Things to do in Lansing MI range from exploring the impressive State Capitol and fascinating museums to walking riverside trails, discovering colourful neighbourhoods and enjoying the city’s parks and gardens.
As Michigan’s state capital, Lansing has plenty of history, but it also has a lively arts scene and lots of outdoor spaces to explore. Downtown attractions are relatively close together, while nearby Michigan State University adds even more museums, gardens and cultural attractions.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or spending a weekend here, these are 14 of the best things to do in Lansing MI.
Best Things to Do in Lansing MI at a Glance
| Attraction | Best For |
|---|---|
| Michigan State Capitol | History & architecture |
| Michigan History Center | Michigan history |
| Impression 5 Science Center | Families & rainy days |
| Old Town & REO Town | Art, shops & local culture |
| R.E. Olds Transportation Museum | Cars & automotive history |
| Abrams Planetarium | Astronomy & families |
| Lansing River Trail | Walking & cycling |
| Fenner Nature Center | Easy nature walks |
| Turner-Dodge House | Historic homes |
| Woldumar Nature Center | Trails & peaceful walks |
| W.J. Beal Botanical Garden | Gardens & a quiet escape |
| LCC Sculpture Walk | Free public art |
| Meridian Historical Village | Local history |
| Hawk Island Park | Families & outdoor fun |
14 Best Things to Do in Lansing MI
Visit the Michigan State Capitol
You cannot visit Lansing without visiting the Michigan State Capitol building. Built in 1879, it was one of the first state capitol buildings in America to feature a cast-iron dome
In 1992 the building became a National Historic Landmark and it is a very beautiful and historic building. You can take a self-guided tour or join a guided tour.
My advice is to go a bit later in the day, late afternoon if possible that way you will miss all crowds. Definitely a must on your things to do in Lansing MI itinerary.
Explore The Michigan History Center
Filled with unique exhibits that document Michigans past the History Centre is a must for those who love their history.
The museum takes you through Michigan’s history, with exhibits exploring the people, industries and events that helped shape the state. Also documented through artifacts, written works, and paintings are the underground railroad and the anti-slave movement.
And of course, it would not be complete without a nod to Michigan’s claim to fame as the nation’s hub for automobile manufacturing.
Make sure you stop in the atrium and take a look at the three-story-tall topographical map of Michigan as it really is impressive. If you have children they will also love the costumed interpreters available throughout the exhibits to bring history to life.
Explore Old Town and REO Town
If you enjoy colourful neighbourhoods, independent shops and a creative atmosphere, make time to explore Old Town and REO Town while you’re in Lansing.
Old Town is Lansing’s historic arts district, where you’ll find galleries, boutiques, colourful buildings and plenty of independent places to eat and drink. It’s a great area to wander around without needing much of a plan.
REO Town has a different character. Once home to the REO Motor Car Company, the neighbourhood mixes Lansing’s industrial past with street art, murals, local businesses and restaurants.
Both neighbourhoods offer something a little different from Lansing’s museums and major attractions and are well worth adding to your things to do in Lansing MI itinerary.
Learn At The Impression 5 Science Center
If you have children then this science center is an absolute must. It is an interactive science education facility that is way more fun than it sounds.
The exhibits here are created to engage all the five senses and there are more than a dozen stations where visitors can get hands-on experience.
Thought chemistry was boring? Think again. The chemistry lab presents entertaining workshops that will keep you gripped.
My advice is to get here as close to opening as you can that way you will be able to enjoy the exhibits at your leisure.
This is one of those fun things to do in Lansing MI on a rainy day.
Go Car Crazy at the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum
If you’re interested in cars or automotive history, the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is one of the best things to do in Lansing. The museum celebrates the legacy of Ransom E. Olds and Lansing’s important role in America’s automobile industry, with an impressive collection of historic vehicles and memorabilia.
In the museum, you will find more than 60 Oldsmobile vehicles and thousands of authentic items.
Interestingly R.E. Olds, an accomplished inventor, and designer also designed a lawnmower engine. You can find out all about this and engine design at the Lansing and Lawnmowers exhibition.
And if you are after some Oldsmobile memorabilia head to the gift shop.
Look To The Sky At Abrams Planetarium
Located on the Michigan State University campus, Abrams Planetarium is a great addition to your Lansing itinerary, especially if you’re already planning to explore the university.
On weekends the planetarium does special shows for the public. You get to sit in the auditorium with its dome ceiling and learn about the stars, planets, and constellations.
If you have never experienced one of these shows I highly recommend it. After the show ends if weather conditions are good you can view the night sky through one of the planetarium’s high-powered telescopes.
I absolutely love planetariums and this one is rather special so I highly recommend you add it to your things to do in Lansing list.
