The garden's signature redwood pergola was built using materials sourced locally during the 1930s.
The amphitheater-style layout is specifically designed to follow the natural contour of the Berkeley Hills.
The garden hosts several rose varieties that have been preserved through the city's long-standing horticultural maintenance program.
It was officially dedicated in September 1937.
The Berkeley Rose Garden is a terraced hillside park featuring over 3,000 rose bushes representing roughly 250 distinct varieties. Designed by landscape architect Vernon DeMars, the garden was constructed as a Works Progress Administration project during the Great Depression. The site is arranged in a semicircular amphitheater layout that descends the steep hillside to maximize sun exposure and viewing angles. A long, undulating redwood pergola provides structural shade and serves as the garden's primary architectural spine. The park offers panoramic views of the San Francisco Bay, including the Golden Gate Bridge and the San Francisco skyline. It is maintained by the City of Berkeley and includes a concrete tennis court area situated at the base of the terraced levels. The garden remains a public city park with no admission fees for entry.
Under the central redwood pergola looking westward toward the Golden Gate Bridge and the bay.
Visit during the peak bloom months of May and June for the most vibrant floral displays.
Wear comfortable, sturdy walking shoes to navigate the steep, terraced concrete stairways.
Bring a windbreaker or layers, as the hillside location is subject to cooling breezes coming off the bay.
Do not rely on street parking immediately in front of the entrance on peak weekends, as spaces are extremely limited in the surrounding residential neighborhood.
Stay on designated paths and do not pick flowers; pack out all trash.
