FRIDAY FIVE
Fleet Week in San Francisco is something you either look forward to or totally despise. And that’s because the infamous Blue Angels can bring out the best or the worst in us (likely the latter if you’re an animal owner and/or hate loud noises). Regardless of which camp you’re in, these air shenanigans will take place this weekend whether you like it or not (!). So in true Buddhist form, it’s probably a good idea to surrender to the event and enjoy the show. The question you should be asking yourself is not “Should I watch the Blue Angels, the oldest flight-demonstration squadron in the US?” but rather “Where?”
TBI tip: Airshow flights take place from 12:00 to 4:00 p.m. on both Saturday and Sunday.
1. Twin Peaks
The Blue Angels fly over the Golden Gate Bridge, but they can also be found circling and diving over the city. And what could possibly be better than a view from 922 feet above the city? While Twin Peaks is likely to be a popular viewing spot, one can perch anywhere along the hike to the top. You could even make an afternoon hike out of it.
TBI tip: Wear sunscreen, and bring a hat.
2. Telegraph Hill
Relax in North Beach’s urban jungle as you await the air show this weekend. You might even befriend a parrot. Telegraph Hill is a great spot for watching the show not only because you can eat some delicious pizza before and after the event, but also because it offers a spectacular view.
TBI tip: Be mentally (and physically) prepared for a steep climb.
3. Marin Headlands
OK, this is not in the city, but that doesn’t mean you’ll suffer from Blue Angels FOMO. The benefit of watching from the other side of the bay is that you get to see more of the tricks that occur over the Pacific Ocean and the Golden Gate Bridge. If you’re a water sign, this might be a more suitable viewing spot for you.
TBI tip: Find a shaded area in which to park and hang for the day.
4. Crissy Field
This might be the most popular SF viewing spot, but it draws crowds of people for good reason. At Crissy Field, you’re truly front and center to all of the action. You can stare out at the sea and the Golden Gate Bridge on one side, and turn around and sigh in amazement at the planes’ nose dives over the city on another side.
TBI tip: Find a spot in which to watch the Blue Angels in the morning, because it does get crowded.
5. Top of the Mark
Perhaps it’s a foggy weekend, and you don’t want to watch outside? Fear not. Just head to Top of The Mark for a drink and snack, and watch the Blue Angels from this historic San Francisco establishment. Its elevated view will give you a unique vantage point, as you’ll likely be almost parallel with the jets. Vroom, vroom!
Hey! The Bold Italic recently launched a podcast, This Is Your Life in Silicon Valley. Check out the full season or listen to the episode below featuring Eileen Rinaldi, CEO and founder of Ritual Coffee. More coming soon, so stay tuned!
