Telegraph Avenue Shopping (Self Guided), Berkeley
In addition to other attractions, the colorful and joyful city of Berkeley, California offers a wide variety of places to shop. Perhaps the most notable among them is Telegraph Avenue, a vibrant and eclectic thoroughfare, featuring a unique blend of cultural diversity and youthful energy.
One of the standout landmarks on Telegraph Avenue is the Berkeley Hat Company. Here, you'll find an impressive selection of hats ranging from stylish and trendy to classic and timeless. Whether it's a hat to protect you from the California sun or a fashionable accessory to complete your outfit, this shop has you covered.
Moe's Books is a beloved independent bookstore that's been a staple of the Berkeley community for decades. Inside its welcoming walls, you can get lost among the shelves of new and used books, rare finds, and literary treasures. It's a haven for bookworms and anyone seeking literary inspiration.
Amoeba Music is a mecca for music enthusiasts. This massive record store boasts an extensive collection of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and more. You can spend hours exploring its vast selection of music genres and discovering hidden gems.
For those craving a taste of international cuisine, Annapurna offers delicious Nepali and Indian dishes. From flavorful curries to mouthwatering momos, this restaurant delivers an authentic dining experience that's not to be missed.
Rasputin Music is another music lover's paradise, offering a wide range of music formats and collectibles; be it vintage vinyl or the latest releases, you'll find it here.
Big Al's is a unique shop specializing in smoking accessories, as well as other quirky gifts, novelties, and collectibles. It's the perfect place to find fun and offbeat items that make for great souvenirs or conversation starters.
Bear Basics is your go-to destination for all things Berkeley and Cal Bears-related. Should you want to show off your school pride or grab some Berkeley-themed merchandise, this store has it all.
Finally, Bancroft Clothing is where fashion meets campus style. They offer a diverse selection of clothing and accessories for students and locals alike, ensuring that you can stay both comfortable and stylish.
Indeed, Telegraph Avenue caters to a wide range of tastes and interests. So, come to explore this vibrant area and discover firsthand the treasures that make Berkeley's Telegraph Avenue a must-visit destination!
One of the standout landmarks on Telegraph Avenue is the Berkeley Hat Company. Here, you'll find an impressive selection of hats ranging from stylish and trendy to classic and timeless. Whether it's a hat to protect you from the California sun or a fashionable accessory to complete your outfit, this shop has you covered.
Moe's Books is a beloved independent bookstore that's been a staple of the Berkeley community for decades. Inside its welcoming walls, you can get lost among the shelves of new and used books, rare finds, and literary treasures. It's a haven for bookworms and anyone seeking literary inspiration.
Amoeba Music is a mecca for music enthusiasts. This massive record store boasts an extensive collection of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, and more. You can spend hours exploring its vast selection of music genres and discovering hidden gems.
For those craving a taste of international cuisine, Annapurna offers delicious Nepali and Indian dishes. From flavorful curries to mouthwatering momos, this restaurant delivers an authentic dining experience that's not to be missed.
Rasputin Music is another music lover's paradise, offering a wide range of music formats and collectibles; be it vintage vinyl or the latest releases, you'll find it here.
Big Al's is a unique shop specializing in smoking accessories, as well as other quirky gifts, novelties, and collectibles. It's the perfect place to find fun and offbeat items that make for great souvenirs or conversation starters.
Bear Basics is your go-to destination for all things Berkeley and Cal Bears-related. Should you want to show off your school pride or grab some Berkeley-themed merchandise, this store has it all.
Finally, Bancroft Clothing is where fashion meets campus style. They offer a diverse selection of clothing and accessories for students and locals alike, ensuring that you can stay both comfortable and stylish.
Indeed, Telegraph Avenue caters to a wide range of tastes and interests. So, come to explore this vibrant area and discover firsthand the treasures that make Berkeley's Telegraph Avenue a must-visit destination!
