pristine rivers.

A Hub for Adventure

Adventure awaits in the Illinois Valley, where the wild and scenic Illinois River provides the perfect backdrop for a variety of water sports. Kayaking, rafting, and fishing are popular activities, offering thrilling ways to experience the valley’s natural beauty. For those who prefer dry land, the region’s diverse terrain offers opportunities for rock climbing, mountain biking, and exploring remote wilderness areas.

Step Back in Time

The Illinois Valley’s rich tapestry is woven with the stories of Native American tribes, gold rush pioneers, and settlers. Visit local museums and historical sites to delve into the area’s fascinating history, from ancient indigenous cultures to the boom and bust of gold mining towns. The valley celebrates its heritage through festivals, art shows, and cultural events that showcase local traditions and crafts.

Getting There

East - west.

The Illinois Valley lays along Highway 199 and serves as a resting point between I5 located Grants Pass and the coastal destination of Brookings. Spanning 100 miles, expect the route to take 2-hours.

Images from around the Illinois Valley

• River’s Edge Farmers Market
• Blackhawk Statue
• 11,200 Acres of Green
• Community Parks
• The Rock River Trail
• For the Kids

Events and Festivals

• Church Camps
• Historic Sites/Museums
• Day Trips and Excursions
• Hotels, Motels, B&B’s
• Restaurants
• Pubs and Bars
• Specialty Foods
• Food from the Farm
• Specialty Retail
• Convenience
• Conover Square Mall
• Liquor Stores

Oregonians love to celebrate! Each time of the year brings another festival, street fair, or community gathering. Stop by during one of these events, and soak up the energy that radiates from along the riverbank. See you soon at one of our ‘Uniquely Oregon’ events!

Autumn on Parade

Downtown Oregon Illinios

Held the 1st full weekend of October. According to festival history Autumn on Parade started back in 1970 by a group of seven volunteers wanting to showcase the area’s many fine homemade treats such as…

Autumn on the Prarie

8772 S Lowden Rd, Franklin Grove, IL, United States

The Nature Conservancy’s Nachusa Grasslands Preserve presents its annual Autumn on the Prairie Festival.

Candlelight Walk

Join us in Downtown Oregon, IL on the Saturday after Thanksgiving in Downtown Oregon, IL from 3pm – 8pm for an evening of old-fashioned holiday fun! #2 in Illinois for “Small Towns who honor Christmas…

Downtown Oregon, various locations

Join us in downtown Oregon, IL the Saturday after Thanksgiving between 3pm and 8pm for an evening of old-fashioned holiday fun. Candlelight Walk Includes: Horse Drawn Rides, Santa, Holiday Shopping, Luminaries, Refreshments, Entertainment, Giveaways, and…

Free Community Public Concerts

14th Street, Oregon, IL 61061

Concerts in the Park.  Oregon Park District Concerts in the Park are brought to the community by local business sponsors.  Concerts are on Tuesday evenings at 7 pm at the Park West band shell.  Join…

Grand Detour Arts Festival

8334 South Clinton Street, Dixon, Grand Detour Township, IL, United States

Since 1949, The John Deere Historic Site at Grand Detour, Illinois is home to this popular event, which will feature work from over 45 talented artists. Exhibited works include paintings, graphics, sculptures, jewelry, photography, drawings…

National Straw Sculpting Competition

122 S Wesley Ave, Mt Morris, IL 61054

US National Straw Sculpting Competition Straw Fest, third and fourth week of August. Click HERE for most recent information. You’ve heard of ice sculptures and have seen some bronze sculptures.. but have you ever seen…

Ogle County Fair

Ogle County Fair Association, North Limekiln Road, Oregon, IL

1st weekend in August! Providing family fun at a reasonable cost.  Visit the website for more details!

