Total Solar Eclipse in CLE FAQs

What happens if traffic is heavy coming to Cleveland for the solar eclipse?

Plan ahead and pack your patience if you're heading out on eclipse day. And, be sure to download this Downtown Cleveland Map, which will help you navigate throughout Downtown. Also, be sure to tune into WTAM-AM 1100, which will be providing live traffic updates throughout the day.

Similar to when Downtown Cleveland hosts multiple major sporting events and/or concerts on the same day, traffic will be closely managed to mitigate issues. Work zones will be paused and ODOT crews will be fully staffed to help with traffic control.

The City of Cleveland has published an Eclipse News & Update page with the latest information on road closures and news for Eclipse day.

Plan to arrive early and stay late for events. It’s important to plan for longer travel times in areas within and near the path of totality. Make sure to pack extra snacks and keep water on hand. Before hitting the road, top off your fuel tank and charge your EV. And whatever you do, avoid stopping on the highway to watch the eclipse.

To help alleviate congestion immediately following the solar eclipse, residents and visitors should consider spending more time in the area where they viewed the eclipse. Instead of immediately heading out after the event, people are encouraged to explore the neighborhoods, parks, restaurants and businesses near their eclipse viewing location.

Also, consider taking RTA public transportation to avoid traffic delays and parking limitations.

And, finally, consider making the most of your time in the car. Download this eclipse-themed Spotify playlist and rock out to all things Cleveland. Or, listen to the “Legends of The Land” podcast to learn more about Cleveland the Total Solar Eclipse.

Where should I park in Downtown Cleveland for the solar eclipse?

Plan ahead and pack your patience if you're heading to Downtown Cleveland for the Total Solar Eclipse. To view all parking options within Downtown Cleveland, view and download this Cleveland parking map designed by Downtown Cleveland Inc. You can also check out this quick list of available parking Downtown.

Please note that due to the expectation of large crowds, there will be parking restrictions in Downtown Cleveland. Parking will be at a premium and garages and lots can fill up quickly. Consider alternate travel plans, such as carpooling, ride shares and utilizing public transportation.

The Greater Cleveland RTA's extensive rail and bus services will provide connections across the city and will transport people to prime eclipse viewing locations such as Progressive Field, North Coast Harbor and University Circle. From April 6-8, the Waterfront Line will be operational from 9:30 a.m. to 5:27 p.m., offering direct access from Tower City in Downtown to North Coast Harbor, where the Great Lakes Science Center and the Rock & Roll Hall of Fame await your exploration. Learn more here.

Where should I park in University Circle for the solar eclipse?

Plan ahead and pack your patience if you're heading out to Total on the Oval. Parking will be available in the Cleveland Museum of Natural History, Cleveland Museum of Art and Cleveland Botanical Garden garages for a $30 flat rate.

Access parking will be available on the top deck of The Cleveland Museum of Art garage and on Wade Oval Drive in front of the museum on a first-come first-served basis.

Road closures on Wade Oval Drive just south of the Cleveland Museum of Natural History garage entrance and just north of Jeptha Drive will begin at 10 a.m. and remain in place until after the eclipse event.

Consider taking RTA public transportation to avoid traffic delays and parking limitations.

Will I be safe in Cleveland during the solar eclipse?

Your safety is our top priority at all events and public gatherings in Cleveland. Heightened law enforcement will be visibly present throughout the weekend to monitor events and address any concerns.

Specifically, there will be 24-hour security in place April 3-9 for the event at North Coast Harbor, which includes coverage from the City of Cleveland Police, private security guards and roaming off-duty police officers. For medical emergencies, dedicated EMS staff and a first aid station will be onsite each day at North Coast Harbor.

Additionally, Downtown Neighborhood Safety Specialists are also roaming Downtown Cleveland seven days a week. These uniformed unarmed officials are trained to de-escalate aggressive behavior, provide safety escorts and help deter criminal activity.

At Total on the Oval, the University Circle Police Department (UCPD) is working closely with the Cleveland Division of Police and the Cuyahoga County Office of Emergency Management. An on-site command center will be established.

What do I do if Cleveland attractions, restaurants and/or venues become crowded during the solar eclipse?

