Greater Lansing Michigan
Be A Tourist in Your Own Town
Welcome to Be A Tourist In Your Own Town - June 1, 2013

Nineteen years ago, the Greater Lansing Convention and Visitors Bureau created this event to increase community awareness of our attractions and the tourism industry's impact on the area. So once again we open the doors for you to explore what's in your own backyard, right here in Mid-Michigan.

Did you know, over 4.7 million people visit Greater Lansing each year and spend over $424 million on lodging, meals, entertainment, and transportation?

How it works:
For only $1 you can purchase a "Be A Tourist Passport" which grants you FREE admission to more than 60 area attractions, local businesses and special activities on June 1, 2013, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
**Ages 3 and under do not require a passport.

Get from place to place with CATA
For only 50 cents (exact change, please) you will receive a boarding pass which will allow you to ride the Be A Tourist routes for the rest of the day with no extra charge.

New for 2013 - Be A Tourist Check-in Challenge
Be A Tourist In Your Own Town introduces a new element for 2013! The ‘Be A Tourist Check-in Challenge’ – a GPS-based scavenger hunt. The challenge kicks off Saturday, June 1st at 10 a.m., and features all of the participating Be A Tourist locations listed in this passport. Challengers will have until 5 p.m. on Saturday to check in and earn points for a chance to win fantastic prizes.Use your GPS-enabled Droid or iPhone to check in at specified locations via a photo hint and earn 100 points for each location visited.Once all the scores are submitted and tallied, prizes will be awarded to the top-three participants based on total points earned. In the case of a tie, winners will be drawn at random. Prizes include:


Check-in Challenge Prizes

Pointillism
The winners will be announced on the GLCVB website and Facebook pages, Be A Tourist Facebook page, and Twitter on Monday, June 3rd.To participate, download the Pointillism app from Google Play or the iTunes App Store; sign up and choose Be A Tourist In Your Own Town from the ‘Available Hunts’ list.
Tweeting about Be A Tourist
Be A Tourist Tweets

Twitter Logo 50x50Check out our Be A Tourist Twitter Feeds

Passport Selling Locations
AAA on Grand River Ave. Arts Council of Greater Lansing Burgdorf's Winery
CATA Transportation Center Celebration Cinema Greater Lansing Visitor Center - Lansing
Greater Lansing Visitors Center - East Lansing Impression 5 Science Center Lansing Art Gallery
Lansing City Market NCG Cinemas Preuss Pets
State Capitol Building Van Atta's  
2013 Attractions

The following is an alphabetical summary of FREE activities for this years event!

Stamp Locations


A | B | C | D | E | F | G | H | I | J | K | L | M | N | O | P | Q | R | S | T | U | V | W | X | Y | Z
On the campus of Michigan State University

