Prairie State Wire

Visitors have the opportunity to observe the solar eclipse on April 8 from Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site in Collinsville. Although not located in the path of totality, a notable partial solar eclipse will be visible starting at 12:43 p.m., lasting for just over two hours.

Cahokia Mounds, recognized as the largest pre-Columbian site north of Mexico, spans approximately 4,000 acres and includes at least 120 earthen mounds. The Illinois government protects 2,200 acres of this historic site and maintains 72 of the remaining 80 mounds. It is designated both as a U.S. National Historic Landmark and a UNESCO World Heritage Site.

On April 8, during the eclipse event, visitors can access the museum lobby and gift shop between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. However, due to major mechanical renovations throughout most of 2024, the site's interpretive center gallery will remain closed.

Eclipse attendees are advised to park only in designated areas such as the warehouse parking lot near Monks Mound for safety reasons and should avoid parking along roadsides.

The Cahokia Mounds State Historic Site is managed by the Illinois Department of Natural Resources and is situated in Collinsville, eight miles from St. Louis. It is accessible via Interstates 55/70 (Exit 6) and Interstate 255 (Exit 24) on Collinsville Road. The grounds are open daily from dawn until dusk with facilities including a water fountain and portable restrooms available at Monks Mound parking lot; dogs must be leashed at all times.

For those interested in guided tours, arrangements can be made by calling 618-346-5160. While admission is free, suggested donations are $7 for adults, $5 for seniors, $2 for students, and $15 for families. More information can be found online.