Explore The Lansing River Trail
f you enjoy exploring a city on foot or by bike, the Lansing River Trail is a great way to see a different side of Lansing.
The trail follows the Grand and Red Cedar rivers, connecting parks, neighbourhoods and many of the city’s attractions along the way. With more than 20 miles of trails to explore, you certainly don’t need to tackle the whole thing. Just choose a section that works with your plans.
Along the route, you’ll find a mixture of paved paths, wooden boardwalks and bridges, with sections taking you through wetlands and woodland as well as more urban parts of the city.
It’s a lovely way to combine sightseeing with some time outdoors and is easily one of my favourite things to do in Lansing MI if you want to explore at a slower pace.
Step Back In Time At The Turner-Dodge House & Heritage Center
Listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 1972 this mansion dates back to 1855 and has stories to tell. The house is a Classic-Revival style of architecture and in my opinion, is well worth a spot on your things to do in Lansing MI itinerary.
It was one of 260 homes built by local architect Darius B. Moon who also was a poet and artist. It was constructed for James and Marion Turner some of Lansing’s early pioneers.
The site of 9 acres tells the story of the early pioneers and is very interesting. The house is also very beautiful.
Relax at Fenner Nature Center
If you are thinking of getting away from it all then may I suggest a trip to the Fenner Nature Centre? This 134-acre park includes four miles of trails and is a great place to find a bit of solitude.
The center which educates people on the importance of environmental conservation and contains many hands-on exhibits for children.
At the visitors center, you can see all kinds of animals including reptiles, songbirds, deer, and wild turkeys.
The park is open daily from dawn to dusk and often holds events so check before you go to see if there is anything you are interested in.
Visiting and exploring the Fenner Nature Center in Lansing Michigan would make a wonderful Midwest weekend getaway!
Find Solitude At Woldumar Nature Center
For another peaceful escape from the city, head to Woldumar Nature Center. The 178-acre nature preserve has miles of trails through woodland, prairie and along the Grand River, making it a lovely place for walking throughout the year
This 178-acre-park includes one of the oldest homes in the county, Moon Log Cabin which sounds very romantic and whimsical. The park also has an over a mile stretch against the scenic grand river.
Another great place to get away from it all for a while.
Wander Through W.J. Beal Botanical Garden
For something a little quieter, spend some time exploring W.J. Beal Botanical Garden on the Michigan State University campus.
Established in 1873, it is the oldest continuously operated university botanical garden in the United States and contains more than 2,000 different plants from around the world.
The garden sits beside the Red Cedar River, making it a lovely place to wander between some of the other attractions on the MSU campus. You can explore the different plant collections, follow the paths or simply find somewhere to sit and enjoy the surroundings.
Best of all, the garden is free to visit and open year-round from sunrise to sunset, so it’s an easy addition to your Lansing itinerary.
Discover the Lansing Community College Sculpture Walk
For a free dose of public art, wander around the Lansing Community College campus and discover its collection of outdoor sculptures. The artworks are spread throughout the campus, so you can explore them at your own pace while seeing another side of downtown Lansing.
Here you will find nearly 30 unique sculptures by various artists. The sculptures are designed by the staff, students, and alumni.
The most iconic of the pieces been a 30-foot-tall red ribbon located at the Arts & Science Building and a collection of massive number two pencils that sit outside of the Early Learning Children’s Community building.
All areas where the sculptures are are open to the public and you are free to come and go as you please.
Step Back in Time at Meridian Historical Village
Just outside Lansing in Okemos, Meridian Historical Village is a collection of beautifully preserved historic buildings that offer a glimpse into what life was like in the area in the 19th century.
You can see historic homes and shops, an old schoolhouse and a picture-perfect white chapel, all set within Central Park. It’s a lovely little place to explore if you enjoy local history and historic buildings.
Hang Out At Hawk Island Park
With a name like Hawk Island, how could you not pay this place a visit? The park includes a 1 ½ mile trail, a beach for swimming, a splash pad, a picnic area, and a fishing dock. It’s a place for the whole family to enjoy.
And if that wasn’t enough there is a store, concession stands a game area, and a playground, you may never need to leave.
In the winter the park turns into a tubing and sledding paradise.
If you are looking for a worthy Michigan road trip, this is certainly it!
There are so many things to do in Lansing MI, whether you’re interested in history, art, science or simply want to spend some time outdoors.
What I like about Lansing is the variety. You can tour the Michigan State Capitol in the morning, explore museums and creative neighbourhoods, walk beside the river or escape into one of the city’s beautiful green spaces.
Whether you’re visiting for a day or spending a weekend here, I hope this guide helps you make the most of your time in Michigan’s capital.
If you looking for restaurants in Lansing I have an article on that too !
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