Lansing, Michigan is filled with fun and educational activities for travelers of all ages. If you are traveling with kids, check out the state capitol building, the Michigan Historical Museum, and the Impression 5 Science Center. For adults, Lansing offers an array of art galleries, theaters, restaurants, museums, historical sites, shopping centers, and sporting events.
If you are traveling by car, Lansing is conveniently located at the intersection of I-96, I-69, and US-127. The drive takes about 90 minutes from Detroit OR 1 hour from Grand Rapids.
If you are flying in, you will land at. Capital Region International Airport (LAN).
You can also arrive by train from Chicago or Port Huron. Amtrak's Blue Water line serves Lansing-East Lansing Station.
My favorite time to visit is in the fall so that I can enjoy fall foliage while walking along the river.
I like staying at Graduate East Lansing just steps from the Michigan State University campus. Close to Old Town, I like Courtyard by Marriott Lansing Downtown. I enjoy Radisson Hotel Lansing at the Capitol for its views.
Best Things to Do in Lansing, MI
1. Tour the Michigan State Capitol and Stand Beneath the Dome of Democracy
Rating: ★★★★★
Start your visit at the Michigan State Capitol building, designed by renowned architect Elijah E. Myers
You'll be visiting a unique spot in history as this was one of the first capitol buildings in America to feature a cast iron dome in 1879.
You can walk through the building on you own or join an informative guided tour.
100 N. Capitol Avenue, Lansing, MI 48933, Phone: 517-373-2353
I had a great house made root beer at Kewpee Sandwich Shoppe nearby afterwards.
2. Dig Into the Stories That Shaped a State at the Michigan History Center
Next, get to know Michigan's past at the Michigan History Center.
Browse a gallery dedicated to the early European explorers who founded Michigan. I found the Civil War particularly interesting.
Take the kids to see Michigan's role in the Underground Railroad displayed through artifacts, written works, and paintings.
Look for costumed interpreters who teach young visitors about Michigan's interesting past.
702 West Kalamazoo Street, Lansing, MI 48915, Phone: 517-373-3559
Recommended Activities for Families
3. Meet Red Pandas and Roar with Lions at Potter Park Zoo
Take the kids to Potter Park Zoo in downtown Lansing.
You'll find it divided up into exhibits with mammals, reptiles, and birds.
I found the Red Pandas quite fascinating and I'm sure you'll have your favorite animal there.
Ask about overnight campouts if you want to do something unique with your kids.
1301 S. Pennsylvania Avenue, Lansing, MI 48912, Phone: 517-483-4222
Find it on the Map:
4. Play Your Way Through Physics at Impression 5 Science Center
Don't miss spending a few hours at Impression 5 Science Center, the best place in town to learn about science.
You'll be able to find something for all 5 senses.
Head to the chemistry lab where trained employees present entertaining workshops.
200 Museum Drive, Lansing, MI 48933, Phone: 517-485-8116
5. Celebrate Automotive Innovation at the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum
Learn about the history of cars at the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum which is filled with unique exhibits regarding the Oldsmobile, an iconic American car that began as the Oldsmobile Steam Carriage.
Admire thousands of authentic items from 1886 on, including more than 60 Oldsmobile vehicles. R.E.
I was interested to learn that R.E. Olds, an accomplished inventor and designer, also came up with plans for an engine that was eventually used in lawnmowers.
Don't miss the shop which sells all sorts of Oldsmobile memorabilia, including books, apparel, DVDs, and posters.
240 Museum Drive, Lansing, MI 48933, Phone: 517-372-0529
6. Stargaze and Explore the Cosmos at Abrams Planetarium
Next check out the Abrams Planetarium located on the campus of Michigan State University and managed by the school's Department of Physics and Astronomy. Catch one of the special shows open to the public on weekends.
During these shows, you get to sit in an auditorium with a dome-shaped ceiling and learn about stars, planets, constellations, and other celestial bodies.
After the show ends, you can view the night sky through the planetarium's high-powered telescopes if weather conditions are good.
755 Science Road, East Lansing, MI 48824, Phone: 517-355-4676
7. Go for a Walk along the Lansing River Trail
Spend some time walking along the Lansing River Trail which winds its way past 19 city and county parks, three museums, two rivers, a creek, a farmer's market, and a zoo.
It sounds like a lot, but you can actually bike or rollerblade all the way down the 13-mile trail.
Keep in mind that the trail surfaces are varied, with some paved portions as well as wooden boardwalks and bridges.
If you want to keep going, near its end, the Lansing River Trail connects with the Lansing Pathway as well as the Sycamore Trail.
I spent the night at the centrally located DoubleTree by Hilton Lansing which had comfortable rooms.
8. Catch a Minor League Ballgame at Cooley Law School Stadium
Get tickets to see the Lansing Lugnuts play at Jackson Field.
I was interested to learn that the Cooley Law School Stadium also prides itself on being one of the most accessible stadiums in the nation for people with physical disabilities.
505 E. Michigan Avenue, Lansing, MI 49812, Phone: 517-485-4500
9. Spot Wildlife at Fenner Nature Center
If you are interested in environmental conservation, don't miss a visit to the Fenner Nature Center.
Walk on four miles of trails, view all sorts of live reptiles and songbirds as well as deer and wild turkeys.
Take your kids to engage with hands-on exhibits in the visitor's center for children.
You can bring your dogs along as long as they are kept on a leash. You can visit from dawn to dusk each day.
I was hungry after all the hiking so I had great Mexican food at Taquero Mucho nearby.
2020 East Mount Hope Avenue, Lansing, MI 48910, Phone: 517-483-4224
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.10. Get to Know Lansing’s Heritage at the Turner-Dodge House
Admire Classic-Revival style of architecture at the Turner-Dodge House & Heritage Center located in a mansion that dates back to 1855.
It was one of 260 structures designed by local architect Darius B. Moon, who made a name for himself as a self-educated poet, artist, and craftsman.
The 9-acre site now contains a museum that shares the stories of important people from Lansing's past.
106 E. North Street, Lansing, MI 48910
If you have more time to explore, head to Ann Arbor just over an hour from Lansing by car.
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