
John Hinkel Park
A unique, secluded hillside park in Berkeley featuring serpentine stairs, an amphitheater, and oak groves for peaceful exploration.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Perfect for outdoor plays

John Hinkel Park
Best Time
Perfect for outdoor plays
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A unique, secluded hillside park in Berkeley featuring serpentine stairs, an amphitheater, and oak groves for peaceful exploration.
"A very cool unique hillside park that is hidden from most non-locals. It's perfect!"

👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and hills! You'll want good walking shoes for exploring this unique park.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
It can get cool in the evenings, especially during performances. Layer up!

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

John Hinkel Park Amphitheatre
Central Amphitheater
Catch a free Shakespearean play or local performance in this charming, natural amphitheater.

Enchanting Serpentine Stairs
Throughout the park
Wander through the park's unique hillside paths and discover its winding, enchanting serpentine stairs.

Oak Grove Trails
Various trails
Explore peaceful walking paths shaded by beautiful oak groves, offering a serene escape.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Embrace the Hillside Charm
Amphitheater Events & Serenity
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and hills! You'll want good walking shoes for exploring this unique park.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
It can get cool in the evenings, especially during performances. Layer up!
🪑 Pack a Cushion
Amphitheater seating is hard. A cushion makes watching shows much more comfortable.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome! There are even water fountains for them.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
Lots of stairs and hills! You'll want good walking shoes for exploring this unique park.
🧥 Bring a Jacket
It can get cool in the evenings, especially during performances. Layer up!
🪑 Pack a Cushion
Amphitheater seating is hard. A cushion makes watching shows much more comfortable.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Fun
Well-behaved dogs are welcome! There are even water fountains for them.
☕ Nearby Cafe
A cute coffee shop is nearby for a pre or post-park treat.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors praise John Hinkel Park for its unique, secluded hillside charm and the enchanting serpentine stairs. The amphitheater is a highlight for performances, and the oak groves offer peaceful spots for relaxation. However, the lack of parking, restrooms, and accessibility for wheelchairs are noted drawbacks.
"The serpentine stairs, Wayne throughout the Hill Park is enchanting! Enjoyed a Sunday afternoon Shakespeare in the amphitheater. If you go, bring a cushion to sit on and a jacket as it gets cool in the evening."
Chad Mark Glen
"I love this secluded little park. It's absolutely gorgeous. The hills are a little steep, but it's amazing. The trees are beautiful. It was raining the whole time I was there and I loved the mist on my face and the fresh air. It was just amazing."
Tracy Youles-Nolasco
"A very cool unique hillside park with that is hidden from most non-locals. My friend and I walked through it on our way to another park.
Pros: Unique, neighborhood park, small, hidden, amphitheater, water fountains (even for dogs), waterfall after rains, great for meditation, benches, and lots of stairs for stair training.
Cons: Not much parking, not the greatest for wheel chairs, no bathrooms, no grass, and no playground equipment."
JoAnn SkyWatcher
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
John Hinkel Park is located in North Berkeley. While specific public transport details can vary, it's often best accessed by car. Parking can be limited, so arriving early or considering ride-sharing is a good idea.
Parking is available but can be scarce, especially on event days. Visitors often find it challenging to secure a spot, so plan accordingly.
Due to its hillside nature and numerous stairs, the park is not ideal for wheelchairs. It's more suited for walking and exploration on foot.
The park is best explored on foot, embracing its many stairs and winding paths. Comfortable walking shoes are highly recommended for navigating the terrain.
While not a traditional scenic drive destination, the surrounding North Berkeley area offers pleasant drives. The park itself is more about walking and experiencing its unique landscape.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
No, John Hinkel Park is a public park and entry is free. You only need tickets if there's a specific ticketed event happening in the amphitheater.
As a public park, John Hinkel Park is generally open from dawn until dusk. Specific event times will vary.
Many events at the amphitheater, like Shakespeare in the Park, are free to attend. Always check event listings for any potential fees.
Information on booking the amphitheater for private events is typically managed by the City of Berkeley Parks and Recreation department. It's best to contact them directly for availability and rates.
Most performances, especially those like 'A Midsummer Night's Dream' or community music events, are free.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
