Inspiration Point / Tilden Park

Best walk: This scenic lookout marks the start of the paved, stroller-friendly Nimitz Trail, an easy "hike" with shady spots. Great for family fun or impressing visitors with views.

1000 Wildcat Canyon Rd.

Berkeley, CA 94701

ebparks.org/parks/tilden

Philz Coffee

Best coffee shop: Each drink is brewed individually and unfailingly delicious. (Don't like? They'll fix it.) And yes, the mint mojito iced coffee is just as good as everyone says.

1600 Shattuck Ave.

Berkeley, CA 94709

philzcoffee.com

Point Isabel

Best dog park: This 23-acre, bayside, off-leash park is a fave for dogs; the views are a treat for owners, too. Tip: Enjoy the free hoses after a romp -dogs can get muddy!

2701 Isabel St.

Richmond, CA 94808

ebparks.org/parks/pt_isabel

Lawrence Hall of Science

Best view: Kill two birds with one stone! Entertain the kids in the handsome science museum then soak in the glorious panoramic view from the East Bay to SF and Marin.

1 Centennial Dr. #5200

Berkeley, California 94720

lawrencehallofscience.org

The New Parish

Best music venue: An intimate space with a hugely diverse lineup of performers. Music runs the gamut, from reggae to hip hop to brass bands to funk to dancehall.

579 18th St.

Oakland, CA 94612

thenewparish.com

Tilden Regional Park Little Farm

Best kid attraction: Little ones love this working farm where they're allowed to pet (and feed!) goats, cows, sheep, and other animals.

Insider tip: BYO celery!

Central Park Drive

Berkeley, CA 94701

ebparks.org/Page158.aspx

Oaktoberfest

Best beerfest: If you love your brew, this festival is for you. Great food (and drink), a family-friendly community vibe, plus local beers get their day in the sun.

MacArthur and Fruitvale

Oakland, CA 94602

oaktoberfest.org

Grand Lake Farmers Market

Best farmers market: Shoppers can browse fruits, vegetables, baked goods, meats and fish, flowers, and much more. Parking can be brutal but it's so worth it.

Grand Ave. & Lake Park Ave.

Oakland, CA 94610

http://bit.ly/18zucZO