TourismOhio’s Interactive Map launches in anticipation of total eclipse
Pictured is a map showing the path of the eclipse this yea. Photo courtesy of Michael Zeiler for GreatAmericanEclipse.com
Lauren McCarty | Contributing Writer
COLUMBUS – “In Ohio, there is far more to see beyond watching the Solar Eclipse,” Gov. Mike DeWine said recently, in anticipation of the tourism Ohio will see this spring.
On April 8, Ohio will be in the path of totality during the solar eclipse for the first time in 200 years. Parts of the state like Dayton, Cleveland, Akron, Toledo, Lima and Findlay will experience total darkness as the moon hides the sun from earth.
TourismOhio, which operates through the Ohio Department of Development, is working to make sure visitors experience everything the state has to offer in addition to being in perfect view of the eclipse.
“We are excited to welcome eclipse enthusiasts to our great state,” DeWine said.
TourismOhio has launched an interactive map on its website to aid visitors in planning their trips. The map directs tourists to viewing parties, festivals, and many other events and attractions across the state. Their website offers tons of information on exploring Ohio and entertaining the whole family.
In Cleveland, there will be events hosted by the NASA Glenn Research Center and The Great Lakes Science Center according to Thisiscleveland.com, a website that has its own interactive games and features to help tourists plan trips to the lakeside city.
According to Emily Lauer, vice president of PR and Communications for Destination Cleveland, the organization that runs thisiscleveland.com, an estimated 200,000 day and overnight visits are expected in Cleveland during the eclipse.
The organization’s website has unique features such as a countdown to the eclipse and a racing game where you go on a mission through downtown Cleveland with the goal of reaching downtown before the moon covers the sun. They also have similar features to TourismOhio such as links to where to stay, shop, eat and local attractions.
“From state agencies to our local partners, there are many Ohioans working together to ensure that visitors and residents have a fun and safe experience in the Heart of it All,” said Lydia Mihalik, director of the Department of Development.
TourismOhio’s website features activities such as the Ohio Lunar Road Trip, which offers a wealth of ideas on where to explore Ohio’s history of science, history and aviation attractions. It also offers information on eclipse glasses to protect the eyes of eclipse viewers. The website is loaded with information and the interactive map gives visitors a fun way to plan their trip.
The tourism Ohio will see in April is incredibly encouraging for residents and professionals in the field of visitor relations statewide and in each city. Ohio tourism cultivators are using the eclipse as a chance to promote all Ohio has to offer to outsiders who may have never traveled to the Buckeye State here otherwise.
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