SkyTerrace

Today was our first time at SkyTerrace, which is outside of security at Terminal 2 near the coffee shop (formerly Starbucks but now it is some other coffee brand). As you enter SkyTerrace there is a security officer and metal detector, but that was fast. There is no fee to visit. My son loves plane spotting, and we’re glad that we visited here! It has an indoor area and an outdoor area. The outdoor area is very large and can easily accommodate many people simultaneously viewing the planes. There are chairs and benches available. Nice views of the planes just after they land, and some views of planes taking off, and plenty of planes taxiing. Highly recommend coming here if you have some time before your next flight.

On the fourth floor of the Terminal 2, with a security checkpoint on the same floor. The security check could be rigorous at the security staff’s discretion. But the view is good for admiring aircraft takeoffs or landings.

Small lounge area with patio and views of runways. The SkyTerrace is free to enter and only has x-ray scanners for security. It's located in terminal 2, which is going to be three stops on the Red AirTrain line from the BART station. It's a little hard to find, but if you just follow the signs, you'll get there. There is an indoor seating area with some information about the airport and comfortable chairs. The chairs are attached to the floor though. The outdoor area provides great views of the runway and has many benches. You can only really see smaller aircraft for domestic flights, not larger planes. Smoking is not allowed, but food and drinks are. There are also a few outlets inside if you'd like to charge a device. There isn't a restroom, but you can easily find one nearby.

True hidden gem. Hard to find, so you will have to go up the stairs/elevator behind the Air Canada counter. This observation deck is open to the public for free access, but you do have to go through a minor security screening up in the lounge. No tickets/boarding passes are needed. There is a spacious, quiet and peaceful indoor lounge and an outdoor open air terrace. Outdoors can get smelly and loud depending on the airplanes there. There are only a few chairs and lounge chairs available outside, but lots of standing room. 10 ft tall glass panels surround all areas. TIP: You can take food and drink out there, but there is nothing close by to buy anything.

Highly recommend a visit to the Sky Terrace at SFO. Nice view of the runways, flights landing and taking off. Brief introduction to the history of the airport. Beautiful view on a nice day.