It’s finally here! The long-reported, much-hyped solar eclipse is set to cast half of the continent in darkness for an impressive four-and-a-half minutes. While the event is slightly dimmed in Houston, with the predicted weather, that’s not going to stop us from living up to our Space City name. To view the phenomenon safely, find out where to find free solar eclipse glasses in Houston to ensure the totality of your sight for years to come.
Houston Zoo
Observe the eclipse alongside the animals at the Houston Zoo. Starting at 11 am, guests can obtain complimentary eclipse glasses near the Cypress Circle Cafe. Admission is priced at $35.
Public Libraries
Solar Eclipse Activities for Libraries is a nationwide initiative that has seen the distribution of over five million solar glasses to over 10,000 libraries. This include a number of libraries in the Houston area, to find out which is the closest to you, consult their map here.
Space Center Houston
Stargazers have the opportunity to witness the eclipse at Space Center Houston, the Official Visitor Center of NASA Johnson Space Center, where a day event is being hosted in collaboration with the Houston Astronomical Society. Free solar glasses will be available for attendees.
Katy Arboretum
In the Katy region, astronomy enthusiasts can partake in pre-eclipse events at the Katy Arboretum, featuring a variety of activities such as lawn games and story readings. Taking place from 12:30 pm to 2 pm, attendees can also receive complimentary eclipse glasses while stocks are available.
Houston Museum of Natural Science
Residents of Houston also have the option to experience the solar eclipse at the Houston Museum of Natural Science during their “Totality Over Texas” event.
Taking place in the Burke Baker Planetarium, the event includes an eclipse briefing afterward, scheduled to commence at 12:20 pm at the Sun Dial. Attendees will receive complimentary eclipse glasses and can observe the eclipse through telescopes, as well as view a live broadcast of the event from Bandera.
Warby Parker
Warby Parker is a national eyewear chain that specializes in stylish, affordable glasses. In celebration of the solar eclipse, the company is giving away free solar eclipse glasses in Houston at its area locations:
- Baybrook: 700 Baybrook Mall Suite B111
- CityCentre: 800 Town and Country Blvd Ste 110
- Heights Mercantile: 645 Heights Blvd Suite 2A
- Highland Village: 4078 Westheimer Rd
- La Centerra at Cinco Ranch: 23501 Cinco Ranch Blvd A130
- Rice Village: 2518 University Blvd.
Mr.EyeDr
Fellow eyewear experts, Mr. EyeDr, are also participating in a solar eclipse initiative by giving away free solar glasses in Houston at select locations:
- Cinco Ranch: 23702 Westheimer Pkwy, Ste C
- Clear Lake: 1616 Clear Lake City Blvd, Ste 103
- Cy Fair: 9105 W Sam Houston Pkway N, Ste 800
- Katy-Grand Parkway: 1534 W Gran Pkwy S
- South Katy: 9550 Spring Green Blvd
- South Voss: 1635 S Voss Rd, Ste A
- Westchase: 11159 Westheimer Rte Ste 100
- Willowbrook: 6127 Fm 1960 Rd W