A campus built into the Berkeley Hills means strong legs and plenty of photo opportunities. When the fog allows, capture San Francisco's skyline and the Golden Gate Bridge from landmarks like the Campanile, Big C, the I-House steps and, just off campus, the Berkeley Rose Garden.

Anything is possible in Dolores Park. On any given weekend, join a mishmash of picnickers, yogis, dogs, kids, tourists, hippies and couples enjoying the fine views from its perch in the Mission neighborhood of San Francisco.

Nature and former Victorian-era elegance combine at the far westerly point in San Francisco. Walk the winding trail among rocky cliffs, fragrant cypress and eucalyptus, and through upscale neighborhoods all the way to the Golden Gate Bridge. Keep your camera handy.

Whatever metaphor for America you prefer, the result is exceptional variety and flavor. Dine out or shop local grocers for Chinese, Japanese, Mexican, Thai, Italian, Ethiopian and Soul Food. And there plenty of places serving up the old college standby of beer and pizza. Bon appetit! 

Off campus, grocery stores and restaurants cluster in the Berkeley’s various business districts: Telegraph, Downtown, North Side, College Ave, Solano Ave, and Fourth Street. 

Find delicious cuisine and local character no matter which neighborhood becomes your home away from home.

This feature of the San Francisco skyline commemorates local resident, Lillie Hitchcock Coit, who left $125,000 to beautify the city. Visitors can enjoy 1930s-era murals, 360-degree views from the top, as well as the lively neighborhood around Telegraph Hill on which it stands.