Summary
April 8, 2024, will be an exhilarating day for stargazers, as a total solar eclipse will be visible across the United States, attracting thousands—possibly millions—of viewers to its path. This remarkable event will occur when the moon travels between the Earth and the sun, blocking out sunlight and creating moments of darkness for up to four minutes and 28 seconds. To witness this celestial spectacle, you’ll want to be situated in the path of totality, where the moon will completely obscure the sun.
The path of totality will cross 13 states in the U.S.: Texas, Arkansas, Oklahoma, Missouri, Illinois, Kentucky, Indiana, Ohio, Michigan, Pennsylvania, New York, Vermont, and Maine. To prepare for this cosmic event, we are highlighting some of the best small cities to explore for the Great North American Eclipse next year. Broken Bow, Oklahoma, stands out as an exceptional viewing location. With a population of fewer than 5,000, this hidden gem offers outdoor adventures, delightful cuisine, and cozy, rustic-chic cabin rentals.
What to Do
Often envisioned as flat plains, Oklahoma surprises with its small mountain ranges in the southeast corner, particularly in Broken Bow—a hub for outdoor activities. Many visitors use the town as a base for Beavers Bend State Park, a sprawling 3,400-acre recreational area adjacent to Broken Bow Lake, renowned for its boating, hiking, and fishing opportunities. While there, make time to visit the Forest Heritage Center to discover sustainable forestry practices. For indoor excitement, consider rock climbing at Crag Climb Beavers Bend, axe throwing at Bigfoot Axe Throwing, or bowling at Gutter Chaos, where live music and karaoke nights await.
Where to Eat and Drink
The Broken Bow area boasts an impressive array of dining options. Experience hippie-inspired pizzas at Grateful Head Pizza Oven, indulge in homemade ice cream at Okie Girls Coffee & Ice Cream, or savor classic tavern fare and cocktails at Abendigo’s. For a refreshing drink, visit Fish Tales Winery & Bistro, Knotted Rope Winery, Mountain Fork Brewery, Beavers Bend Brewery, or the innovative Hochatown Distilling Co.
Where to Stay
Broken Bow offers an abundance of options for accommodation, featuring traditional and modern log cabins. Many of these cabins are part of resorts that include amenities like pools and community centers, while others can be found on vacation rental platforms. For a more hotel-like experience, consider staying at Beavers Bend Lodge or Hochatown Lodge.
How to See the Eclipse
The total solar eclipse is set to occur on April 8, 2024. In Broken Bow, the phenomenon will begin at 12:28 p.m. CDT and conclude at 3:07 p.m. CDT, with the moment of totality happening from 1:45 p.m. CDT to 1:50 p.m. CDT.
How to Get to Broken Bow
To reach Broken Bow, it is advisable to fly into Texas and rent a car. You have two options: fly into the small airport in Paris, Texas, located approximately 65 miles away, or opt for Dallas Fort Worth International Airport, about 170 miles from your destination.
