5 Things That Make Davis, CA, the Ultimate College Town
Welcome to the Davis Things Blog, your ultimate guide to the vibrant heart of Davis, CA—California’s premier college town! Home to UC Davis, a world-renowned university, Davis blends farm-to-fork dining, bike-friendly streets, and a lively community spirit that captivates students, visitors, and locals alike. Here are five things that make Davis the ultimate college town.
1. Farm-to-Fork Dining That Wows
Davis’ dining scene is a foodie’s paradise, thanks to its farm-to-fork ethos rooted in Yolo County’s agricultural heritage. At Sophia’s Thai Kitchen, savor spicy green curry bursting with local produce, or dig into carne asada tacos at Taqueria Guadalajara, a student favorite for late-night bites. The Davis Farmers Market, held every Saturday, inspires these menus, offering fresh ingredients and a vibrant community vibe. Whether you’re craving sushi at Hikari Sushi & Omakase or gourmet pizza at Paesanos, Davis delivers. Hungry for more? Explore our Restaurants in Davis guide for 15 top spots!
2. Bike-Friendly Vibes Everywhere
Known as one of America’s most bike-friendly cities, Davis boasts over 100 miles of bike lanes and scenic paths like the UC Davis bike loop. Students pedal to class from apartments like Fountain Circle Townhomes, just minutes from campus, while visitors can rent bikes at Aggie Inn to cruise the Davis Greenbelt. With bike racks at every corner and a flat landscape, getting around is a breeze. The city’s bike culture even spills into events like the annual Bike Party, a rolling celebration of two-wheeled fun. Need a bike-friendly stay or home? Check out our Hotels in Davis or Apartments in Davis guides.
3. UC Davis: The Heart of the Town
UC Davis is the heartbeat of Davis, a top-tier university driving innovation and community spirit. Its 5,300-acre campus, home to the Aggies, buzzes with student life, from lectures at the Mondavi Center to tailgates at Aggie Stadium. Live steps away at Identity Davis, with its resort-style pool and study lounges, or visit comfortably at Hyatt Place UC Davis, located right on campus. Don’t miss Picnic Day, an annual open house with parades, animal shows, and Aggie pride. Find your perfect student apartment or hotel on our Apartments in Davis or Hotels in Davis pages.
4. A Thriving Community of Events
Davis pulses with events that bring the community together. The Davis Farmers Market, a year-round staple, offers local produce, live music, and food trucks, perfect for a Saturday outing. Catch world-class performances at the Mondavi Center or cheer for the UC Davis Aggies at a basketball game. Downtown hosts art walks, bike festivals, and seasonal markets, all within walking distance of Hilton Garden Inn Davis Downtown. Whether you’re a student or visitor, there’s always something happening. Planning an event visit? See our Hotels in Davis guide for top stays near the action.
5. Housing That Feels Like Home
Davis offers housing for every lifestyle, from student apartments to family-friendly complexes. Parkside Apartments, just 1.5 miles from UC Davis, boasts a 24-hour gym and firepit lounge, ideal for students. Families love The Celeste, with spacious, pet-friendly units and a community pool. With Unitrans bus routes and bike paths connecting complexes like Silverstone Apartments to campus and downtown, getting around is easy. Whether you’re a first year or a faculty member, Davis feels like home. Ready to find your place? Explore our Apartments in Davis guide for top options.
Loved these five things? Dive into our Restaurants, Hotels, Apartments, and Things to Do guides to explore more of California’s college town gem.