Welcome to the Family Fun section of Davis Life Magazine. Davis is more than just a university town; it is a vibrant playground for families. Whether you are a long-time resident or visiting for the weekend, our city and the surrounding Yolo and Sacramento counties offer a treasure trove of activities that blend education, nature, and pure entertainment.
Below you will find our curated collection of favorite spots, past event highlights that define our community spirit, and a comprehensive guide to enjoying the outdoors with your little ones.
Featured Destinations & Educational Adventures
One of the secrets to parenting in Davis is knowing that world-class educational fun is just a short drive away. We believe in “learning by doing,” and our local institutions are perfect for sparking curiosity.
Fairytale Town: Where Stories Come to Life
One of our favorite recommendations for families with younger children (PreK – 5th Grade) is Fairytale Town. It is not just a park; it is a storybook come to life.
- Literary Magic: Children can slide down the Old Woman’s Shoe, walk the Crooked Mile, and sit on the wall with Humpty Dumpty.
- Animal Interactions: Programs like “Farmer Brown’s Class” allow children to meet farm animals up close. Understanding the role of animals in our society is a crucial lesson, and doing it in such a whimsical setting makes it unforgettable.
- Classroom Connections: Teachers and parents often utilize their workshops to bring the magic of reading directly into the educational experience.
Voyage to the Enterprise: Science & Imagination
For the older kids (and the parents who grew up on sci-fi), the connection between pop culture and hard science is a powerful tool.
- The Aerospace Museum of California: Located nearby in Rancho Cordova, this is a must-visit. Past exhibits have featured Star Trek themes, proving that watching sci-fi can indeed make kids smarter!
- STEM Learning: Beyond the fun of starships, the museum offers flight simulators and hands-on engineering exhibits. It’s the perfect place to answer the question, “How do planes fly?” while bonding over a shared love of exploration.
Unleashing Creativity at the Art Center
Davis has a thriving artistic soul, and it starts with our kids. The Davis Arts Center is a hub for family creativity.
- Junk 2 Genius: Events like the legendary “Junk 2 Genius” showcase the town’s commitment to sustainability and art. Watching teams compete for the “Trophy du Trash” by sculpting with recycled materials (bike parts, old computers, fabric) teaches children that art can be made from anything.
- Workshops: Look for weekend workshops where you can get messy with clay, paint, and mixed media without worrying about the cleanup at home.
The Great Outdoors: Weekend Events in Davis
Davis is famous for its weather and its parks. If you are unsure what to do this weekend, the answer is usually found outside.
Central Park: The Heart of the Community
Central Park isn’t just a patch of grass; it is the living room of our city.
- Movies in the Park: During the warmer months, keep an eye out for evening screenings. There is something magical about watching a classic film like “My Big Fat Greek Wedding” or a Disney favorite under the stars with a picnic blanket.
- The Farmers Market: Saturday mornings are a ritual. While parents shop for fresh produce, kids can enjoy the carousel, listen to live bands, and play on the structures. It is the best place to bump into friends and neighbors.
The Greenbelt: A Bike Adventure
You cannot talk about family fun in Davis without mentioning bicycles. Our city is crisscrossed by miles of greenbelts—paved paths that go under roads and through parks, keeping you safe from traffic.
- Plan a Route: Start at Community Park and ride towards North Davis, stopping at the various playgrounds along the way.
- Wildlife Watching: The greenbelts are home to rabbits, owls, and seasonal toads. It’s a free nature safari right in your backyard.
5 Essential Tips for a Davis Family Weekend
If you are planning a “Staycation” or just looking to fill a Saturday, here is a checklist to ensure a smooth experience.
- Check the Heat: Davis summers can be scorching. Plan outdoor activities like the Arboretum walk or playground visits for early morning (before 10 AM) or late evening.
- Hydration is Key: Whether you are at the Aerospace Museum or walking the Loop, always bring water bottles.
- Explore the UC Davis Arboretum: This is free and open to the public. The ducks at the Putah Creek Lodge area are always hungry for attention (though please feed them bird-safe food, not bread!).
- Look for “Pop-Up” Events: Check community boards for local theater productions. The Fairytale Town Troupers often put on shows like “Sleeping Beauty in Space,” offering twists on classics that keep kids engaged.
- Support Local: From the candy store downtown to the local toy shops, our small businesses love kids. Stop in for a treat after a day of exploring.
Why We Love Raising Families Here
The beauty of Davis lies in its pace. We are close enough to the bustle of Sacramento to enjoy big museums and events, but we are small enough that a bike ride across town takes only 20 minutes.
Whether you are building a sculpture out of recycled junk, learning about space travel, or simply watching a movie on the grass, the focus is always on connection. The events listed in our archives—from August theater shows to October pumpkin patches—are reminders that the seasons change, but the joy of family remains constant.
Get Involved!
Do you have a favorite hidden gem in Davis for kids? A secret climbing tree or a favorite flavor at the ice cream shop? We want to hear from you. Davis Life Magazine is built on the stories of our community. Share your family’s adventures with us and help other parents discover the magic of growing up in Davis.
© Davis Life Magazine. Celebrating the joy of local living.