Absolute Gallery 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
307 E. Grand River Ave., Lansing (517) 482-8845
Visit Absolute Gallery to construct a "really cool" kids art project. While there, explore the artistic talent that Michigan has to offer.
Archives Book Shop 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
517 W. Grand River Ave., East Lansing (517) 332-8444
Stop in and see a great selection of old books, paperbacks, postcards, sheet music, ephemera and much more. Show your passport and get a 20% discount off all used items.
Art Alley10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1133 S. Washington Ave., Lansing (517) 898-4046
Visit REO Town and see what we're up to! Art Alley is hosting "Convergence" - a Native American Art Exhibition you won't want to miss.
top? The Book Burrow 11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
401 S. Capitol Ave., Lansing (517) 367-6319
Thousands of used books, magazines, CDs, DVDs and VHS. From casual to collectible, we offer affordable prices and hidden treasures. $.50 off coupon with every passport stamp good for day of event.
Burchfield Park8 a.m. to 8 p.m.
881 Grovenburg Rd., Holt (517) 676-2233
Show your passport for free entrance into the park and for free 1/2 hr. pedal boat rental.
Burgdorf's Winery11 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5635 Shoeman Rd., Haslett (517) 655-2883
Experience a "Moment in Wine!" This Haslett boutique winery welcomes you for a free wine tasting and cheese appetizers! Receive a 5% discount on your wine purchase with passport.
top? Capital Area District Library (Downtown)9 a.m. to 6 p.m.
401 South Capitol Ave., Lansing (517) 367-6367
Create your own chalk drawings on our sidewalks, 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. free balloon animals and face painting, 11a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
CATA Maintenance & Bus Facility10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4615 Tranter St., Lansing (517) 394-1000
Tour CATA's newly constructed bus storage garage and maintenance facility. Get a behind-the-scenes look at bus mechanics at work. Take a ride through the bus wash in a 60-foot articulated bus.
CATA Transportation Center10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
420 S. Grand Ave., Lansing (517) 394-1000
Stroll through an Entertainment Express trolley and an articulated bus and see what it's like to be a bus driver. Talk with CATA bus operators. Bring your camera for fun photo opportunities.
Cooley Gardens10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
213 W. Main, Lansing (517) 483-4332
Located behind the Michigan Women's Historical Center. This is Mid-Michigan's premier perennial garden. Come explore!
Curious Book Shop 10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
307 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing (517) 332-0112
Browse our wonderful selection of old books, vintage magazines and science fiction. Three floors of treasures including many children's books. FREE refreshments available. Receive a 20% discount on all used items!
top? Downtown East Lansing 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Grand River & Albert Ave., East Lansing (517) 377-1731
Come experience downtown East Lansing, featuring an eclectic mix of restaurants, retail, MSU green & white shops, art galleries, outdoor WIFI plazas, beautiful public art and more!
Downtown Lansing 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
S. Washington Sq., Lansing (517) 487-3322
Discover the comfortable and sophisticated atmosphere of downtown Lansing! Find great retailers and fun lunch spots. Look for our tent outside of Grand Traverse Pie Co. with temporary tattoos for the kids and more from 10 a.m. - 2 p.m.!
top? EagleMonk Pub and Brewery 12 p.m. to 11 p.m.
4906 W. Mount Hope Hwy., Lansing (517) 708-7350
A microbrewery with craft beer, wine, soda and pizza made on premises. Please join us for a brewery tour and tasting. Coloring pages and soda tasting for children.
Edru Skate*A*Rama 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
1891 N. Cedar St., Holt (517) 699-2002
Strap on skates and roll into FUN at the skating rink! Check out Laser Tag for $6 per person. Free roller skating with passport! Skate rental is extra.
Elderly Instruments 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
1100 N. Washington Ave., Lansing (517) 372-7880
Musical instrument petting zoo, FREE kazoos, music and more!
Fenner Nature Center 8 a.m. to 5 p.m.
2020 E. Mt. Hope Ave., Lansing (517) 483-4224
Join us for BATYOT and International Migratory Bird Day! Start the day with a free bird hike (8am), and then explore our 134 acres and 4 miles of trails!
Friedland Industries, Inc. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
405 E. Maple St., Lansing (517) 482-3000
Lansing's original recyclers! Come paint hubcaps, learn about Friedland's role in the recycling process and watch teams collect metal for Scrapfest 2013!
top? General Motors - Lansing Grand River 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
920 Townsend Ave., Lansing (517) 490-4358
Join for the GM Lansing FREE Ride and Drive Event!Test drive your favorite GM vehicles at the Lansing Grand River Assembly Plant.
Girl Scouts - Heart of Michigan 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1223 Turner St., Ste. 200, Lansing (517) 699-9400
Stop by Daisy's Boutique to find much more than Girl Scout items and have some family fun!
Great Lakes Artworks10 a.m. to 7 p.m.
306 E. Grand River Ave., Lansing (517) 372-4293
Stop off at Great Lakes Artworks for some quick and crafty fun. Kids of all ages can make a little treasure to take home.
Greater Lansing Potters Guild 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
