Weekend in the Bay · A Local’s Guide to Berkeley Day Trip 🐻🌉

This weekend, I followed my partner (a Berkeley veteran) around this iconic college town — and wow, it did not disappoint! From stunning architecture to delicious eats, Berkeley offers the perfect blend of culture, views, and flavor. Here’s your perfect one-day itinerary: 🏛️ UC Berkeley Campus Tour: Cal Student Center: Just outside the south gate. The souvenir shop on the 2nd floor features the school mascot — the giant bear! 🧸 Sather Gate: The iconic south entrance 🚪📸 The Campanile: The famous clock tower 🕰️ — take the elevator up ($5) for panoramic views of the campus and even the Golden Gate Bridge! 🌉 The Doe Library: A beautiful, classic building — popular spot for graduation photos 📚🎓 Grizzly Peak: Drive up to this viewpoint for breathtaking views of the Bay Area and stunning sunsets 🌄❤️ Other spots near campus: Rose Garden: A lovely botanical garden 🌹 Big C: A large swing on the hill behind campus — requires a short hike 🏞️ 🏰 Normandy Village – A Fairy-Tale Neighborhood Quaint European-style architecture with castle-like roofs and spiral staircases — feels like stepping into a storybook! Note: It’s a small, residential area — please be quiet and respectful. 📍1781-1851 Spruce St, Berkeley, CA 94709 🌭 Food & Drinks: 1️⃣ Top Dog – A classic hot dog stand run by the same owner for years 🌭💰 – beloved by students! 2️⃣ Asian Ghetto – A cluster of affordable Asian eateries. Don’t miss Gypsy’s Italian at the entrance — their Calzone Pie is amazing! 🍕 3️⃣ Old Mandarin Islamic Restaurant – A long-running Chinese spot specializing in Sichuan dishes 🥢🌶️ 4️⃣ Skates on the Bay – Beautiful seafood restaurant with bay views, especially magical at sunset 🦞🌅 5️⃣ Chicha San Chen & HeyTea – Two popular bubble tea spots. Chicha San Chen is closer to campus — highly recommend their King Milk Tea! 🧋👑 Perfect for a weekend escape — whether you’re into views, history, food, or just vibing in a college town 🎒✨ #WeekendGetaway #BayAreaWeekend #UCBerkeley #BerkeleyEats #HiddenGems