Fleet Week 2010 in San Francisco

It is Fleet Week in San Francisco which means lots of fun family activities and of course, the viewing of the Blue Angels.

We saw the Blue Angels for the first time with our kids two years ago and they are still talking about it. If you are planning to go, you should schedule carefully and think about where you want to view the show in advance. The traffic can be a bit daunting but the show is well worth the logistics.

The Blue Angels fly from 3:00 to 4:00 Friday (10/8) through Sunday (10/10) and can be viewed from the Hyde Street Pier to Marina Green, Crissy Field and the Golden Gate Bridge. Pier 39 is advertises good views of the show, but is too far east of the action to be of much real value. Best to find your parking early, grab a late lunch, and then walk to your viewing spot. Pack a blanket, sweaters, and snacks if you are viewing outdoors.

If you don't want to be part of the crowd by the water, you can view from Telegraph Hill or go even further afield and view from Treasure Island. You may also want to linger after the show. The traffic on the Golden Gate Bridge and up 19th Avenue can be pretty nasty for an hour or so after the show so whether you are viewing or not, be aware of the associated traffic. You can also go early, catch the "opening act" which runs from 1:00 to 3:00, watch 30 minutes of the Blue Angels and head out before the traffic hits.

Here are a couple good websites with schedules and logistics for the week. If you've got good tips on viewing spots, please share!

http://californiabeat.wordpress.com/2009/09/28/sf-fleet-week-2009-w...

http://www.military.com/fleetweek

http://www.fleetweek.us/Air_Show.html

http://www.marinmommies.com/celebrate-san-francisco-fleet-week-2009