20 Attractions to Explore Near Michigan State University

The Wharton Center for Performing Arts is one of the premier performing arts venues in the midwest. Established in 1982, this multi-purpose theatre has hosted some of the world's greatest artists and entertainers, including concerts by Tony Bennett and Yo-Yo Ma. A leader in educational programming, the Wharton Center hosts workshops and seminars for students of all ages throughout the year. Featuring two signature performance spaces and meeting facilities.

Abrams Planetarium is a great place to learn about astronomy. Situated on the campus of Michigan State University, the facility offers light shows and educational events throughout the year. Visitors can explore amazing full-dome planetarium presentations, view stars and planets with expert guidance from knowledgeable staff, attend lectures, take part in interactive experiences - including robotics workshops and more!

Munn Ice Arena has been a haven for aspiring hockey players since opening its doors in 1974. Named after legendary Spartan Hockey Coach, Amo Bessone, it is situated on the campus of Michigan State University and plays each home game on their state of the art ice rink. Not only do they offer youth leagues such as hockey or figure skating but also a variety of adult programs from pickup games to full-scale tournaments.

The Breslin Center is a multi-purpose arena located on the campus of Michigan State University. With a seating capacity of 14,759 people, the facility holds multiple events throughout the year including concerts, boxing matches, conventions and basketball games. It is home to MSU's men's and women's basketball teams, commonly known as the Spartans. The center was opened in 1989 and has seen numerous renovations over the years.

Crego Park is a 220-acre park featuring camping, picnicking, a beach area, nature trails and fishing. There's also an disc golf course for players to enjoy. The park includes 4 lakes including Crego Lake that's perfect for kayakers and canoeists. A playground overlooks the lake, providing a scenic backdrop for activities such as flying kites and playing catch. For campers looking to stay the night there are both tent and RV sites as well as cabin rentals.

The W. J. Beal Botanical Garden is a spectacular place to explore the lush beauty of nature. With over 13 acres of natural wetlands, prairies, and deciduous forests, visitors can find countless trails that are easy on the feet, as well as a boardwalk and bridge spanning a nature preserve. People who visit can witness exotic plants, trees, and flowers that are not found in any other region at home. There's even an observatory garden where visitors can observe nocturnal migratory birds.

The MSU Museum is an amazing cultural and educational resource. It's filled with history, science, and art exhibits relevant to the local area. The museum offers a wide array of special events perfect for families and adults alike. Visitors can get an up-close look at fossils, artifacts from Native American and African American cultures, natural wildlife, dinosaur remains, and much more. It also plays host to exciting lectures and talks from experts in various fields related to its collections.

The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum is a must-see destination for anyone looking to experience incredible art. The museum features artwork from around the globe as well as exciting installations from up-and-coming local artists. Much of their collection focuses on modern and contemporary pieces, with works by internationally renowned pop artist Andy Warhol and post-impressionist Paul Gauguin prominently displayed.

Potter Park Zoo is a paradise for wildlife and nature lovers alike. Spanning 43 acres of land and home to over 200 species ranging from African lions to Asian elephants and more, the Zoo offers a unique experience. With a spacious Nature Center and Wildlife Museum, nature enthusiasts can discover the beauty of wild animals while learning about them in an interactive setting.

Ferguson Park is a serene piece of nature, ideal for getting away from the hustle and bustle of city life. The park offers camp sites and access to nearby lakes, so that visitors can enjoy canoeing or fishing trips during their stay. There are wooded trails available for hiking and some areas suitable for cycling, as well as a designated spot for bird watching. Through special events the park also sponsors educational programming about the environment.

Patriarche Park is a park full of adventure and fun for the whole family. Nestled in the scenic Ingham County countryside, the park offers a variety of activities including hiking trails, mountain biking trails, and fishing spots around its beautiful lake. For families looking to enjoy a day outdoors together, Patriarche Park has something for everyone: from volleyball courts and horseshoe pits to playgrounds, picnic areas, and pavilions.

The Red Cedar River is a beautiful, meandering tributary located in Ingham County, Michigan. At approximately 116 miles long, the Red Cedar winds through open fields and wooded areas, connecting the Huron and Grand Rivers along the way. Many people enjoy recreational activities such as fishing and boat tours along the river. Springtime is particularly lovely with its sandy banks, while summer sunsets can be breathtaking as they cast a golden glow across the water's surface.

Granger Meadows Park, is a stunning natural paradise. It covers more than 25 acres of woodlands and boasts an impressive lineup of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Spanning two miles in length, the park offers picnic spots, several playgrounds and even a disc golf course with 18 clear holes. Family-friendly trails are easy to access and perfect for biking or hiking through the park's wildflowers and marshlands.

Valhalla Park is a picturesque destination perfect for any outdoor lover. Located just outside of Lansing, the park covers nearly 250 acres and is home to an array of nature trails that wind through the stunning forests and wetlands. There are several leisure activities on offer, including fishing, swimming and boating on the park's two lakes. Kayak rentals available make it easy to explore the waters by foot or boat. Birdwatchers can also enjoy a trip here.

The R.E. Olds Transportation Museum offers a fascinating look at history through the eyes of transportation. With more than 300 vehicles and artifacts on display, the museum explores the unique stories of the successes and failures of those daring to go where no one had gone before. From an exact replica of an original Oldsmobile Curved Dash from 1901 to modern cars from the 1950's, visitors will discover hundreds of years of automotive history in one place.

Jackson Field is an impressive venue for sporting events. Located within the sprawling grounds of the historic Michigan State Fairgrounds, it boasts an elegant grandstand and open air seating for up to 7,500 people. It also features a wealth of amenities, including intimate concourse areas, expansive concession stands, state-of-the-art lighting and sound systems, full scoreboards with real-time statistics and much more.

Impression 5 Science Center, is an award-winning science center designed to provide hands-on educational fun for kids of all ages. With more than 140 interactive exhibits, visitors can explore and learn about topics such as energy and forces, the solar system, sound and light, microscopy and much more. Educational classes, summer camps and birthday parties are also offered year-round. In addition to its educational offerings,Impression 5 hosts an array of social events.

The Lansing River Trail is an impressive and beautifully maintained 4.5-mile trail that both locals and visitors can enjoy. This picturesque waterfront route follows the Grand River for two miles, and passes through a number of charming parks including Adado Riverfront Park, Moore’s Park, Hawk Island Park, and Fitch Park. Along with providing plenty of outdoor activities such as walking, running, biking, and kayaking/canoeing, the trail also boasts some amazing wildlife observation spots.

Moores Park is a vibrant piece of parks and recreational infrastructure, offering outdoor amenities such as picnicking spots, fishing spots along the Red Cedar River and shady trails perfect for an afternoon stroll or jog. After exploring the outdoors, you can head indoors to enjoy the game rooms complete with ping-pong tables and arcade games for all ages. It also offers supportive programs such as youth camps, community development classes and live music performances.

Boji Tower, is a stunning example of 19th-century architecture. Sitting atop an old hill near Lake Lansing Park, the 40-foot limestone tower was built by a local resident in 1879 to provide visitors with panoramic views of the park and surrounding areas. The tower receives its name from William Boji’s original purchase of the 160-acre plot which would eventually become Lake Lansing Park. Today, Boji Tower stands as a tribute to this man's legacy and as a popular tourist destination in itself.