As the days grow longer, the sun shines a bit brighter, and the first buds of spring start making an appearance, the city of Davis comes alive! Spring not only brings mild weather, but it also brings community festivals. Plus, it’s the ideal time of year to explore nature and enjoy outdoor activities!
There’s always plenty to see and do in Davis throughout the year, from museums and galleries to shopping and dining. But spring has its own unique appeal. People are out and about and there seems to be a buzz in the air about things to come.
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 great 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
Assuming you’re visiting on a weekend, your trip may coincide with one of the many spring festivals in Davis. These lively, family-friendly events are a great way to get a feel for the Davis community. Most offer entertainment, food, shopping, and plenty of fun activities. Following are some of the most popular events.
- 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. The event kicks off with a parade, followed by live entertainment such as local bands, dancers, and performance artists. You can browse the information booths or local vendors and grab a bite to eat from one of the many food trucks. Have an animal lover in the family? There are numerous animal-centric events, including a petting zoo, a kitten meet-and-greet, a Frisbee dog contest, even a dachshund derby! There are also craft stations, games, and inflatables for the kiddos.
- Whole Earth Festival. Held over Mother’s Day weekend, the Whole Earth Festival began in 1969 and it’s still going strong today. It’s a family-friendly event that focuses on sustainability, with speakers, workshops, and informational booths. They also host live entertainment, including local musicians and performers. Artisans are also on hand selling their handmade crafts, and food vendors offer an array of plant-based dishes. They also feature interactive events such as yoga, a clothing swap, and open mic. Plus, there’s also a kids’ zone with crafts and games.
Day Two
If you’re visiting Davis on a Saturday, you’re in luck! One of the most popular community events in Davis is held Saturday morning at Central Park: the Davis Farmers’ Market. Open from 8 a.m.–1 p.m. every Saturday year-round, rain or shine, it’s one of the largest farmers’ markets in the state. In addition to the freshest fruits and vegetables, you’ll also find gourmet food products such as honey, wine, nuts and more. Plus, they have fresh flowers and one-of-a-kind handicrafts made by local artisans. 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.
Considering Davis is the Bicycle Capital of the Nation, consider renting a bike and exploring the city on two wheels. May is National Bike Month, making spring the ideal time to experience the many benefits of cycling. 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. One spot to try is Sudwerk, a longstanding German-style brewery and restaurant with an expansive outdoor beer garden. They offer hearty pub fare such as sandwiches, burgers, and sausages. If you’re looking for something a bit more elevated, consider The Mustard Seed, a refined spot for seasonal, California-influenced cuisine.
Day Three
Sadly, it’s your last day in Davis. Start the day with a leisurely brunch to fuel up for the adventures ahead. One place to consider is Crepeville, which serves both sweet and savory crepes along with traditional breakfast items. Another great bet is Café Bernardo. They offer classic breakfast dishes as well as those with a global influence, such as chilaquiles and kimchi fried rice.
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. You can also canoe, kayak, and even fish in the creek.
You can also explore the Davis Wetlands, an oak riparian woodland and native grasslands that attract many species of birds. Free guided tours, held on the first Sunday of the month from 9–11 a.m. year-round, will give you a front-row seat to waterfowl, shore birds, marsh birds, and raptors.
Plan Your Spring Getaway to Davis Today!
Whether you’re looking for outdoor adventures, a dose of nature, or a community event, you’ll find it in Davis, California. Spring is a great time to get outdoors and enjoy the warm weather. From attending a local festival to urban cycling, Davis has it all. Be sure to check out the many lodging options and welcome spring with a Davis getaway today!
