The University of California at Davis is known as a top-tier research university, and its agriculture, veterinary, and environmental science programs are world-renowned. UC Davis anchors the entire community of Davis and has so since its founding in the early 1900s. But its campus isn’t restricted to students. In fact, there are so many hidden gems on the UC Davis campus that it has become a destination in its own right! Following are some of the highlights of the campus for students and non-students.
The UC Davis Arboretum & Public Garden
One of the best starting points for a visit to UC Davis is its public arboretum. Stretching for more than three miles along Putah Creek, the UC Davis Arboretum is a 100-acre collection of themed gardens showcasing plants, trees, and flowers from across the globe. There are California natives, a Mediterranean collection, and an East Asian collection. You can walk as much or as little as you like and view the changes that each season brings.
Along the campus’s southern edge is the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve, a 640-acre natural ecosystem where you can hike, swim, and boat. The restored habitat is also popular for bird watching as well as wildlife viewing.
Public Art Displays at UC Davis
It’s no secret that Davis is an art town, with public art seemingly on every corner. The UC Davis campus is no exception! In fact, the campus laid the groundwork for artists in Davis with its longstanding art programs. On campus, you’ll find numerous public art displays and murals. None are as well-known, or as controversial, as the Eggheads, a whimsical series of egg-shaped sculptures dotted around campus. Other key works include Bum, Bum, You’ve Been Here Before, a ribbed, metal, pipe-like structure, and Stone Poem, a structure reminiscent of Stonehenge.
UC Davis Art Museums
Speaking of art, the UC Davis campus also has several spots where you can view art in all forms, including paintings, sculpture, photography, and mixed media pieces. The Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum of Art showcases modern and experimental works. The Gorman Museum of Native American Art displays the work of indigenous artists. There are also temporary student installations and the student-run Basement Gallery, which has rotating exhibits.
Animal Encounters at UC Davis
If you’re an animal lover, you can get up close and personal to all types of animals at UC Davis. The campus is home to the California Raptor Center, which houses owls, eagles and other rescued birds of prey. At the Bohart Museum of Entomology, you can view their large collection of insects and arachnids. At the Equestrian Center, you can learn to ride or just meet the horses. You can also view horses and other livestock at the Animal Science GATEway Garden, which has a viewing area. Another highlight is the UC Davis Bee Haven, a pollinator-friendly garden where you can arrange guided tours and learn all about honey bees.
Performing Arts at UC Davis
Those looking to enjoy world-class performing arts will find it at the Mondavi Center. Whether dance, opera, music, or comedy, the Mondavi Center hosts performances of all types, from every corner of the globe. You can also catch student performances throughout the year, including plays, musicals, and dance.
Enjoy the Hidden Gems on the UC Davis Campus
UC Davis isn’t just for students. It’s a community hub where locals and visitors come together to explore nature, enjoy the arts, learn about animals, and much more. UC Davis is much more than a place of learning; it’s also a destination filled with hidden gems. If you’re looking for an unexpected getaway, check out the many hotels in Davis and book your getaway today.
