Berkeley Hills is a calm neighborhood with a well-developed bicycling network that encourages outdoor activity. Its quiet streets and nearby parks create a peaceful environment ideal for relaxing and nature appreciation. Dining options are plentiful, with several restaurants and coffee shops, especially along Euclid Avenue. Multiple bus lines serve the area, providing convenient public transportation access. The housing stock primarily features charming single detached homes from the pre-1960 building boom, offering a variety of sizes from cozy lofts to spacious four-bedroom houses. Practical amenities such as nearby primary schools and grocery stores contribute to the neighborhood’s comfortable and inviting atmosphere.
Berkeley Hills offers a calm atmosphere and will appeal to those who enjoy spending time outdoors. It is very easy to reach green spaces from a large number of locations in the neighborhood, since there are over 50 of them close by for residents to unwind in and getting to a park is very easy from most houses. This part of Berkeley is also very quiet, as there isn't a lot of street noise or city clamor.
Parks, schools, dining, and what makes this neighborhood special
Bordering Park Hills, Tilden Regional Park is a beloved oasis for residents, offering miles of scenic hiking trails, picnic areas, the Tilden Little Farm, and breathtaking panoramic views, making it a daily escape for nature lovers and families alike.
The highly-regarded Oxford Elementary School, located just to the south on Oxford Street, draws many families to Park Hills, thanks to its nurturing environment, tight-knit community, and active parent involvement.
Just down the hill, Solano Avenue offers Park Hills residents a close-knit strip of locally owned cafes, bakeries, and international restaurants, providing convenient and diverse dining options minutes from the quiet of the neighborhood.
A short drive from Park Hills, Monterey Market is a cherished local grocery store known for its fresh, often locally-sourced produce, gourmet goods, and neighborhood feel, serving as an essential stop for residents’ daily needs.
Winding right above Park Hills, Grizzly Peak Boulevard is a legendary cycling and jogging route, offering exhilarating climbs and breathtaking views of the Bay, along with access to numerous trailheads into the East Bay hills.
Things to do, events, and what's happening this month
This nearby North Berkeley library program gives Park Hills residents a practical, sustainable way to refresh Halloween costumes without buying new ones. Bring a gently used costume to donate or browse for something different, making it an easy family activity before the larger Halloween celebrations later in the month.
View event details →Park Hills families can enjoy a free fall afternoon with live entertainment, pumpkin decorating, seed swapping, food contests, and hands-on activities. The kids’ area includes inflatables, a climbing wall, a zipline, scarecrow making, and carnival games, making this one of Berkeley’s most accessible seasonal community gatherings.
View event details →Residents who enjoy Berkeley’s hills, open spaces, and wildlife can spend the day learning about local birds through field trips, lectures, performances, arts and crafts, and activities for all ages. It is a relaxed, educational outing close to central Berkeley and especially appealing to families and nature enthusiasts.
View event details →This playful Berkeley recreation event combines swimming with pumpkin decorating and seasonal fun. Park Hills families can register for a memorable Halloween activity where participants collect a pumpkin, enjoy pool-based recreation, and are encouraged to wear costumes on the pool deck; swimwear is required for anyone entering the water.
View event details →Adults and older teens from Park Hills can make this a festive West Berkeley evening with live local music, food, natural wine, tarot, and more than 20 local makers. Vendor fees support the Berkeley Humane Society, so the event offers a neighborhood night out while also benefiting animal welfare in the community.
View event details →Stories, updates, and things to know in Park Hills
Local characteristics and demographics for Park Hills
