Welcome to Berkeley, California, home to some of the best tattoo shops alongside academic excellence, progressive values, and natural beauty that make this one of the Bay Area's most distinctive communities. Tucked between the San Francisco Bay and the Berkeley Hills, Berkeley mixes intellectual energy, cultural diversity, and breathtaking views into something truly special in Northern California.

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Berkeley's dedication to education and innovation shows through its world-famous institutions and lively community life. UC Berkeley stands tall as an academic powerhouse, while tree-lined streets, historic buildings, and thriving local businesses create an atmosphere that honors both learning and living. From busy Telegraph Avenue to peaceful Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley gives you spaces to think, create, and connect.

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Life here pulses with progressive spirit and environmental awareness. You'll find passionate advocates for sustainability, social justice, and the arts calling Berkeley home. Local farmers markets, independent bookstores, and community gardens show how much the city values supporting local economies and sustainable living. Places like the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, plus countless festivals and cultural events, highlight the city's rich artistic roots.

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Berkeley strikes that perfect balance between intellectual pursuit and quality of life, where academic wisdom meets the warmth of a tight-knit community, creating an exceptional place to live, work, and grow.

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Berkeley's Cultural Heritage

Berkeley, California, masterfully blends its reputation as an intellectual hub with a rich cultural tapestry that reflects decades of progressive thought and artistic expression. The city's downtown area pulses with energy, featuring an array of independent cafes, bookstores, and restaurants that cater to the diverse tastes of students, faculty, and longtime residents.

Cultural attractions flourish throughout Berkeley,

 

with destinations like the Berkeley Repertory Theatre and the historic Freight & Salvage Coffeehouse. These venues invite visitors to experience everything from cutting-edge theatrical productions to intimate folk music performances. The city's commitment to the arts is evident in its numerous galleries, public art installations, and annual events like the Berkeley World Music Festival and the Solano Stroll.

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Berkeley is also recognized for its environmental leadership and commitment to sustainable practices. Urban spaces such as the Berkeley Marina and the network of community gardens provide beautiful settings for recreation and environmental education. The city's emphasis on walkability, bicycle infrastructure, and public transportation reflects its forward-thinking approach to urban planning and environmental stewardship.

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Berkeley's neighborhoods are distinct and welcoming, each contributing to the city's overall character. From the craftsman homes of the Berkeley Hills to the vibrant student life near campus, Berkeley offers living options that suit various lifestyles and preferences. The city's excellent schools, strong community organizations, and numerous cultural and recreational opportunities make it an attractive place to establish roots.

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Whether you're drawn by its academic prestige, commitment to social justice, or the natural beauty of its hillside setting, Berkeley delivers a quality of life that reflects both intellectual curiosity and community spirit.

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Neighborhoods and Zip Codes of Berkeley, CA

Berkeley, California, is a city of distinctive neighborhoods, each offering its own character, community atmosphere, and scenic appeal. Here's a comprehensive guide to Berkeley's key neighborhoods and their corresponding zip codes:

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North Berkeley (94709):

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North Berkeley is an affluent residential area known for its tree-lined streets, elegant homes, and proximity to both UC Berkeley and the Berkeley Hills. This neighborhood features a mix of historic Craftsman houses and modern homes, many with stunning bay views. The area is popular among faculty, professionals, and families who appreciate its quiet atmosphere and excellent schools, including the highly regarded Jefferson Elementary School.

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South Berkeley (94702, 94703):

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South Berkeley encompasses several distinct areas, including the Claremont neighborhood and portions near the Oakland border. This diverse area features a mix of housing types, from charming bungalows to modern condominiums. The Claremont Hotel and Spa serves as a landmark, while the nearby Claremont Canyon provides hiking trails and natural beauty. The neighborhood appeals to those seeking more affordable housing options while maintaining access to Berkeley's amenities.

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West Berkeley (94710):

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West Berkeley is the city's industrial and waterfront district, undergoing significant transformation with new residential developments and tech companies. This area includes the Berkeley Marina, which offers waterfront dining, sailing, and spectacular views of San Francisco and the Golden Gate Bridge. The neighborhood attracts young professionals and families drawn to its proximity to both the bay and downtown Berkeley.

