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Davis Creamery

4.4(434 reviews)$$Ice Cream
🕑 30-45 minutes👶 Great for all ages! Toddlers (2-4) love pointing at colorful flavors through the display case, elementary-aged kids (5-12) enjoy trying unique local flavors, and teens appreciate the Instagram-worthy presentation and quality ingredients.

About

Davis Creamery is a beloved downtown ice cream destination serving premium, locally-made flavors that make the perfect reward after a day of biking or exploring Davis. With an impressive 4.4-star rating from over 400 reviews, this family-friendly shop offers a welcoming atmosphere where kids can watch their treats being scooped while parents appreciate the quality ingredients and creative seasonal flavors.

Highlights

  • Premium locally-sourced ice cream with creative seasonal flavors
  • Kid-friendly flavor options alongside adventurous choices for the whole family
  • Central downtown Davis location perfect for pairing with other activities
  • Generous portion sizes that satisfy even hungry kids
  • Outdoor seating area great for enjoying treats in nice weather

Pro Tips

  1. 1.Visit on weekday afternoons (2-4 PM) to avoid the dinner rush and secure outdoor seating more easily
  2. 2.Park at the downtown parking structures within a block,metered street parking fills quickly but the walk is short and stroller-friendly
  3. 3.Ask for sample spoons before committing to flavors, especially helpful for indecisive kids
  4. 4.Bring wet wipes or napkins for sticky hands, and consider cups over cones for younger children to minimize messes
  5. 5.Check their seasonal menu online beforehand so kids can start deciding on flavors during the drive

Best Time to Visit

Weekday afternoons between 2-4 PM offer shorter lines and easier seating. Summer evenings get crowded but have a fun, festive atmosphere if your family doesn't mind the wait. Avoid weekend evenings during UC Davis school year when students pack the shop.

What to Know

Expect to spend $6-8 per person for a generous scoop. Street parking is metered and limited, but downtown parking structures are nearby. The shop is stroller-accessible with a step-free entrance.

Seasonal Notes

Summer brings the longest lines but also the best outdoor seating weather and expanded hours. Spring and fall offer pleasant patio conditions with smaller crowds. Winter features cozy seasonal flavors like peppermint bark, though outdoor seating is less appealing.

Nearby Eats

Just steps away, Burgers and Brew offers excellent kid-friendly burgers and mac & cheese, while Sophia's Thai Kitchen has mild noodle options perfect for families wanting dinner before ice cream dessert.

More Activities Near Davis

Playground

Slide Hill Park

Free

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.

Adventure

Senda Nueva Greenbelt Play Area

4.8Free

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.

Park

Community Park

4.6Free

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.

Museum

Explorit Science Center

4.5$

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.