Come Celebrate the Solar Eclipse in McKinney

A total solar eclipse occurs when the Moon passes directly between the Earth and the Sun, completely blocking the Sun's bright disk for a brief period. This results in the daytime sky darkening dramatically, with only the Sun's outer atmosphere, the solar corona, visible as a glowing ring around the Moon. Total solar eclipses are rare and highly anticipated events, providing a stunning visual spectacle. They occur along a narrow path on Earth, and observers within this path experience the awe-inspiring moment when the Sun is entirely obscured by the Moon.

Watching a solar eclipse safely requires protective eyewear specifically designed for this purpose. The Sun's intense rays can damage the eyes when viewed directly, even during an eclipse. Special eclipse glasses or viewers with certified solar filters provide essential protection, blocking harmful radiation while allowing safe viewing. Looking at an eclipse with the naked eye can lead to serious and irreversible eye damage, as the Sun's brightness and harmful UV rays can cause severe harm to the retinas, making proper eye protection crucial. Visit McKinney is ordering special approved eclipse-safe glasses for our guests (as supplies last). Hotel package guests will receive these glasses as part of their reservation. 

Below are hotels that have set up special booking links for our Solar Eclipse visitors. (Click hotel name to access booking link.)

• Best Western Plus McKinney Inn & Suites
  480 Wilson Creek Blvd. - 15% off best available rate. Book one of our newly renovated guest rooms at a special Solar Eclipse discount! All rates include a deluxe hot breakfast buffet, self-parking, and WiFi. Rate offering must be prepaid in full at time of booking. Rate will be available until the hotel sells out.
   
• Home 2 Suites by Hilton
  2631 S. Central Expwy. - Dates Offered: April 5-9, 2024. Rate based on availability and any changes to each reservation may result in a change of rate. 14 days Cancellation Policy - to avoid the first-night cancellation penalty.
   
• Red Roof Inn & Conference Center
  1300 N. Central Expwy. - 10% off regular rate. Cutoff to book with this link is 30 days prior to arrival. Cancellations must be by 4 p.m. the same day.
   
• SpringHill Suites by Marriott
  2660 S. Central Expwy. - Enjoy 10% off your stay when you book early! 1,000 Marriott Bonvoy Bonus Points, Solar Eclipse Welcome Goody Bag, plus complimentary breakfast buffet, parking, and Wi-Fi. Dates Offered: April 5-9, 2024. Rate based on availability and any changes to each reservation may result in a change of rate. 14 days Cancellation Policy to avoid 1st night cancellation penalty.
   
• TownePlace Suites by Marriott
  1832 Marketplace Drive - Receive two pairs of viewing glasses, self-parking for one vehicle per night, and complimentary hot breakfast. Rates are per room per night. A limited number of packages are available. Some blackout dates apply. Not available to groups of 10 or more rooms or in conjunction with other promotional offers.

The majority of the shops in downtown McKinney are open Tuesday-Saturday, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. There are many that are open on Mondays during these same hours and on Sundays usually between noon and 5 p.m. Most restaurants open around 11 a.m.