UC Davis, famous for its cows and bikes, has a lot more to offer than the average person would assume. While located in a small agricultural area, there are an incredible amount of activities both in and around Davis that can make for a fun afternoon! The campus and town are so beautiful and diverse, and Davis is located close to other cities such as Tahoe, Sacramento, and San Fran! But if you're struggling to come up with things to do on the weekend here are a few ideas:
1. Arboretum
This is a pretty obvious one, but people definitely need to utilize it more. This huge expanse of beautiful land that covers the campus offers a ton of opportunities for activities. Picnics, sunset/sunrise walks, Frisbee on the grass, you name it.
2. Zip Cars
Technically this isn't an activity, but Zip Cars are hecka handy as they let those of you without cars get around when you really need to! And when you first sign up you get $50 in free driving! So if you need to take a day trip, this is definitely the way to do it.
3. Rocknasium
This is a really cool indoor rock climbing facility located in Davis. While there is a rock climbing wall in the ARC, the rock climbing walls in Rocknasium is super in-depth, modern, and has a ton more for all of those avid rock climbers out there. Prices are reasonable/affordable and it's right in town, so if you wanted you could probably even bike there. I'd give this place an A+
4. Batting Cages
This is a super fun way to get active and have some fun with pals! There are batting cages right in Davis, and they're bomb for a weekend outing with friends or maybe a li'l romantic date.
5. Scandia
This is a little far, but if you have the means to get there, it's cute, laid back, and has mini golf! It's a classic throwback to middle school or high school and has a lot to offer if you're out of ideas.
6. Farmers Markets
Davis has some adorable farmers markets located in Central Park on 4th and C Street downtown! They're held every Saturday and Wednesday, and they have a ton of local vendors and produce along with music and entertainment! This is a great idea for when it's warm out; I'd suggest you bring a blanket and go relax out on the grass.
7. Davis Greenbelt
This is a long stretching area of parks and bike paths that reaches all the way around Davis! The whole thing is pretty long, nearly 60 miles long, and it's a great place to take a jog, walk, or bike! There are lots of beautiful areas, and obviously, everything is green! Bring a map, though, as it is extremely long and quite easy to get lost.
8. Dixon Corn Maze
Dixon is a nearby city and is actually home to the Guinness Book of World Records' Largest Corn Maze! The maze is absolutely huge and is already a hot spot for Davis students come October. But if you haven't heard of it, you need to visit.
9. Mondavi Center
Located right on campus, the Mondavi center offers a plethora of activities for students, especially those who don't have cars or other methods of transportation. They have performances weekly and there are even occasional free events for students! Check it out.
10. Downtown Davis
This is another obvious one because there really is just so much to do here. There are amazing restaurants, ice cream places, bars, coffee shops, and movie theaters. If you want a fun night out, I'd start here.
11. Sacramento
If you have the means to drive over, it's always fun to check out Sacramento! There are tons of shopping malls if you want something that Forever 21 can't offer, and there are a lot of parks, museums, and restaurants.
12. San Francisco
San Francisco is awesome. If you haven't been here, you need to go. Hit up a Giants game, go to Fishermans Wharf, or visit the headlands. The possibilities are endless.
13. Hickey Pool
Once spring quarter hits, this is going to be a great destination spot. If you have an afternoon to spare, go lay out in the sun by the pool and enjoy an afternoon with friends.
These are just some of the amazing activities that Davis and its surrounding areas offer! So if you're ever feeling like Davis isn't giving you enough to do, take a moment to look at this list and start experiencing all of the options Davis has to offer.