It can oftentimes be easy to forget the countless gems that Berkeley withholds because as students, we are constantly cooped up in libraries or classrooms. But it is important to remember that part of the college experience is actually exploring and enjoying the city surrounding the college you have the privilege to attend.
Sometimes, amidst the chaos of midterms and essays, as well as the countless other responsibilities and deadlines a college student is tethered to, you’ll get a moment to breathe. When that opportunity arises and you’re not sure how to fill up the unfamiliar feeling of free time, you can revert to this guide filled with a few activities to undertake during your free time at Berkeley.
Write ekphrastic poetry at a Berkeley museum
Pack up your favorite journal and take it to any of Berkeley’s eclectic art museums. For a cool activity, take yourself or a group of friends to any of the city’s remarkable art scenes and write ekphrastic poetry—poetry inspired by art. This art form is especially therapeutic and insightful when you’re not sure what to write, so not only is this a great way to spend your free time but also functions as a means to foster creativity and overcome some much-dreaded writer’s block.
Read, draw, picnic, or merely bask in the sun and people-watch at the Glade
A quintessential Berkeley pastime (for when the weather permits): lounging on the Glade is something that no Cal student should take for granted. To really decompress, bring along a book or a journal, along with a picnic blanket and some snacks. On a nice day, sometimes all you need to unwind is something to lay on and the feeling of the warm glowing sun against your face.
Bike to the Berkeley Marina
If you’re feeling up for some exercise or an adventure, take your bike—or rent one—and head over to the Berkeley Marina, where you can set up a few blankets and some food along the water and catch the sunset. Some recommended essentials are blankets, a speaker, food and drinks, and with these, consider yourself set. There is even a little convenience store right before you hit the waterfront in case you need to obtain anything you’re missing. If you don’t want to bike back too late, you can use your Clipper card to take the bus on your return.
Enjoy some retail therapy at any of Telegraph Ave’s thrift stores
If you’re anything like me, you walk down Telegraph briskly with a singular purpose in mind— to get to class on time. Sometimes, though, it can be nice to stop by the countless stores that Telegraph Avenue offers, like Indigo Vintage, So So Market, Mars, 2nd Street, and more. Chances are that even if you don’t think you need anything new, these shops will probably prove you wrong.