Davis: Nature, History and Performing Arts

Davis offers a variety of ways to experience a trip: nature can be enjoyed in expansive gardens and landscapes, while museums explore the city’s history and culture. There is also a diverse performing arts scene. If you are planning a trip with varied interests, Davis lets you combine outdoor activities, wildlife observation, historical topics and cultural events.

Gardens, Landscapes and Wildlife

The historic UC Davis Arboretum is a campus and regional facility spanning more than 100 acres, with demonstration gardens and scientific collections. Admission to the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden is free; the gardens, natural areas and landscapes are open daily around the clock. This makes it possible to include this part of Davis in your daily plans independently of a fixed events schedule.

The main trail of the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden is also available for outdoor exercise. The loop is 3.5 miles long and is used by walkers, joggers and cyclists. Take the full distance into account when planning and choose your activity based on whether you would prefer to explore Davis on foot, while jogging or by bicycle.

Another focal point is the 400-acre Davis Wetlands Project. It uses treated wastewater to provide wildlife habitat as well as opportunities for wildlife observation and environmental education. Docent-led tours take place at the Davis Wetlands on the first Sunday of each month. This regular date may be useful for your travel plans if you would like not only to observe the landscape on your own, but also to get to know it as part of a guided tour.

History, Exhibitions and Performances

The Manetti Shrem Museum complements the natural experiences with a cultural visit. Admission to its public programs and exhibitions is free. The Hattie Weber Museum, by contrast, focuses on the history and cultural heritage of Davis, California, and the surrounding region. Those traveling with children or bringing together different generations can alternate between a museum visit, time outdoors and their own interests, without limiting the trip to just one type of experience.

The Mondavi Center is dedicated to the full spectrum of the performing arts—from traditional to innovative forms, and from a variety of cultures and disciplines. Together with the museums, it creates a cultural profile that also makes Davis appealing to travelers who do not want to spend their days exclusively in nature.

Which Accommodation Suits Your Travel Plans

When searching for a vacation rental in Davis, you can therefore first determine the focus you want for your trip. The arboretum and Davis Wetlands are important options for nature observation and exercise; for historical and cultural discoveries, the two museums and the Mondavi Center are additional possibilities. This allows you to base your accommodation decision on your preferred daily activities without combining individual experiences into a single location or route.

For further destination ideas, you can also consider Rumsey, West Sacramento, Woodland, Esparto and Winters.

For the broader travel overview: Yolo.