Overview

UC Berkeley and the City of Berkeley are committed to accessibility for visitors with disabilities. Services and accommodations are available across campus, in the city, and at major attractions, though advance planning is recommended for some services.

UC Berkeley Campus Accessibility

Visitor Services & Tours:

  • Free golf cart tours are available for visitors with mobility concerns. Reserve in advance by emailing [email protected].
  • One wheelchair is available on a first-come, first-served basis during campus walking tours (available 7 days a week). Arrive 10–15 minutes early for required paperwork and ID verification. Staff cannot provide wheelchair assistance during tours; visitors must operate the chair independently.
  • Accessible campus maps and descriptions of accessible pathways and building entrances are available at the Koret Visitor Center.
  • Sign-language interpreting services are provided with at least 2 weeks’ notice, preferably 4 weeks. Contact [email protected] to arrange.
  • Virtual tours and online campus videos are available for those unable to visit in person.

Parking: Visitors with disabilities must display a current, state-issued disability parking placard or license plate along with a day permit. Accessible parking spaces are available throughout campus, though spaces fill quickly. The UC Berkeley Visitor Center can direct you to the nearest accessible spaces. Allow at least 30 minutes for parking procedures if using accessible spaces.

Campus Navigation: The Disability Access & Compliance (DAC) website (access.berkeley.edu) provides detailed information on accessible routes, pathway slopes, building entrances, elevator locations, and accessible restrooms across campus.

Buildings & Facilities: Most campus buildings have accessible entrances, elevators, and restrooms. The Campanile (Sather Tower) has elevator access to upper levels and observation decks. Museums and libraries have accessible entrances and facilities; contact them in advance for specific accessibility details.

Public Transit Accessibility

BART: All BART stations serving Berkeley (Downtown Berkeley, North Berkeley, Ashby) have elevators and accessible platforms. Trains have designated wheelchair spaces, and staff assist passengers needing help boarding.

AC Transit Buses: Most AC Transit buses have wheelchair lifts, designated wheelchair securement areas, and audio/visual announcements. Drivers are trained to assist passengers. Check actransit.org for detailed accessibility information on specific routes.

Bay Wheels Bike-Share: Bike-sharing may not be suitable for visitors with mobility disabilities, though a regular bike with pedal-assist features may be available.

Street & Pedestrian Access

Downtown Berkeley and major pedestrian areas have:

  • Curb cuts at most intersections
  • Accessible crosswalks with audible signals at many intersections
  • Level sidewalks in commercial areas
  • Accessible public restrooms in some downtown locations

Sloped areas near the waterfront and residential neighborhoods may present challenges for some visitors. Berkeley’s famous hills mean slopes are steeper in some areas—contact the Visitor Information Center for accessible neighborhood routes.

Hotels & Accommodations

Most hotels in Berkeley offer ADA-compliant rooms with accessible bathrooms, parking, and entryways. Contact hotels directly to discuss specific accessibility needs, such as roll-in showers, lowered bed frames, or accessible parking locations.

Restaurants & Dining

Most restaurants in downtown and neighborhood areas are wheelchair accessible with level entryways or ramps. Call ahead to confirm accessibility details, particularly at older buildings. Many restaurants have accessible restrooms.

Museums & Cultural Sites

  • BAMPFA (Berkeley Art Museum): Fully accessible with elevators, accessible restrooms, and parking.
  • Hearst Museum of Anthropology: Accessible building with elevators and accessible facilities.
  • UC Botanical Garden: Some areas are accessible via paved paths; terrain varies (contact in advance for details).

City Services & Support

City of Berkeley ADA Program: The City of Berkeley provides accommodations for residents and visitors with disabilities at public meetings and events. To request accommodations, contact the ADA Program Coordinator at (510) 981-6418, (510) 981-6347 (TDD), or [email protected] at least 72 hours in advance.

Accessible Parking Permits: Visitor permits for accessible parking are available at parking garages and through the UC Berkeley parking office. State-issued disability plates or placards are required.

Planning Tips

  • Contact the UC Berkeley Visitor Center in advance to arrange tours, interpret services, or discuss specific accessibility needs.
  • Many accessibility features are available but require advance notice (interpreters, golf cart tours, specific building arrangements).
  • Call or email attractions before visiting to confirm accessibility details.
  • The Visitor Information Center staff can provide accessible route recommendations for neighborhoods and attractions.
  • Use official ADA parking placards when parking; many spaces are reserved for accessibility.