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Telegraph Avenue Shopping Map
Guide Name: Telegraph Avenue Shopping
Guide Location: USA » Berkeley (See other walking tours in Berkeley)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.6 Km or 0.4 Miles
Author: AudreyB
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
Guide Location: USA » Berkeley (See other walking tours in Berkeley)
Guide Type: Self-guided Walking Tour (Sightseeing)
# of Attractions: 8
Tour Duration: 1 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 0.6 Km or 0.4 Miles
Author: AudreyB
Sight(s) Featured in This Guide:
- Berkeley Hat
- Moe's Books
- Amoeba Music
- Annapurna
- Rasputin Music
- Big Al's Smoke And Gifts
- Bear Basics
- Bancroft Clothing
1) Berkeley Hat
Located on the iconic Telegraph Avenue, just four blocks south of UC Berkeley, Berkeley Hat Company has been a local treasure since 1980. Renowned as the "Hat Capital of Northern California," this shop is the Bay Area’s premier destination for men’s and women’s hats. Whether you’re looking for a classic fedora, a bold Kentucky Derby hat, or a whimsical Medusa or monkey hat, Berkeley Hat offers an unmatched selection catering to every taste and occasion.
With over four decades of retail expertise, the store boasts an impressive inventory, featuring everything from French berets, Basque berets, and Panama hats to Stetsons, Borsalinos, and Kangol caps. Their collection extends to costume hats for events like Burning Man, vintage designs, and even accessories like feathers, gloves, and masquerade masks. Customers will also find specialty items like faux fur vests, paper parasols, and costume jewelry to complete their ensembles. Berkeley Hat Company is more than just a store—it’s a hub of creativity and style, drawing locals, visitors, and festival-goers alike.
With over four decades of retail expertise, the store boasts an impressive inventory, featuring everything from French berets, Basque berets, and Panama hats to Stetsons, Borsalinos, and Kangol caps. Their collection extends to costume hats for events like Burning Man, vintage designs, and even accessories like feathers, gloves, and masquerade masks. Customers will also find specialty items like faux fur vests, paper parasols, and costume jewelry to complete their ensembles. Berkeley Hat Company is more than just a store—it’s a hub of creativity and style, drawing locals, visitors, and festival-goers alike.
2) Moe's Books
Nestled on Telegraph Avenue near the University of California, Berkeley, Moe’s Books is a treasure trove for bibliophiles. With four sprawling floors housing over 200,000 new and used books across diverse genres, this historic bookstore has been a cultural cornerstone of the San Francisco Bay Area since its founding in 1959.
Moe’s Books began its journey on Shattuck Avenue, thanks to Moe and Barbara Moskowitz, who envisioned a bookstore that better served customers than the trade-in practices of other stores. In the 1960s, the store moved to its current location, where it briefly shared space with the Print Mint before becoming the sole occupant in 1966. Over the decades, it has become a beloved institution, widely recognized for its eclectic inventory and rich history.
The bookstore remained under the stewardship of Moe Moskowitz until his death in 1997, when his daughter, Doris Moskowitz, stepped into his shoes. Under her leadership, Moe’s Books has continued to thrive, even as Doris paid homage to her father with the 2016 publication of Radical Bookselling: A Life of Moe Moskowitz. A plaque honoring Moe, installed by the Berkeley Historical Society in 2014, underscores the store’s legacy in the community.
Over the years, Moe’s Books has been a nurturing ground for literary talent. Figures such as Steve Wasserman, publisher of Heyday Books, and acclaimed author Jonathan Lethem, credit their time at Moe’s as formative experiences in their careers.
From its vast collection to its storied past, Moe’s Books is more than just a bookstore; it is a living monument to the enduring love of literature, community, and history.
Moe’s Books began its journey on Shattuck Avenue, thanks to Moe and Barbara Moskowitz, who envisioned a bookstore that better served customers than the trade-in practices of other stores. In the 1960s, the store moved to its current location, where it briefly shared space with the Print Mint before becoming the sole occupant in 1966. Over the decades, it has become a beloved institution, widely recognized for its eclectic inventory and rich history.
