5 places to watch the 2017 total solar eclipse around Cincinnati

Thousands of people may be flocking to Hopkinsville, Ky., on Monday to watch the solar eclipse.

Cincinnati should have 93 percent visibility of the eclipse, according to Journal-News media partner WCPO, so you’re still in for a show if you opt to stay closer to home.

Here are some eclipse viewing events Monday in the Cincinnati area:

1. The Cincinnati Observatory, 3489 Observatory Place, Cincinnati

The Cincinnati Observatory is hosting a party from noon to 4 p.m. for the “biggest astronomical event of the year.”

The observatory says the event will provide a safe viewing experience for children and adults alike. A limited number of eclipse glasses will be provided.

The event is free and no reservation is required.

2. The Drake Planetarium, 2020 Sherman Ave, Norwood

The Drake Planetarium’s event from noon to 3 p.m. includes a Totality Full Dome Show, a pair of eclipse glasses, and access to a variety of other features.

The eclipse will be live-streamed inside the planetarium if the weather does not permit outdoor viewing.

Cost is $15.

3. The Cincinnati Nature Center, 4949 Tealtown Road, Milford

The Cincinnati Nature Center is hosting a watch event “recommended for children ages 4-6 with an adult,” according to its website.

The event starts at 1:45 p.m. at the Rowe Woods Visitor Center and lasts until 3 p.m. Attendees will make pinhole projectors. Packing a lunch is suggested, but not required.

The event costs $10 per person for non-members and $3 for members.

4. The Public Library of Cincinnati and Hamilton County, multiple locations (listed below)

Five branches of the Cincinnati and Hamilton County Public Library are hosting their own watch parties. All events will have some sort of safe viewing options, like eclipse-viewing glasses or sun filters. Most events include crafts, videos and games.

  • Greenhills branch: 1 to 4 p.m.
  • Norwood branch: 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Wyoming branch: 1 to 3 p.m.
  • Main branch downtown: 2 to 3 p.m.
  • Price Hill branch: 2:30 to 3:30 p.m.

All events are recommended for adults and children except the Price Hill event, which is recommended for children ages 7-12. All events are free.

5. Glenwood Gardens, 10397 Springfield Pike, Cincinnati.

From 1 to 4 p.m., the Glenwood Gardens will host an eclipse watch party open for adults and children. Attendees are asked to meet at Cotswold Overlook.

The event’s cost is $10 for non-members, $3 for members.

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Can’t get outside Monday? Watch the astrological action from the great indoors.

NASA is hosting a live stream of the eclipse on several platforms. From noon until 4 p.m. Monday, you can watch a live stream on NASA's website, Facebook page or YouTube page.

Journal-News media partner WCPO contributed to this report.


SOLAR ECLIPSE

The eclipse will reach its peak in the Cincinnati area at about 2:29 p.m. Monday, Aug. 21.

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