Your safety is our top priority at all events and public gatherings in Cleveland. Heightened law enforcement will be visibly present throughout the weekend to monitor events and address any concerns.

Some venues, like attractions and restaurants near eclipse events, will likely be busy with additional people who are also enjoying the Total Solar Eclipse. Take advantage of Cleveland's ranking as one of the most walkable cities in the country and enjoy the outdoors.

What happens if cell phone service goes down during the solar eclipse?

While the City of Cleveland and Cuyahoga County do not expect large-scale cellular network disruptions, it can occur.

Cell service can go down during large events due to the high number of people trying to use their phones at the same time. When many people are using their phones in one area, it can overload the local cell towers, leading to dropped calls and slow data speeds.

That said, if cell service goes down, individuals should utilize Wi-Fi calling. Be sure to bring extra chargers and download maps in case GPS services are temporarily unavailable.

Also, take it as a sign to relax and enjoy this rare experience without being glued to your smartphone. You can still snap photos and videos, just don't expect to share them right away.

If cell phone service diminishes, how will I pay for souvenirs, admission, food and beverages?

We encourage venues and patrons to prepare and carry cash for all venues and events. Also, pack snacks and food/beverages if purchases cannot be made.

If you’re attending Eclipse Fest, the nearest places to find an ATM include inside the Great Lakes Science Center, at the DoubleTree Hotel Cleveland or inside the Galleria on East 9th Street.

If you’re attending Total on the Oval, there are ATMs available inside the Cleveland Museum of Art and the Cleveland Botanical Garden.

If cell phone service goes down, how do I keep in touch with the people I’m traveling with?

In the event that cell phone service becomes diminished, it’s important that you have a way to find your travel partners.

1. Designate a Meeting Point: Choose a specific location where you can meet up if you get separated. Make sure everyone knows where it is.
2. Download Offline Maps: Use a mapping app that allows you to use offline. Or, prior to leaving home, download and print these Cleveland maps. This way, you can still navigate even without cell service.
3. Set Up a Group Messaging App: Before you lose cell service, agree on a messaging app that works offline, like FireChat or WhatsApp. These apps can use Bluetooth or peer-to-peer Wi-Fi to communicate between devices.
4. Write Down Important Information: Have a paper copy of important phone numbers, addresses and other key information in case you need to reference it. Write your phone number on your child’s arm.
5. Take a Picture: Before the group potentially splits up, take a group cell phone picture to ensure accuracy with what each person is wearing.
6. Stay Together: Whenever possible, stay with your group – particularly children – to avoid getting separated.

The City of Cleveland has established several reunification centers:

• Downtown – Tower City
• West side of Cleveland – Our Lady of Mount Carmel church
• East side of Cleveland – Fifth District Police Headquarters (881 E 152nd St)

What happens if there is bad weather and I can't see the solar eclipse in Cleveland?

April weather in Northeast Ohio can be unpredictable, but there are a few factors working in Cleveland’s favor for clear views on April 8. Lake Erie’s cool water temperature and the fast-paced weather patterns of the season can help with reducing cloud coverage. Looking at historical weather images for that date shows that when clouds are present, it is often a very thin veil of clouds through which the eclipse could be easily viewed.

Of course, Cleveland weather can always surprise us. Click here to follow Cleveland weather updates.

If you find yourself in less than ideal weather, you can still make the most out of the day. There are plenty of indoor attractions around Cleveland that can create fun experiences for all. Find some indoor Cleveland spots in our Great Indoors blog.

Should I make the drive to Cleveland for the solar eclipse if there is bad weather?

When considering driving to Cleveland during inclement weather, prioritize safety above all else. Assess road conditions by checking weather forecasts and traffic updates. If conditions are hazardous, consider exploring alternative transportation methods, such as utilizing the RTA. Always ensure your vehicle is equipped for the weather, drive cautiously and stay informed about any advisories or warnings issued by local authorities. Your safety and well-being are paramount.

Where do I find eclipse glasses?

The eclipse will attract people from all over the world and eclipse glasses will be in high demand given the global interest. It’s important for residents and visitors to plan ahead for safe viewing. Be sure to source glasses from vendors whose products are ISO-compliant. Check out these locations for getting Eclipse glasses in Cleveland (while supplies last).