uc berkeley visitor tour

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Take A Tour in Berkeley

Tours are great ways to get introduced to a new area in a short time. And, if you're a local, an in-depth tour of a familiar attraction can be interesting and enlightening.

Consider these stimulating tours of top Berkeley places. For details, please visit venue websites.

1. UC Berkeley Campus Tour

Led by student guides, this 90-minute guided accessible walking tour gives an overview of the campus and highlights history and architecture . All tours cover housing and dining, academic structure, applying to Berkeley , undergraduate colleges and graduate schools, and safety and health. Some additional specialized tours are also available, including an admissions tour and residence hall tours.

• When: Tours generally commence at 9:30 am. See website calendar for availability and details.
• Reservations: Required.
• Good to know: You can visit the student union for lunch, and many more dining spots are available nearby on Telegraph Avenue .

2. TCHO Chocolate Factory Tour

Everything you always wanted to know about chocolate is explained during the TCHO chocolate tasting and factory tour. All of the chocolate is organic and 100% plant based. The factory equipment is strictly shiny, streamlined state of the art. In other words, you won’t be seeing Willy Wonka or any Oompa Loompas here! Must be age 7+; no pets.

When: Varies. Check website .

Cost: Fee; includes 25% off purchase in the factory store.

Reservations: Required; sign up here .

Good to know: You’ll be given a lab coat and hair net to wear before entering the factory!

3. UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley

Located in lush Strawberry Canyon, this 34-acre garden is home to more than 10,000 kinds of plants organized into nine major geographic collections. More than 2,200 are rare and/or endangered. Noteworthy sights include a rhododendron dell, a redwood grove, and a California area that occupied about one-third of the Garden and represents about 25% of the state's flora. It is one of the larges species collections of California native plants worldwide!

• Tour times: Saturdays and Sundays at 1 pm.
• Cost: Free with garden admission
• Reservations: Recommended for non-UCBG members and available here .
• Good to know: Pets are not allowed in the Garden due to the sensitivity of the plant collection. Only trained service dogs are permitted, but must be cleared at the Kiosk by Garden staff. The Lawrence Hall of Science is just a little farther up the road.

4. Regional Parks Botanic Garden

Established in 1940, this 10-acre garden located in rambling Tilden Regional Park collects, grows, displays, and preserves native California plants. Tours usually last about an hour and are appropriate for both adults and children.

• When: Saturday at 2 pm, Sunday at 11 am and 2 pm, and some holidays at 2 pm.
• Cost: Free. Admission to the garden is also free.
• Reservations: Not needed.
• Good to know: Pets are not permitted. Tilden Park’s Little Farm and the Merry-Go-Round are nearby.

5. Berkeley City Club

Designed by architect Julia Morgan--who graduated from U.C. Berkeley in 1894 with a B.S. honors degree in civil engineering, and who famously designed Hearst Castle--the magnificent landmark Berkeley City Club features Moorish and Italian Gothic elements and is decorated with oriental rugs and vintage furniture. It is a visual delight. A guest room can be seen by request if one is available. Tours last 45 minutes.

• When: Tours are offered on the fourth Sunday of the month, January-November. Drop in between 1 and 3:30 p.m.
• Good to know: On-site Julia’s Restaurant and Morgan’s Bar are open to the public, but never on Sunday. Telegraph Avenue is just two blocks away.

6. Edible Excursions

Edible Excursions walking tours feature culinary destinations around the Bay. Berkeley's Edible Excursions tour focuses on the famous foodie mecca known as North Shattuck , which is home to Alice Waters’ world-renowned Chez Panisse restaurant. Among the tour stops are the historic Cheese Board Collective to sample pizza and gourmet cheese and the original Peet’s Coffee .

• When: North Shattuck: Saturdays 11 a.m.-2 p.m.
• Good to know: You’ll get plenty to eat during these samplings. Plan your "before and after" meals accordingly.

7. Berkeley Historical Walking Tours

The Berkeley Historical Society offers neighborhood walking tours and special events. The Walking Tours are offered in the spring and fall. The Berkeley Historical Society Musuem is also a wonderful experience, filled with treasures from the past with relevance for the present and future.

When: Check website for calendar.

8. Telegraph Berkeley Tour

Experience Telegraph Avenue and the people who inspired and shaped its history with exclusive images, stories, and audio recordings, on this app-based tour curated in partnership with UC Berkeley and the Telegraph Business Improvement District. Points of interest along Telegraph Avenue are highlighted, with many historical references.

• Cost: free download at the App Store and Google Play: “ Telegraph Berkeley Tour. ”
• Good to know: Headphones are not required!

9. Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association house tours

The Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association (BAHA) is Berkeley’s non-profit preservation organization whose mission is to promote, through education, an understanding and appreciation for Berkeley’s history, and to encourage the preservation of its historic buildings. BAHA's main annual event is a spring house tour.

• When: Check website for date.

These are just some of the many tours you can take to see all of the beauty in Berkeley. Meanwhile, check out our travel itineraries for even more inspiration.

Award-winning travel writer Carole Terwilliger Meyers, a native San Franciscan, holds a B.A. degree in anthropology from San Francisco State University and an elementary teaching credential from Fresno State College. She is the author of eighteen books, the editor of five books, and the mother of two children -- with whom she has been through the road wars and in the travel trenches first-hand. Learn more about Carol at https://www.berkeleyandbeyond2...

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About the Author

Carole Terwilliger Meyers

Related partners.