Oregon Antiques Show, Sponsored by Oregon Woman’s Club

Blackhawk Center, 1101 West Jefferson Street, Oregon, IL

  Oregon Antiques Show, Sponsored by Oregon Woman’s Club.  Quality antiques from the early 1800’s through the retro era of the 1950’s includes all areas of collecting – furniture, glass, china, pottery, toys, primitives, textiles,…

Oregon Chamber of Commerce

Po Box 69 122 N. 4th St. Oregon, IL 61061

Collaborating with the Oregon Area to foster a climate for business, residents, and visitors to connect, succeed and grow. We are a progressive volunteer organization proudly serving this community, as well as the surrounding area.…

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Solar eclipse 2024: Follow the path of totality

Solar eclipse, what you need to know to watch monday's total solar eclipse.

The NPR Network

A stunning celestial event is visible across the country Monday, when the moon crosses directly in front of the sun: a total solar eclipse. For those in the path of totality, there will be a few brief moments when the moon completely covers the sun and the world becomes dark.

Traveling for totality? Skip ahead.

This will be the last chance to catch a total solar eclipse in the continental U.S. for about 20 years, so here's what you need to know to safely enjoy!

When is the eclipse?

April 8, 2024 there will be a total solar eclipse that crosses from the Pacific coast of Mexico through the United States.

What is totality and why it matters

According to NASA , totality will start around 11:07 a.m. PDT/1:07 EDT in Mexico and leave Maine at around 1:30 pm PDT/3:30 pm EDT.

Here's what time the eclipse will be visible in your region

Check out this table for when the partial eclipse and totality are visible in each region or check by zip code here.

A partial solar eclipse will be visible across the contiguous United States, so even if you're not directly in the path, you should be able to see something special, weather permitting.

Unable to get to totality? We'll be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you can't see it in real time.

Where to see totality?

More than 30 million people live in the path of totality for Monday's eclipse, and many more in nearby areas.

Here's what we know about Monday's weather forecast.

Why totality matters

As NPR's Neil Greenfieldboyce explains , "During a total eclipse, the sky darkens suddenly and dramatically . The temperature drops. Stars come out. Beautiful colors appear around the horizon. And the once-familiar sun becomes a black void in the sky surrounded by the glowing corona — that's the ghostly white ring that is the sun's atmosphere."

Eclipse Science

For april's eclipse, going from 'meh' to 'omg' might mean just driving across town.

A partial eclipse, while still a fun experience, is hardly as dramatic. Those with a view of the partial eclipse will see crescent-shaped shadows like those seen here in 2017.

How to watch safely

If you plan to look directly at the eclipse (partial or totality), you're going to need eclipse glasses handy because looking directly at the sun without proper protection ( traditional sunglasses don't count! ) can be harmful to your eyes.

The perfect celestial soundtrack to the total solar eclipse

As NPR's Joe Hernandez explains, "Proper eye protection must be worn throughout a total solar eclipse — except for the roughly 3 1/2 to 4 minutes when the moon fully obscures the sun, a brief period known as 'totality.' (You will need to take your glasses off during totality to actually see it.)"

If you don't have access to eclipse glasses, you can get crafty with things you have around the house ( like some of us did back in 2017!) More on that here.

Traveling for totality?

The celestial event is driving a ton of domestic travel to the path of totality. If you're headed out of town to view the eclipse, here are some NPR Network resources for areas in the path of totality:

Texas The path of totality crosses through the Lone Star State, with some areas expecting a possible influx of visitors in the hundreds of thousands to catch prime viewing. Our member stations across the state have gathered local resources to help you navigate the region and the eclipse!

• San Antonio: Check out the latest from Texas Public Radio
• Dallas: Explore KERA's coverage for the latest
• Austin: Head to KUT for the best local resources

Arkansas The eclipse will be cutting through the state, putting Little Rock in the path of totality. Check out Little Rock Public Radio for local resources.

The southwestern edge of the state will be well-positioned to witness the total solar eclipse this year. Kentucky Public Radio is covering the eclipse throughout the region, from Kentuckiana eclipse mania to the University of Louisville's free class about the celestial event. Keep an eye on WKMS for the latest local updates.

