In Northern California, namely here in the Sacramento Valley, the weather can get pretty warm in the summertime.
As the temperatures rise, here in Davis, there are a plenty of ways to beat the heat that won't break the bank, either. The best part about summer in Davis is enjoying the warm sun and taking part in recreational activities that will keep you cool at the same time.
While this list focuses on the fun and interactive ways you can cool off at UC Davis, there are plenty of things to do in and around campus, too.
Davis Museums
When entering Davis, California, a giant cat structure might be the first thing to welcome you to the city. That or the giant blue rat head right next to it. Don't be worried, though. The Davis art installations are the epitome of what makes UC Davis, a little weird, very curious and extremely captivating.
Walk around downtown Davis and you will notice that there is art everywhere. Whether it's murals or sculptures - there is a lot of extraordinary artistry and craftsmanship to be seen. Art galleries like the Jan Shrem and Maria Manetti Shrem Museum and the Pence Gallery in downtown Davis play host to fascinating art exhibitions sure to capture audiences’ imagination and attention.
UC Davis Arboretum
Located on our beautiful campus, The Arboretum offers lots of options where you can relax. Sit under large shady trees and say hi to many of the cute ducks and animals that frequent the area. Have a picnic surrounded by enormous redwoods trees, or simply have a lovely walk along the bank and visit our diverse plant collections.
UC Davis Pools
There is no shortage of UC Davis campus recreation, but on a hot summer day, what's better than relaxing pool side? UC Davis is home to a number of swimming pools across campus.
The UC Davis Recreation Pool area has officially reopened its gates. The new facility features an enhanced activity pool, new competition pool, renovated locker rooms and a sand volleyball court. The new facility is fully Wi-Fi enabled and utilizes solar energy to assist with heating.
West Village has a resort-style recreation pool with two other smaller pool areas perfect for tanning by the water or simply staying cool. Technically only West Village residents have access, so if you have friends that live in West Village, it might be a good idea to hit them up!
Do you love to exercise and swim? Then head to Hickey Pool - a perfect match for those who love lap swimming. Hickey pool features seven 25-yard lanes, ideal for working out and tanning at the same time.
UC Davis Games Area
If you’re not the type that likes the outdoors as much, don’t worry because UC Davis has you covered. The UC Davis Games Area offers a multitude of board games, a bowling alley, billiards, and different gaming consoles for all to enjoy.
Botanical Conservatory
Do you love nature and have a curiosity for the extraordinary? The UC Davis Botanical Conservatory houses a collection of more than 3,000 plant species, including extremely rare plants such as the Titan arum; otherwise known as the corpse plant. This plant is characterized for its specific aroma of a rotting corpse. The Botanical Conservatory also contains other beautiful and attractive plant species anyone can admire.
Farmer's Market
No doubt, part of what makes Davis special and what has garnered it national recognition is its agriculture. And what finer place to find it on display, than at the Davis Farmer's Market.
It’s the perfect place to enjoy a shady, cool morning with good vibes and good food. Every Saturday you can come get delicious local fresh fruits, veggies and other baked goods to enjoy. Not to mention, our picnic in the park hosted every Wednesday during March through October, features live music and a plethora of food and dessert options. Did we mention there are also tons of food samples?
UC Davis Peter J. Shields Library
Naturally, one of our favorite locations on campus would have to be Peter J. Shields Library. As soon as you enter, the air conditioning greets you with a cooling hello, letting you know this is a place to relax, research and/or enjoy a good read. The library undeniably offers students a reliable location to come for some peace and avoid the heat.
Free Classroom Air Conditioning!
Listen, despite what many may think, school is pretty cool, too. And in the summertime, it literally is. Now, it may not be the most fun, but think of all the fun you'll be having later in life without having that extra class looming on the horizon. Think of it this way: Enrolling in Summer Sessions classes now in an accelerated, fun and (let's face: most importantly) cool environment can save you time later on for those once-in-a-lifetime summer trips.