Seattle’s summer skies are set ablaze every August when the U.S. Navy Blue Angels roar above Lake Washington, and fans are already packing their bags and planning their trips for the 2025 Boeing Seafair Air Show. If you’re searching for the best place to watch Blue Angels in Seattle, you’re not alone—thousands of aviation enthusiasts, families, and photographers circle these dates on their calendars well in advance.
This year, the Blue Angels headline Seafair with daily performances from August 1-3, mesmerizing crowds with their heart-stopping aerial acrobatics. They arrived in Seattle on July 30, touching down at King County International Airport (Boeing Field), and will begin their practice runs on July 31. Whether you’re a first-timer or a long-time fan, your vantage point can shape your entire experience, so here’s the latest insight into where to catch the most breathtaking views.
Prime Viewing Spots for Blue Angels 2025
Seattle’s geography—with its sparkling lakeshores, scenic parks, and iconic skyline—offers many fantastic locations to marvel at the high-speed maneuvers of the Blue Angels’ F/A-18 jets.
Read also-Blue Angels Seattle: Seafair 2025 Soars Over Lake Washington
Top Free Viewing Locations:
- Genesee Park & Playfield (4316 S Genesee St): The official Seafair site, with excellent sightlines just steps from Lake Washington. Admission is ticketed on Saturday and Sunday, but Thursday’s practice and Friday’s show remain free to the public.
- Seward Park: Boasting a vast waterfront and grassy lawns, this is perfect for a family outing or a quieter picnic paired with front-row jet action.
- Colman Park (1740 Lake Washington Blvd S): Known for its elevated viewpoints and relaxed energy.
- Day Street Boat Ramp & East Portal Viewpoint: Both offer spectacle and easy access for those looking to snap unforgettable photos.
- Mount Baker Park: Elevated and close to the water, it’s a beloved favorite among locals.
- Waterfront areas along Lake Washington Blvd: Stretching beside the lake for stunning, unobstructed views.
Eastside & More Unique Perspectives:
- Aubrey Davis Park and Groveland Beach Park (Mercer Island): Fewer crowds and clear vistas over the lake.
- Chism Beach Park and Meydenbauer Bay Park (Bellevue): Enjoy shaded lawns and floating docks.
- Medina Beach Park (Medina): A peaceful hub for unobstructed long shots or family picnics.
VIP & Ticketed Experiences:
- Genesee Park Grandstands: For those who want all the action and festival atmosphere, weekend tickets are a must. Remember, they sell out fast.
- Museum of Flight’s Jet Blast Bash: With entry included in museum admission, this party offers up-close views of takeoffs and landings, plus live music, food trucks, and aviation exhibits. Don’t miss the thrill of watching “Fat Albert” (the C-130J Hercules) thunder down the runway.
- Blue Angels Lake Cruises: Specialty cruise experiences on Lake Washington bring you to the heart of the flight path. These often include food, drinks, and panoramic deck views—book early as they sell out quickly.
Blue Angels Schedule, 2025 Boeing Seafair Air Show
Here’s what to expect this week:
- July 31: Two free practice runs, 11 a.m.–1 p.m. and 3:30–4:40 p.m.
- August 1-3: Main Blue Angels performances, daily at 3:35 p.m., culminating in a full Seafair weekend festival with hydroplane races and additional aerial acts.
Arrive early for prime spots, especially at parks and public beaches. Bring ear protection, lawn chairs, snacks, and lots of sunscreen. Weekday practice sessions often have smaller crowds, so they’re perfect for young children or those who want to avoid weekend rushes.
Summary Table: Recommended Viewing Spots
2025’s Seafair is a can’t-miss tradition, and with so many choices, selecting the best place to watch Blue Angels in Seattle comes down to your vibe—festival energy in Genesee Park, tranquil moments in Seward Park, or the thrill of a lake cruise. However you experience it, expect unforgettable moments and the thunder of jet engines. Planning to see the show? Share your favorite tips or viewing memories in the comments below—let’s help Seattle’s aviation fans make the most of Seafair weekend!