Lansing, MI

Highlights:

If you love architecture and American history, visiting the Michigan State Capitol is a must. It’s a beautifully preserved landmark where every hallway echoes stories from the past.

Recommended For:

History buffs, architecture enthusiasts, school groups, and curious travelers exploring Michigan’s capital.

What we Love:

The grandeur of its cast iron dome, historic artwork, and the blend of 19th-century charm with modern educational tours.

• Learn about the building’s designer, renowned architect Elijah E. Myers, who created several other capitols across the U.S.
• Explore one of the earliest American capitol buildings to feature a cast iron dome, completed in 1879.
• Appreciate the results of its 1992 restoration and designation as a National Historic Landmark.
• See the refreshed exterior thanks to updates completed in 2015.
• Join a guided tour or enjoy a self-guided walk through over a century of state history.
• Visit with over 115,000 annual guests who stop by for tours, events, and photo ops.

Cost:

Free to enter and tour.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for mild weather and scenic downtown walks.

Local tips:

Check the official website for tour times and closures due to legislative sessions.

How to Get to the Michigan State Capitol:

Take I-96 west from Detroit, then merge onto I-496 west toward downtown Lansing. Exit at Pine Street, head north, and follow signs to Capitol Avenue.

Address:

100 N. Capitol Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933
Phone: 517-373-2353

Highlights:

If you’re curious about Michigan’s past and want a fun way to dive into history, the Michigan History Center is a fantastic place to start. It’s packed with stories, artifacts, and even costumed interpreters that bring the state’s history to life.

Recommended For:

Families, history lovers, educators, and anyone wanting to understand Michigan's cultural roots.

What we Love:

The immersive Underground Railroad gallery, the giant three-story map, and the nostalgic 1950s auto display.

• Discover unique exhibits that trace Michigan’s past from early European exploration to modern times.
• See mementos in the Civil War exhibit and artifacts from the Underground Railroad and anti-slavery movement.
• Experience the 1950s gallery featuring Michigan’s boom as the heart of U.S. auto manufacturing.
• Marvel at the three-story topographical map of the state in the museum’s atrium.
• Engage with costumed interpreters who make history exciting for kids and adults alike.

Cost:

$8 for adults; $5 for seniors, students, and kids; free for children under 6.

Best time to visit:

Year-round, especially on weekends for special programs and events.

Local tips:

Don’t miss the interactive sections for kids—perfect for hands-on learning.

How to Get to the Michigan History Center:

Take I-96 west from Detroit. Merge onto I-496 west and take the Martin Luther King Jr. Blvd exit. Head north to Kalamazoo Street—parking is nearby.

Address:

702 West Kalamazoo Street, Lansing, MI 48915
Phone: 517-373-3559

Recommended Activities for Families

Highlights:

Looking for a fun day out that’s both wild and educational? The Potter Park Zoo in Lansing is a great stop for animal lovers and families alike.

Recommended For:

Families, kids, school groups, and anyone passionate about animals and conservation.

What we Love:

Its commitment to endangered species, hands-on educational programs, and family-friendly events throughout the year.

• Explore a 20-acre zoo in the heart of Lansing featuring over 160 animal species.
• Visit themed exhibits that showcase mammals, reptiles, and birds from around the world.
• Support conservation efforts for endangered animals like Amur Tigers, Red Pandas, and Snow Leopards.
• Join engaging educational programs and seasonal events that connect guests with wildlife.
• Bring the kids to summer camps, overnight campouts, and field trips designed just for them.
• Enjoy the zoo any time of year—open daily, year-round.

Cost:

Adults $8–$15; children $5–$10; discounted rates for residents and members.

Best time to visit:

Spring and early fall for pleasant weather and active animals.

Local tips:

Check their calendar for themed weekends, Boo at the Zoo, and Zoo Nights!

How to Get to Potter Park Zoo:

From Detroit, take I-96 W to I-496 W toward Lansing. Exit at Pennsylvania Avenue and head south to the zoo entrance.

Address:

1301 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lansing, MI 48912
Phone: 517-483-4222

Highlights:

Want to make science seriously fun? The Impression 5 Science Center is packed with hands-on exhibits and sensory experiences perfect for kids—and adults who still love to explore.

Recommended For:

Families, school groups, curious kids, and anyone who enjoys interactive learning.

What we Love:

The sensory-based exhibits, lively chemistry demos, and birthday party rentals that turn science into a celebration.