You can explore its unique hillside trails, enjoy the amphitheater for performances, have a picnic, or simply relax amidst the oak groves. It's also a great spot for meditation.
Contrary to some expectations, John Hinkel Park does not have traditional playground equipment. It's more of a natural, exploratory space.
Unfortunately, there are no public restrooms available within John Hinkel Park. Visitors should plan accordingly.
Yes, the unique landscape, serpentine stairs, and oak groves offer interesting photographic opportunities, especially for landscape artists.
The park is known for its beautiful oak groves, providing ample shade and a serene atmosphere for visitors.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no dining facilities within the park itself. However, there's a charming coffee shop nearby that serves food and drinks.
Yes, the park features picnic areas, making it a lovely spot to enjoy a meal outdoors surrounded by nature.
The North Berkeley area offers various dining options, including cafes and restaurants. A local cafe is particularly noted for its coffee and food.
Occasionally, food vendors like Bliss Pops have been present at events, offering treats like frozen bars.
Absolutely! Bringing your own food and drinks is encouraged, especially for picnics or enjoying a performance in the amphitheater.
📸 📸 Photography
The serpentine stairs, the amphitheater, and the shaded oak groves offer unique and picturesque backdrops for photography.
Yes, the natural beauty of the hillside, the trees, and the winding paths make it an excellent location for landscape photography.
Generally, casual photography for personal use is acceptable during outdoor performances, but it's always best to be discreet and avoid flash photography that might disturb performers or other audience members.
For general park use, casual photography is fine. However, commercial filming or large-scale productions may require permits.
The golden hours around sunrise and sunset can offer beautiful lighting for the park's natural features. Midday can be good for capturing the amphitheater.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
It's a great spot for a picnic, so pack some snacks and drinks. The amphitheater can be a fun place for kids to imagine stories or watch a performance if one is scheduled. Just be mindful of the steepness and ensure children are supervised closely, especially near the stairs.
🚶♀️ Fitness Enthusiasts
The hillside terrain also adds an extra element of difficulty to any walk or jog. It's a great alternative to a gym for those who enjoy outdoor exercise and a bit of a challenge. Remember to stay hydrated and listen to your body as you tackle the inclines.
🧘♀️ Solo Travelers & Seekers of Serenity
The park's unique landscape, with its winding paths and natural beauty, offers a calming environment. It’s a place to disconnect from the hustle and bustle and reconnect with yourself. Bring a book, a journal, or just your thoughts and let the tranquility of the park wash over you.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Unique Landscape of John Hinkel Park
Unlike more manicured city parks, Hinkel Park embraces a more wild and secluded feel. This makes it a hidden gem for those seeking a peaceful escape. The park's design encourages a slower pace, allowing visitors to appreciate the natural beauty and the sense of tranquility it offers. It’s a place where you can truly disconnect and enjoy the simple pleasures of nature.
While the park is not ideal for those with mobility issues due to its steepness and lack of accessibility features, it provides a fantastic opportunity for stair training and a good workout for those who enjoy a physical challenge. The combination of natural beauty and unique architectural elements makes John Hinkel Park a memorable destination.
Amphitheater Performances and Community Events
Beyond theater, the amphitheater also hosts other cultural events, including live music performances. For instance, jazz ensembles have played under the sun, creating a lively yet relaxed atmosphere for families and individuals alike. These gatherings often see attendees spread out on blankets or seated on the amphitheater steps, enjoying the entertainment and the company.
Attending an event at the amphitheater is a quintessential John Hinkel Park experience. Visitors are encouraged to check local listings for upcoming performances. Remember to bring a cushion for comfort and a jacket as it can get cool in the evening. It's a wonderful way to engage with the local arts scene and enjoy the park's unique amenities.
A Local's Guide to Exploring Hinkel Park
Many locals appreciate the park for its secluded nature and the peaceful atmosphere it provides. It’s a spot perfect for meditation, sketching, or simply enjoying a good book under the shade of the oak trees. If you're visiting after a rain, keep an eye out for the park's small waterfall, a delightful surprise that adds to its natural beauty.
Don't miss the amphitheater, even if there isn't a performance scheduled. It's a beautifully integrated part of the landscape. And for a complete North Berkeley experience, consider grabbing a coffee and a bite from a nearby cafe before or after your park visit.






Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit