How I Get Around Campus: Walking in Berkeley
Out of all the aspects of the UC Berkeley campus that I love, I especially appreciate its walkability. From one side of the campus to the opposite side usually takes around 20 minutes. Many people choose to get around using bikes or electric scooters, but I prefer walking. Not only am I a bit apprehensive about getting on an electric scooter, but walking allows me to freely explore and enjoy different parts of the campus!
With so many on-campus cafes and libraries, walking around has helped me discover new study spots between classes or during my free time. For example, after my CS61A discussion in Soda Hall last semester, I enjoyed heading to V&A Cafe for a cup of latte and a croissant while finishing a project. It became a comforting ritual, where the aroma of freshly brewed coffee and the warm ambiance provided a perfect environment for focusing on my work. Another favorite spot of mine is the Free Speech Movement Cafe, where the historical photos and lively atmosphere make for an inspiring study break.
The vibes on different parts of the campus vary as well. Only by walking through each area can you truly start enjoying the unique atmosphere of each part of campus. The south side of the campus feels more like a vibrant college environment, brimming with social energy. I love walking through Sproul Plaza, where the vibrancy of student life is palpable, with various clubs tabling and people chatting outside the Golden Bear Cafe. It’s a regular occurrence for me to bump into friends here and chat between classes—these small interactions bring joy to my day! Down Telegraph Avenue, there are numerous food options and places to relax. It is great to hang out with friends for a laid-back Saturday brunch or enjoy a coffee break after classes. The street is always buzzing with activity, from street performers to pop-up vendors, adding to its lively charm.
Walking past the Valley Life Sciences Building, I reach the Berkeley Art Museum and Pacific Film Archive, which hosts a variety of exhibitions and speaker series. One memorable event was a talk by Ocean Vuong, one of my favorite authors. If I hadn’t explored the campus, I might have missed these incredible cultural opportunities. The museum’s rotating exhibits provide a constant source of inspiration, and the film archive showcases rare and classic films that you wouldn't find anywhere else.
On the north side of the campus, the atmosphere is more nature-oriented, with trees and greenery everywhere. A friend who lived in Foothill during his freshman year mentioned that, despite the steep hike to the dorm, it was worth it for the closeness to nature. Being on the north side also offers beautiful views of the campus and the Bay Area. Hiking up to the Big C provides a breathtaking overlook of the campus and the surrounding landscape. The north side’s tranquility is perfect for a peaceful walk, with paths lined with towering redwoods and the gentle sound of Strawberry Creek flowing nearby.
Walking around campus also gives me easy access to public transportation. This is especially useful when I need a bit of a change in scenery. With bus stops scattered around campus, I can easily take the AC Transit to reach Fourth Street for shopping at unique boutiques and dining at trendy restaurants like Iyasare, Emeryville for a movie at the AMC, or Oakland for delicious Korean meals at Moo Bong Ri—not to mention that the rides are free with the Transit card. Berkeley Marina is especially a good place to stroll around and enjoy the coastal breeze, all while watching people sail or kayak. The marina’s serene environment is a perfect escape from the hustle and bustle of campus life.
Downtown Berkeley BART station also provides easy access to San Francisco, Daly City, and San Jose. Whether it’s catching an Oakland A’s game during the summer or enjoying the Christmas vibes in Union Square, these events are just a BART ride away. All I need to do is walk to the BART station, and the options of entertainment are endless beyond Berkeley. The ease of hopping on a train and exploring different parts of the Bay Area adds a sense of adventure to my weekends.
I appreciate that I don’t need a car to get around these places. Walking not only allows me to appreciate different parts of the campus and its surroundings but also helps me stay in shape, so it’s a win-win. You will continue to see me strolling around campus, discovering new spots, and enjoying the vibrant Berkeley community. Walking has become an integral part of my daily routine, offering both practical benefits and moments of spontaneous joy.