• Discover over a dozen hands-on exhibits across a spacious 25,000-square-foot interactive area.
• Explore stations built to engage all five senses, sparking imagination and curiosity.
• Visit the chemistry lab where trained staff deliver exciting science experiments and demonstrations.
• Join educational programs like summer camps, overnight stays, and field trips for schools.
• Host unforgettable birthday parties and special events right inside the science center.
• Connect with more than 120,000 annual visitors who make science a family tradition.

Cost:

Adults $10; children $8; discounts available for members and groups.

Best time to visit:

Weekday mornings for smaller crowds; summer for full programming.

Local tips:

Stop by the gift shop for cool science kits and kid-friendly souvenirs!

How to Get to Impression 5 Science Center:

From Detroit, take I-96 W to I-496 W toward Lansing. Exit at Museum Drive and follow signs to the science center parking area.

Address:

200 Museum Drive, Lansing, MI 48933
Phone: 517-485-8116

Highlights:

If you love classic cars or Michigan’s industrial heritage, the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is an absolute gem. It's a walk through American automotive history, from steam carriages to muscle cars.

Recommended For:

Car enthusiasts, history buffs, collectors, and anyone fascinated by transportation and innovation.

What we Love:

Rare Oldsmobiles, quirky engines, and a gift shop packed with nostalgic finds.

• Explore exhibits dedicated to the evolution of the Oldsmobile, starting from the Oldsmobile Steam Carriage.
• See over 60 authentic Oldsmobiles and thousands of artifacts dating back to 1886.
• Learn about R.E. Olds—the inventive mind behind the brand and the engine designs that later powered lawnmowers.
• Visit the Lansing and Lawnmowers exhibit to understand how local innovation reached American backyards.
• Shop for Oldsmobile memorabilia like books, posters, and DVDs at the on-site store.

Cost:

$10 for adults; $7 for seniors and students; free for children under 6.

Best time to visit:

Weekdays for quiet browsing or event weekends for themed gatherings.

Local tips:

Don’t miss the gift shop—it's a haven for car lovers and collectors.

How to Get to the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum:

Take I-96 W to I-496 W toward downtown Lansing. Use the Museum Drive exit and follow signs—parking is available on-site.

Address:

240 Museum Drive, Lansing, MI 48933
Phone: 517-372-0529

Highlights:

If you're fascinated by the stars or just want a fun weekend activity, the Abrams Planetarium is the perfect place to look up and learn. It’s a cozy space center with stellar shows that light up the dome and your imagination.

Recommended For:

Families, astronomy fans, school groups, and anyone curious about space and science.

What we Love:

Dome-ceiling shows, public telescope nights, and the planetarium’s strong connection to MSU’s physics program.

• Experience immersive space shows under a dome-shaped auditorium ceiling.
• Attend weekend public shows featuring stars, constellations, planets, and celestial storytelling.
• Join school group visits during weekdays—great for students of all ages.
• Learn from MSU's Department of Physics and Astronomy team, who manage and narrate each show.
• View the night sky through powerful telescopes after evening shows (weather permitting).

Cost:

$4.50 for children; $5.50 for students and seniors; $6.50 for adults.

Best time to visit:

Evenings for shows and telescope use; weekends for public programming.

Local tips:

Arrive early to grab the best seat in the dome—and check their calendar for themed shows.

How to Get to Abrams Planetarium:

Take I-96 W to I-496 W. Exit at Trowbridge Road and head east into MSU’s campus. Follow signs to Science Road and look for nearby parking.

Address:

755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI 48824
Phone: 517-355-4676

Highlights:

If you’re up for a scenic walk, ride, or roll through the heart of Lansing, the Lansing River Trail is a local favorite. It’s a peaceful path with city views, nature pockets, and plenty of spots to stop and explore.

Recommended For:

Walkers, runners, cyclists, families, and outdoor lovers of all ages.

What we Love:

Urban-meets-nature vibes, trail connections to museums and markets, and the calm of wetlands and wooded sections.

• Travel along a 13-mile scenic route that winds through parks, rivers, and cultural landmarks.
• Enjoy access to 19 parks, 3 museums, 2 rivers, a creek, a farmer's market, and a zoo.
• Move freely on a mix of paved trails, wooden boardwalks, and bridges.
• Explore the first sections for shops, restaurants, and art galleries along the way.
• Experience the newest stretch through wetlands and woodlands, perfect for spotting wildlife.
• Connect to the Lansing Pathway and Sycamore Trail for even more adventure.

Cost:

Free and open to the public.

