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On Monday 21, the United States will witness a total solar eclipse from coast to coast—but not of the heart. (Sorry, Bonnie Tyler.) Astronomers call the rare phenomenon “The Great American Eclipse,” during which the moon overshadows and perfectly aligns with the sun to create a path of totality (a nerdy term for a blackout).
This is the first total solar eclipse to sweep across the nation in 99 years, so you’ve probably never seen a cosmic event like this. The bad news? Unless you booked a trip to Oregon, South Carolina or one of the many other states where the eclipse will be 100 percent visible, you won’t be able to fully see the grand show.
But don’t curse the stars just yet—Gotham will experience a partial eclipse (about 71 percent visibility), and a few cool viewing events and parties should give you every reason to be excited. That is, as long as you can skip work; the eclipse reaches its peak at 2:44pm. To make your view extra ace (and safe), pick up a free pair of eclipse glasses from any Warby Parker store in the city.
The Great American Viewing
Join the Amateur Astronomers Association of New York to celebrate this special event in Pioneer Works’ garden. Pioneer Works, 159 Pioneer St, Brooklyn (718-596-3001, pioneerworks.org). 1-4pm; free.
Total Solar Eclipse at Hayden Planetarium
Learn about the cosmic event during a talk led by educator Brian Levine before seeing the real thing outside at the Rose Center for Earth and Space. American Museum of Natural History, Central Park West at 79th St (212-769-5100, amh.org). Noon-4pm; free with museum admission.
The Great American Eclipse at the Liberty Science Center
The Liberty Science Center offers a fun and safe space (staring at the sun is dangerous, y’know) to view this iconic event. LSC educators provide the proper equipment and their vast knowledge on the astronomical affair. There will also be Sun Globe Racing in inflatable hamster balls, space crafts (i.e. make your own sundial) and more. Liberty State Park, 222 Jersey City Boulevard, Jersey City (201-200-1000, lsc.org). 10am; free.
Solar Eclipse Experience at Hotel Americano
Head to Hotel Americano’s rooftop (with a pool!) from noon to 3pm and sip Solar Eclipse black martinis made with Grey Goose. The property is giving away free pairs of eclipse glasses, too. 518 W 27th St (212-216-0000, hotel-americano.com). Noon–3pm; free to attend.
Solar Eclipse viewing at City Vineyard
Make sure to R.S.V.P. for City Vineyard’s total solar eclipse rooftop bash at Pier 26. The event is in partnership with Spellbound Wines (keeping it witchy), so get drunk on vino and make the most of this once-in-a-lifetime event. 233 W St (646-677-8350, cityvineyardnyc.com). 1:30–4pm; free with R.S.V.P.
Solar Eclipse at Lovage
Get a crazy-cool view of not only the eclipse but some of New York’s finest attractions such as the Empire State Building and the Freedom Tower on Lovage’s rooftop. The midtown spot is hosting a viewing party from noon to 5pm, which includes a special “Solar Eclipse of My Heart” cocktail and—yep, you guessed it—a pair of solar glasses! 350 W 40th St (212-956-7020, lovagenyc.com). Noon–5pm; $12.
Solar Eclipse at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge
Brooklynites should take advantage of this open-to-the-public eclipse viewing party (however, reservations are recommended). For $35, guests will receive a specialty "Frozen Eclipse" cocktail, a scrumptious lobster roll sandwich and a pair of solar eclipse sunglasses at 1 Hotel Brooklyn Bridge. Trust us, the view will be stunning. 60 Furman St (347-696-2500, 1hotels.com). Rooftop opens at 11am; $35.
Great American Eclipse at Haven Rooftop
Have a chill afternoon at Haven Rooftop (located on top of the Sanctuary Hotel) and watch the eclipse in the heart of Times Square. The bar is going all out by serving a delicious Eclipse Negroni. You can also fill your tummy with bites such as fish tacos, crispy calamari and sliders to pass the time before the eclipse reaches its peak totality at 2:44pm. 132 W 47th St (212-466-9000, havenrooftop.com).