California Memorial Stadium
Historic home of the Cal Bears, this stadium offers electric game day vibes and stunning Bay Area views, built into the Berkeley Hills.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
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Experience the thrill of college football
California Memorial Stadium
Best Time
Experience the thrill of college football
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Historic home of the Cal Bears, this stadium offers electric game day vibes and stunning Bay Area views, built into the Berkeley Hills.
"The energy in the stadium was electric—fans were cheering nonstop and the school spirit was incredible."
🚗 Parking Strategy
Game day parking is tough. Consider ride-sharing or public transit to bypass the stress and expense. :car:
🪑 Bench Seating Comfort
Most seats are benches. Bring a cushion or be prepared for a less-than-plush experience. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
College GameDay Atmosphere
Throughout the stadium
Experience the electric energy and incredible school spirit during a Cal Bears football game. The fans are passionate and the atmosphere is unforgettable.
Scenic Bay Area Views
Upper seating areas
Enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay Area from various vantage points within the stadium.
Historic Architecture
Exterior and concourses
Admire the classic, older stadium architecture built into the side of a hill, offering a unique and historic feel.
Plans like a pro.
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Planning Your Visit
Game Day Parking Pointers
Bench Seating Alert
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Parking Strategy
Game day parking is tough. Consider ride-sharing or public transit to bypass the stress and expense. :car:
🪑 Bench Seating Comfort
Most seats are benches. Bring a cushion or be prepared for a less-than-plush experience. :athletic_shoe:
📣 Student Section Energy
The student section stands for the entire game, bringing a unique, high-energy vibe. :raised_hands:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning Bay Area vistas from the upper levels of the stadium.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Parking Strategy
Game day parking is tough. Consider ride-sharing or public transit to bypass the stress and expense. :car:
🪑 Bench Seating Comfort
Most seats are benches. Bring a cushion or be prepared for a less-than-plush experience. :athletic_shoe:
📣 Student Section Energy
The student section stands for the entire game, bringing a unique, high-energy vibe. :raised_hands:
📸 Capture the Views
Don't miss the stunning Bay Area vistas from the upper levels of the stadium.
✨ Premium Experience
For a special treat, consider stadium club tickets for all-inclusive food, drinks, and service. :trophy:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
California Memorial Stadium offers a historic college football experience with passionate fans and stunning Bay Area views. While the electric atmosphere and unique setting are major draws, visitors should be prepared for extensive bench seating and potential challenges with parking and stadium amenities, particularly in older sections. +1
"Home of the Cal Bears football team. Cool older stadium built into the side of a hill. Good viewing experience. Outside of a smaller section on the home team side that has stadium seating it is still largely bench seating throughout."
Matthew Cloues
"What an amazing experience at here! The energy in the stadium was electric—fans were cheering nonstop and the school spirit was incredible. The players gave it their all and the atmosphere made it unforgettable. The view from the stands was great, and everything was well organized. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just visiting, a Cal game is a must-see!”"
Lily LI
"Beautiful campus. Mostly bench seating is less than ideal. Limited number of screens for stats and other game info. It's a long walk unless you park at the stadium. But it is a beautiful campus. And bless them, but be warned, the student section stands for the entire game."
James Gabrielson
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
California Memorial Stadium is located in Berkeley, CA. Public transportation is a popular option, with BART stations nearby. For game days, consider ride-sharing services or the AC Transit bus system to navigate around potential traffic and parking issues.
Parking near the stadium on event days, especially football games, can be limited and expensive. While some street parking exists with time restrictions, it often doesn't cover the duration of an event. Many visitors opt for ride-sharing or public transit to avoid the hassle.
Yes, California Memorial Stadium is accessible by public transport. The closest BART station is Downtown Berkeley, which is a walk or short bus ride away. Several AC Transit bus lines also serve the area.
Access to the field is typically restricted to players, coaches, and authorized personnel. While some visitors might try to get a closer look, it's generally not permitted outside of specific events or tours.
To avoid game day traffic, it's highly recommended to use public transportation like BART or AC Transit, or utilize ride-sharing services. Arriving early can also help mitigate some of the congestion.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Tickets for events at California Memorial Stadium, particularly Cal Bears football games, can be purchased through the official Cal Athletics website, Ticketmaster, or authorized resale marketplaces. It's advisable to buy in advance, especially for popular games.