UC Berkeley Koret Visitor Center 2207 Piedmont Avenue, Room 141 Berkeley, California 94720 U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

UC Berkeley Koret Visitor Center

2207 Piedmont Avenue, Room 141 Berkeley, California 94720

UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley 200 Centennial Dr Berkeley, California 94720 U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

UC Botanical Garden at Berkeley

200 Centennial Dr Berkeley, California 94720

Tilden Regional Park 740 Wildcat Canyon Rd. Berkeley, California 94708 U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

Tilden Regional Park

740 Wildcat Canyon Rd. Berkeley, California 94708

Berkeley City Club 2315 Durant Ave Berkeley, California 94704 U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

Berkeley City Club

2315 Durant Ave Berkeley, California 94704

Berkeley Historical Society & Museum 1931 Center St Berkeley, California 94704 U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

Berkeley Historical Society & Museum

1931 Center St Berkeley, California 94704

Edible Excursions North Shattuck California U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

Edible Excursions

North Shattuck , California

Telegraph Business Improvement District 2437 Durant Ave Ste 206 Berkeley, California 94704 U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

Telegraph Business Improvement District

2437 Durant Ave Ste 206 Berkeley, California 94704

North Shattuck Association 1700 Shattuck Ave Ste 318 Berkeley, California 94709 U.S. Details   Open in Google Maps

North Shattuck Association

1700 Shattuck Ave Ste 318 Berkeley, California 94709

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Educating leaders. Creating knowledge. Serving society.

Koret Visitor Center

Campus tours.

The campus is open to visitors! You can learn the hours of operation, including holiday exceptions, at the Koret Visitor Center . You can also wander the campus virtually through the YouVisit interactive experience !

Detailed directions, parking and public transit info can be found at the UC Berkeley Visitor Services website.

Campus maps

Berkeley Engineering is spread across campus, but the majority of our buildings are in the northeast quadrant. See our Maps page for online and printable maps for visitors, drivers, transit riders and more. If exploring campus, you can checkout our self-guided tour of the Berkeley Engineering quadrant.

Visitor resources

Looking for a place to stay, or to grab lunch ?  Or maybe a nearby wireless hot spot ? Find out what to see and where to go — both on and off campus — at the UC Berkeley Visitor Services website, or check out the Visit Berkeley gateway site.

The Navigating Berkeley web page from the campus Disability Access and Compliance office also offers maps and other resources for getting around the UC Berkeley campus.

Admission Presentation

• If the date you are requesting is unavailable or you are a prospective transfer student, please stop by our pre-admission information center in 103 Sproul, on weekdays 9am-4pm (Closed Wednesdays), or by phone at 510-642-3175 to ask your questions and get more information about Berkeley admissions. 
• Campus Tours are managed separately by the Koret Visitor Center located at the California Memorial Stadium. You need to sign up for  visit.berkeley.edu for more information. 

Download the Arts + Design map here .  

Campus Public Art + Architecture Map

Berkeley Arts + Design invites the community to explore UC Berkeley's rich arts landscape with the new Campus Public Art + Architecture Map. This map offers three self-guided tours, each featuring UC Berkeley's most significant works of public art and a varying range of architectural styles that span nearly 150 years.

Download the map here . 

  Tour the Arts + Design Campus!

In August 2017, Berkeley Arts + Design took over the UC Berkeley official snapchat account to give students a tour of the creative campus! Tour life in visual arts, performing arts, literature, film/media and design!

Arts+Design Initiative Fund

Friday Visit Experience

Come meet us.

Our visits are specifically tailored to provide you an overview of our admission application process, meetings with current students ( Berkeley Optometry Ambassadors ), and an opportunity to shadow in a pre-clinic during an actual class!

Meet With Students

We encourage all prospective students to reach out to our ambassadors to inquire about our program and student life. Berkeley Optometry Student Ambassadors work in conjunction with the Admissions & Student Affairs Office to provide prospective students with “real life” information regarding what it’s like to be an Optometry student here at UC Berkeley.

A great landmark to find the school is the California Memorial Stadium — we are west of the stadium by one block and adjacent to the Haas School of Business.

The campus has several pay lots. The closest parking lot, where we recommend visitors park, is the Maxwell Field Stadium Garage, across the street from the Haas School of Business/next door to California Memorial Stadium. Parking in Berkeley can be a challenge, so please allow yourself plenty of extra time. More information can be found here .

Campus Tours

On your visit, we will only have time to tour the Herbert Wertheim School of Optometry and Vision Science facilities.  If you are interested in a comprehensive campus tour of UC Berkeley, please contact Visitor Services .

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Visitor and Exchange Programs

UC Berkeley offers several graduate and undergraduate programs for visitors and exchange students.

Please contact us at [email protected] with any questions!

UC Berkeley has cross-registration agreements with:

• California State University East Bay (Hayward);
• San Francisco State University;
• Sonoma State University;
• Dominican University;
• St. Mary's College;
• Graduate Theological Union; and
• University of New Orleans

Visiting students should apply at their home campus Registrar’s Office.

UC Berkeley students should complete the Cross Registration Application and carefully follow the instructions provided.

The Evening & Weekend MBA Program at the Haas School of Business offers working professionals access to one of the finest management educations in the world.

The Exchange Scholar Program is designed to enable doctoral students with superior academic records to study at one of the participating institutions to take advantage of educational opportunities that are not available at Berkeley. You are normally eligible to become an exchange scholar only after having completed one year in a Berkeley graduate degree program.