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Downtown Berkeley (94704):

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Downtown Berkeley serves as the city's commercial and civic heart, centered around Shattuck Avenue and University Avenue. This bustling area features the Berkeley BART station, making it a transit hub for the entire Bay Area. The neighborhood offers high-rise apartments, condominiums, and easy access to restaurants, theaters, and cultural venues. It's popular among commuters and those who prefer urban living with excellent public transportation access.

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Southside (94720):

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Southside, adjacent to the UC Berkeley campus, is the heart of student life in Berkeley. This vibrant area along Telegraph Avenue features bookstores, cafes, vintage shops, and affordable eateries that cater to the university community. The neighborhood includes both student housing and family residences, creating a dynamic mix of temporary and permanent residents. People's Park and numerous campus-adjacent facilities make this area central to Berkeley's identity.

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Northside (94709):

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Northside encompasses the area directly north of the UC Berkeley campus, featuring a blend of student housing and family homes. This neighborhood includes parts of the Berkeley Hills, offering some of the most spectacular views in the Bay Area. The area is served by excellent schools and provides easy access to both campus facilities and hiking trails in the nearby hills.

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Berkeley Hills (94705, 94708):

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The Berkeley Hills represent some of the most desirable real estate in the Bay Area, with homes perched on hillsides offering panoramic views of San Francisco Bay. This area includes neighborhoods like Thousand Oaks and parts of the hills above the UC campus. The Berkeley Hills attract affluent residents seeking privacy, natural beauty, and proximity to regional parks like Tilden and Wildcat Canyon.

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Elmwood (94705):

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The Elmwood neighborhood, centered around College Avenue, offers a charming village-like atmosphere with local shops, cafes, and restaurants. This area features beautiful Craftsman and Tudor-style homes on tree-lined streets. The neighborhood is known for its strong sense of community, excellent schools, and the popular Elmwood farmers market.

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Thousand Oaks (94708):

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Thousand Oaks is an upscale neighborhood in the Berkeley Hills known for its winding streets, custom homes, and abundant greenery. This area offers privacy and natural beauty while remaining accessible to Berkeley's urban amenities. The neighborhood attracts families and professionals seeking a retreat-like setting with easy access to hiking trails and regional parks.

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Berkeley Marina Area (94710):

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The Berkeley Marina area has evolved into a mixed-use neighborhood with waterfront access and modern amenities. This area includes parks, restaurants, and recreational facilities along the bay shoreline. The neighborhood appeals to those seeking waterfront living with spectacular views and outdoor recreation opportunities.

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With its diverse neighborhoods offering everything from urban energy to hillside tranquility, Berkeley provides housing options to suit various lifestyles and preferences. Whether you're drawn to the academic atmosphere near campus, the village charm of Elmwood, or the stunning views from the Berkeley Hills, Berkeley has a neighborhood ready to welcome you.

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Income and Education in Berkeley, CA

Berkeley, California, stands as one of the nation's premier educational centers, with a robust economy supported by the university, technology sector, and diverse local businesses. The city's economic landscape benefits from its proximity to both UC Berkeley and the broader Bay Area tech industry, contributing to household incomes that support a high standard of living while attracting professionals, researchers, and entrepreneurs from around the world.

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Education forms the cornerstone of Berkeley's identity, with a significant portion of residents holding advanced degrees. The city is served by the Berkeley Unified School District, which has earned recognition for its innovative programs and commitment to educational equity. Schools such as Berkeley High School are known for their academic rigor, diverse student bodies, and extensive extracurricular offerings that prepare students for success in higher education.

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Berkeley's educational landscape extends beyond public schools to include several prestigious private institutions and specialized programs. The city is home to the University of California, Berkeley, consistently ranked among the world's top public universities and renowned for its contributions to research, innovation, and social progress. Berkeley City College and other continuing education institutions provide additional opportunities for professional development and lifelong learning.

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These educational institutions create a highly educated workforce that drives innovation and economic growth throughout the region. The presence of world-class researchers, students, and faculty contributes to Berkeley's reputation as a center for intellectual discourse, technological advancement, and social change. This educational foundation continues to attract families, professionals, and students who value academic excellence and intellectual engagement.

