East Lansing MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near East Lansing, Michigan.
1. Michigan State University
EDUCATIONAL EXCELLENCE AWAITS
Michigan State University offers visitors a sprawling campus with beautiful grounds perfect for running, biking, or simply enjoying the scenery. The university boasts numerous points of interest including Beal Botanical Gardens and Sanford Natural Area that showcase the natural beauty of the region. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the 70,000-capacity stadium where the Spartans play their home games.
2. Wharton Center for Performing Arts
PREMIER CULTURAL DESTINATION
The Wharton Center for Performing Arts stands as Michigan's premiere performing arts venue located on the Michigan State University campus. Visitors can enjoy a diverse lineup of broadway shows, jazz performances, dance exhibitions, and other cultural events throughout the year. The center provides a sophisticated entertainment experience that draws both locals and tourists seeking quality performances in East Lansing.
3. Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum
CONTEMPORARY ART SHOWCASE
The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum is a contemporary art museum featuring cutting-edge exhibitions from around the world. Located on the Michigan State University campus, the museum's distinctive architecture is as impressive as the artwork housed within its walls. Visitors can experience thought-provoking installations, paintings, sculptures, and multimedia works that challenge perspectives and inspire conversation.
4. Michigan State University Horticultural Gardens
BOTANICAL PARADISE EXPERIENCE
Michigan State University Horticultural Gardens feature several distinct garden areas scattered throughout the campus, offering visitors a chance to explore diverse plant collections. The J.W. Beale garden displays plants in four main themed areas, creating a peaceful retreat for nature lovers and horticulture enthusiasts alike. Each garden showcases different botanical specimens, providing educational opportunities and serene settings for reflection throughout the seasons.
5. Abrams Planetarium
CELESTIAL WONDERS REVEALED
Abrams Planetarium offers visitors a chance to explore the cosmos through engaging public shows on Friday and Saturday evenings, plus two Sunday afternoon presentations. The facility provides immersive astronomical experiences that captivate audiences of all ages with stunning visuals of stars, planets, and distant galaxies. Visitors consistently find the planetarium well worth the trip to East Lansing for its educational value and awe-inspiring celestial displays.
6. 4-H Children's Garden
EDUCATIONAL GARDEN ADVENTURE
The 4-H Children's Garden provides an interactive and educational outdoor space where young visitors are the primary focus of the experience. Children were actually involved in planning the 60 small, themed gardens that make up this unique attraction, giving it special appeal to young explorers. Each themed garden area offers hands-on learning opportunities about plants, nature, and environmental stewardship in a fun, engaging setting.
7. Spartan Stadium
LEGENDARY SPORTS VENUE
Spartan Stadium stands as an iconic sports venue hosting Michigan State University's football games and other major events. The stadium features impressive amenities including connected monitors framing the north side that provide cool visual designs and accents during games. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the electric atmosphere when the Spartans take the field, making it a must-visit destination for college football fans.
8. Family Aquatic Center
SPLASHING SUMMER FUN
The Family Aquatic Center offers an interactive outdoor water experience designed with families in mind, providing a safe and enjoyable aquatic environment. Visitors can enjoy thrilling features including a 190-foot tube water slide, 140-foot body water slide, splash park, drop slide, diving board, youth frog slide, and numerous interactive water-play structures. The center creates the perfect summer destination for cooling off and creating lasting memories with family and friends.
9. East Lansing Film Festival
CINEMATIC ARTS CELEBRATION
The East Lansing Film Festival stands as Michigan's largest and second oldest film festival, bringing cinematic excellence to the region. The festival screens independent and foreign feature films, documentaries, shorts, and student films from around the world, offering a diverse program for film enthusiasts. Attendees can experience unique storytelling perspectives and often participate in discussions with filmmakers during this celebrated cultural event.
10. Public Art Gallery
COMMUNITY ARTISTIC EXPRESSION
The Public Art Gallery, located on the second floor of the East Lansing Hannah Community Center, showcases visual arts through rotating exhibitions throughout the year. The gallery aims to introduce new cultural ideas and provide meaningful personal experiences with visual art for community members and visitors alike. Artists from various backgrounds display their work in this accessible space, creating a vibrant cultural resource that enriches the East Lansing arts scene.
11. Shopping
RETAIL THERAPY DESTINATION
Downtown East Lansing offers a diverse shopping experience with numerous locally-owned boutiques and specialty stores catering to various tastes and interests. Visitors can browse through fashion retailers, bookshops, gift stores, and Michigan State University merchandise outlets throughout the charming district. The pedestrian-friendly layout makes for a pleasant shopping excursion, allowing shoppers to discover unique items while enjoying the collegiate atmosphere of this university town.
12. Dining
CULINARY DELIGHTS ABOUND
East Lansing's dining scene offers a global culinary journey with noteworthy establishments like the MSU Dairy Store, Swagath Indian Cuisine, and HopCat representing just a sample of the diverse options available. Visitors can indulge in everything from casual American pub fare at Crunchy's to sophisticated contemporary cuisine at the State Room Restaurant. The university town atmosphere ensures a mix of affordable student favorites alongside more upscale dining experiences to satisfy any palate.
13. Hiking
NATURAL EXPLORATION PATHS
Hiking enthusiasts visiting East Lansing can explore the natural beauty of the region through the city's network of scenic trails and pathways. The Michigan State University campus offers several nature areas including Sanford Natural Area, providing peaceful woodland walks among native Michigan flora and fauna. Nearby parks and preserves extend the hiking options, allowing visitors to connect with nature while enjoying the fresh air and exercise in various outdoor settings.
14. Fishing
ANGLER'S PEACEFUL RETREAT
Fishing opportunities near East Lansing allow anglers to enjoy the serene waters of nearby lakes, ponds, and the Red Cedar River that flows through the Michigan State University campus. Visitors can try their luck catching various freshwater species while enjoying the tranquil natural surroundings away from the bustle of campus and city life. Both novice and experienced fishermen appreciate the accessible fishing spots that provide a chance to connect with nature while pursuing this relaxing outdoor activity.
15. Camping
OUTDOOR ADVENTURE GETAWAY
The greater East Lansing area offers camping enthusiasts several options for overnight outdoor adventures within a short drive of the city center. Campers can enjoy facilities ranging from rustic sites to those with modern amenities, providing a perfect base for exploring the natural beauty of Michigan's landscapes. The camping experience allows visitors to disconnect from the urban environment and enjoy stargazing, campfires, and the peaceful atmosphere of Michigan's outdoor spaces.