You may take courses or conduct research with particular faculty at the host institution for no more than one year while remaining registered at Berkeley. You can find an application form and further instructions on the Graduate Division Exchange Program website.

Participating institutions are Brown, Columbia, Cornell, Harvard, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Princeton, Stanford, UC Berkeley, University of Chicago, University of Pennsylvania, and Yale.

Graduate reciprocity students are nominated by the partner universities under the provisions of specific contractual agreements, and attend a UC campus for up to one academic year on a no-fee-exchange, nondegree basis. Undergraduate and graduate reciprocity students are nominated by the partner universities under the provisions of specific contractual agreements, and attend a UC campus for up to one academic year on a no-fee-exchange, nondegree basis.

A graduate student registered on any campus of the University of California may go to another campus of the University as an Intercampus Exchange Graduate Student . This privilege enables you to associate with scholars or fields of study not available on the home campus or to seek the use of special facilities and collections.

To do this, you need the approval of:

• your graduate adviser
• the chair of the department on the host campus
• the deans of the Graduate Division on the home and the host campus

The Intercampus Visitor Program allows undergraduates enrolled on one UC campus to apply to another as an intercampus visitor for one term. Permission to participate in this program is granted on a very limited basis and only for valid academic reasons.

Students visiting UC Berkeley must attend college or school that is the same as or equivalent to the one in which they are enrolled at their home campus. Considerations in evaluating applications include:

• uniqueness of the proposed program
• value to the student's major
• availability of space in proposed courses

Applications to enroll in courses offered by impacted major programs will not be approved. The College of Letters & Science has its own set of guidelines.

Complete the Intercampus Visitor Application and carefully follow the instructions provided. You may direct your questions to the Special Programs unit in the Office of the Registrar at [email protected] .

Undergraduates who meet certain eligibility criteria and are enrolled at any campus of the California Community College, California State University, University of California systems may:

• Enroll without formal admission.
• Enroll in a maximum of one course* per academic term at any campus of either of the other systems.
• Enroll on a space-available basis.
• Enroll at the discretion of authorities at both campuses.

*This includes courses taken through the UC Berkeley Extension Concurrent Enrollment Program. Students may not participate in both Extension and Cross-enrollment programs at the same time.

CSU and CA Community College students participating in this program at UC Berkeley will be assessed a nonrefundable administrative fee of $46 per unit, which is based on the per unit fee at California Community Colleges. The fee is subject to change.

For more information, contact the Special Programs unit by email ( [email protected] ).

The Education Abroad Program offers the highest quality study abroad experiences tailored to meet the needs and interests of UC students.

Participants

• stay registered at UC while abroad,
• continue to earn credit and make usual progress towards their degrees,
• and pay the same fees they would pay if they remained on their home campuses.

International students come to UC Berkeley for one or two semesters as part of the Education Abroad Program . EAP is a set of reciprocal exchanges between the University of California and its partner institutions abroad.

Undergraduate reciprocity students are nominated by the partner universities under the provisions of specific contractual agreements, and attend a UC campus for up to one academic year on a no-fee-exchange, non-degree basis.

This program enables University of California undergraduates to enroll in one course per term offered by another UC campus if they are:

• Registered and enrolled full-time at their home UC campus; and
• In good academic standing.

There are no additional fees for this program. Applications for the program are provided and processed by the student’s home UC campus. Questions about this process should be directed to the University Registrar at your home UC campus.

UC Berkeley Students

Simultaneous enrollment in select online courses is facilitated through the UC Online Cross-Campus Enrollment program.

For courses outside of this program, complete the Application for Simultaneous Enrollment and carefully follow the instructions provided. Applications are also available at the Office of the Registrar in 120 Sproul Hall. Direct questions to the Special Programs unit in the Office of the Registrar at [email protected] .

Berkeley Global extends the reach of UC Berkeley’s impact by providing access and opportunities to a broad and diverse community of learners. Students come from across the U.S. and all over the world to study at this top-ranked public university.

We offer academically rigorous, short-term programs for current high school students, undergraduate and graduate students, and working professionals.

Many students also have the opportunity to apply for an internship and become eligible for Optional Practical Training (OPT, for select programs). Outside of class, students experience life in the San Francisco Bay Area and Silicon Valley.

Berkeley Global is a sub-brand of  UC Berkeley Extension.

Through the Berkeley Pre-College Scholars: Summer Programs , current high school students can experience summer in Berkeley whether virtually or in-person while taking university-level courses, improving their English and preparing to apply to US universities.

The Best Underground Spots on Campus

At a whopping 1,232 acres, UC Berkeley’s campus is quite vast. While there are plenty of iconic landmarks and popularly frequented spots, like Sproul Plaza, the Campanile, and Memorial Glade, there are also less trafficked areas that offer a respite from the hustle-bustle of campus. Here are a few of my favorite that I’ve discovered so far:

1. Ishi Court

Hidden in the bowels of Dwinelle Hall, Ishi Court is a beautiful courtyard surrounded by orangey-pink walls and plenty of trees. It’s the perfect location to take a break in between classes and enjoy the fresh air on one of the benches! However, it can be quite confusing to find. I’d recommend entering Dwinelle through the North entrance and going straight into Ishi Court. If you go through the main Dwinelle entrance, you might find yourself circling the hallways and traveling up and down staircases to find the entrance! Fun fact about Dwinelle Hall: The building is so huge that a student built a Dwinelle Navigator website that will give you step-by-step directions to each classroom based on which entrance you enter! It even has an estimated walking time.

