August 21 from 1 pm to 4 pm – Where Will YOU Be for the 2017 Solar Eclipse? Optimal Viewing in Central Florida By Josh Garrick 

This is the first total solar eclipse that will be viewable from the west coast to the east coast of the United States in 99 years. Florida residents will be able to view the solar eclipse at 85% totality, which means the moon will almost completely cover the sun.  Those seeking the “complete experience” will be at one of these very special and unique locations. 

At the Orlando Science Center 

777 East Princeton St. in Orlando   
Visit the Orlando Science Center for a fun and safe celebration of the eclipse. Their peak viewing time is 2:45 pm.  If you RSVP to the event, OSC will offer more information as the eclipse draws near including FREE Orlando Science Center hosted “pop-up viewing locations” around Orlando. Visit osc.org 

At the Buehler Planetarium at Seminole State College

100 Weldon Blvd. in Sanford
The Planetarium will hold their “Observation Event” on the sidewalks in front of the Automotive Technology building on the main campus of Seminole State with the point of maximum eclipse occurring at 2:51 pm. This event is created to view the eclipse with Planetarium staff and volunteers from the Central Florida Astronomical Society offering properly-filtered telescopes and binoculars set up for safe viewing. The Planetarium will also offer several short presentations for those interested in learning more about the eclipse and the science behind it. Call 407.708. 2360 or visit seminolestate.edu/planet

At the Bok Tower Gardens      

1151 Tower Blvd. in Lake Wales
This day in history is the perfect chance to surround yourself with the beautiful Gardens around the Bok Tower (the highest point in Florida). The Gardens’ first 400 visitors will each receive a complimentary pair of CE & ISO certified viewing glasses, and the Nature Guides will have additional information on the eclipse at the ‘Discovery Cart.’ For the adventurous, viewing will be optimal at the Knoll or bring a picnic blanket for a relaxing view on the Great Lawn or Pinewood Estate lawn. Call 863.676.1408 or visit boktowergardens.org 

Josh Garrick is the Florida Arts Editor for Wandering Educators