We are planning to visit SF over the 4th of July for 3 days. We would like to watch the fireworks and are looking for a few different alternatives other than the Wharf area. Does anyone have any suggestions? It would be my husband, 13 year old daughter and myself. We'd like to lay out a blanket somewhere and relax for the evening after visiting the city for the day. We are staying in Union Square area but have a car if needed. Thank you for any help.

Did anyone seriously think this one millionth 4th of July question would be about any place other than SF? LOL

Call me stupid or something because I don't understand your response. I haven't been on the message board for 2 years back when I planned a trip to Canada. Am I asking a outrageously dumb question?

For the fireworks you want to head down to the Marina District. DO NOT drive because parking and traffic will both be horrible. Crissy Field is a great place to watch them. The Marina Green is also very nice. Just remember that when the sun goes down it can get VERY chilly so be sure to have a warm coat with you.

Alternates are the Marin Headlands or Fort Baker (right under the North Vista Point of the Golden Gate Bridge).

Have a great trip!!!

Thank you for the suggestions. We are really looking forward to this trip. We haven't been to SF since our honeymoon 19 years ago!

Have a great time over the 4th. Just to explain the second response (which seems unnecessary in tone)-- it would have been more helpful to include place location in your title-- this way people would look who know about san francisco. I read your question because I thought it would be about new york's display.

OK, sorry about the bad typing too!

Hello kage,

Although I am an SF native, SF is not the best place to see the fireworks, mainly because due to the fog, you most likely will not be able to see them anyway. The most impressive fireworks display is in San Jose at the San Jose America Festival. I believe that it's the biggest show in northern California. If you do not want to drive, you could easily take the Caltrain from 4th and Townsedn in SF down to the San Jose Diridon Station. Guadalupe River Park is a relatively short walk from the train station. Otherwise you could just take a taxi. We have been going there for the last 10 years or so and have always had a lot of fun.

http://www.americafestival.com/