The 2024 solar eclipse will pass through Springfield, Missouri on April 8. The eclipse will reach 97% totality in the city, and promises an unparalleled viewing opportunity.
If you miss out, the next eclipse in the United States will be in 2044 in the northern part of the country. The next viewing period in Missouri after 2024 will be 2505, making this solar eclipse a once-in-a-lifetime experience for residents in our state. For those eager to witness this phenomenon, here are some recommended viewing locations in Springfield, Missouri.
See what the eclipse will look like in Springfield, Missouri here.
Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield
Head to Wilson’s Creek National Battlefield near Republic for a great viewing point of the solar eclipse. Fought on August 10, 1861, the battle was the first major American Civil War engagement west of the Mississippi River and the area is designated as a national park.
Why it’s a great spot: The rolling hills of the battlefield make for a clear and optimal viewing point.
Address: 6424 W. Farm Road 182, Republic
Sequiota Park
There are tons of things to explore at Sequiota Park, including a playground for the kiddos, a huge pond, Sequiota Cave, walking trails and Galloway Creek Greenway. Lay out a picnic blanket or grab a seat at a picnic table for the perfect view.
Why it’s a great spot: The park has multiple playgrounds that will keep kids occupied, along with a clear view of the sky.
Address: 3500 S. Lone Pine Ave., Springfield
Nathanael Greene/Close Memorial Park
Nestled in the middle of Springfield, the park encompasses the enchanting Springfield Botanical Gardens, Lake Drummond and the scenic Wilson’s Creek Greenway. Whether strolling through lush gardens or walking the trails, visitors can find the perfect vantage point to observe the celestial phenomenon.
Why it’s a great spot: The vast open field behind the Springfield Botanical Center provides ample space for viewers to spread out comfortably.
Address: 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield
Jordan Valley Park
The crown jewel of downtown Springfield, Jordan Valley Park is adjacent to Jordan Valley Ice Park, Hammons Field and the Creamery Arts Center, home of the Springfield Regional Arts Council.
Why it’s a great spot: For anyone that lives or works downtown, the 12-acre park has an outdoor amphitheater area, jumping fountains, and shaded picnic spots for a prime view.
Address: 635 E. Trafficway St., Springfield
Missouri State University
With its sprawling campus and diverse academic offerings, Missouri State University is home to nearly 20,000 students and provides an exceptional vantage point for experiencing the solar eclipse
Why it’s a great spot: The various open courtyards and on-campus seating.
Address: 901 S. National Ave., Springfield
Lake Springfield
Lake Springfield Park and Boathouse sits on 153 acres of rolling hills and cliffs. Take a hike on one of several trails, play a round of disc golf, and get a gorgeous view of the lake.
Why it’s a great spot: You can paddle out to the middle of Lake Springfield or take in the view from the boathouse deck.
Address: 2312 Lake Springfield Park Road, Springfield
Fellows Lake
Just north of Springfield is Fellows Lake, an 860-acre lake surrounded by acres of grassland, forests, and a prime spot for fishing. Anglers can catch largemouth bass, muskie, channel catfish, walleye, and crappie on the water or various fishing docks. Boat rentals are offered at the nearby marina.
Why it’s a great spot: The viewpoints from the water and the shoreline will make for a memorable moment.
Address: 4200 E. Farm Road 66, Springfield
Hammons Field
Hammons Field will be allowing patrons on the field to view the solar eclipse. Check out their social media closer to the date for more information.
Why it's a great spot: It's within walking distance from a lot of offices, Missouri State's campus, and surrounded by lots of parking opportunities.
Mother's Brewing
In the heart of downtown Springfield, attend Mother's Solar Eclipse Watch Party on their backyard patio. The gates will open at 12 p.m. Buy a beer ticket and viewing glasses in a bundle for $10. Glasses are while supplies last.
Why it's a great spot: A great viewing spot and great beer combined. What more could you want?
Address: 215 S. Grant Ave., Springfield
7C's Winery
7C's Winery is the perfect spot to grab a drink and set up a perfect viewing spot. They're hosting an eclipse watch party from noon-3 p.m. on April 8.
Why it's a great spot: Situated in a wide open field with endless drink options, what's not to love?
Address: 502 E. 560th Road, Walnut Grove
Wire Road Brewing
Wire Road Brewing Co. offers 20 indoor taps, 10 outdoor taps, a selection of caffeinated beverages, a large taproom and a heated covered patio. Sample food from an array of food trucks and a spacious beer garden.
Why it’s a great spot: The beverage selection paired with the open yard make for a great time!
Address: 4453 S. Timbercreek Ave., Battlefield
Bear Creek Winery
Drink wine and brews with an incredible view of the Ozark Mountains in Walnut Shade. If you’re hungry, order pizza, charcuterie boards and other small bites.
Why it’s a great spot: The food and drink options and the view from the back deck.
Address: 1320 Keithley Road, Walnut Shade
Top of the Rock
Photo courtesy of Top of the Rock
Top of the Rock is home to the Ancient Ozarks Natural History Museum, a world-class restaurant, several golf courses, an all-American inspired wine cellar, and a wedding chapel set on the hillside with spectacular sunset views of Table Rock Lake.
Why it’s a great spot: You can see a panoramic view of the Ozarks on the golf course or dining outside at the Buffalo Bar.
Address: 150 Top of the Rock Road, Ridgedale
Where to get Solar Eclipse Glasses
Solar eclipse glasses are crucial for protecting your eyesight. Even briefly staring into the sun can cause permanent retina damage. Here are several places you can grab or purchase glasses. Did we miss one? Email myohn@springfieldmo.org with your suggestion and we may add it to the list.
Route 66 Visitors Center: 815 E. St. Louis St., Springfield (Free while supplies last)
Sunshine Eye Clinic: 1441 E. Sunshine St., Springfield (Free while supplies last)
Hobby Town: 900 E. Battlefield Road Suite 152, Springfield
Hy-Vee on Sunshine: 2150 E. Sunshine St., Springfield
Hy-Vee on Battlefield: 1720 W. Battlefield Road, Springfield
Lowe’s on Norton: 1707 W. Norton Road, Springfield
Lowe’s on Primrose: 1850 E. Primrose St., Springfield
Mother's Brewing: 215 S. Grant Ave., Springfield
Springfield Botanical Center: 2400 S. Scenic Ave., Springfield
Target: 1825 E. Primrose St., Springfield
Walmart on South Campbell: 3315 S. Campbell Ave., Springfield
Walmart on Independence: 2021 E Independence St., Springfield
Walmart on Kearney: 1923 E. Kearney St., Springfield
Walmart on North Kansas Expressway: 2825 N. Kansas Expy., Springfield
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