Your Guide to

San Francisco Fleet Week

History of Fleet Week

The Fleet Week celebration began as a natural extension of the annual arrival of U.S. Navy ships that would dock in San Francisco each October. In 1981, by order of San Francisco Mayor Dianne Feinstein, it became an official event. Today, more than one million people attend Fleet Week each year. 

Best Time of Day to View the Air Show

The 2026 Air Show will be held over three days, October 9-11, from noon to 4 p.m. each day. Even if you aren't in your preferred viewing spot by the afternoon, there's a good chance you'll see planes flying over the city earlier in the day and in the days before, practicing their incredible maneuvers.

Best Place to View the Air Show

There are a number of places in San Francisco where you can score a great view.

PIER 39

PIER 39 is located far enough east of the air show that you'll be able to see most of the flying formations. It is also home to a large number of dining and entertainment options. You can get to PIER 39 directly on the F Line streetcar. 

Bay Cruise

Book a bay cruise during Fleet Week and watch the airshow from a unique perspective. For a truly unique experience on the water, board the SS Jeremiah O'Brien, one of the few remaining Liberty ships from the Second World War.

Marina Green

If you'd rather be a little farther away from the main action of Fleet Week but still want to see the Blue Angels do their thing, Marina Green is a great option. To get to Marina Green, take the 22 Muni bus to its last stop at Fillmore and Bay Streets.

Crissy Field

To be right in the heart of Fleet Week and to watch airplanes fly directly overhead, Crissy Field is the place to go. Make sure to get there early, since most people arrive well before the performance begins. The 30 Muni bus terminates at Crissy Field, making for an easy ride.

Marin Headlands

The Marin Headlands is a hilly peninsula on the northern side of the Golden Gate Bridge in Marin County. You'll encounter smaller crowds here. To get to the Marin Headlands, you'll have to drive across the Golden Gate Bridge.

Aquatic Park

Located near Ghirardelli Square, Aquatic Park has grassy fields where spectators can gather. The elevated terrain makes it easy to see the planes in the air. To get there, take the Powell-Hyde cable car to its final stop between Beach and Jefferson streets.

Top of the Mark

Top of the Mark is a rooftop bar at the InterContinental Mark Hopkins Hotel on Nob Hill. It offers an elevated view that puts you almost parallel with pilots themselves. Take the 1 Muni bus line or the California Street cable car to get there. 

Treasure Island

Treasure Island offers an interesting perspective. Although it is farther away than most other locations, it provides an unobstructed view of the bay. To get to Treasure Island, take the 25 Muni bus.

Coit Tower

Coit Tower provides an impressive view of the city below. To get to Coit Tower, you can take the 39 Muni bus—or, if you're feeling brave, take the stairs.

Twin Peaks

Twin Peaks puts you 1,000 feet above sea level, giving you a full view of the entire city. Arrive at Twin Peaks by taking the 33 or 37 Muni bus lines.

Neighborhood Concert Series

Military musicians will be playing at venues across San Francisco from October 6 to October 12, 2026. Check out the full calendar of concerts. 

Ship Tours

Climb aboard the visiting ships at the Embarcadero and get a glimpse into the day-to-day lives of the sailors. Tours are held at specific times between October 7 and October 12, 2026. Choose one or more to attend from the schedule.

Parade of Ships

See the ships of Fleet Week sail across San Francisco Bay on Friday, October 9, beginning at 11 a.m. The procession of ships can be seen from the Golden Gate Bridge to the Bay Bridge, with the reviewing stand at the Marina Green.

Fleet Fest

This expo at Fisherman's Wharf will feature live music, food pop-ups, and fun activities for the little ones. It's a perfect way to spend the morning before the Air Show. October 10 and 11, 2026.

K9 Heroes

Meet and learn about the four-legged friends who serve in search-and-rescue missions with various branches of law enforcement and the military. October 10, 2026, at 10 a.m. in San Francisco's Duboce Park.

Learn More About Fleet Week