The April 8, 2024 Total Solar Eclipse: How and Where to See it Safely
Mark your calendars! On April 8th, 2024, a total solar eclipse will unfold across thirteen states, and you may be lucky enough to be in its path. During this awe-inspiring event, the moon will completely obscure the sun's bright face, plunging the landscape into a brief period of eerie twilight.
But where can you experience this natural wonder in totality?
The Path of Totality: Your Prime Viewing Spot
The total eclipse, where the sun is completely blocked by the moon, will only be visible along a narrow path known as the "path of totality." This path stretches from western Mexico and Texas all the way up to the Canadian province of New Brunswick.
Looking for the best viewing spot? Several online resources can help you pinpoint the exact location within the path of totality closest to you. Check out NASA’s Eclipse Website, which offers interactive maps that detail the path's trajectory.
Planning Your Eclipse Adventure
If you're heading to a location within the path of totality, here are some things to keep in mind:
- Book your accommodations early! Hotels and campsites along the path tend to fill up quickly for eclipses.
- Prepare for crowds. Expect large gatherings of eclipse enthusiasts, so leave pets at home and plan your travel and viewing location accordingly.
- Pack for the weather. April weather can be unpredictable, so be prepared for anything and always check ahead of time.
Safety First: How to View the Eclipse Safely
The sun's immense power can cause permanent eye damage if viewed directly, even during an eclipse. Here's how to enjoy the eclipse safely:
- Never look directly at the sun, even for a moment.
- Use specially certified eclipse glasses. These glasses have a specific filter that blocks harmful solar radiation. Look for glasses that meet the international safety standard ISO 12312-2.
- Consider eclipse viewing devices. Telescopes and binoculars can be used to project a safe image of the eclipse onto a screen.
- Supervise children closely. Ensure they understand the importance of not looking directly at the sun.
Heading to New England to view the eclipse? Make a weekend of it and add in a stop in the Berkshires at East Rock Inn. Book directly on our website for the best rates and availability.
Tips and advice on when to see peak fall foliage and leaf peeping in the Berkshires.
Where to eat breakfast in Great Barrington and Beyond
The Berkshires offer a delightful sip for every palate, from award-winning breweries to cozy wineries and innovative distilleries. We’ve compiled a few of our favorites. Great Barrington: A Craft Beer Lover's Paradise Barrington Brewery & Restaurant in Great Barrington is a local favorite renowned for its commitment to sustainability. Its solar-powered brewing process produces a lineup of award-winning beers, perfectly paired with its delicious pub fare. Craving a relaxed vibe? Head to Big Elm Brewing , also in Great Barrington. This brewery boasts a constantly rotating selection of local favorites, offering a chance to discover the unique styles and flavors crafted by the region's independent brewers. Craft Beers Beyond Great Barrington For a wider exploration, venture out to Bright Ideas Brewing in North Adams. This innovative brewery pushes boundaries with its experimental brews. If ciders are your thing, don't miss Berkshire Cider Project , also in North Adams, offering handcrafted ciders made with locally-sourced apples. The Berkshires craft beer scene continues to evolve with the recent arrival of Hot Plate Brewing Co. in downtown Pittsfield. This Latina-owned brewery offers a unique perspective on the craft beer world, with a focus on innovative recipes and a welcoming taproom experience. Local Berkshires Wineries and Vineyards Les Trois Emme Vineyard and Winery is less than five miles from East Rock Inn and hosts weekend wine tastings in its comfortable tasting room. This locally owned vineyard is minutes from Great Barrington, and you can try a range of whites and reds. For an experience that marries wine tasting with breathtaking scenery, venture out to Four Winds Vineyard in nearby Canaan, Connecticut (just a 23-minute drive). Specializing in estate-grown Bordeaux varietals, they offer tastings and tours, allowing you to discover the unique terroir and meticulous craftsmanship behind each sip. For those seeking off-the-beaten-path tastings, explore hidden gems like Balderdash Cellars in Richmond. This boutique winery produces ultra-premium wines from world-class California vineyards, offering a unique experience for discerning palates. Local Berkshires Spirits and Cocktails The Berkshires aren't just about beer and wine. If you're looking for a unique spirit experience, look no further than Berkshire Mountain Distillery in Great Barrington. Their small-batch gins and vodkas, crafted with locally sourced ingredients, are a testament to the region's commitment to quality and innovation. Sample their award-winning spirits neat or ask the bartenders to create a signature cocktail for you. Want to learn more about the craft beverages we’ve suggested? Here are helpful links to get you started: Barrington Brewery & Restaurant: https://www.barringtonbrewery.net/ Big Elm Brewing: https://www.bigelmbeer.com/ Bright Ideas Brewing: http://brightideasbrewing.com/ Berkshire Cider Project: http://www.berkshire-cider.com/ Hot Plate Brewing Co.: https://www.hotplatebeer.com/ Four Winds Vineyard: https://crowleywines.com/vineyard/ Balderdash Cellars: https://www.balderdashcellars.com/ Berkshire Mountain Distillery: https://berkshiremountaindistillers.com/our-products/ Les Trois Emme Vineyard: https://www.ltewinery.com/ Be sure to drink responsibly and plan to have a designated driver or take a rideshare/taxi to and from your destinations. You’re just a short drive away to any of these experiences from East Rock Inn. Book Now and make East Rock Inn your home base in the Berkshires.
As winter loosens its grip and the Berkshires awaken, a vibrant display of
color explodes at Naumkeag, a stunning Gilded Age estate in Stockbridge,
Massachusetts. Each spring, the annual Daffodil and Tulip Festival
transforms the estate's grounds into a breathtaking tapestry of blooms.
Get ready for a fabulous season of festivals and fairs celebrating art,
music, food, and more in Great Barrington and surrounding towns. Here’s
just a small sample of what’s happening this summer. From downtown street
parties to quirky small-town fetes, here's a rundown of all the fun events
to experience from your home base at East Rock Inn.
The Literary Legacy of the Berkshires
The Berkshires aren't just a haven for outdoor enthusiasts. For more than
two centuries, this stretch of Western Massachusetts has been the setting
and inspiration for great American writers and intellectuals. From East
Rock Inn, you can visit many of the sites
Adventure Unleashed
Your dog isn't just a companion, they’re family. So, don’t leave them
behind when wanderlust strikes! But before you hit the road, some planning
is necessary to ensure a smooth and enjoyable journey for both of you.
Pack Smarter, Stay Happier
Short-term stays in homes and apartments are perfect when you’re looking
for a home away from home experience – the ability to cook meals in a real
kitchen, do laundry, hang out as a group, and still have the luxury of
personal space.