4th Street

4th Street Review

An industrial area on 4th Street north of University Avenue has been converted into a pleasant shopping stretch, with popular eateries, and shops selling pricey handcrafted and eco-conscious goods and fashion. About six blocks long, this compact area (the action has spilled onto neighboring streets) is busiest on bright weekend afternoons. Stained Glass Garden, Builders Booksource, and the Apple Store are among shoppers' favorites, along with a minislew of upscale boutiques and wonderful paper stores. A walk through the East Bay Vivarium (1827 5th St. 510/841-1400 www.eastbayvivarium.com), where turtles swim, Amazonian snakes slither, and baby mice (dinner) cower, is better than a walk through the reptile house at the zoo—and it's free.