Davis
Bikes, Bees & Budget Bites: A Family Weekend in Davis
Explore Davis on a shoestring with kid‑friendly parks, UC Davis campus nature spots, and cheap eats all within easy walking or biking distance. This itinerary keeps costs low with mostly free attractions, the famous farmers market, and casual meals under $15 per person.
Where to Stay
Days Inn by Wyndham Davis Near UC Davis
Budget motel‑style lodging a short drive or bike ride from downtown, typically including Wi‑Fi and breakfast, with family‑friendly rooms.
University Park Inn & Suites
Simple hotel near downtown Davis and close to campus, often with free parking and a small pool.
Good to Know
Plan Around the Farmers Market Days
Check current Davis Farmers Market days and hours before your trip and anchor one morning or evening around it so you can eat cheaply, stock up on snacks, and let kids play in Central Park.
Make the Most of Free UC Davis Attractions
Prioritize free campus highlights like the Arboretum, Honey Bee Haven, and art museum, and cluster them into one or two walking or biking loops to avoid transit costs.
Rent or Bring Bikes if Possible
Davis is extremely bike‑friendly with the Greenbelt and campus paths; renting a couple of bikes or bringing your own can replace most car trips around town.
Share Plates and Skip Drinks
At casual spots with large portions, order fewer mains than people, share sides, and stick to water to keep meal costs below your target budget.
Schedule Midday Breaks at Parks
Plan a daily break at Central Park or along the Arboretum so kids can run around while adults rest, using these free spaces instead of paid indoor play or entertainment.
Your Weekend Itinerary
Burgers & Brew
Casual spot on 3rd Street with big burgers, fries, and salads; share a basket of fries to stretch the budget.
Ali Baba Restaurant
Mediterranean counter‑service spot with falafel, shawarma, and platters; grab a few plates and extra pita to share.
Mishka’s Café
Cozy café downtown serving coffee, tea, hot chocolate, and pastries; good for a light breakfast or snack.
UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden
Walk the scenic paths along Putah Creek, spot birds and turtles, and explore demonstration gardens across this large green space.
Davis Greenbelt
Network of paved and dirt paths connecting neighborhoods, parks, and small play areas around town.
California Raptor Center
UC Davis–affiliated center that rehabilitates birds of prey, with opportunities to see hawks, owls, and eagles in outdoor enclosures.
Taqueria Guadalajara Grill
Simple Mexican eatery with tacos, burritos, and combo plates; order burritos or super nachos to share.
Davis Farmers Market
Beloved local market at Central Park with produce stands, food trucks, and ready‑to‑eat items; build a picnic from stalls.
Yolo Berry Yogurt
Self‑serve frozen yogurt shop near Central Park; pay by weight and top with fruit, candy, or nuts.
Central Park
Large downtown park with open lawns, a playground, and picnic tables next to the farmers market area.
Haagen-Dazs Honey Bee Haven
Small outdoor bee garden on the edge of the UC Davis campus where you can see bee‑friendly plants and observe pollinators up close.
Davis Campus of the University of California
Stroll through the UC Davis campus, see the quirky sculptures, student life, and open lawns, and detour to the horse barns or other ag areas.
14 activities across 3 days
Map
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