Berkeley

A haven for backyard artists and coffee-shop philosophers, Berkeley has deep roots in the Flower Power movement of the 1960s and ’70s. But while California’s spirited city of free speech still stands strong, Berkeley can also boast of a booming food, wine, and craft-brew scene, sprinkled throughout with arts and culture. Add an easy-to-use public transit that makes San Francisco a quick light-rail ride away, and Berkeley rates high on any Bay Area must-see list.

Why You Should Visit Berkeley

“You will be hard pressed to ever say, ‘OK, I did Berkeley,’” says Dan Marengo of Visit Berkeley, the city’s local tourism group. “There's too much to cover, which is a little amazing considering it’s roughly a quarter the size of Oakland.” The town, originally named in 1866 after Irish philosopher Bishop George Berkeley, is great for exploring, with welcoming neighborhoods that bustle with shoppers, parents walking dogs and pushing strollers, and joggers and skateboarders gliding by. The top-notch University of California, Berkeley, gives the city an energetic jolt, and students from around the world add an international and intellectual flair. How diverse is Berkeley? Along the main drag of University Avenue alone, you can buy an exotic outfit at Sari Palace, sample Tibetan food at Café Tibet, and enjoy small-batch beans at Jaffa Coffee.

Arts and Culture in Berkeley

Fans of theater, music, visual arts, or history will all have no problem finding things to do here. Berkeley Repertory Theatre is a cornerstone of the city’s arts scene. Known for its innovative productions, the "Berkeley Rep" presents a mix of contemporary plays, classics, and new works. For music lovers, The Freight & Salvage is a must-visit venue. This nonprofit community arts organization is dedicated to promoting traditional music and hosts an array of performances, from folk and blues to bluegrass and world music. Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA) is another cultural gem. The museum features an impressive collection of visual arts, ranging from historical pieces to contemporary works. 

For those interested in history, The Berkeley Historical Society offers a deep dive into the city’s past. The museum’s exhibits and archives showcase Berkeley’s development, notable residents, and significant events. Guided walking tours are also available, providing a firsthand and informed look at the city’s historic landmarks. The Greek Theatre, an outdoor amphitheater on the UC Berkeley campus, hosts concerts and performances against the backdrop of the Berkeley Hills. 

For a taste of local creativity, visit the Berkeley Potters Guild. This cooperative studio and gallery features the work of local ceramic artists, offering unique handmade pottery and sculpture. Live Oak Park and Civic Center Park often host cultural festivals, outdoor performances, and art shows, providing community spaces for residents and visitors to enjoy the arts in an open-air setting.

Restaurants in Berkeley

From Michelin-starred spots to late-night college-student hangouts, Berkeley has it all. Chez Panisse is a legendary institution, celebrated for its pioneering role in the farm-to-table movement. Founded by Alice Waters, this restaurant offers a Michelin-starred prix fixe menu. For a more casual experience, try the upstairs café, which serves à la carte options. For fans of Japanese cuisine, Kiraku is a must-visit. This Japanese izakaya offers a variety of small plates, such as yakitori, sashimi, and tempura. The lively atmosphere makes it a favorite among locals. To pair a delicious meal with incredible views of Berkeley’s waterfront, book a brunch or dinner cruise with City Experiences.

La Mediterranée is perfect for a taste of the Mediterranean, and for a casual bite at a place that reps Berkeley’s progressive bona fides, you can’t beat Cheeseboard Pizza. This worker-owned cooperative serves a daily-changing vegetarian pizza, made with fresh, local ingredients. Vegetarians and vegans should also check out The Butcher’s Son, a plant-based deli offering an array of sandwiches, pastries, and brunch options.

Shopping in Berkeley

Start your shopping adventure on Fourth Street, a popular commercial district known for its upscale boutiques and neighborly atmosphere. Here, you'll find stores like Makers WorkSpace, which showcases handmade goods from local artisans. Telegraph Avenue is another must-visit area, especially if you're looking for eclectic shops and unique finds. For a wide range of exuberant jewelry, bold fashions, home goods and more, drop by Black-owned Laurel Burch Studios. Amoeba Music is a legendary record store that also carries CDs and DVDs, and right across the street is Moe's Books, a treasure trove of new and used books, with four floors to explore. Also nearby is Berkeley Hat Company, where pork pies, bowlers, fedoras, and fascinators line the shelves. 

For more general-interest shopping, head to Berkeley's Downtown District. Here, you'll find a mix of national retailers and local businesses. UC Berkeley's Cal Student Store is great for Cal Bears swag. 

Where to Stay in Berkeley

The city offers a range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. Hotel Shattuck Plaza is a popular choice for visitors seeking elegance and convenience. Located in downtown Berkeley, this historic hotel has loads of classic charm and its proximity to the University of California, Berkeley, and numerous dining and shopping options makes it a great home base. Graduate Berkeley is another good option close to campus; its restaurant, Henry’s, is a local favorite for casual dining.

For a more intimate experience, consider staying at a bed-and-breakfast. Berkeley City Club, also known as the “Little Castle,” offers a historic and architecturally arresting option. Designed by Julia Morgan, this boutique hotel features elegant rooms and a gorgeous, Hearst Castle–esque indoor pool. 

Looking for some resort indulgence to pair with your urban explorations? The Claremont Club & Spa—with its views of the San Francisco Bay and amenities that include multiple pools and tennis courts—is the perfect choice.