Cow town? Davis is more like bike, art, or cyclotron town - Davis, California

The 2-mile-long University Arboretum follows the arc of Putah Creek, on the main campus's south side; paved paths run its full length. Shields Grove, at the main campus's southwest end (see map), features droughttolerant but far-from-dull plants.

For self-guiding walks and brochures (some free, some about $), stop by arboretum headquarters; hours are 8 to 5 weekdays (closed noon to 1). Guided 1 1/2-hour walks (topics change weekly) are offered Sundays at 2; call 75 2-2498 for details.

Performances. UCD always has plenty of entertainment. October events include the Boston Chamber Music Society and Ballet Hispanico of New York. For details, call 752-2523 between 8 and 5 weekdays. For a list of all 1988-89 events, write to UC Davis, Committee for Arts and Lectures, 104 Freeborn Hall, Davis 95616.

A trio of galleries. The Richard L. Nelson Gallery (125 Art Building, Room 124, open noon to 5 weekdays and 2 to 5 Sundays) displays items from the university's fine arts collection.

Native American beadwork, basketry, and pottery fill the CN. Gorman Museum (Temporary Building 111; open 1 to 5 weekdays). Contemporary works are also on display.

Professional and student artists show their works in the Memorial Union Art Gallery (on the union's second floor, open 9 to 5 weekdays, 2 to 5 Sundays).

Veterinary facility. In this pod of blueroofed buildings, students at the state's only veterinary teaching hospital work on everything from iguanas to thoroughbreds. Tours run Saturday mornings, October through May. Call 752-1507 two weeks ahead for required reservations.

Quickie classes. Tap into UCD's resources by taking a one-day workshop or weekend seminar through University Extension; it offers dozens of classes year-round. For a free catalog (includes descriptions, fees, and enrollment information), call (800) 7520881 during business hours,

Farm critters. Get your fill of oinks, moos, and baas at various facilities. Look around outside the hog, sheep, dairy, and horse barns, and you're likely to see the university's four-legged residents.

Championship football Catch the Aggies at Toomey Field (see map) on September 24, October 15 or 29, or November 12; all games are at 7 Pm., except at I on October 29. Davis's team has won more consecutive conference titles (17) than any other in the country Ticket prices range from $1.50 for children to $7.50 adults; call 752-1915 between 9 and 4 weekdays. Meals, B & Bs, bikes You'll find plenty of informal, inexpensive eateries in this college town; one of our favorites is The Mustard Seed, at 231 G Street; it's open 11 to 5 daily.

For more formal dining, try Colette (802 Second Street), featuring seasonal foods in a creative menu. Reservations are advised; 758-3377. Michele's (409 Second Street; 756-5591) serves good country French fare. Try the local Tremont wines; the vineyard's Carmine, from a new genetic cross, is especially good. Both places serve lunch and dinner daily.

For dessert, beeline for Colleen's Creamery (Third and A streets).