


Community Park is Davis's go-to destination for families, offering an impressive variety of activities all in one location. With multiple age-appropriate playgrounds, a popular splash pad for hot California days, wide-open grassy areas perfect for running and picnicking, plus sports fields and a skate park, there's truly something to keep every member of the family entertained for hours.
Weekday mornings (9-11 AM) or late afternoons (4-6 PM) are ideal for avoiding crowds. Spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures, while summer mornings are perfect for splash pad fun before the heat peaks.
The park is free to visit with ample parking available. There are restrooms and picnic tables throughout, but no on-site food vendors, so pack snacks and water or plan to eat at nearby restaurants in downtown Davis.
The splash pad typically operates during summer months (Memorial Day through Labor Day). Spring offers beautiful weather and blooming trees, while fall provides comfortable temperatures. Winter can be rainy, but the playgrounds remain open year-round during park hours.
Head to Redrum Burger just a few blocks away for juicy burgers and milkshakes, or visit Davis Commons shopping area (5-minute drive) for multiple family-friendly options including Chipotle, Panera Bread, and Cafe Bernardo.
Slide Hill Park is a Davis institution that delivers exactly what its name promises: thrilling concrete slides built right into a natural hillside that kids can ride down on cardboard. Beyond the famous slides, families will find a well-equipped playground with climbing structures, open grassy areas perfect for running around, basketball courts for older kids, and shaded picnic tables that make this an ideal spot for a neighborhood gathering or casual family afternoon.
Senda Nueva Greenbelt Play Area is a fantastic hub for active families in Davis, offering an extensive network of smooth bike paths and walking trails that connect to parks throughout the city. This well-maintained greenbelt system is ideal for teaching kids to ride bikes, enjoying nature walks, or exploring Davis's famously bike-friendly community together.
Explorit Science Center is a hidden gem in Davis that transforms science learning into hands-on fun for elementary-aged kids. With interactive exhibits that encourage touching, exploring, and experimenting, this community-focused science museum offers rotating workshops and programs that keep curious minds engaged without the overwhelming crowds of larger Bay Area museums.
This sprawling 100-acre living museum along the Putah Creek Waterway offers families an excellent introduction to native California plants and diverse ecosystems. With winding paths perfect for strollers, themed gardens that spark curiosity, and free guided tours that make learning fun, it's an ideal spot for nature-loving families to explore without the pressure of admission fees or time limits.