I thought I knew the greatest views in San Francisco. Then Chronicle readers found one of the best of all.

Alt: A Christmas Story: It's A Major Award!

We’ve assembled our first Escape from Fleet Week guide, with five weekend excursions for people — and pets — who aren’t wild about the F-18s flying in formation over San Francisco.

ALT: Gabby Williams for the gays

ALT: Blow The Whistle Referee

ALT: Kaitlyn Chen Celebration

“Flying Schoolgirl” Katherine Stinson broke gender barriers and thrilled San Francisco crowds long before Amelia Earhart. Then history lost her name.

“Flying Schoolgirl” Katherine Stinson broke gender barriers and thrilled San Francisco crowds long before Amelia Earhart. Then history lost her name.

“Flying Schoolgirl” Katherine Stinson broke gender barriers and thrilled San Francisco crowds long before Amelia Earhart. Then history lost her name.

This Bay Area town looks like a model-train village, with a huge brick factory and nearby bridge. Detour inside and you’ll find charming locals, and so much to do.

Why are so many people walking across San Francisco? Thank Bob Siegel, a tireless 86-year-old who built the city’s ultimate walk.

This Bay Area town looks like a model-train village, with a huge brick factory and nearby bridge. Detour inside and you’ll find charming locals, and so much to do.

ALT: Ripley Aliens