The 2013 San Francisco Marathon | Best Viewing Locations

There are several options for you, as a spectator, to see your favorite runner or to cheer all of them on as they get closer to the finish line of the San Francisco Marathon on June 16, 2013, which starts at (gulp) 5:30 am.

The starting line for the First Half Marathon and Full Marathon is on the Embarcadero at Mission Street. The starting line for the Second Half Marathon and the finish line for the First Half Marathon is in Golden Gate Park near the Rose Garden (on JFK). The finish line for the Second Half Marathon and the Full Marathon is on the Embarcadero at Folsom.

Suggested Spectator Viewing Locations

#1: Sports Basement Presidio (mile 4.5)
The steepest hill of the race is between miles 4 and 5 – right around the second water stop. Help support the participants by cheering them on as they go up the hill and enjoy beautiful views of the Golden Gate Bridge. Sports Basement is located at 610 Mason St. in the Presidio, across from Crissy Field.

#2: The First Half Marathon Finish in Golden Gate Park (first half mile 13.1)
Congratulate your loved one at the Half Marathon point of the race. Cheer on the marathon runners, while watching the finish of the First Half Marathon. This cheer area is located on JFK Drive at 14th Avenue in Golden Gate Park’s Rose Garden. Take the Spectator Bus from the main starting line to watch your runner finish.

#3: The Second Half Marathon Start in Golden Gate Park
Cheer your loved one at the Second Half Marathon starting line. Cheer on the marathon runners, while watching the start of the Second Half Marathon. This cheer area is located at the corner of JFK Drive and 36th Avenue in Golden Gate Park. After cheering at the start, take the Spectator Bus to the main finish line to watch your runner finish the race.

#4: Haight Ashbury (between miles 19 and 20)
Watch runners cross this popular intersection in the Upper Haight District of the city. Runners need your support as they head into the final 10k. You can grab some breakfast or coffee as you wait at the many local cafes. This location can be found at the corner of Haight St. and Ashbury.

#5: Sports Basement Bryant St (mile 22)
Make some noise and help participants carry on at one of the more difficult parts of the race. Sports Basement is sponsoring this Potrero Cheer Station. Cheer, dance and support the participants around Mile 22 to help them finish the race. Spectators can stop by the Sports Basement store (16th and Bryant) on race day for some snacks and 10% off all purchases.

#6: Lululemon Cheer Station (between miles 23 and 24)
Dust off your cowbells and join Lululemon Athletica to cheer on the amazing athletes.  Wear your best and brightest yellow gear and stay energized with complimentary breakfast and coffee.

Spectator Bus Tickets (not required)

There are 2 spectator bus options:

1. One way bus to Golden Gate Park (First Half Finish Line).  There is NO return service with this bus; spectators must find their own transportation back to the Main Finish Line.

Fee: $5 per ticket

2. The Hop-on, Hop-off service stops along the waterfront at Crissy Field (stop #1), in beautiful Golden Gate Park (stop #2), where you will have multiple opportunities watch your runner, and the eclectic Dog Patch area of Potrero Hill (stop #3).

Buses leave from the corner of Mission and Steuart Streets (near the Start Line) beginning at 5:45 am and continuing through 11:30 am that day. Tickets must be purchased in advance.

Fee: $20 per ticket

Links: Event details

Cost: FREE*

*Free to watch and cheer

Categories: **Annual Event**, *Top Pick*, San Francisco, Sports & Fitness Submitted by Rena Ragimova