University Town of Berkeley

The campus of this celebrated university town is perched on a hilltop with views of the bay and backed by a grove of redwood trees. Adding to the serenity is the babbling Strawberry Creek. Impressive classical-style buildings house the university's classrooms, libraries, and research centers. The emblematic Sather Tower is one of the world's tallest bell towers and affords amazing views of San Francisco Bay from its observation platform.

Berkeley is also well known for its culture, theater, and foodie scene. Visitors can watch a Pulitzer-Prize-winning show and then dine in the Gourmet Ghetto, home to the famous Chez Panisse bistro that started the local, organic farm-to-table cuisine movement. Chez Panisse owner Alice Waters is credited with changing food culture in America. Other top tourist attractions in Berkeley include the Botanical Garden and the Lawrence Hall of Science. For families with kids, Tilden Park is a favorite spot. Children love the small working farm, steam train ride, and old-fashioned merry-go-round. To sum up, it is one of the best day trips from San Francisco.

Website: visit.berkeley.edu

Address: Berkeley, CA, United States

Phone: +1 510-642-6000

Entrance fee: free

Google rating: 4.0/5.0