2. Women’s Faculty Club Garden

I often hear about the main Faculty Club, but the Women’s Faculty Club is a lesser known gem on campus. Located behind the Haas School of Business, the Women's Faculty Club garden offers a serene atmosphere amidst the surrounding buildings (and construction sometimes). Abounding with flowers, buzzing bees, and lush greenery, the garden is the ideal place to sit and read. Though the Women’s Faculty Club is only open to faculty and PhD students on campus, anyone can enjoy the garden!

3. Social Research Library

UC Berkeley’s 27 on-campus libraries offer a variety of vibes, but the Social Research Library might just be my favorite. It’s located in Haviland Hall next to the East Asian Library. The pastel blue-green walls and engraved ceilings add to a cozy atmosphere for catching up on lectures or finishing assignments. And while finding a place to study can be challenging in some of the more popular libraries like Moffitt and Doe, the Social Research Library always has some open seats waiting for you!

4. Eshleman Hall Roof

If you take the elevator up to the top floor of Eshleman Hall, turn left, and walk out the door, you’ll find a somewhat hidden rooftop deck. With views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge as well as a few tables, I love bringing my lunch up there and sitting under the sun. It’s a peaceful escape from the bustle of Sproul Plaza and Telegraph Avenue below.

5. Grass behind Clark Kerr Building 8

The green space of my freshman year dorm, Clark Kerr Campus, was one of my favorite aspects of living there (besides accumulating many steps while walking to and from campus). I think a common misconception about UC Berkeley is that it is very urban, but some parts are actually very park-like. One of my heavily frequented places was the grassy area behind Building 8, where there are palm trees, picnic tables, and more. It’s often used by students for playing frisbee and volleyball, tanning, and my favorite activity of all, hammocking!

10 Things To Do In Berkeley: Complete Guide To Living Like A College Local

L ocated in the Bay Area near San Francisco, Berkeley is a classic blend of history, art, culture, and cuisine and serves as a breeding ground for writers, artists, and musicians. Berkeley is the home to the prestigious UC Berkeley, also known as Cal, and the inception place of activism during the Civil Rights Era .

The town is also known for its art scene as well as architecture, making it a hidden gem within the Southern California map. With a rich history, Berkeley is a town that every California vacationer should stop in.

UPDATE: 2023/07/19 16:29 EST BY NOAH STAATS

Berkeley, California, Is Much More Than Meets The Eye!

This article has been refreshed with new places to see while in Berkeley, California, as well as other helpful information for a successful California getaway. From the University of Berkeley, the marina, 4th Street, and even a 1940s horse racing facility, this town is packed with things to experience. Have fun and be safe!

Things To Do

Berkeley provides a plethora of mind-soothing tourist hotspots, including various cafés, bookstores, meet-up points, and lodging options, making it a nice weekend getaway in the Bay Area. Here's our ultimate guide to the college town and California gem!

Catch A Show At The Greek Theatre

One thing to do while in Berkeley, California, is to visit the Greek Theatre. Here, people can experience one of the nation's most beloved and recognized outdoor entertainment centers.

This amphitheater hosts countless live performances as well as local productions throughout the year, making it a prime spot for culture. One of the nice things about Berkeley is its love for the arts.

In addition, the Greek Theatre is an 8,500-seat property owned and operated by the University of California, Berkeley. Like much of the city, UC Berkeley has its hands on this attraction.

• Address : Hearst Greek Theatre, 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley, CA 94720
• Hours : Dependent on the show

Tour The UC Berkeley Campus

Take a tour of the much acclaimed UC Berkeley, and witness 178 acres of architectural marvel. Start with Koret Visitor Center, which offers a complete tour of the campus; for those short on time, go for the self-guided tour option .

Take the elevator at the Sather Tower to reach the top of Cal's most iconic building. Here, a 200-foot level platform provides a beautiful view of the entire Bay Area and the Cal campus. Take a walk around Strawberry Creek to get in Zen mode.

Take a photo at the marble steps of Morrison Library, which serves as a spot for graduation photos. Look around for Founders Rock which is the heart of the campus.

• Address : University Avenue and Oxford St, Berkeley, CA 94720
• Hours : Monday-Friday: 8:30 am – 4:30 pm · Saturday-Sunday: 9:00 am – 1:00 pm.

What (else) is there to see at UC Berkeley?

Notable attractions include the historic Sproul Plaza, a center of student activity and the Free Speech Movement, the third-tallest bell and clock tower, Sather Tower, Phoebe A. Hearst Museum of Anthropology with over 3 million artifacts, the Botanical Garden, Hearst Greek Theater, and Lawrence Hall of Science, offering exhibits and planetarium shows for all ages, including 3D film screenings, with the UC Berkeley Campanile providing breathtaking views of the Bay Area.

Visit The Beautiful Botanical Garden In The Campus

Stretched in around a 34-acre area, this botanical garden is home to more than 10,000 varieties of plants from across the world. Tourists can get a tour of this garden which starts at regular intervals. Unwind under shades of trees and grab a quick bite while enjoying this pleasant garden.

Telegraph Avenue District

Telegraph Avenue is located near the UC Berkeley campus, it serves as a venue for socialization and gathering for UC Berkeley students, and it is known for its roots in the 1960 Berkeley Protest .

This is ground zero for the counter-culture that makes Berkeley quirky.

