Berkeley may be the most collegiate college town in the country—the city was founded along with the University of California and education has remained a cornerstone, from innovative preschools to the Graduate Theological Union and of course the top-ranked public university in the world. The legacy of Berkeley’s “hippie” past can mostly be found now in the vocal and engaged citizens and the city’s prioritizing smart long-term governance and progressive values over short-term cash-outs. With a population of around 121,000 in just 10 square miles, parts of the city are quite dense, especially around campus. Up in the hills, though, living is almost bucolic and the views in every direction are stunning. The freeway in Berkeley is tucked discreetly away by the shoreline and the city’s two BART stations and good bus coverage can get you wherever you’re going with ease.

One of the things Berkeley is known for locally is food. Whether it’s fine dining at the Michelin-rated Chez Panisse or a quick bite at one of the many food trucks and pop-up specialty restaurants, whatever your craving, Berkeley’s got you covered. If you prefer to make it yourself the Berkeley Bowl grocery stores draw shoppers from all over the area for high-quality organic ingredients. For the freshest of everything, if you can wait a couple of days, one the three farmers’ markets will likely have what you need. This city is well provided with picnic spots, too, from the windswept bay views of Cesar Chavez Park at the marina to the rolling vistas of the hilltop Tilden Park.

Attractions

The How Berkeley Can You Be festival every summer showcases everything quirky about the city—or at least the family-friendly parts. A smaller scale version erupts most weekends on the lawn across from the high school, with food vendors, performances, and some of the best people-watching you could hope for. And speaking of performances, you’ll find every kind of venue here, from tiny clubs to the newly revamped UC Theater up to the huge Zellerbach Hall and the open-air Greek Theatre, hosting world-class music and theater.