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.
Weekday mornings (9-11am) or late afternoons in spring and fall offer the most comfortable temperatures and smaller crowds. Avoid midday summer visits when the concrete slides can get very hot and there's limited shade on the hillside.
This is a free public park with street parking available in the surrounding residential neighborhood. There are no restrooms on-site, so plan accordingly. The park is unfenced, so keep an eye on younger children.
Best during spring and fall when temperatures are moderate. Summer visits are popular but go early morning or evening as the concrete slides get extremely hot in afternoon sun. The park is open year-round, though winter visits may be muddy after rain.
Head to downtown Davis (about 2 miles away) for kid-friendly options like Burgers and Brew (great burgers and shakes) or Woodstock's Pizza (casual pizza spot with a fun atmosphere popular with families and students).
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.
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.
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.