Hearst Greek Theatre: Berkeley's Historic Amphitheater
Experience world-class performances at the historic Hearst Greek Theatre on the UC Berkeley campus, offering stunning views and a rich cultural legacy.
The Hearst Greek Theatre, an 8,500-seat amphitheater on the UC Berkeley campus, has been a premier outdoor venue since 1903. Modeled after the ancient Greek theater of Epidaurus, it hosts concerts, graduations, and addresses by notable speakers. Its stunning views and rich history make it a must-see destination.
A brief summary to The Greek Theatre
- Hearst Greek Theatre, 2001 Gayley Rd, Berkeley, California, 94720, US
- +1510-871-9225
- Visit website
Local tips
- Consider bringing seat cushions, as the concrete benches can be hard.
- Pack a blanket, as evenings can get cold and foggy.
- Arrive early to allow time for parking and walking to the theater, especially on show days.
- Take public transportation or carpool due to limited parking.
- Check the event page for specific age restrictions and allowed items.
Getting There
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Public Transport
From Downtown Berkeley BART station (Shattuck and Center Streets), walk one block east to the campus. Consult the campus map at the West Entrance and walk east across campus to the Greek Theatre (approximately a 20-minute walk) located on Gayley Rd. Alternatively, from BART you can take AC transit for $1.75. The 51 bus picks up at Center & Shattuck and will take you to College and Durant. Continue to walk up Durant, turn left on Piedmont and walk until you reach the Greek. The 7 bus also picks up at Center & Shattuck but it comes less often. You can take the 7 to Durant and Piedmont and then walk north on Piedmont to the Greek.
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Driving
From Interstate 80, exit on University Avenue and continue east until you reach the campus at Oxford Street (approximately 1.5 miles). Turn left on Oxford Street, then right on Hearst Avenue. Continue east up the hill past Euclid Avenue to Gayley Road and turn right. The Greek Theatre will be on your left. Limited parking is available in the Upper Hearst Structure and Stadium Parking Garage. Parking is a $22 flat rate and credit/debit card only. Note that the nearest UC Berkeley lots to the Greek Theatre do not open for concert parking until 5:00 PM.
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Walking
From the center of the UC Berkeley campus, head north and slightly uphill towards the Hearst Mining Building. Continue on the path, bearing right at the fork to stay on the paved walkway. Follow the signs for the Greek Theatre, which will lead you past the Valley Life Sciences Building and up a slight incline. The theater will be visible on your right as you approach Gayley Road. Allow approximately 20-30 minutes to walk from the central campus area.
Discover more about The Greek Theatre
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