2 Really Cool Ways to View the Solar Eclipse (Plus How to Get Free Glasses)

It’s going to be quite the celestial endeavor.

By Taylor Bushey

Edited by Kristi Pahr

Updated Oct. 1, 2024

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North Americans are in store for a rare treat on April 8 — the first total solar eclipse since 2017 and the last until 2044. Viewers in parts of the U.S., Mexico, and Canada will be able to take in the rare phenomenon from their own backyards, but some brands are offering front-row — or window or aisle — seats to the show.

Two U.S. airlines, Delta and Southwest, are capitalizing on the spectacle and offering opportunities to view the solar eclipse from 30,000 feet.

If you prefer to stay on the ground, eyewear giant Warby Parker can help. The retailer is offering free solar eclipse glasses.

Find out how you can take part in the can’t-miss solar eclipse in an unforgettable way.

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Delta's path of totality flights

Delta Air Lines announced a special flight from Austin to Detroit on April 8 that will carry passengers along the path of totality — a path about 100 miles wide where the moon’s shadow completely covers the sun. Delta flight 1218 will leave Austin airport at 12:15 PM CT and land in Detroit at 4:20 PM ET, providing passengers on the Airbus A220-300 with an unimpeded view of the eclipse’s peak.

The 130-seat flight sold out within 24 hours, and Delta announced another flight on Monday. The second flight, Delta Flight 1010, will depart from Dallas-Forth Worth airport at 12:30 PM CT and arrive in Detroit at the same time as Delta Flight 1218. The Airbus A321neo is a larger plane, accommodating 64 additional passengers.

Southwest's Solarbration

Southwest Airlines is also getting in on the eclipse mania. The company opened a sweepstakes that will provide a pair of tickets to two winners for an eclipse-viewing flight and a free stay at an Omni Hotel property before and after the event. “When the stars align like this,” Southwest’s brand and content director Julia Melle told ADWEEK, “there’s an opportunity.”

The sweepstakes closes on March 11, so eclipse enthusiasts should register soon.

Free solar eclipse glasses

For those who want to stay on terra-firma during the eclipse, Warby Parker is offering two free pairs of ISO-certified eclipse glasses per family beginning April 1. The company wants to ensure viewers are fully equipped to witness the event safely.

“As avid supporters of sharp vision, we want to make sure you have everything you need to safely witness this celestial spectacle.” the company wrote on its website.

If the store you visit runs out of glasses, the retailer will provide an eclipse pinhole projector that allows viewers to see the eclipse through a projection.

Plus, if you aren’t located near a store, Warby Parker provided DIY instructions to try making one yourself.

Bottom line

The solar eclipse will go through Mexico and enter the U.S. in Texas. It’s set to travel through Oklahoma, Arkansas, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, New Hampshire, and Maine. You may also see the eclipse in small parts of Tennessee and Michigan.

If you live in any of these states, you should have a front-row view.

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If you’re over 50, take advantage of massive travel discounts and trip-planning resources

Delta's path of totality flights

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Free solar eclipse glasses

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