Welcome to Berkeley
A vibrant haven for the arts with sparkling bay views.
Berkeley, California, is known for its world-class education and research institutions, including the University of California, Berkeley, one of the nation’s most highly-rated public universities. Blending a collegiate appeal with a robust selection of eclectic eateries, local boutiques, and late-night entertainment, Berkeley has something for everyone. From the culinary delights in the North Shattuck and Gilman districts to the popular shops on Fourth Street to the abundance of theatres and museums, this sophisticated yet approachable city is easy to love.
Neighborhoods You’ll Love
- Elmwood and Claremont: Elmwood is the oldest commercial district in Berkeley and boasts a plethora of independent boutiques and diverse restaurants. Claremont straddles the Berkeley and Oakland line and offers a quaint commercial area. Together, these two stunning communities encapsulate a quintessential Bay Area charm.
- Northbrae and Westbrae: Northbrae features pink sidewalks and stunning scenery with streets that run parallel to the San Francisco Bay. Just five minutes away, Westbrae touts ample green space, beloved coffee shops, and a peaceful atmosphere.
- North Berkeley: Known as one of the best places to live in Berkeley, the North Berkeley neighborhood provides a scenic backdrop for the dozens of fun, energetic restaurants, bars, and coffee shops in the district.
- Berkeley Hills: Located within the Pacific Coast Range, Berkeley Hills provides endless mountain views with homes nestled in the rolling hills and valleys. This neighborhood is great for outdoor lovers and is home to many family-friendly parks.
- Gilman District: This historic and industrial neighborhood brings new culinary and wine options to Berkeley and features charming residences, studios, and a thriving arts district. Gillman District is located in the northwest section of Berkeley and is highly focused on maintaining its reputation as the “artist’s hub” of the neighborhood.
- Poet’s Corner: This neighborhood boasts cozy and charming residential homes, dozens of parks with open green spaces for outdoor recreation, and quaint coffee shops and restaurants. The area is quiet and serene — the perfect place to raise a family.
- San Pablo Park: Sitting on just over 13 acres, this hidden Berkeley neighborhood is both a recreational park and a residential community. Perfect for those seeking an active lifestyle surrounded by nature, San Pablo Park is an excellent spot for families and those seeking a reprieve from bustling cities.
- Fourth Street: A premier retail destination in the Bay Area, Fourth Street offers art galleries, world-renowned restaurants, stunning architecture, and holiday festivals that illuminate every street in the neighborhood.
- North Shattuck: Known as Berkeley’s culinary wonderland, North Shattuck is loaded with diverse restaurants. This neighborhood is a foodie favorite and is home to local, sustainable, and farm-to-table restaurants and cafes.
Dining, Entertainment & Shopping
When you’re in Berkeley, you’ll want to take full advantage of the culinary catalog. Alice Walter’s flagship restaurant
Chez Panisse is a fine dining staple in Berkeley that you won’t want to miss.
The Cheese Board Collective on Shattuck Avenue is an iconic Berkeley pizzeria offering pizzas du jour, crisp salads, and decadent bakery items all with walk-up service. At
Saul’s Restaurant & Delicatessen, you’ll find lovingly crafted Jewish culinary traditions in an approachable setting.
Things to Do
Schools
Berkeley students have numerous highly-acclaimed
public schools at their fingertips. A few of the area’s outstanding academic institutions include:
