• Take Caltrain into the City.

• Bust out a beer and some snacks; it’s gonna be a long ride.

• But don’t worry, you’ll find friends.

• Get off at the last stop: 4th and King. The city will be crowded.

• But you’ll get to see some cute, patriotic things.

• You’ve got time to kill before the fireworks show. Sunbathe in the park by the Embarcadero Center.

• Cool off with a walk through an artsy fountain.

Grab a bite to eat at Gott’s Roadside in the Ferry Building.

• Cram as many people as possible onto one pedicab, and head to Fisherman’s Wharf.
• Take shameless selfies on the pedicab while the poor driver bikes until his calves almost fall off.
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• Walk around Fisherman’s Wharf. It will be extremely crowded, but that’s part of the fun.
  

• Scream your head off when San Francisco’s famous “Bush Man” jumps out at you and yells, “BAHHH!”

• Charter a private boat out into the San Francisco Bay to watch the fireworks. You’ll have the best seats in the house.

No really, you will be RIGHT in front of the barge where the fireworks are launched–and the Coast Guard will yell at you for being way too close.

• It will be like one giant party on the water. Say hello to your fellow boaters.

• It will be the best fireworks experience. Ever.

• Walk back to the Ferry Building, hop on Muni, and take Caltrain back home. You’ll be pooped. You can all take a nap together as a community.

Where to Charter a Boat

I highly recommend Andy from SF Water Taxi. It’s a tiny boat, but Andy’s fun and very fair with his pricing. Call him ahead of time to book your spots. 

Where to Catch a Pedicab

You’ll see the pedicabs waiting in line near the Ferry Building and Fisherman’s Wharf. Just walk up to the first one in line. They generally charge $20 for three people and $30 for four. I highly recommend Rob; he’s an art teacher who drives pedicabs during the summer break.