The street is filled with cafés, bookstores, and numerous street vendors. Some of the landmark music and bookstores include Rasputin Music, Amoeba Music, and Moe's Books.

Koret Visitor Center

This is the starting point for visiting the UC Berkeley campus; this is a 1 hour 30 minute, student-guided tour and requires online reservation beforehand; visit the website for more info.

Head Over To Downtown Berkeley

Like other cities, Berkeley's downtown is the heart of the city, surrounded by restaurants, coffee shops, and entertainment hubs like the Repertory Theatre. It's also worth noting that the downtown section of Berkeley is considered the business district, bringing offices, restaurants, shops, and financial institutions to the area.

This is where many travelers want to do most of their walking, as it's easy to navigate between the countless businesses. On top of that, Downtown Berkeley is lively during weekends and holidays, being a favorite for students and other young residents.

An illuminated fountain and a farmers’ market are among the attractions at Martin Luther King Jr. Civic Center Park, so this is a spot everyone will want to see while in Berkeley.

Take In The Sights At Tilden National Park

Located in the east of the UC Berkeley campus, this 2077-acre park boasts breathtaking bay views with a rich botanical garden. This park is loved by children, especially the interactive little farm, steam train, and vintage carousel.

Visitors can soak in the sunset, which is a hike away. This park also offers various sights like the Lake Anza swimming site, golf course, and various picnic spots.

• Address : 2501 Grizzly Peak Blvd, Orinda, CA 94563
• Hours : Open daily from 5 am to 10 pm

Check out the Tilden Park website to learn about various events happening in the park.

Berkeley Art Museum And Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA)

Located in the heart of Berkeley downtown, this is a concoction of an art museum. This repertory movie theater has an extensive collection of approximately 28000 artworks and 18000 films and videos.

It is a delight for art lovers and serves as an educational space for UC Berkeley scholars and the public. Don’t forget to check their website for the latest exhibitions and films.

• Address : 2155 Center St, Berkeley, CA 94720
• Hours : Open Wednesday through Sunday from 11 am to 7 pm

This art museum was first opened in 1970 and has since become a beacon of the city. For those who love film, this is a must-see while in the Berkeley area.

Bask In The Sunset At Berkeley Marina

Located on University Avenue, this city park is a quick getaway for nature lovers. The vast grassy land provides perfect picnic spots along with running trails and bike paths.

The Berkeley Marina is the westernmost portion of the city of Berkeley, located west of the Eastshore Freeway at the foot of University Avenue on San Francisco Bay. This is where many people spend sunrise and sunset in the city, watching it over the beautiful blue water.

The Marina is also free to enter and walk around, making this a nice affordable day trip for guests of the city. There are quite a few restaurants here as well, including ones serving fresh Californian seafood!

• Address : 124 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94710 (Marina Center)

Shop & Eat On 4th Street

Located north of University Avenue, this stretch is one of the busiest places for refined shopping and eating in the city. The street hosts more than 70 shops that are designed keeping in mind the love of artful living and fashion.

There are endless stores here, including Lulu Lemon, Athletica, Kiehl's, Madewell, MAC, and Aveda, as well as smaller, locally-owned businesses. Like the Marina, 4th Street also boasts many restaurants and public walking spaces, making it another perfect place to spend a few hours in the afternoon or evening.

• Address : Fourth Street, Berkeley, CA 94710
• Hours : Open 24 hours

For people not wanting to spend all day in the car, 4th Street is perfect for walking or riding city scooters/bikes. There are many restaurants, shops, and entertainment opportunities throughout this area of Berkeley.

Take Some Quiet Time At Indian Rock Park

Indian Rock Park is a perfect spot for gazing at the sunset; visitors can witness the breathtaking scenery unfolding in front of them as the sun sinks beneath the Golden Gate Bridge.

Indian Rock Park is a 1.18-acre public park at 950 Indian Rock Avenue, where various social events and live performances take place throughout the year. For those visiting Berkeley in the spring or summer, there should be quite a bit going on throughout the park, especially on weekends.

Direction-wise, the park is tucked away at the northeast side of Berkeley, about two blocks north of the Arlington/Marin Circle, and straddles Indian Rock Avenue.

This is one of the better public parks in the area and is free to enter. Parking might be challenging in the busier months and seasons, so consider that before venturing out.

• Address : 950 Indian Rock Ave, Berkeley, CA 94707
• Hours : Open daily from 6 am to 10 pm

Shop And Explore On San Pablo Avenue

Witness the evolution and diversity of Berkeley culture at this avenue; visitors will find every bit of the world doing their business in this happy place. Here they will get some of the best avocado toast, thin-crust pizzas, and handcrafted cappuccino in town.

San Pablo Avenue is a student-friendly neighborhood offering famous board games and free popcorn for grad students. Shop for home decor at the famous Mignonne Décor, or check out the pricey Victorian frame at Ohmega Salvage.

Visitors can find some exclusive jewelry at Kiss My Ring and some really cool gifts at Juniper Tree Supplies. If anyone in the group needs to keep busy for the day, this is certainly one spot to consider.

• Address : 2072 San Pablo Ave, Berkeley, CA 94702

San Pablo Avenue is a major thoroughfare that runs northwest from the center of Oakland at Frank Ogawa Plaza to the city of Crockett.

See A Race Or Concert At Golden Gate Field

Sports enthusiasts will not want to miss this place, it is a one-stop place for horse watching and sports watching, and there are rooms with plenty of indoor and outdoor seating facilities that broadcast several sports simultaneously.

