NEW YORK (WABC) -- The total solar eclipse had New York City and the Tri-State area is buzzing with anticipation and many were not disappointed.
Check out some of the best locations where people gathered to view the celestial event in New York City:
American Museum of Natural History
Manhattan sail to see the eclipse
Top of One World Trade Observatory
Central Park Zoo and Bronx Zoo are open with standard hours
Green-Wood's Meadow & Historic Chapel
New York Hall of Science Eclipse Watch Party
NY State Parks hosting several parties
Rochester Museum and Science Center
Rockland County viewing events
Milton J. Rubenstein Museum of Science & Technology
Mid-Hudson Discovery Museum pavilion
Mayor Eric Adams sounded the alarm about the eclipse during a news conference and had a message for New Yorkers: don't look directly at the sun.
"I know that people think you can just look up at it, its not a major issue, but it is," Adams said. "This is very, very important. Don't damage your vision, do not look directly at the eclipse."
Looking directly at the sun can damage your eyes. Experts say there are no pain receptors in your retina, so you won't feel it happening. The best solution is to put on a pair of certified eclipse glasses.
The branches of the New York City public libraries started handing out free glasses on Friday on a first-come, first-served basis.
You can also pick up glasses at Warby Parker locations and New York state is also offering free I LOVE NY ISO-certified eclipse glasses at Welcome Centers, select Thruway Rest Stops and other statewide locations, with a daily limit of two per person while supplies last.
In New York City, free eclipse glasses are being distributed every day between 6:30 a.m. and 9:30 p.m. at: Moynihan Train Hall - MTA Long Island Rail Road ticket windows.
Chief Meteorologist Lee Goldberg will cover the eclipse from Vermont, while meteorologist Brittany Bell will be reporting from Niagara Falls.
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