On April 8, 2024, Texas will experience a total solar eclipse. Smithsonian Journeys invites you to witness this rare celestial event. Your journey begins in Austin and continues to Fredericksburg, in the heart of Texas' picturesque Hill Country – perfectly situated in the middle of the path of totality. You’ll enjoy Austin’s energetic and eccentric center before continuing to the limestone bluffs, rock-strewn ranchland, and idyllic wineries of the Hill Country. Enjoy an exclusive stargazing experience under the light of a new moon; learn from astronomers about the importance of preserving dark skies for astronomy; and experience total darkness on an expansive vineyard. 

Highlights:

• Texas Hill Country Nature: Explore a piece of wildflower heaven along Texas’ Bluebonnet Trail in the peak of the season.  
• Astronomy and Star Party: Learn about the importance of preserving our nation’s dark skies during an exclusive star party beneath a new moon.  
• Wildlife Discovery Center: Enjoy an exclusive afternoon at a wildlife discovery center where you will join a local naturalist on a walk to a canyon grotto, search for the endangered golden-cheeked warbler in its native habitat, learn how to track time using a Solar Analemma, and observe the sun through a solar telescope.    
• Unique Dinner Cruise: Come up close and personal with the world’s largest colony of urban bats on a chartered dinner cruise with live music. 
• Solar Eclipse Texas Style: Sip local wines and enjoy panoramic views of Texas’ legendary Hill Country while witnessing a solar eclipse in the middle of the band of totality.  

Included meals are denoted as follows: Breakfast (B), Lunch (L), Reception (R), Dinner (D)