ABOUT MICHIGAN
Lansing and East Lansing, Michigan
Neighbors for more than 150 years, the cities of Lansing and East Lansing are part of a thriving mid-Michigan culture. As the home of Michigan State and the capitol city, the greater Lansing area is home to a diverse population and features an eclectic mix of students and permanent residents, white and blue collar workers, and urban and rural landscapes.
Mid-Michigan is well-known for its hard-working and highly skilled workforce and is home to a variety of leading industries and resources.
Once named as one of the friendliest cities in America, the city of East Lansing is proud to be the epicenter of the Spartan nation. For more information, visit the Lansing Convention Center site.
Travel
Visitors are able to arrive in the greater Lansing area in a variety of ways. Capital City Airport has regular flights to and from the mid-Michigan area. Other airports within a 90-minute drive include those in the cities of Flint, Grand Rapids, and Detroit.
Visitors to MSU appreciate the convenience of the Amtrak train station on the west edge of campus, as well as Greyhound bus service to and from East Lansing.
Drivers can exit the interstate highway system and be on campus in fewer than five minutes.
Accomodations
The greater Lansing area features a wide variety of hotels for visitors. The Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center, located on the campus of Michigan State University, is just eight miles from the Capital City Airport, and shuttle service is available. For those renting cars or driving to the hotel, a 1,000-space attached parking garage is available on a complimentary basis to hotel guests.
Many other local hotels are located in the East Lansing and Lansing area. A list of area hotels (including rates) is provided by the MSU Controller’s Office. Hotels in the city of East Lansing are the closest to campus. Mention you are visiting MSU for the “Big Ten Rate.”
Dining and Entertainment
Mid-Michigan is home to a plethora of dining options to suit any taste. A diverse collection of restaurants includes those featuring American, Japanese, Middle Eastern, Mexican, and Italian options, among others. Located on campus, the Kellogg Hotel and Conference Center is home to the award-winning State Room restaurant.
There are many arts and entertainment destinations both on- and off-campus and all types of events and activities taking place throughout the year. Home to world-class art galleries and event venues – including the Wharton Center for Performing Arts, located on campus – as well as the Lansing Symphony Orchestra, mid-Michigan has entertainment offerings regardless of your tastes. Sports fans can enjoy MSU teams in action or catch a game at Oldsmobile Park in Lansing, home to the Lansing Lugnuts minor league baseball team.
Nightlife is plentiful. Both East Lansing and Lansing feature vibrant downtowns home to a wide variety of entertainment options. The new “Entertainment Express Trolley” shuttle provides patrons with transportation between the two cities for $1.
Michigan State is especially proud to celebrate 2007-08 as MSU's Year of Arts and Culture. The Year of Arts and Culture features performances, programs, and activities throughout the year, wrapping around all university arts and culture units and academic programs
Beyond mid-Michigan
Visitors who venture outside the boundaries of mid-Michigan will find plenty to explore within a reasonable drive. Just 90 minutes away is the city of Detroit and its many cultural, artistic, and entertainment options. With burgeoning new casinos, Detroit is undergoing a city revitalization that provides a great tourist experience. An hour to the west of mid-Michigan you’ll find Grand Rapids – Michigan’s second-largest city – and its many options for entertaining diversions.
Home to the Great Lakes, Michigan features thousands of miles of shoreline. Quaint towns along Lake Michigan offer a small-town atmosphere, complete with antique stores, small art galleries, and ice cream shops… perfect for a spending a relaxing day alongside the lake.
Venture north and you begin to experience the true beauty of Michigan. Dense forests and colorful trees occupy the landscape. Known for an active outdoor population, Michigan is highly regarded for its quality golf, hiking, biking, and hunting options. Visitors who go “up North” would be wise to consider destinations like Traverse City and Mackinaw Island – one of the gems of Michigan. For more information visit the State of Michigan tourism site.