The bookstore remained under the stewardship of Moe Moskowitz until his death in 1997, when his daughter, Doris Moskowitz, stepped into his shoes. Under her leadership, Moe’s Books has continued to thrive, even as Doris paid homage to her father with the 2016 publication of Radical Bookselling: A Life of Moe Moskowitz. A plaque honoring Moe, installed by the Berkeley Historical Society in 2014, underscores the store’s legacy in the community.
Over the years, Moe’s Books has been a nurturing ground for literary talent. Figures such as Steve Wasserman, publisher of Heyday Books, and acclaimed author Jonathan Lethem, credit their time at Moe’s as formative experiences in their careers.
From its vast collection to its storied past, Moe’s Books is more than just a bookstore; it is a living monument to the enduring love of literature, community, and history.
3) Amoeba Music
Amoeba Music is an iconic independent music store chain that began its journey in 1990 on Telegraph Avenue, Berkeley. Founded by Marc Weinstein, Dave Prinz, and Mike Boyder—former employees of Rasputin Records—it quickly became a cultural hub for music enthusiasts. Known for its vast collection and eclectic atmosphere, Amoeba offers a treasure trove of vinyl records, CDs, DVDs, Blu-rays, books, posters, and even vintage VHS tapes. The distinctive Amoeba logo, designed by comic artist Shepherd Hendrix, adds a recognizable touch to its legendary status.
The Berkeley store, located in a historically significant building at Telegraph and Haste, embodies the city’s revolutionary spirit. This site was once home to the Forum Coffee House, where 1960s poets and activists converged, and later the One World Family Cookery, a venue for healthy food and experimental music, including a residency by Sun Ra. Outside, the famous "People's Park" mural serves as a vibrant reminder of Berkeley's activist heritage, echoing the store's ethos of free expression and creative exploration.
Amoeba Music thrives on its community focus and diverse inventory, spanning rock, jazz, electronica, reggae, punk, and more. From Oakland soul to underground hits, its trade-in program and embrace of vinyl have made it a haven for collectors, DJs, and music fans.
Amoeba’s influence has extended to San Francisco and Hollywood, but the Berkeley store remains a cornerstone for music fans and tourists drawn to its rich history and unparalleled selection. Step inside, and you’ll discover a vibrant world where music, culture, and Berkeley’s unique vibe come together in perfect harmony.
The Berkeley store, located in a historically significant building at Telegraph and Haste, embodies the city’s revolutionary spirit. This site was once home to the Forum Coffee House, where 1960s poets and activists converged, and later the One World Family Cookery, a venue for healthy food and experimental music, including a residency by Sun Ra. Outside, the famous "People's Park" mural serves as a vibrant reminder of Berkeley's activist heritage, echoing the store's ethos of free expression and creative exploration.
Amoeba Music thrives on its community focus and diverse inventory, spanning rock, jazz, electronica, reggae, punk, and more. From Oakland soul to underground hits, its trade-in program and embrace of vinyl have made it a haven for collectors, DJs, and music fans.
Amoeba’s influence has extended to San Francisco and Hollywood, but the Berkeley store remains a cornerstone for music fans and tourists drawn to its rich history and unparalleled selection. Step inside, and you’ll discover a vibrant world where music, culture, and Berkeley’s unique vibe come together in perfect harmony.
4) Annapurna
Established in 1969, Annapurna is a cornerstone of Berkeley's eclectic culture, nestled on the bustling Telegraph Avenue. As one of the first Nepalese import gift shops in the area, it has long been celebrated for its unique offerings and exceptional service. Over the decades, Annapurna has evolved into a beloved destination for both locals and visitors, blending its roots with a modern touch.
Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated collection that ranges from incense and hookahs to an assortment of pipes, artisanal home décor, and handcrafted jewelry. Annapurna is also renowned for its humorous greeting cards, earning a reputation as one of Berkeley’s best purveyors of quirky and memorable gifts.
The shop's warm and welcoming ambiance invites you to explore at your own pace, with a knowledgeable staff ready to enhance your experience. They’re more than happy to share insights about the origins and significance of the products, ensuring every purchase feels meaningful.
