Welcome to Berkeley! This vibrant city offers a rich mix of culture, nature, food, and education. Here’s a packed yet balanced 2-day itinerary to experience a little of everything.
Sit Down Dishes: Start your day with a hearty breakfast at La Note, a charming French bistro known for its delicious cuisine. Enjoy their famous pancakes or a savory omelet with fresh ingredients.
Quick Bites:
Take a stroll through the beautiful campus of UC Berkeley. Make sure to visit iconic spots like Sather Gate, the Campanile (Sather Tower), and Doe Library. If you're up for it, venture to the top of the Campanile for a stunning view of the Bay Area. The Campanile houses a 61-bell carillon and visitors can enjoy three daily carillon concerts at 7:50am, 12:00pm, and 6:00pm.
Note: An elevator ride to the observation platform at the 200-foot level is required. There are 38 stairs from the top of the elevator up to the observation platform. The observation platform of this historical landmark is not wheelchair accessible. (Nominal fee required for elevator.)
Click HERE for the Self-Guided Walking Tour.
A visit to the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive (BAMPFA) is a must for art and film enthusiasts. Located in the heart of downtown Berkeley, BAMPFA is renowned for its cutting-edge exhibitions and an extensive collection of over 20,000 artworks spanning diverse cultures and time periods. The Pacific Film Archive, housed within the museum, offers an exceptional array of films from around the world, including rare and classic cinema. With its striking architecture and dynamic programming, BAMPFA provides a rich cultural experience that captivates and inspires visitors.
No visit to Berkeley is complete without dining at the iconic Chez Panisse, the brainchild of culinary legend Alice Waters. Renowned for pioneering the farm-to-table movement, this culinary landmark offers an unforgettable dining experience rooted in fresh, local ingredients. While dinner at Chez Panisse is a celebrated affair, visiting for lunch provides a unique and equally delightful experience. Enjoy the more relaxed atmosphere of the Chez Panisse Café, where you can savor an exquisite meal that showcases Waters' dedication to quality and sustainability. Indulge in the flavors of Berkeley at this must-visit institution.
Tip: Book in advance to guarantee a spot.
A stroll around North Shattuck offers a delightful blend of art, shopping, and architecture. Begin your exploration at the ACCI Gallery, where you can admire and purchase unique works by local artists. Continue to Solano Avenue, a bustling street lined with charming shops and eateries. Don't miss Fern's Garden, a whimsical store featuring an array of handcrafted gifts and garden art.
For architecture enthusiasts, the Berkeley Architecture Tour is a must. This self-guided tour highlights the city's rich architectural history, showcasing iconic buildings and the distinctive styles that make Berkeley's landscape so unique.
Architecture Tour Suggestions:
If you are interested in purchasing the Berkeley Architectural Heritage Association Walking Tour Book, you may visit their website HERE, or stop by the Berkeley Visitor Center at 2030 Addison Street, #102
Check out Berkeley's Varied Styles in Architecture here.
Head back to downtown Berkeley for dinner at Gather, a popular restaurant known for its sustainable, farm-to-table cuisine. Enjoy a delicious meal with a menu that caters to both vegetarians and meat-eaters, featuring locally sourced ingredients.
Experience world-class theatre at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre, a cornerstone of Berkeley’s vibrant arts scene. Renowned for its innovative productions and compelling storytelling, "Berkeley Rep" has earned a reputation for excellence and creativity. Attending a performance here promises an evening of captivating drama, exceptional acting, and thought-provoking narratives. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, a night at the Berkeley Repertory Theatre is an unforgettable cultural experience that should not be missed.
Note: Purchase tickets ahead of time or visit the box office on the day of.
Cafenated is a vibrant café known for its exceptional coffee and welcoming atmosphere. There are two locations, in North Shattuck and Elmwood, offering charming spot offers a diverse selection of ethically sourced, meticulously roasted beans, catering to both coffee aficionados and casual sippers. With its cozy seating, local art adorning the walls, and a menu boasting delicious pastries and light bites, Cafenated has become a beloved community hub.
The Lawrence Hall of Science is a renowned public science center and research institution associated with the University of California, Berkeley. It offers a range of interactive exhibits, hands-on activities, and educational programs designed to inspire curiosity and a love of science among visitors of all ages. Established in 1968, the Hall is perched in the Berkeley Hills, providing stunning views of the San Francisco Bay area. It serves as a vital community resource, promoting STEM education through dynamic experiences and fostering a deeper understanding of the natural world and scientific principles.
The UC Botanical Garden is a living museum open to the public featuring one of the most diverse plant collections in the United States. The Garden's 34 acres is a sanctuary for more than 10,000 species of plants, many endangered or extinct, from all over the world arranged by region.
Grab a variety of delicious bites from several North Berkeley faves such as Cheeseboard Pizza, Gregoire, Farmhouse Thai, and The Local Butcher Shop. With your picnic basket filled, head to one of the picturesque parks nearby or the lush green spaces of the UC Berkeley campus. Whether you choose the tranquil surroundings of Live Oak Park or the vibrant energy of Memorial Glade, you'll experience a perfect blend of culinary pleasure and natural beauty in the heart of Berkeley.
Fourth Street is a vibrant shopping district that seamlessly blends the city's eclectic charm with upscale sophistication. This bustling area is home to an array of unique boutiques, artisanal stores, and stylish home decor shops, making it a haven for shoppers seeking one-of-a-kind finds.
West Berkeley's Gilman District is a hidden gem for libation enthusiasts, offering a diverse array of options to quench your thirst. This lively neighborhood boasts an impressive selection of craft breweries, artisanal distilleries, and cozy wine bars.
Choose From:
Berkeley Wine Block
Dining at Babette is a delightful experience that combines gourmet cuisine with a relaxed, welcoming atmosphere in their intimate dining room or under the redwood tree on the garden patio. Known for its crafted dishes made from fresh, locally sourced ingredients, Babette offers a menu that changes with the seasons, ensuring a unique and flavorful experience each time you visit. Babette's commitment to quality and creativity shines through in every bite, making it a beloved dining destination in Berkeley.
Attending a show at Ashkenaz in Berkeley is an unforgettable experience steeped in rich cultural history and vibrant community spirit. This beloved music and dance venue, established in 1973, is renowned for its eclectic lineup of live performances, spanning genres from world music and reggae to folk and blues. The welcoming, bohemian atmosphere of Ashkenaz invites audiences to not only listen but also dance and engage with the performers.
Embark on an unforgettable journey through Berkeley, where vibrant culture, delectable cuisine, and stunning scenery await at...
This itinerary provides a balanced mix of outdoor activities, cultural experiences, and delicious food, giving your group a...