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Schools in Berkeley, CA

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Public Schools:

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Berkeley, California, is served by Berkeley Unified School District (BUSD), known for its commitment to educational equity, innovation, and academic excellence. The district serves a diverse student population and offers numerous specialized programs designed to meet varied learning needs.

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Berkeley High School:

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Berkeley High School is a comprehensive public high school known for its academic diversity and extensive program offerings. The school provides Advanced Placement courses, career technical education programs, and strong arts departments including music, theater, and visual arts. Berkeley High's commitment to social justice education and its diverse student body make it a reflection of Berkeley's progressive values and multicultural community.

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Berkeley Technology Academy:

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This public charter high school focuses on technology integration and project-based learning. The academy emphasizes STEAM education (Science, Technology, Engineering, Arts, and Mathematics) and provides students with hands-on experience in digital media, engineering, and computer science.

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King Middle School:

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Martin Luther King Jr. Middle School serves grades 6-8 and is known for its strong academic programs and supportive learning environment. The school offers specialized programs in music, arts, and sciences, while maintaining a focus on preparing students for success in high school and beyond.

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John Muir Elementary School:

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John Muir Elementary is recognized for its innovative teaching methods and strong community involvement. The school emphasizes environmental education and outdoor learning, reflecting Berkeley's commitment to sustainability and environmental awareness.

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Oxford Elementary School:

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Oxford Elementary serves the North Berkeley community and is known for its academic excellence and strong parent participation. The school offers enrichment programs in arts, music, and sciences while maintaining small class sizes that allow for individualized attention.

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Private Schools:

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The Athenian School:

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Located in nearby Danville but serving Berkeley families, The Athenian School is a college-preparatory institution known for its innovative curriculum and emphasis on global education. The school offers the International Baccalaureate program and emphasizes experiential learning through travel and community service.

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Head-Royce School:

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Head-Royce School, located in Oakland but popular among Berkeley families, is an independent college-preparatory school serving students from kindergarten through 12th grade. The school is known for its rigorous academics, diverse student body, and strong college placement record.

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Maybeck High School:

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Maybeck High School is a small, progressive private school in Berkeley that emphasizes individualized learning and creative expression. The school offers a college-preparatory curriculum in a supportive, non-traditional environment that encourages student voice and choice in learning.

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East Bay Waldorf School:

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This private school in nearby El Sobrante serves Berkeley families seeking Waldorf education principles. The school emphasizes artistic integration, hands-on learning, and child development that honors different learning styles and developmental stages.

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Higher Education:

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University of California, Berkeley:

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UC Berkeley stands as one of the world's premier public research universities, consistently ranked among the top institutions globally. The university offers undergraduate, graduate, and professional programs across virtually every academic discipline. Known for its contributions to scientific research, social movements, and academic innovation, UC Berkeley attracts students and faculty from around the world and serves as an economic and cultural anchor for the city.

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Berkeley City College:

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Part of the Peralta Community College District, Berkeley City College provides accessible higher education opportunities including associate degrees, certificate programs, and transfer pathways to four-year universities. The college serves both traditional students and working adults seeking career advancement or new skills.

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Graduate Theological Union:

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The Graduate Theological Union is a consortium of seminaries and academic centers located in Berkeley, offering graduate programs in theology, religious studies, and related fields. This institution contributes to Berkeley's reputation as a center for interfaith dialogue and religious scholarship.

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Wright Institute:

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The Wright Institute is a graduate school specializing in clinical psychology and offers doctoral programs in psychology. The institute is known for its commitment to training psychologists who will serve diverse communities and address social justice issues.

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Berkeley's educational system reflects the city's values of academic excellence, innovation, and social responsibility. From outstanding public schools to world-renowned universities, Berkeley offers educational opportunities that prepare students to become engaged citizens and leaders in their chosen fields.

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Public Transportation and Major Highways in Berkeley, CA

Berkeley, California, benefits from an extensive transportation network that connects residents and visitors to destinations throughout the Bay Area and beyond. The city's commitment to sustainable transportation is evident in its comprehensive public transit options and bicycle-friendly infrastructure.

