When it comes to traveling to the Bay Area, most people are quick to mention iconic destinations like San Francisco or Oakland. But nestled in the East Bay, there's a quaint city called Berkeley that is known for its vibrant culture and beautiful scenery. While some may be familiar with the more popular attractions in the city, like the University of California, Berkeley, or the Berkeley Marina, many hidden gems are waiting to be explored. From Homeroom, the ultimate mac and cheese restaurant, to Grizzly Peak Vista Point, a breathtaking lookout over the bay area, to the beautiful UC Botanical Gardens (ok, not so much a hidden gem), to the cozy and charming Elmwood neighborhood, I’ll take you to some of the city's hidden treasures and show you why Berkeley is truly a city worth visiting.

1. Homeroom: A Mac and Cheese Restaurant!

If you're a mac and cheese lover (and who isn’t), then Homeroom is a must-visit. Tucked away in a cozy corner of the city, this casual eatery is dedicated to serving up the most delectable and indulgent mac and cheese creations you can imagine. Seriously, folks, this place is an absolute delight for your taste buds and a must-visit spot for all foodies out there, and I was so excited my cousin showed it to me. Now, I’m just waiting for them to expand to Boston.

Tucked away in the heart of Berkeley, Homeroom is a cozy little restaurant that specializes in one thing - mac and cheese. And boy, do they do it right! Whether you're a mac and cheese enthusiast or just looking for some comfort food, Homeroom has you covered. Their menu features an array of creative and delicious mac and cheese dishes that will leave you craving more. They have something for everyone, from the Classic Mac to the mouthwatering Jalapeño Popper Mac. You have to try the Gilroy Garlic Mac (named after Gilroy, CA, the garlic capital), with “creamy Gouda, salty pecorino, and just the right amount of garlic.”

And you don’t have to stop at the menu options - at Homeroom, customization is a whole other level. You can choose from a range of add-ons and toppings, allowing you to create your own unique mac and cheese masterpiece. The possibilities are endless, whether you prefer a bit of heat with spicy jalapenos or a burst of freshness with chopped tomatoes and basil. They have other stuff that isn’t mac and cheese on the menu, which all looks great, but I’ll be honest, I focused on the mac and cheese for this trip.

The ambiance at Homeroom is laid-back and inviting, making it the perfect spot to relax with friends or enjoy a casual date night. The friendly and attentive staff will ensure that your visit is nothing short of delightful, making Homeroom a place you'll want to come back to time and time again.

So, as I was doing some extra digging about Homeroom for this post (because all I really knew was that they serve seriously tasty food), I stumbled upon their founding story. And let me tell you, it just made me like them even more. Founder Erin Wade gave up her law career to start Homeroom! Sound familiar? I mean, I’m not giving up my law career…yet…

So, if you find yourself in Berkeley and want to indulge in some delicious mac and cheese, swing by Homeroom. Trust me, it's worth every bite!

2. Sunset Views at Grizzly Peak Vista Point

If you find yourself in Berkeley, one experience that you absolutely cannot miss is catching the breathtaking sunset over the beautiful Bay. To witness this sight and get a stunning view of the entire Bay Area, make your way up Centennial Drive to Grizzly Peak Vista Point. From this vantage point, the entire Bay Area unfolds before you like a masterpiece painting. The sparkling waters of the San Francisco Bay glisten under the sun's gentle rays, while the iconic Golden Gate Bridge stands tall in the distance, connecting the bustling city of San Francisco to the rest of the Bay Area. The skyline of Oakland, with its impressive array of skyscrapers, adds a touch of urban charm to the natural beauty that surrounds it.

Whether you visit during the day or at sunset, Grizzly Peak Vista Point never fails to captivate. During the day, the vibrant colors of the landscape come alive, showcasing the diverse flora and fauna. As the sun sets, the sky transforms into a canvas of warm hues, casting a golden glow over the entire Bay Area.

And if the fog rolls in while you’re up there, the view is even better. Sure, you can’t see the sunset through the Golden Gate Bridge, but you can watch the fog roll over the Bay and into San Francisco and Oakland, and then watch the sun set over all of it as the sky transforms into a canvas of vibrant colors.

When it comes to parking, keep an eye out because you'll be parallel parking on a twisty mountain road (I pulled it off in a rental car, and I'm still patting myself on the back for that one). After parking, you might have to take a short stroll to one of the breathtaking viewpoints - just make sure to stay on the side of the road. So, just a heads up on the parking situation, and enjoy those scenic vistas!

3. Explore the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden

If you're a nature enthusiast, or even if you aren’t, you'll want to add the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden to your itinerary. This sprawling garden covers a vast expanse of 34 acres, boasting an impressive array of plants from all corners of the globe. As you wander its winding paths, you'll encounter a rich diversity of flora and several themed areas that add an extra layer of enchantment to your visit. Visit the fragrant wonders of the Mediterranean Garden, where aromatic herbs and vibrant flowers transport you to the sun-drenched landscapes of Southern Europe.

But that's not all! The Botanical Garden offers even more surprises as you continue your adventure. Venture through the cacti garden, marveling at these resilient desert dwellers, before discovering a hidden oasis with a collection of herbs and Chinese medicinal plants. And just when you think you've explored every corner of the central gardens, make your way to the magical haven of the Redwood Grove. Under the redwoods is a lovely place to relax, and be sure to check the performance schedule of the amphitheater before you visit.

A visit to the UC Berkeley Botanical Garden promises a truly immersive and captivating experience, where every step unveils new wonders and moments of serenity.

4. The Elmwood District

As you stroll through the Elmwood neighborhood, you'll be captivated by the eclectic mix of boutiques, cafes, and art galleries that line the streets. The vibrant energy is palpable, with locals and visitors immersing themselves in the lively atmosphere. This neighborhood effortlessly blends the old and the new, creating a unique ambiance that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking.

Take the time to wander through the picturesque streets and find a lovely residential neighborhood and the Berkeley Playhouse, a beloved local landmark. This historic movie theater showcases a mix of classic films, independent productions, and special screenings, providing entertainment for film enthusiasts of all ages.

Beyond its architectural beauty, Elmwood boasts a thriving commercial district (College Ave.) brimming with local businesses. From cozy cafes to neighborhood favorites, like Summer Kitchen & Bakeshop and the Italian Homemade Company, there is something for everyone to enjoy. For some unique shopping options, this area is full of one-of-a-kind boutique shops that offer a variety of items, from vintage clothing to handmade jewelry. Some noteworthy options include Wink SF, which offers sustainable fashion options, and the Bouquet Market, a home and garden boutique offering flower arranging workshops.

So pack your curiosity, grab a friend or two, and embark on a journey through Berkeley's hidden treasures. You never know what delightful surprises await you just around the corner. Happy exploring!