For the majority of Americans, watching the moon fully eclipse the sun is only something you watch on the news. But on Monday, April 8, the Lakes Region community will have the chance to witness one of the universe’s most beautiful astronomical events — the sun’s corona shining from behind the total darkness of the moon — just by looking up.
Witnessing a solar eclipse is an awe-inspiring experience, and the chances of it happening over your local sky are rare. The Lakes Region will see 95 to 98 percent totality, which means you don’t have to travel far to find the perfect viewing spot. We put together a list of the Lakes Region businesses, restaurants, and destinations that are planning some solar/lunar fun so you can make the most of your Lakes Region vacation — or staycation!
1. Purity Spring Resort Solar Eclipse Stay & Party
This picturesque mountain resort is the ideal home base for all things Lakes, and on April 8, you can watch the eclipse from its brand-new King Pine base lodge deck during the resort’s Solar Eclipse Stay and Party event. This creative, astro-themed party will have everything you need to watch the eclipse in style, including complimentary “heavy” hors d’oeuvres and a cash bar with signature solar eclipse cocktails. Resort guests who stay Monday night will also receive souvenir cups, eclipse viewing glasses (while supplies last), 20 percent off dinner coupons for the scrumptious Traditions Restaurant, Cafe and Pub, and the perfect eclipse sweet treat: Moon Pies.
Where: 1256 Eaton Road, Madison, New Hampshire.
When: 2 – 4:30 p.m. on April 8.
Learn More: Call 603-367-8896 or book online at Purity Spring Resort. Use promo code COSMIC.
2. Inn on Golden Pond
Choose your perfect solar eclipse viewing spot from more than 7 acres of beautiful grounds, including the picturesque shoreline of nearby Squam Lake. To make the experience truly unique, you can even share the moment with the inn’s friendly farm animals! Book a special $199-a-night eclipse package for April 7 or 8, which includes a full breakfast, viewing party admission, and glasses on Monday afternoon.
Where: 1080 U.S. Route 3, Holderness, New Hampshire.
When: April 7 – 8, with a viewing party on April 8.
Learn More: Inn on Golden Pond.
3. Castle in the Clouds
Head to the top of Lee Mountain for 360-degree views of the region as it dips into darkness for over three minutes. It’s also the perfect spot to get an up-close view of the 98-percent eclipse through solar telescopes and learn about the skies from a New Hampshire Astronomical Society astronomer. The resort’s Eclipse Watch Party is from 2 p.m. to 4:30 p.m. and free for everyone, although registration is encouraged.
Where: 455 Old Mountain Road, Moultonborough, New Hampshire.
When: 2 p.m. – 4:30 p.m. on April 8.
Learn More: Castle in the Clouds.
4. Hermit Woods Winery
Make the eclipse last a lot longer than three minutes with a before-party at the Hermit Woods Winery, which prides itself on crafting delicious wines from not only grapes, but other fruits, flowers, and even veggies. The winery’s pre-eclipse party includes an evening concert and complimentary tasting of their Solar Eclipse wine, crafted specially for this once-in-a-lifetime event. The festivities begin at 6 p.m. on Sunday, April 7.
Where: 72 Main St., Meredith, New Hampshire.
When: 6 p.m. on April 7.
Learn More: Hermit Woods Winery.
5. The Wright Museum of WWII
Did you know that a total solar eclipse passed over the Northwest United States and Canada on July 9, 1945, just as WWII was coming to an end? While you’re in town to witness this cosmic event, stop in and learn about the Earthly heroes and history of the war at this interactive, educational museum. It’s open regular hours during eclipse week, and admission is only $10.
Where: 77 Center St., Wolfeboro, New Hampshire.
When: Regular hours Monday – Saturday from 10 a.m. – 4 p.m.; Sundays from 12 – 4 p.m.
Learn More: The Wright Museum of WWII.
6. Snowvillage Inn
Head to the White Mountains and gather with other skygazers on the main lawn of the Snowvillage Inn to witness three minutes and 15 seconds of daytime darkness, cooler temps, and the sun’s blazing corona. The party will include appetizers and drinks, viewing glasses, and souvenir drinkware, and a special accommodations package includes a two-night stay with breakfast each morning. Make your reservations soon, because the event is expected to sell out.
Where: 136 Stewart Road, Eaton Center, New Hampshire.
When: The afternoon of April 8.
Learn More: Snowvillage Inn.
7. 1848 Inn
Take part in this historic solar event from a location that’s known for its own rich history. Since it was built in – you guessed it – 1848, the 1848 Inn has served as a small inn, carriage house, cow farm, and hideout for slaves escaping to Canada, which you can see to this day. A stay here is a step back in time, and skygazers can unlock exclusive rates, including a three-night stay for the price of two, by using the code “Solar Eclipse 2024.”
Where: 258 Endicott St., North Laconia, New Hampshire.