Best time to visit:

Spring through fall for vibrant foliage and comfortable weather.

Local tips:

Bring water and a camera—there are photo-worthy river views around nearly every bend.

How to Get to the Lansing River Trail:

Take I-96 W to I-496 W and exit at Pennsylvania Avenue or Museum Drive. Multiple access points and parking options are available along the route.

Address:

Lansing River Trail, Lansing, MI

Attractions for Couples

Highlights:

If you're up for a night of affordable, family-friendly fun, catch a game at Jackson Field. It’s the heart of Lansing’s sports scene and home to the beloved Lansing Lugnuts.

Recommended For:

Baseball fans, families, date nights, and anyone looking for a lively summer outing.

What we Love:

The energy of minor league games, local pride in its construction, and the accessibility for all fans.

• Watch the Lansing Lugnuts play at their home stadium, built in 1996 by local contractors.
• Appreciate the effort—over 60,000 hours of labor went into building this downtown ballpark.
• Enjoy 20 luxury suites, six full-service concession stands, and premium views throughout the stadium.
• Shop year-round at "Nuts and Bolts", the official Lansing Lugnuts team store.
• Access the stadium with ease—it's known as one of the most accessible venues in the country for fans with physical disabilities.

Cost:

Tickets typically range from $10–$20 depending on seating and game promotions.

Best time to visit:

Summer evenings for fireworks nights, themed games, and great weather.

Local tips:

Arrive early to snag street parking and enjoy pre-game food trucks or downtown eats.

How to Get to Jackson Field:

From Detroit, take I-96 W to I-496 W toward Lansing. Exit at Grand Avenue, then head to E. Michigan Avenue—Jackson Field is right downtown.

Address:

505 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 49812
Phone: 517-485-4500

Highlights:

If you need a peaceful escape into nature without leaving the city, Fenner Nature Center is a hidden gem. It’s a welcoming place where families, hikers, and nature lovers can explore trails, spot wildlife, and just slow down.

Recommended For:

Families, hikers, wildlife watchers, and anyone seeking a quiet natural retreat.

What we Love:

Wooded trails, live animal exhibits, kid-friendly activities, and a deep commitment to conservation.

• Wander through 134 acres of nature with over four miles of scenic trails.
• Visit the visitor’s center for a close-up look at reptiles, songbirds, deer, and wild turkeys.
• Engage young minds with interactive exhibits tailored for kids and families.
• Participate in school programs, scouting activities, and seasonal public events.
• Bring your furry friend—leashed pets are welcome on the trails.
• Enjoy year-round access, with the park open from dawn to dusk every day.

Cost:

Free admission; donations encouraged to support conservation programs.

Best time to visit:

Fall for foliage, spring for wildflowers, and anytime for a relaxing nature walk.

Local tips:

Bring binoculars—it's a great spot for casual birdwatching and nature photography.

How to Get to Fenner Nature Center:

From Detroit, take I-96 W to I-496 W. Exit at Pennsylvania Avenue, then turn onto East Mount Hope Avenue—Fenner will be on your right.

Address:

2020 East Mount Hope Avenue, Lansing, MI 48910
Phone: 517-483-4224

Highlights:

Want to step into the past without leaving town? The Turner-Dodge House & Heritage Center offers a beautiful, historic escape into Lansing’s earliest days.

Recommended For:

History lovers, architecture buffs, local culture explorers, and anyone who appreciates preserved heritage homes.

What we Love:

The elegant Classic-Revival design, the fascinating exhibits on Lansing’s founders, and the peaceful 9-acre setting.

• Tour a Classic-Revival mansion built in 1855 for early Lansing pioneers James and Marion Turner.
• Admire the work of Darius B. Moon, a celebrated local architect known for crafting over 260 buildings.
• Explore rooms filled with stories and exhibits from Lansing’s historical figures.
• Stroll the 9-acre site, a quiet and green heritage space just minutes from downtown.
• Appreciate its official status—listed on the National Register of Historic Places since 1972.

Cost:

Admission is typically $5–$10; check for guided tour or event pricing.

Best time to visit:

Spring and fall for garden views, or during special event weekends and guided tours.

Local tips:

Call ahead—hours vary, and it’s worth catching a guided tour for deeper stories and insights.

How to Get to Turner-Dodge House:

Take I-96 W to I-496 W. Exit at Grand Avenue and head north. Follow local signs to E. North Street—the house sits near the river in historic Lansing.

Address:

106 E. North Street, Lansing, MI 48910