North Berkeley
Known as the “Gourmet Ghetto,” North Berkeley boasts incredible restaurants, independent shops, art galleries, and street performers. Meander along Shattuck Avenue to check out Chez Panisse, the legendary restaurant that sparked California’s farm-to-table food movement. Grab a coffee at local favorite Peet’s Coffee and soak up North Berkeley’s artsy, bohemian vibe. Don’t miss the iconic landmarked Rose Garden in Codornices Park, which contains over 200 types of roses. North Berkeley blends funky cafes, historic homes, and a vibrant cultural scene into the quintessential Berkeley neighborhood.
Downtown Berkeley
The heart of Berkeley, downtown overflows with energy, diversity, and activity. Experience the hustle and bustle of Telegraph Avenue, packed with street vendors, buskers, and an eclectic mix of shops and restaurants. Don’t miss Sproul Plaza, the center of 1960’s student activism and protests. Check out outdoor concerts and festivals in Civic Center Park or take in breathtaking views from the Campanile, Berkeley’s famous clock tower. From the UC Berkeley campus to the world-renowned Gourmet Ghetto, downtown Berkeley brings the city’s passion for arts, culture, and activism to life.
South Berkeley
South Berkeley encompasses a patchwork of distinct neighborhoods like LeConte, Halcyon Commons, and Southside. Meander along tree-lined streets filled with beautiful homes in varied architectural styles. Check out local favorites like Sweet Adeline Bakeshop and Dona Tomas for authentic Mexican cuisine. South Berkeley’s parks, including Ohlone Park and Willard Park, boast stunning East Bay views. Don’t miss the vintage art deco theaters along Shattuck Avenue like the iconic California Theatre. South Berkeley mixes small town charm with a vibrant arts and food scene.
West Berkeley
Discover Berkeley’s industrial roots in West Berkeley. Explore companies pioneering artisanal food and crafts along 4th Street’s arts corridor. Check out one of the last original working shipyards in the Bay Area at Berkeley Marina. West Berkeley also encompasses popular Aquatic Park, home to breathtaking shoreline views and windsurfing spots. Don’t miss Berkeley Bowl West, where you can sample local produce while grabbing ingredients for a picnic lunch. From working waterfront to cutting-edge artisans, West Berkeley reveals an unexpected side of the city.
Claremont
Escape into the hills to discover Claremont, known for its village atmosphere and incredible views. Meander along College Avenue, popping into boutiques, galleries, cafes and the historic Claremont Hotel. Walk off your meal with a stroll through wooded Claremont Canyon Regional Preserve or climb to the top of 1,760-foot Summit Reservoir for panoramic vistas encompassing the entire Bay. Don’t miss the chance to gaze at the architectural gem that is the Claremont Club & Spa. Blending small town charm with natural beauty, Claremont offers a serene retreat right in Berkeley.
Elmwood
Situated south of the UC Berkeley campus, Elmwood offers charming tree-lined streets perfect for strolling. Pop into mom-and-pop shops and indulge in ice cream from local favorite Ici Ice Cream. Take in a foreign film at the intimate Rialto Cinemas Elmwood. Grab dinner at a sidewalk cafe and enjoy Elmwood’s relaxed, European flair. Don’t miss the Chance Theater, home to innovative and provocative plays and the Berkeley City Club, a stunning Julia Morgan designed landmark. With its quaint cafes and neighborhood vibe, Elmwood feels like a village within the city.
Solano Avenue
Solano Avenue bursts with culture as it meanders through both Berkeley and Albany. Browse internationally-inspired home decor at Anthropologie or grab artisan chocolates at XOX Truffles. Revel in the culinary creativity at renowned restaurant Corso. Catch a concert at the Ivy Room music venue and bar, or take a coffee break at local favorite Caffe Trieste. With its eclectic shops, artsy flair, and global cuisine, Solano Avenue encapsulates the diverse spirit of Berkeley.
Gourmet Ghetto
No Berkeley neighborhood tour would be complete without a stop in the famed Gourmet Ghetto. Peruse the cookware at Sur La Table before grabbing fresh-baked bread from Acme Bread . Savor housemade ice cream at Ici Ice Cream or artisanal chocolates at Cacao. Sample wines at The Cheeseboard Collective before sitting down for a memorable meal at Chez Panisse, Alice Waters’ temple to California cuisine. The Gourmet Ghetto mixes foodie heaven with Berkeley funkiness.
Book a Bus With Us
At Charter Bus Berkeley, we love helping groups craft custom tours showcasing the best of Berkeley and its unique neighborhoods. Our clean, comfortable buses and experienced drivers ensure you can relax and enjoy discovering Berkeley’s local flavor. Contact us today at 707-230-5410 to start planning an unforgettable Berkeley adventure. We can’t wait to be your guide to Berkeley’s diverse communities and vibrant culture.