When: Eclipse week.
Learn More: Call 603-366-4714 or submit your reservation request online at the 1848 Inn.
8. Owl’s Nest Resort
The Owl’s Nest Resort lies right on the edge of the totality, so you’ll only need to step outside and look to the skies to witness the sight of a lifetime. Nestled within the White Mountains, you can view the eclipse from your favorite area of this renowned resort, whether it’s on the grass at Lakeside Village, atop the mountain at the golf course, or from a lounge chair on the beach. To keep up-to-date with eclipse plans, be sure to sign up for the resort’s weekly newsletter.
Where: 40 Clubhouse Lane, Thornton, New Hampshire.
When: The afternoon of April 8.
Learn More: Owl’s Nest Resort.
9. Mill Falls at the Lake
View the eclipse from the shore of Lake Winnipesaukee with a themed special-event package that’s out of this world. Special pricing starts at $184 per night and includes a whole host of eclipse-inspired perks, like viewing glasses, a 2024 eclipse guidebook, arts and crafts for the kids, and celestial s’mores around the fire. Don’t forget to grab your eclipse-themed snack pack that includes star-shaped chocolates, eclipse gum, moon cheese, Luna bars, and, of course, Moon Pies!
Where: 312 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, New Hampshire.
When: Package is available for stays from April 6 – 8.
Learn More: Mill Falls at the Lake.
10. McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center
At New England’s premier space and aviation museum, the upcoming eclipse is a big deal. Their website is counting down to Eclipse Day with a page full of themed activities and resources for learning about the solar eclipse and the universe, and the viewing party begins at noon on April 8. Join fellow space enthusiasts to view this historic event, but plan ahead; This is sure to be a popular viewing spot!
Where: 2 Institute Drive, Concord, New Hampshire.
When: 12 p.m. on April 8.
Learn More: McAuliffe-Shepard Discovery Center.
11. Meredith Fine Craft Gallery
The League of NH Craftsmen is celebrating the eclipse with a unique tribute to the skies: a special exhibit called A Total Eclipse of the ART. The celestial-themed display will include curated pieces from juried artists that include jewelry, wood, pottery, and more. The exhibit will run from March 18 to April 12, and the gallery is open Monday-Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sundays from 12 to 5 p.m. Admission is free.
Where: 279 Daniel Webster Highway, Meredith, New Hampshire.
When: March 18 – April 12.
Learn More: Meredith Fine Craft Gallery.
12. Black Bear Lodge
View the solar eclipse from less than an hour outside the totality and enjoy your stay at this rustic lodge nestled among 770,000 scenic acres of the Waterville Valley and White Mountains. Book the Total Eclipse Package and stay three nights (Saturday-Monday) for only $139 a night. The offer includes a solar eclipse info packet and complimentary viewing glasses for up to four people. Each stay at Black Bear Lodge also includes Freedom Passes, which give guests access to spring activities around the area, including tennis courts, mountain bike rentals, and an indoor rock-climbing wall. A three-night minimum reservation is required for the eclipse package.
Where: 23 Black Bear Way, Waterville Valley, New Hampshire.
When: April 6 – April 8.
Learn More: Black Bear Lodge. Use promo code ECLPS.
13. danforth bay
Visit Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort for a rare opportunity to witness this solar eclipse right from the resort’s prime viewing location. Whether you opt for the Solar Eclipse Viewing Party or venture a little bit further north, enjoy special site deals when you stay at Danforth Bay. Book Friday and Saturday nights (April 5 & 6) to get Sunday and Monday nights (April 7 & 8) for free. Guests who book the Solar Eclipse Lodging Package receive a souvenir cup, eclipse viewing glasses, a “Moon Pie,” and a 20% off dinner coupon for Traditions Restaurant & Pub. There will be special events happening on Saturday from 11am–3pm, including horse-drawn wagon rides, wine tastings, store promotions, and the Boston’s Best Roast Beef Food Truck. On Monday, join the Solar Eclipse Viewing Party at the new King Pine Base Lodge Deck from 2-4:30pm, with discount tickets available to Danforth Bay guests for $15 each, featuring complimentary hors d’oeuvres, a cash bar, and signature solar eclipse cocktails!
Where: 196 Shawtown Road, Freedom, New Hampshire.
When: April 5 – April 8.
Learn More: Danforth Bay Camping & RV Resort. Use promo code ECLPSE.
14. Woodstock inn brewery
For this solar experience, the brewery is crafting a special limited batch beer to celebrate the eclipse. It’s a Czech-style dark lager brewed with an array of quality imported malts and features complex aromas of caramel, toffee, and chocolate with hints of roastiness. Visit the inn for a 2-night stay during the eclipse and witness the event with speical eclipse glasses.
Where: 135 Main Street, North Woodstock, NH
When: April 8.
Learn More: Woodstock Inn Brewery.
