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Hearst Greek Theatre: Berkeley's Iconic Amphitheater

Experience world-class performances at Berkeley's historic Hearst Greek Theatre, an iconic open-air venue with stunning views and a rich cultural legacy.

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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, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.

A brief summary to The Greek Theatre

Local tips

  • Arrive early, especially for popular events, to secure parking and navigate the campus.
  • Take public transportation, like BART, to avoid traffic and parking challenges.
  • Check the venue's website for the latest event-specific rules and policies regarding permitted items.
  • Bring a reusable water bottle to stay hydrated; metal bottles are not allowed.
  • Consider bringing a small, non-metal seat cushion for added comfort during performances.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From Downtown Berkeley BART station (Shattuck and Center Streets), walk one block east on Center Street to the UC Berkeley campus. Consult a 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 the Rockridge BART station, take the #51 AC Transit bus north on College Avenue to the campus, exiting at Bancroft Way and College Ave. Walk east on Bancroft to Piedmont Avenue/Gayley Road, then north on Gayley Road to the Greek Theatre. AC Transit fare is $1.75.

  • Walking

    From the UC Berkeley campus, head north towards Bowles Hall. The Greek Theatre is located just north of Bowles Hall, above Gayley Road. Follow the signs and pathways leading to the amphitheater. The walk involves some uphill sections.

  • Driving

    From Interstate 80, exit onto University Avenue and continue east until you reach the campus at Oxford Street. Turn left on Oxford Street, then right on Hearst Avenue. Continue east on Hearst Avenue to Gayley Road and turn right. The Greek Theatre will be on your left. Parking is limited and can be expensive. UC Berkeley parking lots closest to the Greek Theatre (Lower Hearst and Upper Hearst) typically open for concert parking at 5:00 PM and accept credit cards only. Parking is a $22 flat rate. Consider parking in downtown Berkeley and walking or taking public transportation.

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Discover more about The Greek Theatre

The William Randolph Hearst Greek Theatre, simply known as the Greek Theatre, is an 8,500-seat amphitheater steeped in history and natural beauty. Opened in 1903, it was the first building on the UC Berkeley campus designed by John Galen Howard, with assistance from architect Julia Morgan. The theater's construction was funded by William Randolph Hearst, lending his name to this iconic landmark. Inspired by the ancient Greek theater of Epidaurus, the Greek Theatre has been a stage for countless memorable events. From student productions of Aristophanes' plays to addresses by President Theodore Roosevelt and the Dalai Lama, the venue has hosted a diverse range of cultural, academic, and entertainment events. Throughout the 20th century, legendary performers like Sarah Bernhardt graced its stage, and the Grateful Dead played here 29 times between 1967 and 1989. Today, the Greek Theatre continues to be a vibrant space for concerts, festivals, and university ceremonies. Managed by Another Planet Entertainment since 2004, the venue is known for its commitment to environmentally responsible concert production. With its stunning views of the San Francisco Bay, lush surroundings, and state-of-the-art sound system, the Greek Theatre offers a unique and unforgettable experience for artists and audiences alike.

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