Annapurna’s commitment to quality and ethical sourcing is evident in its selection, which reflects both local artistry and global influences. It’s a haven for those seeking thoughtful gifts or personal treasures that resonate with Berkeley's creative and diverse spirit.
Award-winning and highly regarded, Annapurna is not just a shop—it's an enduring symbol of Berkeley's vibrant community and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
Inside, you’ll find a carefully curated collection that ranges from incense and hookahs to an assortment of pipes, artisanal home décor, and handcrafted jewelry. Annapurna is also renowned for its humorous greeting cards, earning a reputation as one of Berkeley’s best purveyors of quirky and memorable gifts.
The shop's warm and welcoming ambiance invites you to explore at your own pace, with a knowledgeable staff ready to enhance your experience. They’re more than happy to share insights about the origins and significance of the products, ensuring every purchase feels meaningful.
Annapurna’s commitment to quality and ethical sourcing is evident in its selection, which reflects both local artistry and global influences. It’s a haven for those seeking thoughtful gifts or personal treasures that resonate with Berkeley's creative and diverse spirit.
Award-winning and highly regarded, Annapurna is not just a shop—it's an enduring symbol of Berkeley's vibrant community and a must-visit destination for anyone seeking to immerse themselves in the local culture.
5) Rasputin Music
Rasputin Music is a cornerstone of Berkeley’s cultural and musical scene, recognized as the flagship location of the largest independent chain of record stores in the San Francisco Bay Area. Founded in 1971 by entrepreneur Ken Sarachan, this iconic establishment began its journey as "Rasputin Records" on Durant Avenue before finding its enduring home at the corner of Telegraph Avenue and Channing Way. Named after the enigmatic Russian figure Grigori Rasputin, the store has become a haven for music enthusiasts.
Known for its vast and eclectic collection, Rasputin Music offers an impressive array of new and used CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, video games, and even rare formats like Laserdiscs and Beta Videos. Its vinyl selection is particularly notable, drawing collectors and casual listeners alike. Despite evolving market trends, Rasputin retains its reputation as a go-to destination for diverse genres and hard-to-find albums.
The Berkeley location, along with its sister stores in Campbell, Pleasant Hill, Modesto, and Fresno, regularly features in-store performances by prominent artists. Metallica, for instance, has graced Rasputin’s stages multiple times, solidifying its status as a hub for music lovers and a platform for live artistry.
Rasputin Music is not just a record store but a cultural institution, celebrated for its deep roots in Berkeley's vibrant history and its enduring commitment to the art of music. Whether you're a vinyl collector, a DVD buff, or someone seeking the nostalgic charm of Telegraph Avenue, Rasputin Music continues to be a must-visit destination.
Known for its vast and eclectic collection, Rasputin Music offers an impressive array of new and used CDs, vinyl records, DVDs, video games, and even rare formats like Laserdiscs and Beta Videos. Its vinyl selection is particularly notable, drawing collectors and casual listeners alike. Despite evolving market trends, Rasputin retains its reputation as a go-to destination for diverse genres and hard-to-find albums.
The Berkeley location, along with its sister stores in Campbell, Pleasant Hill, Modesto, and Fresno, regularly features in-store performances by prominent artists. Metallica, for instance, has graced Rasputin’s stages multiple times, solidifying its status as a hub for music lovers and a platform for live artistry.
Rasputin Music is not just a record store but a cultural institution, celebrated for its deep roots in Berkeley's vibrant history and its enduring commitment to the art of music. Whether you're a vinyl collector, a DVD buff, or someone seeking the nostalgic charm of Telegraph Avenue, Rasputin Music continues to be a must-visit destination.
6) Big Al's Smoke And Gifts
Nestled in the heart of Berkeley, Big Al's Smoke And Gifts is more than just a smoke shop—it's a cultural landmark where artistry and functionality merge. Renowned for its extensive selection of smoking accessories, including high-quality pipes, bongs, and vaporizers, the shop caters to both seasoned smokers and curious newcomers. What sets Big Al's apart is its dedication to supporting local artists, offering hand-blown glassware alongside premium products from celebrated brands like ROOR, Toro, and Sheldon Black.