It's worth mentioning that this location has been an American horse racing track straddling Albany, California, and Berkeley since 1941 and has become a historic landmark of the area. Structurally, it's very unique and tends to be a hot spot for photography.

On top of that, there are also live music events held here throughout the year, making it a nice spot to unwind at night. It's recommended to check the official website for upcoming events and plan accordingly.

• Address : 1100 Eastshore Hwy, Berkeley, CA 94710
• Hours : Dependent on the event

Related: 10 Best Places To Glamp Near California's Bay Area

Best Time To Go To Berkeley

Berkeley enjoys refreshing weather all year round – thanks to its location in the San Francisco Bay Area, the climate is usually mild – summers not too hot and winters not too cold!

A good time to visit is between June to August, which is also when a lot of tourists flock to the city, so hotel and activities prices are usually on the higher side.

• Does Berkeley, California get snow? No ; it's very rare for Berkeley to experience snow, especially at its elevation of 171 feet.

Best Ways To Get Around Berkeley

Berkeley can be reached via San Francisco or Oakland airport if visitors prefer air travel. Consider flying to Oakland, as it is a smaller airport, relatively easier to manage, and also, it is closer to Berkeley.

From either of these airports, visitors can take a taxi, which will be costly, or they can use BART (Bay Area Rapid Transit), take a shuttle to BART, and BART to Berkeley!

Get down at “Downtown Berkeley” station and catch a BearTransitShuttle , or an AC Transit Bus to travel within the city. Visitors can also book an Uber for comfortable travel.

Related: 10 Must-Visit Places You Should See In California

Where To Eat In Berkeley, California

Berkeley, with its diverse and widespread food joints offering authentic cuisine experiences, presents an excellent opportunity for travelers to combine their culinary adventures with sightseeing, making it a must-visit destination for food lovers.

Shattuck & Vine Street Neighborhood

Shattuck and Vine Street is a culinary heaven! Alice Waters's Chez Panisse attracted a lot of food enterprises, brands, and entrepreneurs to put up shops across Shattuck Avenue.

Located on this street is Gourmet Ghetto , which offers food from across the world at a broad price range. Head on to Chez Panisse, which is an upscale American restaurant crafted by Alice Waters and dedicated to fresh and seasonal food. Check out the 400 different cheeses offered by the Cheeseboard Collective , which is a worker-owned cooperative. The place hosts an organic farmer’s market every Thursday. Visitors can also sign up for a culinary walking tour or just roam around the street and explore some of the finest culinary, gift shops, and self-designed jewelry shops.

If visitors are up for modern Indian cuisine, Hop on to Tigerlily or walk down a few steps to Epicurious Garden for Shushi or gelato. In the mood for some wine tasting? Look for Vintage Berkeley wine shop and get a reasonably priced bottle here. True coffee lovers can't miss original Peet’s Coffee and Tea at the corner of Walnut and Vine shop to enjoy Berkeley dark roast java coffee since 1966.

Masse’s Pastries is a combination of art and food that travelers should not miss when exploring this avenue. If sandwiches and salad sound good, try Gregoire. Book a culinary walking tour by Edible Excursion to experience the North Shattuck’s cuisine in the best way possible.

Berkeley downtown is filled with food corners ranging from quick bite shops to fine dining, do check out Gather for omnivorous cuisine and craft cocktails. Zino offers a fine-dining Mediterranean cuisine option. Almare Gelato and Italian ice creams are all-time favorites.

Telegraph Avenue

This four-and-a-half-mile stretch is one of the most distinct commercial districts of Berkeley. It is the birthplace of lattes and has also made ice cream and sandwiches famous. Check out The Bird and Top Dog, Henery’s, and Mezzo, the sandwich and salad spot for food worth trying.

Best Places To Try Berkeley's Authentic Drinks

Berkeley, California, is home to a vibrant microbrewing scene that originated in 1985 at Triple Rock Brewery & Alehouse. This local brewery boasts a dedicated fan following thanks to its commitment to artisanal and alehouse cuisine. Jupiter is another not-to-be-missed destination, offering handcrafted beers and ales complemented by award-winning wood-fired pizzas. For those seeking an authentic taste of Berkeley's best brews, a visit to Gilman Brewing Company promises an experience filled with award-winning beverages.

Wine enthusiasts will find their haven in West Berkeley, where a one-block radius is home to an impressive array of half a dozen wineries. Among the notable wineries are Broc Cellars, Doney & Goat, Lusu Cellars, and Vinca Minor, each offering delightful and flavorful natural wines. And if one happens to wander around Fourth Street, the elevated wine-tasting experience at Wine SoCru is not to be overlooked.

Where To Stay In And Around Berkeley

Whether visitors are on a luxury trip with family enjoying a holiday or backpacking Bay Area and looking for a budget stay, Berkeley has a lot of options to offer. It is well-connected with roads, so going from one place to another is not a tiresome task.

Listed here are some of the finest stay options based on budget.

