When the last frost gives way to the first buds of spring, the city of Davis, California comes alive! The weather is getting warmer and the city is bursting with vibrant colors, not to mention a renewed energy of things to come.
Spring is a lovely time to visit Davis. There’s so much to explore here and it’s the ideal time for outdoorsy types who like to take in the mild weather. Plus, spring kicks off Davis’s festival season, with several major events happening this time of year.
Before you book your spring getaway to Davis, be sure to check out the many hotels in Davis that offer everything you need for a pleasant stay. There are a variety of lodging options, offering all the comforts of home. Some even offer special lodging discounts.
Following is our suggested itinerary for a spring getaway in Davis, California.
Day One
Depending on when you schedule your trip, it may coincide with one of the many springtime festivals in Davis. These events are great ways to get out to enjoy the sunshine.
● U.C. Davis Picnic Day. Held in mid-April, Picnic Day has been a community tradition in Davis since 1909! It’s a way for prospective students (and members of the community) to learn more about the U.C. Davis campus. Special events include a parade and exhibits by campus academic departments. There are also dozens of hands-on activities for children, including games, crafts and animals. Speaking of entertainment, the event also features performances from area musicians and dancers, many with a global influence.
● Whole Earth Festival. Held over Mother’s Day weekend, the Whole Earth Festival is a family-friendly event with a focus on sustainability. It’s a three-day celebration with speakers and workshops, live music, and performance artists. Local artisans are also on hand selling their handmade crafts, and food vendors offer an array of plant-based dishes. There’s also a kids’ zone with crafts and games.
● Cherry Blossom Festival. Another great springtime event in Davis is the Cherry Blossom Festival. Held each April, the festival celebrates Asian culture with Taiko drumming, traditional Japanese dance, and Japanese music. There are Asian-inspired arts and crafts and of course, Asian food and drinks available for purchase.
Day Two
Another popular activity in Davis in the springtime (or anytime!) is a visit to the Davis Farmers’ Market, which is open 8 a.m.–1 p.m. every Saturday year-round, rain or shine. As one of the largest farmers’ markets in the state, it features dozens of local growers selling just-picked fruits and vegetables. Come spring, you’ll also find a plethora of fresh flowers as well! In addition, you can find gourmet food products such as honey, nuts, and wine. Many locals make a day of it, picking up some ready-made foods from one of the vendors and having a picnic in the park.
Afterwards, consider renting a bike and exploring the city on two wheels. May is National Bike Month, which is designed to showcase the many benefits of cycling. As Davis is the Bicycle Capital of the U.S., it makes sense that this is one of the most popular ways of getting around! In fact, Davis kicks off the month with its annual “Loopalooza” community bike ride. Some hotels offer bikes on loan to guests, or you can rent one from the many bike shops in town. They can also provide you with suggested bike routes.
After all that riding, you’ll probably have quite the appetite. For dinner, you can take your pick from one of Davis’s many restaurants. For casual pub fare such as sliders and sandwiches, consider Tommy J’s. They also have a full bar and local beers. Or, if you’re craving pizza, head to Woodstock’s, a longtime favorite for classic and creative pies.
Day Three
Start off your last day in Davis with a leisurely brunch to prepare for the adventures ahead. One spot to try is Three Ladies Café, which serves bowls, toasts, scrambles, and smoothies; they also have a dedicated vegan menu. Another option is Cloud Forest Café, which serves breakfast panini, avocado toast, and pastries.
After brunch, it’s time to head outdoors. The first stop is the U.C. Davis Arboretum, a 100-plus acre demonstration garden showcasing native and global plants. A stroll along one of its three loop trails is pleasant any time of year, but in spring, you’ll find colorful displays of redbud, poppies, and lupine. Nearby is the U.C. Davis Honey Bee Haven, a unique (and free) public outdoor garden where you can learn all about bees and the plants that support them.
Another outdoor adventure in Davis is a hike through the Putah Creek Riparian Reserve. This natural ecosystem has several easy trails with views of the creek. In spring, the area is teeming with wildlife such as birds and butterflies.
Plan Your Spring Getaway to Davis Today!
No matter what type of trip you prefer, you’ll find Davis, California, checks all the boxes. You can get a jump start on the warm weather season by attending one of the many festivals, exploring the natural landscape, or hitting the town via bicycle. Check out the many lodging options and welcome spring with a Davis getaway today!