Missouri The southeastern corner of the state will be in the path of totality, crossing across towns like Whitewater and Ste. Genevieve. Head to St. Louis Public Radio for local coverage and resources. Illinois Carbondale seems to have won the eclipse lottery, being in the path of totality both in 2017 and for this year's eclipse . For resources from across the state, check out Illinois Public Media .

Indiana A huge portion of the state will be within the path of totality, giving cities across Indiana, including Bloomington and Indianapolis, prime viewing of the eclipse.

• Bloomington: Check out Indiana Public Media
• Indianapolis: Head to WFYI for the latest
• Fort Wayne: Just north of the path of totality, WBOI has resources for the Allen County area

Ohio The Buckeye State is getting bisected by this year's path of totality, plunging a number of the state's most populous areas into darkness for a few minutes on Monday.

• Cleveland: Head to Ideastream Public Media for the latest.
• Columbus: With the capital city just south of totality, head to WOSU for regional resources.
• Cincinnati: Totality will just miss the border town. Here are some tips from WVXU on how to navigate the eclipse in the region.

Pennsylvania Only the northwestern-most corner of the state will catch totality, with views from the lakeside in Erie being particularly well-positioned for a stunning viewing experience. WESA has more from across the region.

Plan to watch the eclipse from a wild mountain summit? Be ready for harsh conditions

New York Buffalo, Rochester, Syracuse and Plattsburgh will fall under the path of totality on Monday. If you're planning to travel to the region for the best views, here are some local resources to stay safe and informed:

• Buffalo: Head to WBFO for the latest
• Syracuse: WAER has more on plans in the Salt City
• North Country: NCPR has the latest from across the region, as well as information on local viewing events to check out

Vermont The Green Mountain State will see totality across its most populous region, including Burlington and Montpelier, as well as the Northeast Kingdom on the Canadian border. Vermont Public has everything you need to know to navigate your time in the region to enjoy the eclipse safely. New Hampshire The northernmost region of the Granite State will be in the path of totality, providing prime viewing to those in Coos County. NHPR has info on local events, travel updates as well as special coverage with New Hampshire Public Television. Maine The last state in the path of totality in the U.S., much of Northern Maine will be positioned for prime viewing. The rural region is preparing for an influx of visitors, and safety officials are encouraging visitors and locals alike to be prepared. Maine Public will be covering the eclipse and has everything you need to know to navigate the region safely.

How to document the eclipse safely

With the ease of cell photography , it can be tempting to reach for your phone to document the eclipse and the moments of totality, but make sure to do so safely.

As NPR's Scott Neuman explains , "For starters, you'll need to wear eclipse glasses or similar protective eye gear while aiming your camera or even just observing the eclipse."

Feeling ambitious? Here are a few more tips.

Or if you're not inclined to capture the moment visually, you lean into some other forms of creative expression. Indiana, for example, has named Linda Neal Reising the official poet in the state for this year's eclipse.

As former NPR reporter and eclipse superfan David Baron shared with Life Kit , viewing totality "[is] like you've left the solar system and are looking back from some other world."

So consider focusing on being present in the moment to enjoy the celestial spectacle.

More resources to enjoy the eclipse

• Sharing the eclipse with tiny humans? Check out these kid-friendly total solar eclipse learning guides from Vermont Public's But Why, and this great explainer from KERA Kids on the difference between a solar and a lunar eclipse.
• Want to see how a solar eclipse alters colors? Wear red and green on Monday
• Plan to wander into the wild for the best view? Here are some tips from outdoor experts.
• Tips from Bill Nye on the best ways to enjoy the eclipse.

NPR will be sharing highlights here from across the NPR Network throughout the day Monday if you're unable to get out and see it in real time. NPR's Emily Alfin Johnson compiled these resources.

• 2024 eclipse