Downtown Berkeley Inn

• Located in the heart of the city, this budget hotel offers a lot of restaurants, shopping, and entertainment choices nearby.
• Address: 2001 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, California 94704

Super 8 By Wyndham Berkeley

• Located on University Avenue close to BART and the university campus, this renovated Motel offers all amenities that travelers expect. Right from TV and refrigerator to parking and 24-hour customer service.
• Address: 1619 University Ave, Berkeley, California 94703

Related: West Coast United States Travel Guide - Top Sights, Restaurants & Accommodations

Howard Johnson by Wyndham Berkeley

• Located on University Avenue, the 26-unit property offers free guest parking, TV, hairdryer, and 24-hour customer service and is near North Berkeley BART station and CAL.
• Address: 1512 University Ave, Berkeley, California 94703
• Cost: $$ - $$$

Quality Inn University

• This is a well-connected hotel and offers free breakfast, Wi-Fi, and a Business Center.
• Address: 1761 University Ave, Berkeley, California 94703

Travelodge by Wyndham Berkeley

• This hotel offers clean and comfortable rooms with security locks; this stay is four blocks away from Cal and close to the downtown Berkeley BART station.
• Address: 1820 University Ave, Berkeley, California 94703
• Cost: $$ - $$$$

Bancroft Hotel

• One of the best hotels if travelers can shell out extra money, located very close to the Cal, this green hotel offers bay and campus views with all the amenities.
• Address: 2680 Bancroft Way, Berkeley, California 94704

Berkeley City Club

• Designed by Julia Morgan, this historic hotel is an architectural marvel equipped with fine dining and a private social club.
• Address: 2315 Durant Ave, Berkeley, California 94704

Rose Garden Inn

• Located in the vicinity of Cal, this oasis offers a complimentary buffet breakfast, Wi-Fi, and limited parking.
• Address: 2740 Telegraph Ave, Berkeley, California 94705

DoubleTree by Hilton Berkeley Marina

• The best thing about this luxury hotel is its location in Berkeley Marina, as it provides an amazing view of the Bay Area, San Francisco skyline, and Golden Bridge. The rooms are spacious and come with either balcony or patio.
• Address: 200 Marina Blvd., Berkeley, California 94710

Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites

• Rated as one of the top hotels in the city, located near Interstate 80 in Berkeley. This hotel is an ideal stay option and one of the top picks for a luxury vacation.
• Address: 1175 University Ave, Berkeley, California 94702

Tips For Visiting Berkeley, California

Beautiful murals on walls, parks, and driveways can be found throughout the city, so a walking tour may be in order. Berkeley is a very diverse city; it accepts people coming from different walks of life, making its culture distinctly vibrant.

Berkeley has a series of small restaurants and shops that are authentic to the city and cannot be found anywhere else. The city ignites creativity in several different ways – murals, book cafés, hidden stairways in Berkeley Hills, and How Berkeley Can You Be Parade .

Related: 10 Crazy Affordable (But Scenic) West Coast Road Trips

How To Spend A Perfect Day In Berkeley

Berkeley has a lot to offer to its travelers. The rich and vibrant culture of the city is visible in its architecture, cuisines, and art. A perfect day in Berkeley should include a visit to the acclaimed UC Berkeley campus, where visitors can spend time in the Botanical Garden, Sather Tower, Sproul Plaza, and Lawrence Hall of Science.

Spend the afternoon visiting BAMPFA, the art museum and repertory movie theater, and exploring the Shattuck and Vine Street and witness some of the authentic cuisine that Berkeley has to offer.

The evening should be reserved for a nature walk at Tilden Park, especially during the sunset, to capture the beautiful scenery of the sun dipping down on the Bay Area. Late evenings can be spent shopping on 4th Street or Downtown.

Q: What is the best time to visit Berkeley?

Best time to visit Berkeley is between June to August when the temperature is moderate and the city is lively.

Q: What activities does Berkeley offer?

Berkeley is a college town known for art, botany, history, and the San Francisco Bay. The city of San Francisco itself, the most walkable place in the US , is only a short day trip away.

Q: What is Berkeley known for?

Berkeley is known as a college town that's convenient to the rest of the Bay, including San Francisco. It's one of the must-see places in California for art, culture, and more.

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xučyun ruwway Graduate Student Apartments (anticipated opening Fall 2024)

1050 Ohlone Ave Albany, CA 94706 | Rates

Applications are now being accepted for single graduate students interested in living in UC Berkeley’s largest and newest apartment community designed specifically for graduate students. The new complex is called xučyun ruwway (pronounced HOOCH-yoon ROO-why), a name in Chochenyo, the language of the Ohlone people. Learn more about the unique history and development of the complex , including consultation with East Bay Ohlone tribes in its naming. 

xučyun ruwway is a five-building apartment complex offering Berkeley graduate students a wealth of community resources such as an on-site fitness center, light-filled meeting rooms, spacious lounges, and more than 55,000 square feet of outdoor space with gardens, picnic areas and recreational lawns. Direct AC Transit buses to campus are available from the complex, which is located 3.5 miles northwest of campus. 

Fully-furnished apartments feature large windows that allow abundant natural light into bedrooms and living spaces. All bedrooms are single-occupancy, and each apartment includes a full kitchen with major appliances, as well as an in-unit washer and dryer.

Beyond their apartments, students can discover spaces for social interaction and well-being, including lounges and meeting rooms. A series of outdoor courtyards provide more than 55,000 square feet of space for relaxing, studying and socializing. Students can lounge and explore gardens with native plants and lush trees, host barbecue gatherings, and take advantage of recreational spaces on new multi-use lawns and terraces. All buildings will be fully electric, promoting environmental consciousness through energy-efficient features that include electric building utilities, lighting and kitchen appliances, and even the outdoor community barbecue grill.  

Applications for the 2024–25 academic year are being accepted on a rolling basis. In-person tours are available by appointment; schedule a tour today. For updates on the project’s construction, please visit the Capital Strategies xučyun ruwway page.

