Davis Travel Guide

Explore the culturally and naturally rich city of Davis with this helpful guide. Discover the best areas to visit, things to do and eat, and how to get around the city.


Introduction to Davis

Located in Yolo County of Sacramento Valley, California, Davis is a dynamic, vibrant city that is famous for being one of the most bike-friendly cities globally, with an extensive network of bike paths and lanes. Davis is home to the University of California, Davis and boasts an impressive array of outdoor recreation opportunities, museums, art and culture venues, and an exciting food and drink scene. Here is a comprehensive guide to Davis, including the best places to visit and things to do in the city.

List of Places to Visit in Davis

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts: A prominent venue that hosts the likes of big names in entertainment and organizes a variety of classes, workshops, and tours for the public to learn more about the performing arts.

  • The Robert and Margrit Mondavi Center for the Performing Arts: A prominent venue that plays host to big names in entertainment and organizes a variety of classes, workshops, and tours for the public to learn more about the performing arts.

  • Davis Arts Center: Offers art exhibits, classes and workshops, making it an excellent place to experience and learn about the art and culture of the area.

  • Yolo County Historical Society & Museum: A museum that highlights the rich history of Yolo County through a range of exhibits and displays.

Natural Attractions of Davis: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • The UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden: A beautiful outdoor space with bike trails, picnic areas, and fantastic views of the flora and fauna of California.

  • Putah Creek State Wildlife Area: A wildlife area that is home to diverse bird species, especially the white pelicans, who are a must-see during the migratory season.

  • Davis Greenbelt: A network of parks and green spaces that serve as an excellent recreational area for biking, jogging, and any other outdoor activity.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Davis

  • The Putah Creek Bike Path, located in the north of the city, is a popular and scenic route perfect for biking, running, and walking.

  • The Wildhorse Greenbelt Trail provides breathtaking views of the Putah Creek and is an excellent location for nature lovers. It is also a favorite spot for photography enthusiasts.

  • The Davis Bike Loop, connecting neighborhoods with beautiful scenery and an opportunity to discover the city’s little-known parts, is an excellent cycling route.

Best Things to Do in Davis: Activities and Tours

  • Experience farm-to-table dining experiences at the restaurants and bars in downtown Davis, featuring fresh and local produce from the nearby farms.

  • Attend a sporting event and cheer on the UC Davis Aggies at their home arena.

  • Take a hot-air balloon ride and catch views of the city from above.

Week-Long Itinerary for Davis

Day Activity
Day 1 Visit the Davis Farmers Market for fresh produce and live music.
Day 2 Bike the Putah Creek Bike Path or hike the Wildhorse Greenbelt Trail.
Day 3 Visit the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden and take in the stunning views of the flora and fauna.
Day 4 Go on a hot-air balloon ride and catch the aerial view of the city.
Day 5 Take a tour of the historical downtown area and explore the art studios.
Day 6 Attend a sporting event and cheer on the UC Davis Aggies.
Day 7 Visit the Yolo County Historical Society and Museum to learn about the history of the area.

Food and Drink Scene of Davis

Must-Try Dishes

  • Tomato and basil pizza at Uncle Vito’s

  • Bacon and egg sandwich at Cafe Bernardo

  • Fried chicken sandwich at Temple Coffee

Local Beverages

  • Local craft beer at Three Mile Brewing

  • Coffee from Philz Coffee

  • Unique cocktail concoctions at The Barn

Where to Stay in Davis: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Aggie Inn: A convenient location near UC Davis, modern amenities, and free breakfast.

  • University Park Inn and Suites: Mid-range option with a pool and hot tub and within easy access to the UC Davis campus.

  • Best Western University Lodge: A budget-friendly option located within walking distance to the university and downtown that includes complimentary breakfast.

What to Buy in Davis: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Viso Cookie at Bakers Square

  • Pomegranate Olive Oil at Buscayou

  • Vintage Records and Memorabilia at Armadillo Music

Local Culture and Customs of Davis

Davis is known for its bike culture and focus on sustainability and environmentalism. Many residents choose to live a more eco-friendly lifestyle by using bikes as their primary mode of transportation.

Best Time to Visit Davis

Spring and fall seasons are the best times to visit Davis as the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds. The high temperatures that come with the summer season do not make it an ideal travel time.

Do’s and Don’ts of Davis

Do:

  • Enjoy outdoor activities like biking and hiking.

  • Visit the farmers’ markets and sample local produce.

Don’t:

  • Don’t go off-trail in natural areas or park your car in unauthorized areas.

  • Don’t litter or leave trails of trash in green spaces.

Safety and Health

Safety in Davis

Davis is a safe city to visit, with low rates of crime. However, it is crucial to keep an eye on belongings when in crowded areas.

Health in Davis

The city of Davis has access to quality healthcare with the University of California, Davis, and the Sutter Davis Hospital both located within the city.

Getting to Davis: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Davis

  • Sacramento International Airport (SMF) is the nearest airport 20 minutes from Davis and offers both domestic and international flights.

Bus Stations Near Davis

  • Unitrans operates the city bus services within Davis and is an excellent option for getting around the city. The Greyhound Bus station located in Sacramento is a convenient stop for visitors coming from other parts of the country.

Other Options

  • Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are readily available.

  • Biking and walking are popular options in the city, with an extensive network of bike paths and lanes available.

How to Get Around in Davis

Bikes are the most popular mode of transportation for locals and visitors alike. You can rent a bike from one of the many bike rental shops available in the city or opt for the Unitrans city bus service set up to serve various parts of the city. Ride-sharing services such as Uber and Lyft are also readily available.

Where to Go Next from Davis: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Sacramento, the state capital, is located just 20 minutes away from Davis and is home to several historical landmarks, museums, and art venues.

  • The Napa Valley wine country, located about 1 hour away, is a must-visit area for wine lovers.

  • San Francisco, located 1.5 hours from Davis, offers several opportunities to explore its famous attractions and landmarks, including the Golden Gate Bridge, Alcatraz Island, and the Fisherman’s Wharf.

Conclusion

With its rich cultural history, impressive outdoor recreation opportunities, and mouthwatering food and drink offerings, Davis is a must-visit destination for anyone looking to experience authentic Californian culture. Utilize this comprehensive guide to make the most out of your trip and discover this vibrant city.

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