Welcome to Berkeley
Packed with renowned culinary delights and an inspiring art scene, this dynamic city is one of the biggest epicenters of culture in the nation.
Famous for its status as the home of UC Berkeley and as the birthplace of the free speech movement, the socially progressive city of Berkeley lies tucked across the Bay from the Golden Gate Bridge. Berkeley is a pulse for the arts and cultures within Alameda County in particular, but also within the state of California at large, pulling in creative thinkers and innovators from all over the country.
Berkeley’s history is bound inextricably with its namesake university, whose development began the creation of the modern-day city. Berkeley College houses one of the largest religious studies institutions in the world — Graduate Theological Union — and is even attributed with the finding of an element now on the periodic table, berkelium.
A vast majority of the residential real estate in Berkeley comprises historic and pre-1940s homes, outfitted to serve modern needs while retaining their distinctive charms. Mid-century modern single-family houses, Spanish Colonial bungalows, and 1920s Tudor cottages, all well-suited for families, while vintage studio lofts and renovated condos in the heart of the commercial bustle make a wonderful home base for students, creators, entrepreneurs, and more.
What to Love
- Picturesque parks and a vast amalgamation of green spaces
- Cutting edge theater and productions at top-tier performance venues
- Gourmet eats around every corner and an ever-growing art scene
- Museums and a large number of sources for cultural enrichment
Local Lifestyle
Berkeley has long been home to the free-spirited and the change-makers, driven by a love for education and a commitment to societal growth. Culture is tenable and entirely accessible here, from the quiet talks of philosophy in local coffee shops to the invitation to explore the open studios of local artists. Berkeley is fueled by a collective desire to bring out the best in each other, and it certainly shows.
Dining, Entertainment, & Shopping
Scenic Downtown Berkeley is saturated in yoga studios and art galleries, swanky cocktail lounges, and fashion boutiques. Here, shoppers can browse handcrafted artisan jewelry at shops like viv&ingrid as well as curated healing crystals, gems, and stones at Stone Room 2. A trendy enclave for hip outdoor dining and upscale shopping, the Fourth Street Shops district contains classy restaurants side-by-side with big brands like lululemon, Madewell, and Anthropologie.
Berkeley houses enough culinary variety to appease any appetite, and among its standout establishments are restaurants such as Saul’s Restaurant and Delicatessen. The authentic Jewish fare at Saul’s has mastered the art of bridging old and new, and traditional dishes here are enhanced by the use of only ethically and sustainably sourced ingredients.
Chez Panisse embodies modern Californian cuisine to a T, and diners flock to this opulent yet simultaneously cozy eatery for a chance to taste the ingredient-driven, seasonal menu crafted by famed Chef Alice Waters. Cheese Board Collective has your back whether you’re in search of the perfect charcuterie for your own special event or in need of a tasty cafe treat while out and about. Ready to unwind with friends over an icy glass of small-batch craft beer? Fieldwork Brewing Company is headquartered in Berkeley and features a lively taproom.
Things to Do
A refreshing day in Berkeley might be spent enjoying the city’s many parks and recreational spaces, beginning with the much-loved Tilden Regional Park. Over 2,000 acres of inspiring landscape awaits at Tilden, a treasured favorite for hikers that brags amenities including a swimming lake, botanic garden, golf course, and even a vintage steam train. Other must-see Berkeley landmarks are those such as the Berkeley Marina and the Lawerence Hall of Science, the latter of which offers invigorating, hands-on access to experiments and education.
The city has a nonstop rotation of local events and fairs, such as the endearing Berkeley Kite Festival, which explores the artistry of kite flying from its base in César E Chavez Park. Restaurant Week is the ultimate way to get a full-bodied taste of Berkeley, and vendors from the city’s legendary culinary assortment set up shop and sell meals at discounted prices.
Schools
The city of Berkeley has many excellent schools. To request more specific information about local schools, please use our contact form and we will be happy to provide you with more information. Michael Lane, a Berkeley real estate agent can assist you in finding the perfect home in this vibrant city known for its progressive culture, diverse community, and beautiful bay views.