The stadium features a mix of seating. While some premium areas offer stadium seating with backs, a significant portion of the seating consists of bench-style seats, particularly on the east side.
Bag policies and prohibited items are subject to change for events. It's best to check the official Cal Athletics website for the most current stadium policies regarding bags, cameras, and other items before your visit.
Operating hours vary depending on whether there is an event scheduled. For non-event days, access might be limited. For specific event times, always check the official schedule for California Memorial Stadium.
Yes, there is a dedicated student section at California Memorial Stadium. This section is known for its high energy and for standing throughout the entire game.
🎫 🏟️ Onsite Experience
The atmosphere at a Cal Bears football game is often described as electric and full of incredible school spirit. Fans are known for their passionate cheering, making for an unforgettable experience.
The number of screens for stats and game information can be limited, especially in older sections of the stadium. Visitors may find it helpful to follow game updates on their mobile devices.
Concession stands are available, though lines can be long, particularly on the east side. For a more premium experience with inclusive food and drinks, consider stadium club season tickets. +1
The view from the stands is generally considered great, offering good sightlines to the field. Additionally, upper seating areas provide impressive views of the surrounding Bay Area.
Ingress and egress for events, particularly football games, can be challenging. Some visitors have reported long lines, disorder, and a lack of clear signage, suggesting a need for improved crowd management.
📸 📸 Photography
For iconic photos, capture the stadium's architecture, the energetic crowd during a game, and the stunning Bay Area vistas from the upper decks. Drone shots can also offer unique perspectives.
Generally, still cameras with lenses smaller than a certain length are permitted. However, policies can vary, so it's always best to check the official stadium guidelines for the specific event you are attending.
Drone usage is typically restricted within stadium grounds for safety and security reasons. However, special events may feature professional drone shows, as seen in past celebrations.
Photos that showcase the stadium's unique setting built into the hillside, the vibrant game day atmosphere, and the panoramic Bay Area views best capture the essence of California Memorial Stadium.
The beautiful UC Berkeley campus surrounding the stadium offers numerous photo opportunities, including architectural shots and scenic campus views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Parking can be a significant challenge, so planning transportation in advance is crucial. Utilizing ride-sharing services or public transit can simplify logistics. While the stadium offers a unique atmosphere, ensure children are prepared for the potentially long periods of standing and cheering.
💰 Budget Travelers
Be prepared for the bench seating, as upgrading to stadium seats or premium clubs will significantly increase costs. Bringing your own snacks and water (if permitted by stadium policy) can also help save money on concessions, though be sure to check the stadium's rules on outside food and beverages.
🏈 Football Enthusiasts
The unique setting built into the hills adds to the overall game day charm. While the stadium has its quirks, like the bench seating and potential ingress/egress challenges, the core football experience is strong. For those who can secure them, stadium club tickets offer a luxurious way to enjoy the game with excellent food and service.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
A Century of History and Renovation
+1These renovations have aimed to address some of the stadium's older aspects, such as the extensive bench seating found in many sections. While the east side has faced criticism for being dated and lacking amenities, efforts have been made to improve the overall stadium experience. The stadium's unique location also presents engineering challenges and opportunities, contributing to its distinctive identity in college football.
Beyond football, the stadium has hosted various events, including concerts and ceremonies, showcasing its versatility. Its integration with the UC Berkeley campus makes it a landmark that embodies both athletic tradition and academic prestige.
Game Day Experience: What to Expect
However, visitors should be prepared for some practical considerations. Parking on game days is notoriously difficult and expensive, leading many to recommend public transportation or ride-sharing. Seating is predominantly bench-style, which can be uncomfortable for some, and amenities like screens for stats might be limited in certain areas.
Despite these challenges, the overall sentiment is positive, with many praising the school spirit and the unique setting. For those seeking a more comfortable experience, premium seating options like the stadium club offer all-inclusive amenities and excellent views.
The Stadium's Unique Location and Views
From the upper seating areas, visitors can take in sweeping vistas of the bay, the Golden Gate Bridge (on clear days), and the surrounding cityscape. This scenic advantage sets it apart from many other college football venues, providing a memorable visual experience beyond the game itself.
The stadium's integration with the natural landscape is a key part of its charm. While the proximity to the fault line has necessitated significant seismic retrofitting, it also contributes to the stadium's distinctive character and its deep connection to the natural environment of the East Bay.
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