Berkeley City Club

About Berkeley City Club

The Berkeley City Club, located just one block from the UC Berkeley campus, is a sensational landmark building and a proud member of Historic Hotels of America®. Although it’s long been a private member social club, its hotel and event facilities welcome the public.

Designed in 1929 by famed architect Julia Morgan, the popular venue is like a miniature Hearst Castle. The Moorish Gothic-style building features landscaped inner courtyards and fountains, plus a wealth of graceful arches, domed ceilings, pillars, leaded-glass windows and doors, and art. Together they create a gorgeous backdrop for your wedding—and your photos!

The detailing and craftsmanship are impressive throughout. The Drawing Room and Members’ Lounge are large and gracious, with beamed ceilings, pianos, fireplaces, wall tapestries, tiled floors, Oriental carpets and sizable leaded-glass windows. The Ballroom, which has a stage, parquet floor, concert grand piano, and its own leaded-glass windows overlooking the courtyard, also has plenty of room for dancing along with your reception. For an outdoor affair, the sheltered, ivy-covered Terrace is a wonderful spot on a warm day or evening. Many of these event spaces are connected to one another, and can be used individually or in combination.

The Camelia Courtyard is perfect for an intimate ceremony or cocktail reception. Filled with greenery and framed by the building’s arches, it’s evocative of a Mediterranean garden. A smaller, lushly planted fountain courtyard on the opposite side of the club lends itself to a cozy luncheon or rehearsal dinner. Even if you don’t host an event in one of these courtyards, you’ll definitely want to take advantage of their photogenic qualities for your wedding album.

Many couples like to host both their ceremony and reception here: The club’s soaring architecture and private, contemplative areas provide a spiritual atmosphere for exchanging vows; at the same time, the versatile reception facilities and experienced staff ensure a flawless event.

Speaking of flawless, the club’s hair salon and esthetician services make it easy for you and your bridesmaids to look and feel your best for the wedding. Whether you arrive the day before or the day of, you’ll be able to relax while the on-site professionals take you from stressed to beautiful.

The Berkeley City Club is a tranquil oasis in this bustling college town. Family and friends who stay overnight will appreciate the newly renovated guest rooms, all of which offer outstanding views of the San Francisco Bay or Berkeley hills. Hotel guests also have special privileges: They can take a dip in the magnificent swimming pool, enjoy the Dining Room’s outstanding cuisine, and sample premier wines in the Venetian Room. From this conveniently located getaway, exploring Berkeley couldn’t be easier: Famed Telegraph Avenue, museums, restaurants, the Theater District and public transit are all close by.