Home to the University of California, the city of Berkeley is known for its academic excellence, rich culture, and booming tourism. While there are many attractions to see during the daytime hours, it is important not to forget all the nightlife there is to experience. Berkeley is a wonderful place to visit for a night on the town. To get you started, here is a list of the top 10 things to do at night.
1. See a live band at Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse
Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse is the home of traditional music. First opened in 1968 by owner, Nancy Owens, the coffeehouse’s objective is to bring the traditional music of all different cultures to the people of Berkeley. From Hawaiian swing to salsa music, you are bound to have a unique experience here. There is a show almost every night, so take a look at their online schedule and book your tickets!
Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse
Website: Freight and Salvage Coffeehouse
2. Laugh the night away with local comedians
Stone Soup Improv is a troupe that performs improvisational comedy in Berkeley and the surrounding area. Improv differs from stand-up comedy in that a show is comprised of a number of skits and games performed by the members of the troupe. If you are searching for a unique comedy experience, you’re in for a treat. Since this type of comedy includes on the spot audience participation, each show is different.
Stone Soup Improv
Address: 1638 University Ave, Berkeley, CA 94703
Website: Stone Soup Improv
3. Get some late night grub
Since 1966, Top Dog has been serving some of the best hot dogs in Berkeley. Their 3 am closing time makes this restaurant great for late night food cravings. Top Dog isn’t your usual hot dog joint. The menu includes a wide variety of hot dogs and sausages, including beef, pork, chicken, and even a veggie option.
Top Dog
Address: 2534 Durant Ave Berkeley, CA 94704
Website: Top Dog
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4. Paint masterpieces with your friends
With events all over Berkeley, all you have to do is find one that fits your schedule. Sign up with a group of friends and almost all the work is done for you. You just have to show up and paint! The staff at Paint Nite will provide painting supplies and all you need to create a masterpiece! Depending on the location of the event, you may also order drinks.
Paint Nite
Website: Paint Nite
5. Enjoy a stage play at Shotgun Players
Sit back, relax, and watch a plot unfold right in front of you. Visit Shotgun Players to see local actors perform in an intriguing show. The company started in 1992 with the goal of giving the residents of Berkeley access to affordable and relevant theater plays. Shotgun Players continues to provide this service with shows scheduled throughout the entire year.
Shotgun Players
Address: 1901 Ashby Avenue, Berkeley, California 94703
Website: Shotgun Players
6. See a movie in a unique cinema
Landmark Theatres is a theater that has a great selection of independent, foreign, and select Hollywood films. With multiple locations in the bay area, each theater boasts an upscale atmosphere that is geared toward adults. Even after the movie finishes, your experience isn’t over. Landmark Theatres also play a huge role in marketing the films they show. At the concessions area, you can find books, DVDs, and CDs for sale.
Landmark Theatres
Address: 2230 Shattuck Avenue, Berkeley, CA, 94704
Website: Landmark Theatres
7. Watch a sports game with the family
Home to the University of California Golden Bears, California Memorial Stadium has a seating capacity of 63,000 people since its most recent renovation in 2012. Visitors who come to see a football game will be happy with the views of the field, as every seat in the stadium has great sightlines.
California Memorial Stadium
Address: 210 Memorial Stadium, Berkeley, CA 94704
Website: California Memorial Stadium
8. Get a taste of Japanese cuisine
The specialty at Ippuku Berkeley Izakaya is charcoal-grilled yakitori or skewered chicken. The chicken is 100% local and comes straight from Hoffman Farms in Manteca, California. Ippuku wouldn’t be an Izakaya without a selection of Japanese liquors! You can wash your yakitori down with shochu, sake, whiskey, or beer imported straight from Japan.
Ippuku Berkeley
Address: 2130 Center St, Suite 101, Berkeley, CA 94704
Website: Ippuku Berkeley
9. Watch the sun set at Grizzly Peak
Travel to Grizzly Peak for fantastic views of Berkeley and the bay area at sunset. If you are planning to hike on the peak, be sure to bring flashlights and a light jacket. Also, some areas of Grizzly Peak are more crowded than others. You should get there and claim your spot for optimal views.
10. Take a bite out of an ice cream sandwich
In the mood for sweet desserts? The ice cream sandwiches at Cream will have you licking your fingers and wanting more! This family-owned creamery serves their premium ice cream in between two, fresh baked cookies. With over 20 ice cream flavors and 10 types of cookies, feel free to mix and match. If you’re just feeling like having some ice cream without the cookies, Cream also sells it by the scoop. Get one scoop…or three on top of a freshly made waffle cone.
Cream
Address: 2399 Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley, CA 94704
Website: Cream
Enjoy the nightlife in Berkeley
If you’re planning a trip to Berkeley in the near future, it is important to know that you can enjoy daytime attractions as well as the bustling nightlife. Whether you’re looking to spend a night out painting with friends or a romantic evening watching the sunset, you’ll thoroughly enjoy all that Berkeley has to offer.