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Davis, California has long been typecast as a university town, a label that fails to capture the depth and character of this scenic destination just west of Sacramento. However, visitors who venture beyond campus discover Davis in enchanting Yolo County to be a mecca of sustainable living, outdoor adventure, and artistic expression.
Spend a few days in Davis and find a cyclist's paradise, international cuisine, breweries, outdoor activities, and boutique wine experiences—all without the crowds and prices that plague northern California’s more famous destinations. Families, couples and solo adventurers alike seeking an authentic California experience would do well to look beyond the usual suspects and consider this understated gem for their next trip.
Here are five reasons to visit Davis for your next trip!
Davis wears its "Bicycle Capital of America" title with pride, a moniker earned in the 1960s when it became the first city in the nation to implement dedicated bike lanes. Today, the evidence of this commitment is impossible to miss as cyclists of all ages use bikes as their primary mode of transportation on over 100 miles of bike lanes and paths. In fact, Davis is the hub that links surrounding towns and cities through its extensive bicycling infrastructure.
Most hotels in Davis provide bicycle rentals, allowing visitors to immediately integrate into the local cycling culture. Well-marked bike lanes downtown create a sense of safety that encourages exploration, even for those unfamiliar with the city.
Davis is also home to the U.S. Bicycling Hall of Fame, where America's rich cycling heritage comes alive through three floors of fascinating exhibits. Open Wednesdays and Saturdays, this 8,000-square-foot treasure trove is an ideal stop for both cycling enthusiasts and casual bikers.
Downtown Davis is sophisticated enough to keep visitors engaged, yet small enough to be intimate and navigable. The walkable streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants create an authentic atmosphere free from the homogeneity of chain establishments. It’s important to note that Amtrak goes right to downtown Davis.
The Davis Farmers Market at Central Park, operating year-round on Saturday mornings, stands among the finest in the state. During spring and summer months, Wednesday evenings transform into "Picnic in the Park" with live music, food vendors, and community gathering—a quintessential Davis experience.
Literary enthusiasts appreciate independent bookstore Avid Reader and its adjacent sports-focused sibling, Avid Reader Active. Coffee culture thrives at Temple Coffee Roasters' modern establishment, while Delta of Venus offers bohemian charm and a garden patio perfect for lingering conversations.
Shopping destinations include the Mabel’s Market for local products and artisanal foods, 3rd Street Jewelers for one-of-a-kind treasures, and Armadillo Music for vinyl enthusiasts. The Artery is a cooperative gallery that sells handcrafted works by local artists. Plus, there are several bike and outdoor sports shops.
While cycling remains Davis's signature outdoor activity, nature enthusiasts find abundant alternatives throughout the region. The crown jewel is undoubtedly the UC Davis Arboretum, a 100-acre living museum showcasing gardens with diverse plant collections from around the world. The arboretum's main path traces a 3.5-mile loop following the old north channel of Putah Creek for walkers, joggers, and bicyclists.
Escape urban space at the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area, a hidden natural haven just minutes from town. Open daily from sunrise to sunset, this remarkable wetland sanctuary offers visitors a chance to witness the spectacular dance of nature along the Pacific Flyway. Wind through the six-mile auto tour route, explore walking trails ranging from quick jaunts to longer treks, or join monthly guided excursions.
Whether hiking, birding, or simply retreating to nature, the Yolo Bypass Wildlife Area delivers an accessible wilderness experience that changes magnificently with each season. During the summer, the Bat Talk and Tour provides an amazing opportunity to see a colony of Mexican Free-tailed bats that emerge in the evening to hunt for insects.
SPONSORED BY visit davis
Sponsored by Visit Davis
Bike Friendly with Breweries and Global Cuisine, Davis Offers
More Than Just a College Town
1. Cycling Haven: The Bicycle Capital of America
"The walkable streets lined with independent shops, cafes, and restaurants create an authentic atmosphere free from the homogeneity of chain establishments."
2. Dynamic Downtown Scene
3. Yolo County’s Natural Beauty
By Monica Vanover on May 12, 2025
Families discover an ideal destination in Davis, where educational experiences seamlessly blend with outdoor adventure and entertainment. The city's numerous kid-friendly attractions make it particularly appealing for family travel.
The UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden provides both recreation and education, with self-guided tours designed specifically for families. Children delight in spotting turtles basking on logs along Putah Creek while parents appreciate the easy paths and frequent restroom facilities.
The Explorit Science Center offers hands-on exhibits designed to spark scientific curiosity in young minds. Interactive displays and regularly scheduled workshops engage children through direct participation rather than passive observation, making complex concepts entertaining.
Bicycle culture extends to families as well, with wide, protected paths that make cycling safe even for novice riders. Several local bike shops rent trailers and tag-along attachments that allow families with young children to cruise together.
4. Family-Friendly with Activities for All Ages
There’s plenty happening in Davis this spring and summer to plan a whole vacation around. Here are some of the biggest and best events to choose from.
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5. Year-Round Events and Festivals
Bat Talk and Walk at Yolo Basin Foundation: Believe it or not, the Yolo Basin Bat Talk and Walk is all the rage. And why shouldn’t it be? From June through September, visitors can take a guided tour inside one of the largest colonies of Mexican free-tailed bats in California as it emerges in large ribbons to hunt insects at sunset.
Davis Music Festival XIII: The beloved event returns June 20-22. This year’s Fest features 41 bands across a wide range of genres that will perform on nine stages over three days. This family-friendly fest includes a great perk: Children 12 and under get in free!
Whole Earth Festival: What started as a small art project has blossomed into one of the marquee events of the spring. From May 9-11, in the UC Davis quad, all are welcome to come and learn about the realms of activism, wellness, and environmental sustainability.
Events at Great Bear Vineyards: From superb Wine & Reserve Wine Tasting experiences to live music and food truck Fridays, it’s always a celebration. Get Zen with lavender picking, yoga & wine pairings, or paint & sip classes.
Picnic Day is one of UC Davis' most revered traditions and serves as the university’s annual Open House for prospective and current students, families, alumni, staff, faculty, and the greater Davis and regional communities.
Village Feast: Honor the bounty of the region at this farm-to-fork event. All are welcome to dine on local produce and products at communal tables, participate in a silent auction, and contribute to fundraising for culinary education the area.
Venture beyond conventional California itineraries and explore this Central Valley gem. There are plenty of great places to stay, dine, and more. After all, you only live once. Davis in Yolo County awaits.