With years of history as a trusted destination for both locals and visitors, Big Al's has earned a reputation as one of the best smoke and gift shops in the area. The store’s commitment to quality is matched by its customer service; the friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help customers find the perfect piece or gift. Whether you're searching for a unique souvenir, a functional piece of glass art, or premium smoking essentials, Big Al's delivers an experience that reflects the vibrant creativity of Berkeley.
From stylish smoking accessories to one-of-a-kind glass art, Big Al's Smoke And Gifts seamlessly combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the intersection of craft and culture.
With years of history as a trusted destination for both locals and visitors, Big Al's has earned a reputation as one of the best smoke and gift shops in the area. The store’s commitment to quality is matched by its customer service; the friendly and knowledgeable staff are always on hand to help customers find the perfect piece or gift. Whether you're searching for a unique souvenir, a functional piece of glass art, or premium smoking essentials, Big Al's delivers an experience that reflects the vibrant creativity of Berkeley.
From stylish smoking accessories to one-of-a-kind glass art, Big Al's Smoke And Gifts seamlessly combines functionality with aesthetic appeal, making it a must-visit destination for those seeking to explore the intersection of craft and culture.
7) Bear Basics
Located just a block away from the UC Berkeley campus at the intersection of Durant Ave and Telegraph Avenue, Bear Basics has been the go-to spot for all things Cal for nearly three decades. Whether you're an alum, a dedicated sports fan, a proud parent, a curious tourist, or a current student, this three-story shop offers a treasure trove of Berkeley-themed merchandise.
The main floor is a paradise for UC Berkeley fans, stocked with an extensive selection of apparel and accessories. From sweatshirts and socks to baby clothes adorned with the iconic Berkeley Bear logo, you'll find everything you need to flaunt your Golden Bear pride. Functional items like portable bleacher seats ensure you're ready for game day in style.
Head downstairs to experience T-Shirt Orgy, the largest t-shirt collection for miles. This section is a cultural kaleidoscope, featuring designs that range from Cal pride to pop culture, TV, film, and cannabis-inspired graphics. It's the perfect place to find something bold, quirky, or just plain fun.
For a touch of sophistication, Futura on the upper floor focuses on women’s fashion. With curated styles and designs, this section caters to those looking to combine Cal spirit with contemporary trends.
Bear Basics understands that Berkeley pride knows no bounds. Their website ensures fans and alumni can shop for high-quality brands like Champion, Russell, Next Level, and American Apparel from anywhere in the world. With an extensive online catalog, staying connected to your Golden Bear roots has never been easier.
Bear Basics and its vibrant extensions are more than just stores—they’re a celebration of Cal pride and Berkeley’s unique character. With their wide variety of merchandise and welcoming atmosphere, it’s nearly impossible to leave empty-handed!
The main floor is a paradise for UC Berkeley fans, stocked with an extensive selection of apparel and accessories. From sweatshirts and socks to baby clothes adorned with the iconic Berkeley Bear logo, you'll find everything you need to flaunt your Golden Bear pride. Functional items like portable bleacher seats ensure you're ready for game day in style.
Head downstairs to experience T-Shirt Orgy, the largest t-shirt collection for miles. This section is a cultural kaleidoscope, featuring designs that range from Cal pride to pop culture, TV, film, and cannabis-inspired graphics. It's the perfect place to find something bold, quirky, or just plain fun.
For a touch of sophistication, Futura on the upper floor focuses on women’s fashion. With curated styles and designs, this section caters to those looking to combine Cal spirit with contemporary trends.
Bear Basics understands that Berkeley pride knows no bounds. Their website ensures fans and alumni can shop for high-quality brands like Champion, Russell, Next Level, and American Apparel from anywhere in the world. With an extensive online catalog, staying connected to your Golden Bear roots has never been easier.
