Albany

Albany, the small city bordering Berkeley to the west down Solano Avenue, has highly ranked schools, lots of parks and open space, and a diverse selection of restaurants.

Woman and dog sitting in front of Cugini Restaurant 1556 Solano Avenue Albany CA
Woman and dog sitting in front of Cugini Restaurant 1556 Solano Avenue Albany CA

Albany Library is part of the Alameda County Library System, which gives access to books and videos all over the network. The Albany Theater shows superb first-run movies, and there’s a great selection of small businesses, restaurants, and cafes on Solano and San Pablo Avenues. Some favorites are China Village, Little Star Pizza, and Renee’s Place (quiet, elegant Chinese food with classical music in the background).

Albany and Berkeley co-host the Solano Stroll, a mile-long block party, each September. The parade with a fire engine, marching band, dancers, and performers kicks it off at the top of Solano; then the street is filled with music, food, performances, and more – always a real treat to attend.

Crowd scene at the annual Solano Stroll - 2nd Sunday in September
Crowd scene at the annual Solano Stroll – 2nd Sunday in September
Solano Stroll Taiko Drum Performers
Solano Stroll Taiko Drum Performers

The folks living on Albany Hill have some of the best views … of the Berkeley Hills! Watching the full moon, or early morning crescent moon rise over the Berkeley Hills is magical. That’s where I took my super moon photo in May 2012.

The west-facing side of Albany Hill has outstanding views of the Golden Gate, Mt. Tamalpais, and San Francisco. Albany Hill is actually “el cerrito” … which means “little hill” in Spanish.

Beautiful Sunset behind the Golden Gate Bridge - photo taken from Albany Hill
Beautiful Sunset behind the Golden Gate Bridge – photo taken from Albany Hill

There’s lots of open space for such a small town. Memorial Park has playgrounds, ball fields, a dog park, and even a swimming pool. Albany Hill Park is at the top of “el cerrito”. Head down Buchanan and pass under the highway to visit Albany Bulb, Albany Mudflats State Marine Park, Albany and Buchanan Dog Beaches, and Golden Gate Fields race track and public soccer fields.

Albany Memorial Park 4th Of July Celebration with kids and people
Albany Memorial Park 4th Of July Celebration with kids and people

Need a break? Visit the Albany Sauna on Solano. Leave time for a steam sauna before your massage.

The friendly person at Albany Sauna - scented soaps in front of him
The friendly person at Albany Sauna – scented soaps in front of him
Neon Sign at Albany Bowl. The bowling alley is now closed
Neon Sign at Albany Bowl. The bowling alley is now closed

Are you a neon sign fan? Be sure to check out the Hotsy Totsy Club, Mallard, Albany Bowl, and Max’s Liquors on San Pablo between Solano and Brighton, all known for the old signs that light up the night.

Neon Sign at the Hotsy Totsy Club - 601 San Pablo Avenue Albany
Neon Sign at the Hotsy Totsy Club – 601 San Pablo Avenue Albany

Highly ranked schools, lots of parks and trails, first-run movies, a Community Center, and more. Albany, just to the north and west of Berkeley, is a great place to live!

Visit the Solano Avenue Association Web site.

Want great schools in a friendly community? We’ll find you a home you’ll love! Call 510-526-6668 or email serkes@berkeleyhomes.com

Albany Homes for Sale


Sorry we are experiencing system issues. Please try again.