As the upcoming celestial event sweeps the Midwest, ask yourself where the best spot to watch the solar eclipse in Chicago is. Maybe if you’re one of the few lucky people living in the tallest highrises in Chicago, you’ll have unrestricted solar eclipse access—to which we say we’re jealous. However, if you have no rooftop or there are soaring buildings enclosing you, grab your solar eclipse glasses and head to one of these solar eclipse 2024 events in Chicago!
1. Experience the Solar Eclipse at Streeterville Social
One of the best Solar Eclipse 2024 events is happening at the Loews Chicago Hotel in downtown Chicago. The hotel will allow guests and locals to witness the solar eclipse on April 8 from the outdoor rooftop terrace, Streeterville Social, on the third floor.
The hotel will preview cocktails and starters from the new Streeterville Social menu at the ETA Lobby Bar. With each purchase of a cocktail or food item, spectators will receive a complimentary pair of Solar Eclipse Glasses and have access to the outdoor terrace to observe the eclipse. Celebrate the sun rising for the season at Streeterville Social as the sun disappears.
Address: 455 N Park Dr, Chicago, IL 60611
2. Celebrate the return of the Eclipse at The Gwen
Discover one of Chicago’s best-kept secrets, an Art Deco-inspired rooftop retreat offering seemingly endless skyline panoramas in a relaxed yet stunning atmosphere. For the once-in-a-lifetime event, Upstairs at The Gwen is offering the Total Eclipse of The Heart cocktail with Bacardi Ocho Rye Cask Rum, Rhum Clément Creole Shrubb, Orgeat, Lime, Fire Bitters, Tajín Rim ($18), which will run April 6-8. The cocktail can be enjoyed in the bar or on the terrace.
Address: 521 N Rush St, Chicago, IL 60611
3. Watch the Solar Eclipse at Adler Planetarium
What better way to take in the grandeur of the eclipse than from the Adler Planetarium’s lakefront? The planetarium will host a free eclipse viewing party on April 8, featuring telescope viewing, complimentary solar eclipse glasses, photo ops, and other activities. You can even make a day of it and explore the planetarium’s exhibitions after the eclipse.
Address: 1300 S DuSable Lake Shore Dr, Chicago, IL 60605
4. Get ready for the eclipse at Legler Regional Library
The Legler Regional branch in Budlong Woods will hold a Solar Eclipse Viewing event from 12:30 p.m. to 3 p.m. TheChicago library said the event will offer solar filter glasses provided by the Adler Planetarium.
Address: 115 S Pulaski Rd, Chicago, IL 60624
5. A Partial Solar Eclipse at the Bamboo Club
The Bamboo Club will be hosting a special event to celebrate the Partial Solar Eclipse. Patrons will get a unique vantage point to witness this celestial spectacle. Their tents will be down, and the patio will be open, providing a relaxing and lovely setting for viewing. Additionally, they will offer lunch specials, including $5 High Noons, $5 Burgers, and $10 Pizzas, making it an ideal place to relish delicious food while experiencing this rare astronomical event.
Address: 3505 N Clark St, Chicago, IL 60657