Found in Northern California, Berkeley lies on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay. It is bordered by Emeryville, Albany, Oakland as well as the Contra Costa County, which include the unincorporated city of Kensington along with the San Francisco Bay. The city is home to University of California, Berkeley, which is one of the well-ranked universities across the globe. Berkeley is also considered as the nation’s most liberal city. Though it has a small population, with a total of 112,580 residents as of the 2010 US Census, it boasts of a big reputation and features a changing mix of local residents.
Berkeley features a wide variety of quaint districts, historic landmarks and a number of lovely state parks. Knowing this, every single day you spend in Berkeley will always be a fun-filled experience. Points of interest to check out in the city include the Berkeley Marina, Lawrence Hall of Science, Tilden Regional Park, Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive and Berkeley Repertory Theater, to name a few.
City Highlight: Take pleasure from a unique shopping experience while in Berkeley. Be sure to drop by Solano Avenue Shops (featuring 26-blocks of excellent local shopping) and the Downtown Farmers Market (an open-air market selling baked goods and fresh local produce every Saturday).
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Budget Accommodations in Berkeley
To help you save on your accommodations, comparing the prices of various inns, hotels and hostels operating in Berkeley is a must. You should also watch out for discounted hotel rates and special room promos so you can enjoy a comfortable accommodation in Berkeley without spending much. The Berkeley Inn offers a clean and affordable place to stay while in the city. It is one of the hotels in Berkeley providing competitive nightly rates, perfect for frugal and budget travelers. The inn is conveniently situated near public transportation, shops, restaurants and some of the city’s main attractions.
Located within a short drive from San Francisco, the La Quintana Inn is the ideal choice for both leisure and business travelers. It is just minutes away from the campus of the University of California Berkeley, and a few distance away from the Fisherman’s Wharf, Hilltop Mall, Bay Street, and Golden State Fields. The hotel is equipped with full-service amenities which include free parking, free local calls, and free breakfast (with a choice of waffles, fruits, hot/cold cereal, bread, muffins and coffee or juice).
Travelodge Berkeley on University Avenue, meanwhile, offers guests with functional hotel amenities, like an indoor gym, wi-fi access, and a pool. It also provides easy access to excellent shopping and dining spots, which are all within a short-drive from the hotel.
Other great lodging choices to consider when visiting Berkeley include the Americas Best Value Inn, Holiday Inn Express Hotel & Suites, and the Berkeley City Club Hotel.
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Having the Best Experience in Berkeley on A Limited Budget
Just because you have a limited budget does not mean you cannot have a great time in Berkeley. Truth of the matter is, there are a lot of cheap things to do and inexpensive or free places to see in Berkeley. If you are a nature person, then a visit to Tilden Park Botanic Garden must not be missed. This is a 10-acre living museum housing various species of native and endangered flora. To enjoy a scenic and majestic view of the San Francisco Bay, you should head to the Berkeley Rose Garden, which is also home to 2500 colorful roses housed in its amphitheater.
Art lovers, meanwhile, must check out the art exhibits displayed in the University Art Museum. Bring your kids to Habitot Kids’ Museum which showcases a drop-in studio, exhibits as well as fun events tailored for pre-schoolers, toddlers and even infants.
Wander along the Fourth Street Shops and Cafes where one can enjoy great music and entertainment while sipping brewed coffee. The area is also home to the popular Bette’s Ocean View Diner where you can order tasty to-go foods.