• Fully furnished studios and apartments with single bedrooms
• 35 studio apartments (342 sq. ft.)
• 30 one-bedroom one-bath apartments (569 sq. ft.)
• 94 two-bedroom one-bath apartments (678-710 sq. ft.)
• 127 four-bedroom two-bath apartments (1,079 sq. ft.)
• Extensive community spaces and resources, including fitness center, spacious lounges and meeting rooms, outdoor courtyards and greenways
• Annual contract (August 1, 2024 to July 31, 2025)

Who’s Eligible to Apply

Single graduate students. Priority is given to graduate students enrolled in the Rausser College of Natural Resources. Please note this location cannot accommodate families; for family housing, please consider University Village , located adjacent to xučyun ruwway.

The xučyun ruwway Graduate Student Apartments are located in the neighboring city of Albany, just 3.5 miles west of campus. It is adjacent to University Village , UC Berkeley’s 58-acre family student housing complex. Just steps from the housing complex is a shopping area with a grocery store, a pet food store, a coffee shop, a walk-up ATM, a casual restaurant and other amenities. 

With a new transit plaza in front of the building, the apartments are served by a direct AC Transit bus to campus as well as a bus connection to BART. 

Fully Furnished Apartments

Each apartment includes:*

• Furnished living room including couch, armchair, tables (coffee table, end table, dining table and chairs)
• Furnished single bedrooms including bed frame, mattress, dresser, nightstand, desk and chair
• Full kitchens with major appliances including refrigerator, range, dishwasher, microwave
• In-unit washer and dryer

Building Amenities

Residents of the building have access to the following amenities*:

• Lounges and meeting rooms for study and social activities
• Fitness center
• Ample outdoor spaces including a greenway, courtyards, lawns and more
• Outdoor community barbecue grill
• Communal kitchens for group gatherings
• High speed WiFi throughout complex
• Utilities included: Heat, internet, water, garbage, and recycling
• Professional live-in staff available 24/7
• Secure indoor bicycle storage
• Package lockers for secure delivery of packages
• Limited parking spaces available for an additional fee

*Website Disclosure statement: Please note that the information on building and apartment amenities provided is approximate and may be subject to change or update.

Virtual 360° Apartment Tour

A 2-bedroom, 1-bath apartment

In-Person Tours

Sign up for an in-person tour of the xučyun ruwway Graduate Student Apartments today. Because xučyun ruwway is an active construction zone, you will need to sign a liability waiver (which you’ll receive on-site) in order to participate in the tour. Note that anyone wearing open-toe shoes or sandals will not be allowed on the tour. If you have questions, please contact us at [email protected].

While apartment rates do not include meal plans, there are options! Residents may purchase one of our university apartment and off-campus meal plans or use their Cal 1 Card to enjoy Berkeley Dining’s services at any of the dining commons and several on-campus restaurants and convenience stores.

Cleaning is your responsibility

It is up to you to keep your room clean, and work with your apartment-mates to keep the shared apartment spaces clean as well. Taking good care of your living space on a regular basis helps prevent pests, allergens, and damage that can result from accumulated dirt. 

No Smoking Policy

UC Berkeley is committed to providing a healthy, smoke-free environment for students, faculty, and staff. Accordingly, no smoking is permitted in student rooms, or inside buildings, including lounges, balconies and breezeways, and stairways. Smoking is only permitted outside in designated areas.

For more information, please visit Single Student Graduate Apartment FAQs

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Service Interruption on Lair Reservations Site

Can we have your attention, please? Our Lair reservations website is currently experiencing an unexpected issue, and we are unable to process your tent booking through it at this time. We apologize for the inconvenience and want you to know that we’re working on a solution that will have it back up and running as soon as we can.

We are still accepting reservations for this summer, and we’re happy to personally answer your questions about booking with us. We are always happy to share any information about camping at the Lair. Let us know how we can help. Please email us at [email protected] or call us at (510) 900-8225 , leave a message, and we’ll call you right back.

Thanks for your understanding! We hope to see you in the mountains soon.

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Free Guided Accessible Walking Tours

*** Please start on our Free Guided Accessible Walking Tour website for all the information you need regarding our free guided tours for families and tourists. If you are looking for a special group, private or golf cart tour, please visit our Special Group Tour page or Golf Cart Tour page . *** Below is a calendar of available free guided Campus Walking Tours. Click on the box for the tour you wish to reserve. Our walking tours are currently in very high demand and we apologize if there are no spots available.

• Detailed information about our accessible walking tours can be found here . Please visit this page if you have any questions.
• The “Campus Walking Tour" is a general accessible walking tour of our campus. We have an accessible route for wheelchairs, strollers and any other wheeled device. Also, we frequently stop to talk and rest!
• Please note our campus tours are conducted completely outside and you may wander inside buildings on your own at your own pace.
• If you see a plus sign with a number, it is a link to the full tour schedule for that day.
• If a day is blank, tours are either not being offered or are completely full. The calendar may be empty due to very high demand. Please continue to visit the calendar because if someone cancels, those spots will become immediately available.
• Unfortunately, we are unable to offer a waitlist or accommodate unregistered visitors on any tours.
• We do not accept reservations on Cal Day , Saturday, April 13, 2024 as this is our Admit Day for newly admitted students and their families.
• We are currently booking through July 2024 .

NOTE! If you don't receive an email immediately , your reservation was not successfully completed. The email comes from "[email protected]" so please also check your spam folder.

Thank you for your interest in UC Berkeley!