Top Self-Guided Experiences in the East Bay

Guided tours can be useful — you can learn a lot from an expert, and you know you won’t miss out on anything special. But when you’re looking to explore at your own pace, there are still plenty of great ways to experience the East Bay; keep reading to see our top self-guided experiences in the area.

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Visit Berkeley
A person wearing a pink sweater and white pants holds a bouquet of vibrant flowers wrapped in brown paper, standing in front of a colorful mosaic wall adorned with various plant designs. Their face is not visible in the image, capturing one of the Top Activities in the East Bay – enjoying local art.
Photo: Courtesy of Ruth Bancroft Garden

Ruth Bancroft Garden General Admission Ticket

The Ruth Bancroft Garden & Nursery, 1552 Bancroft Rd, Walnut Creek

Explore a 3.5 acre garden filled with succulents, cacti, and other drought resistant plants from all over the world. Tour at your own pace or with a Perfect activity for the whole family.

People walk along a waterfront path lined with trees and grass, some walking dogs. Tall buildings and streetlights frame the scene, while the sun shines brightly. The pathway curves along the edge of a body of water, inviting you to visit East Bay's scenic beauty.
Photo: Courtesy of Emily Houghton

Self-Guided Oakland Tour in an Urban Excursion

Washington Street And Embarcadero West Garage 101 Washington St, Oakland

Explore key areas of Oakland, from Jack London Square to Chinatown and more, while learning about the history behind the city. The tour is directed through an app you can download, so it’ll be easy to skip undesired stops and linger at others. 

Aerial view of a cityscape during sunset with tall office buildings and skyscrapers. The scene includes a mix of modern and historical architecture, with mountainous terrain in the background and a body of water to the left. Sunlight creates a warm, golden hue over the city.
Photo: Courtesy of Visit Oakland

Self-Guided Scavenger Hunt: Oakland Charms

1 Frank H. Ogawa Plaza, Oakland

Download an app and follow this scavenger hunt at your own pace to discover new parts of Oakland and sightsee in a unique and interactive way. Each player will have their own role, so no one will be left out.

A serene garden scene with a small pond surrounded by rocks and lush greenery, reminiscent of Berkeley's natural charm. The pond reflects the colorful foliage and sunlight. A stone lantern sits on the pond's edge, with a set of stairs leading upwards through the trees on the right side.
Botanical Garden at UC Berkeley

2 Hour Private Walking Tour in Berkeley

2224 Shattuck Ave, Berkeley

Also led by an app you download, see some of Berkeley’s gems, including landmarks, tourist hotspots and even some food trucks or restaurants along the way.

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