"A unique place." a Berkeley Travel Page by HasTowelWillTravel

I spent 7 years living in and around Berkeley (4 in Berkeley, 3 in Oakland). I studied at the University of California there, but it became more than just a school. It was my home. I lived there, ate there, worked there, and really got to know some of the flavors that exist in this unique place. I hope your visit is as fun as mine was, and I'm here to help you enjoy it.

Berkeley is unlike any city I've lived in before or after. It has a certain vibe, a prominent uniqueness, that it both thrives on and promotes actively. From the How Berkeley Can You Be parade (filled with musicians, naturists, and art-cars) to Telegraph Ave (the quintessential college street), there is always something going on in the Berkeley area.

Berkeley originally came into existence surrounding the University of California. One of the premier research institutions in the world (I admit I'm a bit biased, but it's still awesome), Berkeley is nestled snugly against the hills to the east of the town. The campus is worthy of a trip unto itself. There are several museums and libraries to wander through (one of the 10 largest libraries in the United States), and lots of architecture heralding back to the mid-19th century. Take a free tour of the campus to get a snapshot of its history and culture. Listen to the Camponile during lunchtime. Watch the stream of life and learning at this great university.