Berkeley is Cool

Summer heat waves are rolling across most of the West. Looking for a “chill” escape? Set on sparkling San Francisco Bay, Berkeley offers a prevailing Pacific breeze, fun, off-beat college town vibe, local libations to keep everyone “hydrated,” iconic dining, and awe-inspiring arts. The cool duality of Berkeley – attitude and altitude – makes this the perfect place to “basecamp” your chill Bay Area getaway.

Vacation Planners Get Straight A’s

Vacation planners get straight A’s for studying Berkeley. First, there’s the cool local “Attitude.” Flower power and free speech are Berkeley’s genome since the 60s, and today the city flashes as a celebrated place to dine, enjoy the arts, and enjoy easy outdoor parks and rec. Graduate student tip: unlike most places, summer is Berkeley’s “off-season,” with extra-value lodging rates while students are back home. More room to roam for visitors, too.

Then there’s the second course, “Altitude.” Berkeley is right on San Francisco Bay with awesome weather year-round. From the city’s sea level setting to a soaring Pacific ridge just above, the microclimate is notably comfortable. It’s an easy A.

And finally, let’s elevate things and explore Berkeley’s “Amplitude.” Performing arts, legendary restaurants like Chez Panisse, urban wineries and craft brew houses, artisanal shopping and art museums, botanical gardens, and sunset-perfect bayfront coves – Berkeley’s range of things to discover and do is off the charts.

Berkeley is Cool Summer Hotel Specials

Book your Berkeley summer escape today, save up to 20% on hotel rates, and make Berkeley your Bay Area Basecamp! (Certain restrictions and blackout dates may apply; see specific property offers for details.)

DoubleTree by Hilton Berkeley Marina

Now through August, enjoy 20% off best available rates on weekdays, and 15% off on weekends, with complimentary parking at Berkeley's bayside hotel! Enjoy stunning views of the San Francisco skyline and dine al fresco at the Berkeley Boathouse Restaurant.

Hotel Shattuck Plaza

Summer is cool at Berkeley's historic downtown property, centrally located to arts, dining, and transit options. Guests will get 20% off best available rates with stays through September 7 (advance payment req'd). Zino, the hotel's Mediterranean restaurant and lobby bar, is a happening place. Celebrate a Summer of Love at the Hotel Shattuck Plaza in Berkeley!

Aiden by Best Western Berkeley

The Aiden is a cool property just two blocks from North Berkeley BART, a mile from the UC Berkeley campus, and with panoramic rooftop views of the San Francisco Bay. Stay this summer and get 20% off, valid to Aug. 15.

Residence Inn by Marriott Berkeley

Berkeley's newest hotel is an all-suite beauty in the heart of the city's bustling downtown. The Berkeley is Cool deal will land guests a $25 credit at the Study Hall Rooftop Lounge and complimentary valet parking. The property is green and Gold LEED-certified.

Graduate by Hilton Berkeley

Berkeley's Graduate Hotel is steps from UC Berkeley and historic Telegraph Avenue, with creative, college-inspired interiors. Stay with Berkeley is Cool and enjoy a 18% off special rate, valid through August.

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Berkeley

Get 20% off by calling the hotel front desk directly at (510) 548-1700 and mentioning the Berkeley is Cool special rate this summer. The Holiday Inn Express was just fully renovated and a perennial Tripadvisor top property.

Charming Neighborhoods: Walk this Way

Glide into extra credit territory with Berkeley’s walkability (99%, according to WalkScore.com). The twists and turns of terrain create a city of independent neighborhoods, each with its own mantra and mood. From foodie-centric North Shattuck to chic Fourth Street, counter-culture Telegraph to stroll-worthy Solano, grand Gilman to artsy Lorin, “main street” Elmwood to diverse University Ave. and the city’s historic Downtown hub – Berkeley’s neighborhoods are well-explored by foot, bike, or easy, scenic drives.

Back to School

Berkeley begins with the University of California campus, the sylvan and stone complex at the soulful heart of the city. Today, the 178-acre Berkeley campus, or “Cal” to locals and students, serves as more than an academic enclave. It is Berkeley’s “Central Park” (the co-architect of New York’s Central Park, Frederick Law Olmsted, was also instrumental in designing the Cal campus) with beautifully landscaped grounds, historic architecture, redwood forest and wonderful walking paths.

Bay Area Basecamp

With a great selection of lodging options, Berkeley’s the perfect place to stay while exploring San Francisco, NorCal wine country, and national park icons on the Sierra horizon (day trip to Yosemite, anyone?). With Berkeley’s celebrated food and arts, local-find shops, and outdoor escapes – all walkable and minutes away – you may decide to stay put, considering all there is to do right here. Plan your play accordingly!

Berkeley is Cool

Check out just how cool with a chill getaway by the Bay. Fly in with daily service to Oakland International Airport (OAK) on Southwest, Sun Country, Delta, Alaska, and Spirit airlines, and more carriers serving San Francisco International (SFO) just across the Bay Bridge.

Make Berkeley your Bay Area Basecamp and start planning with the brand-new Berkeley Destination Guide and let the planning begin.