Vibrant green landscapes, pleasantly warm temperatures and throaty bird choruses combine to create an irresistible call to head outside and experience spring firsthand. I answered that summons recently by heading to Davis, where a variety of enjoyable activities awaited me.

I began my trek in the heart of downtown Davis at Central Park on C Street, which was teeming with likeminded people embracing the beauty of the season. Live music greeted my husband and me as we strolled through the bustling Farmer’s Market. The many stalls boasted an abundance of locally grown produce, a vast array of handcrafted items and much more. The market is open year ’round on Wednesday evenings and Saturday mornings. Click here for the times. While you’re there, don’t miss the Central Park Gardens, which are putting on quite a show.

Being a history buff, I popped into the Hattie Weber Museum, located at the northeast corner of the park in a historic building that served as Davis’s library from 1911 to 1969. Named after the town’s first paid librarian, the museum includes exhibits that outline the history of Davis, from the coming of the railroad and the founding of the university to the history of the library itself. Originally located on F Street, the building was purchased by the city and moved to C Street in 1969.

No trip to Davis is complete without a meal at Crepeville, located just south of Central Park. I was introduced to this popular restaurant when our daughter attended UC Davis. As is often the case, the place was packed. It’s easy to see why. The crepes, sandwiches, salads and other offerings are delicious. I savored every bite of my Salsa crepe.

Sated after our tasty lunch, my husband and I prepared for dessert. No, not ice cream or chocolate. Instead of consuming more calories, we expended them at one of our favorite places: the UC Davis Arboretum and Public Garden, located at the southern edge of the UC Davis campus. The over 100-acre grounds are always open, and parking is free on weekends. The main trail through the Arboretum is stroller and wheelchair friendly.

Prepare for a treat as you amble along the Arboretum’s pathways. One beautiful view after another awaits you. Many trees, shrubs and flowers have burst into bloom, creating a feast for the eyes. Squirrels dart across the trail, skittering up nearby trunks. Ducks can be seen sleeping on logs floating in the waterway, alongside turtles contentedly sunning themselves.

A trip to Davis is a wonderful springtime destination, one I highly recommend. I hope you enjoy yours!