Albany

 

Positioned on the eastern shore of the San Francisco Bay and a stone’s throw from central Oakland, Albany boasts an exquisite culinary and shopping scene, highly rated public schools, and is a wonderful place to grow up. Residents enjoy convenient public transportation via the BART rail, high walk scores across the community, and a reasonable standard of living, all while remaining mere minutes from the hustle and bustle of San Francisco and central Oakland.

 

In the early 20th century following a dispute over sanitation disposal, the community voted to incorporate as a separate city, officially claiming the name of Albany in 1909 in honor of the birthplace of the city’s first mayor. Today, Albany is home to gorgeous parks, waterfront scenery, and homes sat on hilltops that enjoy panoramic views of the bay and beyond.

 

 

Albany residents enjoy a higher quality of life than some other Bay Area communities. While central Oakland and San Francisco are short drives away, Albany locals are pleased to enjoy fair housing prices and easy commutes to well-paying jobs, while children attend top-notch schools. Albany has the close-knit feel and charm of a small town while still enjoying the cultural vibrancy and conveniences of a larger, busier city.

 

A stroll along Solano Avenue often leaves locals with almost too many options for brunch, dinner, cocktails, and everything in between. Retail therapy sessions, catch-ups with old friends, and special celebrations can all be enjoyed without having to wander too far away.

 

Barney's Gourmet Hamburgers on Solano Avenue specializes in upscale takes on this iconic American sandwich. Only serving the highest quality of all-natural beef, Barney’s also offers a variety of vegetarian dishes, salads, and old-fashioned milkshakes, all of which have been updated for modern tastes and dining trends, without forgetting where they originated from.

 

A colorful craft creation from Hotsy Totsy is arguably the best way to wind down after a long day in Albany, according to locals. This unpretentious favorite sporting tin ceilings and classic bar games features a talented staff of master mixologists and a unique menu, and guarantees a great, yet laid-back experience each time.

 

A unique retail therapy experience is enjoyed at Flowerland Nursery. Located on buzzy Solano Avenue, Flowerland has been a local favorite since 1947, known for their wide variety of local succulents, cacti, trees, and other plants from the Bay Area. This Albany gem’s offering rotates with the seasons to ensure shoppers are only left with the highest quality of greenery.

 

Time spent on Solano Avenue is undoubtedly every local’s favorite way to pass the days. With a seemingly endless number of shops, restaurants, coffee shops, and bakeries, there is always something new to see, savor, and sip. Dinner with Albany is one spectacular opportunity to experience all there is to offer on Solano Avenue and beyond. On a festive September Saturday evening, a portion of Solano Avenue hosts a large community dinner with live music and dancing to celebrate the community’s wonderful culture and close-knit sense of community. Another September event for neighbors to gather is the Solano Avenue Stroll. Stretching across a mile and into neighboring Berkeley, the largest festival in the East Bay has been highly anticipated by all since 1947. Over 50 entertainers and just as many food vendors, crafts, a parade, and more can be found here at the perfect example of what makes Solano Avenue so great.

 

Albany is home to an amazing public school district. A topnotch educational experience awaits at: