UC Davis Surrounding Area - What's it like?

Hey, I'm seriously considering UC Davis and I'd like to know more about the area surrounding the campus. What's the local vibe like, and are there good places to eat, hang out, and maybe even find part-time work? Any information helps, thanks so much!

UC Davis is located in the city of Davis, a mid-sized college town with a friendly and welcoming vibe. The city is known for its bike-friendly infrastructure and strong focus on environmental sustainability, which can be seen in the numerous bike lanes, parks, and green spaces. This makes it easy and enjoyable to get around campus and the city, fostering an active, outdoor-oriented lifestyle.

The city's downtown area is within walking distance from the UC Davis campus and offers a variety of restaurants, cafes, and bars catering to various tastes and budgets. Some popular eateries include Burgers and Brew, Dumpling House, and Delta of Venus. There are also grocery stores, boutiques, and entertainment options such as a movie theater, performing arts venues, and art galleries.

Since Davis is a college town, many businesses cater to the student population, and part-time jobs are generally available in retail, food service, or on-campus positions. You can check for job openings through the campus job portal or at local establishments looking to hire students.

In terms of weekend activities, there's the Davis Farmers Market, held on Wednesdays and Saturdays, featuring fresh produce, food trucks, and live music. For those interested in outdoor recreation, there are numerous parks, hiking trails, and the nearby Lake Berryessa and Sacramento River for boating or kayaking. UC Davis also has a strong sports culture, and attending school sport events can be a fun way to spend your time and support the school's teams.

For a change of pace or more city life, the state capital of Sacramento is only a 20-minute drive away and offers attractions such as the Golden 1 Center, historic sites, museums, and additional entertainment options. The San Francisco Bay Area is also within a reasonable driving distance, allowing you to explore iconic cities like San Francisco, Oakland, and Berkeley on weekends or breaks.

Overall, the surrounding area of UC Davis offers a friendly college-town atmosphere with a good mix of local amenities, opportunities for part-time work, outdoor activities, and easy access to larger cities for extended options on entertainment and exploration.