Planning fun things to do on your day-off can be a hit or miss in Michigan. The weather app on your phone says it will be 84 degrees and sunny the first time you check it, but in a couple hours it will show constant showers with a chance of severe storms. With such rapidly changing weather conditions, Michigan natives learn to develop several back-up plans in case their Potter Park Zoo day is rained out.
So, what do you do in mid-Michigan when the weather is too stubborn to comply with your plans?Well, don’t fear because the greater Lansing Area hosts an impressive list of options that will keep your day occupied with fun!
State Capitol Building
Why not start with Lansing’s main attraction? This award-wining building emanates Pure Michigan history and offers tours to visitors every half hour.
MSU Dairy Store
This delicious ice cream and cheese store makes its own products and is located on the beautiful Spartan campus. With ice cream favors from “Dantonio’s Double Fudge Fake” to “Badger Berry Cheesecake”, MSU dairy has a freshly churned flavor for every customer.
BAD Brewing Company
Located in the charming little town of Mason, this microbrewery offers a constant 13 beers and 1 cider on tap. Stop in for a drink on a stormy evening and fill up on snacks from the on-site food truck!
Wharton Center
This large performance venue books highly acclaimed dance companies, Broadway shows, and A-list performers for its stages. With musicals like “Mamma Mia!” and “Wicked” coming, it’s best to buy tickets soon!
Michigan Historical Museum
In four floors this Lansing Museum boasts 26 permanent exhibits that showcase Michigan’s incredible history. Examine a street scene straight out of the 1920s, walk through a Detroit Auto Show, and explore the diverse wildlife of the mitten state.
District 5
Located on Waverly road in Lansing, this Extreme Air Sports complex hosts 10,000 square feet of connected trampolines. Foam pits, Ninja obstacle courses, extreme dodgeball, and a trapeze remain only a few activities that are sure to wash away your rainy-day blues.
Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum
Explore this unique 46,000-square-foot building and take in the many contemporary exhibits. This newly constructed art museum sits on MSU’s campus and hosts sculptures crafted by international artists.
Impression 5 Science Center
This interactive and educational place is perfect for families who wish to pursue their exploration in science. Bring the kids along and have a memorable day of experimentation, hands-on exhibits, or educational programs.
R.E. Olds Transportation Museum
Travel through decades of Oldsmobile and discover the wonder behind Lansing’s automobile history. Exhibits vary from an 1886 Oldsmobile Steam Carriage, to a 1951 Oldsmobile Super 88 Four Door Sedan, to a 1995 Oldsmobile Indy Pace Car.
Turner Dodge House & Heritage Center
Grab your friends or family and tour the historic home of the Turner and Dodge families. Guests will be given the history of the families along with access to the home’s exhibits. The Heritage Center also offers a “Tours and Tea” option, where guests will be treated to tea and treats after their session.
What’s your favorite thing to do in Lansing? Share with us here at Michigan Creative!