If you’re under twenty-one, it seems like there’s absolutely nothing to do in Davis. When people ask you what there is to do, you probably say, “go to the movies.” It’s so wrong though, as there are so many places to go even if you’re barely over eighteen.
1. See a movie
There are two movie theatres in downtown Davis, ironically right down the street from each other which can be confusing. Both are Regal Cinema movie theatres, one on G street and one on F street. Go see the latest flicks with your friends! Also, these theatres often release movies a day early, on Thursdays, so keep that in mind.
2. Kava Bar
Kava is a drink made from a natural root, which is supposed to promote relaxation and well-being. It is supposed to be neither intoxicating nor addictive, and it doesn’t affect your mental clarity. There is a bar in downtown Davis called the Root of Happiness.
3. Salsa Dancing at The Grad
I have personally been to Salsa Night at the Grad multiple times, and it’s so fun! It’s hosted every Tuesday and Thursday night at The Graduate on Russel Blvd. Lessons are offered so that you can learn basic moves. Don’t worry about not having a date. Many people ask others to dance. A lot of men go there every week, so they know how to dance and lead extremely well.
4. Line Dancing at The Grad
The Grad hosts line dancing every Monday, Friday, and Saturday night. Similar to Salsa Night, they offer lessons at which point the dances seem fairly easy. Don’t let this fool you, though. The dances definitely pick up speed! It’s extremely fun, and everyone should try it.
5. Concerts at the Grad
The Grad’s list goes on! You can also enjoy concerts every once in a while. In the past, they’ve featured artists like Sam Hunt, Iamsu, and Josh Abbot Band.
6. Sick Spits
Sick Spits is a poetry reading event. Davis students participate every other Wednesday night, usually in the art annex. They are very talented, upbeat, and amazing writers. Go check them out!
7. Mondavi Center Shows
The Mondavi Center frequently hosts dance performances, orchestra ensembles, and plays. Tickets are usually a fair price, but if you’re a Freshman, you actually get one free ticket for the year.
8. Rocknasium
Rocknasium is a rock climbing gym in south Davis. Rock climbing, while scary at first, is a thrill and very rewarding to your arm muscles. Note that there is also rock climbing in the ARC on campus.
9. U-Mall
Go shopping at Forever 21, line dancing at the Grad, or just grab a bite to eat at Ohana’s Hawaiian Barbeque. The University Mall is a great place to go when you don’t want to bike or drive too far.
10. Sports
There are an endless number of sports that you can do at UC Davis. Play soccer on Hutchinson Field, run on the track with some friends, or play some ultimate Frisbee out on Howard field. Go get some exercise and take a break from studying.
11. Improv Theatre
The improv group, Bird Strike, puts on improv comedy performances on campus. The fact that everything is improvised makes them that much funnier. Check out their Facebook page for more information.
12. Restaurants
There’s an insane number of restaurants here in Davis. From Bistro 33 to Thai Canteen, Davis has it all! Burgers and Brew, Sophia’s Thai Kitchen, the Dumpling House, and Crepeville are a few other popular ones.
13. Gym
If you’re a UC Davis student, you know that you get a free membership at the ARC. Take advantage of their various pieces of equipment—have fun rock climbing, go running on the treadmills, or use the muscle-building equipment.
14. Arboretum
The arboretum is a great place to take a walk with a friend, sit by the lake, or just contemplate life. Go have some cheap fun!
15. Boba
Boba, milk tea with boba tea balls, is such a big part of Davis life. Many local Asian food places and the CoHo offer it. It’s fairly inexpensive and scattered throughout Davis, so it’s very easy to find no matter where you are.
16. Ballroom Dancing
Ballroom dancing is offered on campus in Hoagland 168 on Fridays from 6-8 pm. Have some fun with your friends, and learn how to dance elegantly for free.
17. Biking
‘Nuff said.
18. Hang out with your friends.
Most importantly, just have some easygoing fun with your friends at home. Make dinner, talk, and just bond in general. The cheapest fun is usually the best and most rewarding. You can also study. Studying is always good. Seriously, why do you even try to have fun? Kidding, kidding.