Free Things to Do in Berkeley

Bancroft Library

Location: University of California, Berkeley
Hours: Monday-Friday, 10:30am-4:30pm

The Bancroft Library at UC Berkeley is a premier special collections library, housing one of the nation’s largest collections of manuscripts, rare books, and unique materials. It supports research and teaching while shaping the university’s research holdings.

University of California Museum of Paleontology

Location: University of California, Berkeley | Valley Life Sciences Building, Room 1101
Hours: Hours vary, click here for details

UC Berkeley’s Paleontology Museum offers free fossil exhibits, including a T. rex mount. Visit anytime the Valley Life Sciences Building is open to explore these prehistoric treasures.

Regional Parks Botanic Garden

Location: 1550 Wildcat Canyon Rd.
Hours: October-May, 8:30am-5pm | June-September 8:30am-5:30pm

The Regional Parks Botanic Garden in Tilden Park is a peaceful 10-acre living museum of California native plants. Wander among rare and endangered species from across the state, all free to explore.

Berkeley Historical Society & Museum

Location: Veterans Memorial Building |1931 Center Street
Hours: Thursday-Saturday, 1-4pm

The Berkeley Historical Society & Museum offers a permanent illustrated timeline of the city’s history, rotating themed exhibits, and a research library. Volunteers help visitors explore collections of photos, maps, artifacts, and more, all celebrating Berkeley’s unique past.

Berkeley Rose Garden Park

Location: 1201 Euclid Avenue
Hours: Daily, 6am-10pm

The Berkeley Rose Garden is a peaceful retreat with 1,500 rose bushes across terraced levels, shaded seating under a redwood pergola, and pathways filled with fragrant blooms. Codornices Creek and an ornamental pool add to the charm, while nearby trails and tennis courts offer more outdoor fun. Best blooms appear from mid-May through September.

Adventure Playground

Location: 160 University Ave
Hours: Saturday and Sunday, 11am-5pm

Adventure Playground is a one-of-a-kind play space where kids can climb forts, ride a zip line, and build with hammers, saws, and recycled materials. Children must be supervised by a registered adult, making it a hands-on family adventure.

Indian Rock Park

Location: 950 Indian Rock Ave
Hours: Daily, 6am-10pm

Indian Rock Park, a gift to Berkeley in 1917, offers great views, walking trails, picnic spots, and beginner-friendly rock climbing. A historic and scenic outdoor spot to spend an afternoon, famous climbers Dick Leonard and David Brower honed their skills here.

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