Best Things to Do on a Road Trip from Berkeley, CA and Alameda, CA
Berkeley, CA and Alameda, CA are two cities located in Northern California that offer unique experiences to explore. With a road trip between these cities, travelers are sure to see beautiful landscapes, indulge in impressive cuisine, and enjoy a range of activities that suit all interests. The halfway point of the trip is Oakland, CA, which provides yet another area worth exploring.
Top Five Things to Do
1. Visit Tilden Regional Park
Tilden Regional Park is a great spot for the whole family. The park, a 2079-acre oasis located in the Berkeley Hills, has an array of fun activities such as hiking, picnicking, and carousel riding. Kids will love the Little Farm, where they can pet animals such as cows and sheep. Adults will find the Botanic Garden peaceful and beautiful, with over 3000 species of plants.
Interesting Fact:
Tilden is home to a steam train, with a route almost three miles long running through the entire park.
2. Explore the UC Berkeley Campus
UC Berkeley, a world-renowned public university, offers visitors a chance to explore one of the most well-known college campuses in the US. A look at an array of admirable architecture provides students and visitors with a fascinating learning experience. The University Art Museum and Phoebe Hearst Museum of Anthropology are also worth adding to an itinerary.
Interesting Fact:
The college is the only school to have produced more than ten Nobel laureates across six of its Centers and Colleges.
3. Check out the Bay Area Rapid Transit (BART) System
BART is a fast, easy, and inexpensive way to explore the Bay Area. The train system runs around the Bay Area region and across San Francisco and Oakland — visitors can easily hop from one city to another. Those who fancy a day trip to San Francisco or Oakland can conveniently access these cities from Berkeley, Alameda and Oakland BART stations.
Interesting Fact:
The BART system is the major provider of public transport in the surrounding bay area, handling over 434,000 passengers on weekdays.
4. Shop and Dine in Fourth Street
Fourth Street in Berkeley is a favorite of many. The street features an ample range of boutique shops, salons, and restaurants that are sure to impress. Visitors can stop by the popular gift store, Castle In The Air, or dine at the stellar cafe, Ippuku. The option of indoor or outdoor seating in Fourth Street’s eateries only adds to the appeal of the street and town.
Interesting Fact:
Fourth Street was originally a railroad line that trains used to deliver goods to Berkeley.
5. Take a bike ride or walk on the Bay Trail
The Bay Trail is an outstanding place to unwind with family or friends. Visitors can walk or bike along the water's edge and admire the San Francisco skyline. The trail stretches over 500 miles, and 350 of those miles are already complete. The areas closest to Alameda and Berkeley are tidy and well-maintained, and people of all ages can enjoy this activity.
Interesting Fact:
The Bay Trail is a safe haven for many birds and wildlife, with hundreds of species inhabiting the marshland and shore areas.
Conclusion
Berkeley, CA and Alameda, CA offer plenty of activities to enjoy. Driving from one city to another and stopping by Oakland along the way, proved to be a road trip worth taking. With delicious food options, fun outdoor activities, and numerous landmarks, it is the perfect day trip. The trip route is relatively short and can be comfortably completed in a day.