Many people know the city of Davis, California as home to the University of California at Davis, one of the top-tier public universities in the nation. When school is in session, it’s a buzzing college town with a bikeable downtown, live music venues, and plenty of coffee shops for those late-night study sessions.
But Davis is so much more than a college town. It has a welcoming energy even outside of campus life, making it a great place to visit. For starters, it’s the epicenter for the farm-to-fork movement, home to the first certified farmers’ market in the state. It’s also the Bicycling Capital of the Nation, with more than 100 miles of bike paths. In addition, it’s an art lover’s paradise, with vibrant public art and numerous galleries.
With so much to do in Davis, you may want to consider an overnight getaway. Be sure to check out the many lodging specials in Davis before you hit the road.
Explore the Agricultural Heritage of Davis
Being that Davis is in the heart of Yolo County, one of California’s richest agricultural regions, it comes as no surprise that eating should be at the top of every visitor’s to-do list. One of the best food-related activities in Davis is a visit to the Davis Farmers Market, which is held in Central Park every Saturday morning and Wednesday evening, year-round, rain or shine. The market has dozens of vendors selling fresh fruit and produce as well as gourmet food items such as wine, honey, cheese, and nuts. In addition, there are food stands selling grab-and-go delicacies such as pastries, dumplings, hand pies, sandwiches and more.
Another way to celebrate farm-to-fork in Davis is by visiting one of the many great restaurants in Davis. Spots to try include The Mustard Seed, a refined spot for fresh pasta, grilled meats, and seafood; Osteria Fasulo, which serves upscale, Italian-inspired dishes; and Hikari Sushi and Omakase, which specializes in chef-driven sushi and other Japanese plates.
Bike Your Way Through Davis
A visit to Davis wouldn’t be complete without a bike ride. As one of the most bike-friendly cities in the nation, Davis has miles and miles of dedicated bike paths, as well as plenty of bike parking and shops offering bike rentals. In addition, many hotels offer bikes on loan to guests. You can take a self-guided history tour of Davis and visit the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame, which depicts the history of bicycle racing. For a longer ride, you can take your pick from one of the many bicycle routes near Davis.
Embrace the Outdoors in Davis
If you prefer using your own two feet, Davis also has many hiking and outdoor areas to explore. The U.C. Davis Arboretum and Public Garden has a 3.5-mile paved path through its demonstration gardens, which feature plants, shrubs, and trees from across the globe. Another popular spot for outdoor lovers is the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, which is home to more than 200 species of birds, including migrating waterfowl. It includes the Davis Wetlands, an ecosystem that includes oak riparian woodlands and native grasslands. Guided tours are available October through June.
The Davis Art Scene
In Davis, it seems as though there is art around every corner. The city has a robust public art program, with outdoor murals, sculptures, and mixed media installations. You can even download a free map of public art in Davis.
If you happen to be here on the second Friday of the month, the city hosts the 2nd Friday ArtAbout, a self-guided evening art walk where you can explore local galleries, talk to local artists, and even participate in hands-on art-centric activities. There are numerous art galleries in Davis, including the following:
- The Pence Gallery. Featuring the works of both local and regional artists, this gallery has rotating exhibits throughout the year. They also host classes and talks.
- John Natsoulas Gallery. This multi-level gallery features the work of celebrated artists from across the region. It also hosts workshops led by local artists, special events such as poetry readings, and live concerts.
- The Artery. Owned and operated by an artist collective, this gallery showcases art in a wide variety of mediums, from paintings and woodworking to textiles and photography.
In addition to galleries, Davis is also home to several notable museums and cultural centers. The Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art has old master prints, East Asian arts and ceramics; while the Carl Gorman Museum showcases the work of Native American artists. For performing arts, the Mondavi Center hosts top-tier concerts, theater and dance performances.
Book Your Getaway to Davis Today
Whether you’re looking to sample farm-fresh food, cycle your way through town, or explore local art, there’s something for everyone in Davis, California. Its university may have put it on the map, but Davis is more than just a college town. It’s a welcoming, culturally rich city that makes for a great getaway. Check out the many hotels in Davis and book your trip today.