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Public Transportation:

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Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART):

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BART serves as Berkeley's primary regional transit connection, with three stations serving the city: Downtown Berkeley, North Berkeley, and Ashby. These stations provide direct access to San Francisco, Oakland, and other Bay Area destinations, making BART essential for commuters and visitors. The Downtown Berkeley BART station serves as a major transit hub, connecting to local bus services and providing access to the university and downtown commercial district.

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AC Transit:

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Alameda-Contra Costa Transit (AC Transit) operates numerous bus routes throughout Berkeley, connecting neighborhoods to each other and to regional destinations. Key routes include the 51B, which connects Berkeley to Oakland and Richmond, and campus shuttles that serve UC Berkeley. AC Transit's Transbay routes provide service to San Francisco, while local routes ensure connectivity within Berkeley's diverse neighborhoods.

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UC Berkeley Shuttle Services:

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The university operates several shuttle routes that connect campus facilities and serve the broader Berkeley community. These shuttles provide convenient access to parking areas, research facilities, and student housing while reducing traffic congestion around campus.

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Berkeley Hills Access:

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Several AC Transit routes serve the Berkeley Hills, providing public transportation access to residential areas that might otherwise rely entirely on private vehicles. These routes connect hillside neighborhoods to BART stations and commercial areas.

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Capitol Corridor:

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Amtrak's Capitol Corridor service stops at the Berkeley station, providing rail connections to Sacramento, Davis, and other Central Valley destinations. This service offers an alternative to highway travel for longer-distance trips within Northern California.

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Ferry Connections:

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While Berkeley doesn't have direct ferry service, residents can easily access ferry terminals in San Francisco and Oakland via BART and AC Transit, connecting to destinations in Marin County and other bay locations.

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Major Highways:

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Interstate 80 (I-80):

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I-80 runs along Berkeley's western edge, providing the primary east-west highway connection through the city. This interstate connects Berkeley to San Francisco via the Bay Bridge and extends eastward to Sacramento and beyond. I-80 also provides access to Berkeley's waterfront areas and connects to other major Bay Area highways.

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State Route 24 (SR-24):

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SR-24 begins in Berkeley and extends eastward through the Caldecott Tunnel to Walnut Creek and other East Bay communities. This highway provides crucial access between West Contra Costa County communities and the central Bay Area, while also serving Berkeley's hill neighborhoods.

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Interstate 580 (I-580):

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While not directly passing through Berkeley, I-580 is easily accessible and provides connections to the East Bay suburbs, Central Valley, and Southern California. Berkeley residents access I-580 via local streets and SR-24.

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San Pablo Avenue:

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San Pablo Avenue (part of State Route 123) runs north-south through Berkeley, serving as a major local arterial that connects to Richmond and Oakland. This route provides access to local businesses and serves as an alternative to highway travel for north-south trips.

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University Avenue:

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University Avenue serves as a major east-west arterial connecting I-80 to the UC Berkeley campus and the Berkeley Hills. This route provides access to the Berkeley Marina, downtown Berkeley, and campus facilities while serving local businesses and residential areas.

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Ashby Avenue:

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Ashby Avenue connects I-80 to the Berkeley Hills and serves several important Berkeley neighborhoods. This east-west route provides access to the Elmwood district and connects to regional destinations in Oakland and other East Bay communities.

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Bicycle Infrastructure:

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Berkeley has invested significantly in bicycle infrastructure, including bike lanes, bike boulevards, and bike parking facilities. The city's relatively flat terrain and mild climate make cycling a popular transportation option, supported by connections to regional bike trails and BART's bicycle-friendly policies.

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Berkeley's comprehensive transportation network reflects the city's commitment to sustainability and accessibility. Whether commuting regionally via BART, traveling locally by bus, or cycling through neighborhood streets, Berkeley's transportation options support both environmental goals and community connectivity.

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Things To Do in Berkeley, CA

From stunning natural vistas to world-class cultural attractions, Berkeley offers a diverse array of activities within easy reach of Telegraph Avenue. Here are five exceptional experiences within a 30-45 minute drive from 2812 Telegraph Ave.

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Tilden Regional Park

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