Bear Basics and its vibrant extensions are more than just stores—they’re a celebration of Cal pride and Berkeley’s unique character. With their wide variety of merchandise and welcoming atmosphere, it’s nearly impossible to leave empty-handed!
8) Bancroft Clothing
Located across the street from the University of California at Berkeley and just steps from the iconic Telegraph Avenue, Bancroft Clothing Company is a one-stop shop for everything Cal-related and more. Known for its extensive selection of licensed UC Berkeley Cal Bears merchandise, the store has earned the title of “Best place to purchase Cal gear” by Cal students, as featured in the Daily Californian newspaper.
Bancroft Clothing offers a diverse range of products, from apparel and accessories for men, women, and children to household items and pet supplies—all proudly adorned with the famous Cal logo. Whether you're after T-shirts, sweatpants, jackets, or more specialized items like infant booties, pet collars, or golf accessories, the store has you covered. Shoppers can also find unique gift options, such as blankets, mugs, ornaments, and even gift certificates.
The store is divided into four main sections: men's, women's, shoes, and Cal Bears memorabilia, ensuring a convenient and organized shopping experience. Beyond its collegiate offerings, Bancroft Clothing features stylish clothing and accessories by top designers, making it a popular choice for men, women, and teens looking for affordable and fashionable options.
This Berkeley institution has been a trusted retail hub for years, combining variety, quality, and competitive pricing to cater to locals, students, and visitors alike.
Bancroft Clothing offers a diverse range of products, from apparel and accessories for men, women, and children to household items and pet supplies—all proudly adorned with the famous Cal logo. Whether you're after T-shirts, sweatpants, jackets, or more specialized items like infant booties, pet collars, or golf accessories, the store has you covered. Shoppers can also find unique gift options, such as blankets, mugs, ornaments, and even gift certificates.
The store is divided into four main sections: men's, women's, shoes, and Cal Bears memorabilia, ensuring a convenient and organized shopping experience. Beyond its collegiate offerings, Bancroft Clothing features stylish clothing and accessories by top designers, making it a popular choice for men, women, and teens looking for affordable and fashionable options.
This Berkeley institution has been a trusted retail hub for years, combining variety, quality, and competitive pricing to cater to locals, students, and visitors alike.
Walking Tours in Berkeley, California
Create Your Own Walk in Berkeley
Creating your own self-guided walk in Berkeley is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
University of California in Berkeley Walking Tour
The University of California, Berkeley, often referred to as UC Berkeley or simply Berkeley, is a part of the larger University of California system, known for its distinguished academics and vibrant campus life. The UC Berkeley campus is the core of Berkeley's attractions. Its design resulted from an 1898 architectural competition, with each building having its own story to tell.
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Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Start... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 3.1 Km or 1.9 Miles
Berkeley Introduction Walking Tour
The Ohlone people were the original inhabitants of the area that is now known as Berkeley, California. Many of them were casualties of the presence of the first settlers of European descent who arrived with the De Anza Expedition of 1776.
Among the soldiers in this expedition was Luis Peralta, who was gifted the land that would become Berkeley by the King of Spain. Peralta gifted the land to... view more
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Among the soldiers in this expedition was Luis Peralta, who was gifted the land that would become Berkeley by the King of Spain. Peralta gifted the land to... view more
Tour Duration: 2 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 2.3 Km or 1.4 Miles
Berkeley's Historic Landmarks Walking Tour
Berkeley, California, boasts a fair amount of landmarks distinguished for their historical value and representative of the city’s architectural beauty.
One such gem is the Thorsen House, an iconic residence designed by the renowned architectural firm Greene and Green, showcasing the American Craftsman style.
The First Church of Christ, Scientist, is another notable sight. Its mixed design... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.5 Km or 2.8 Miles
One such gem is the Thorsen House, an iconic residence designed by the renowned architectural firm Greene and Green, showcasing the American Craftsman style.
The First Church of Christ, Scientist, is another notable sight. Its mixed design... view more
Tour Duration: 3 Hour(s)
Travel Distance: 4.5 Km or 2.8 Miles
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