8099 Coleman Rd., Haslett (517) 339-8978
Observe hand-built and wheel-thrown pottery demonstrations, view the work of over 35 potters and receive a free ball of clay with instructions to create your own treasure! Directions from Meridian Mall: N. on Marsh, right on Saginaw, right on M-78, right on Upton, Potter's Guild on right.
Greater Lansing Area Sports Hall of Fame 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
333 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing (517) 484-0677
Come visit the Greater Lansing Area Sports Hall of Fame commemorating the collective dedication and spirit of our athletic community! Located in main lobby of Lansing Center.
Greater Lansing Visitor Center - Downtown Lansing* 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
500 E. Michigan Ave., Suite 180, Lansing (517) 487-0077
Stop in to the Greater Lansing Visitor Center and discover all the fun things to see and do in the Capital Region. Take part in fun interactive family activities. *Be A Tourist Headquarters and location of Bus Hub (start of all routes).
Greater Lansing Visitor Center - Downtown East Lansing* 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
549 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing (517) 487-6800
Stop by our newest Visitor Center location! *Be A Tourist Information Station
top? top? Historical Society of Greater Lansing10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
831 N. Washington Ave., Lansing
Stop by for a celebration of culinary history! Learn about some of your favorite businesses, restaurants, and food personalities, view vintage cookbooks, containers and appliances, and get ready for some yummy surprises.
Hunter Park GardenHouse 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
1400 block of E. Kalamazoo St., Lansing (517) 999-3910
Celebrate the Hunter Park GardenHouse's 5th Birthday with free cake and garden tours! Flower and veggie plants are available for purchase.
top? Impression 5 Science Center 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
200 Museum Dr., Lansing (517) 485-8116
PLAY with science, CREATE things with science, and CHALLENGE your understanding of science on our exhibit floor! PLUS: Fun outdoors with a trebuchet!
top? Just B Yoga 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
106 Island Ave. at corner of S. Washington
Stretch out in REO Town. Special 15-min yoga sessions, doga (yoga with your dog) and chair massages. 15% off monthly membership and merchandise with Passport.
Kathy's Pier Delight Noon to 9 p.m.
6320 Park Lake Rd., Bath (517) 641-6060
Stop by Kathy's Pier Delight on beautiful Park Lake to purchase your favorite frozen custard treat. Show your passport for 1/2 hourr free paddle boat rental.
top? La Fille Gallery 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
336 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing (517) 367-7838
Visit the most creative location in town! LaFille Gallery is Lansing's hottest new resource for luxury furniture, custom art and artistic finishes. Kids can create their own custom finish, adults can watch the artist in action and more!
Lansing Art Gallery 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
119 N. Washington Sq., Lansing (517) 374-6400
Enjoy browsing artworks created by Michigan artists and participate in a large scale Mixed Media Mural Project for ALL AGES!
Lansing Board of Water & Light 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
148 S. Cedar St., Lansing (517) 897-5972
The John Dye Water Conditioning Plant will be open for tours. Come see this beautiful structure located in the heart of Lansing.
Lansing City Market 9 a.m. to 5 p.m.
325 City Market Dr., Lansing (517) 483-7460
Visit the Lansing City Market, a collection of locally grown produce, fresh flowers, Michigan wines, tasty bakery goods, specialty foods and other unique gift items.
Lansing Fire Station #41 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
120 E. Shiawassee St., Lansing (517) 483-4200
Free tour of the facilities and museum at Central Fire Station in downtown Lansing, located next to Lansing Community College. (Open pending to an emergency call.)
Lansing Lugnuts/Cooley Law School Stadium 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
505 E. Michigan Ave., Lansing (517) 485-4500
Take a behind-the-scenes tour of Cooley Law School Stadium. Limit on tour numbers and times.
Lansing Model Railroad Club 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5309 Old Lansing Rd., Lansing (517) 974-0084
Celebrating 60 years! Come watch trains run on our model railroad and construction of our layout expansion in the Historic Millett Depot!
Lansing Sailing Club 1 p.m. to 4 p.m.
6039 E. Lake Dr., Haslett (517) 339-9030
Visit the Lansing Sailing Club for free Sailboat Rides from 1-4 pm (weather permitting). There will be activities for kids, safe sailing/boating information and more.
LCC Shigematsu Memorial Garden 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
520 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing (517) 483-1957
Come tour LCC's Japanese Shigematsu Memorial Garden located behind Dart Auditorium. The garden is a traditional Japanese garden which reflects Japanese culture and way of life.
top? LCC's WLNZ Radio Noon to 4 p.m.
400 N. Capitol Ave., Lansing (517) 483-1563
Be A Star in Your Own Town by visiting WLNZ 89.7 FM radio station. Experience what it's like to be a radio DJ! Studio is located in the basement of the Technology and Learning Center on Lansing CC's Downtown Campus.
Meridian Historical Village 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
5151 Marsh Rd., Okemos (517) 347-7300
Seven historic buildings from the 19th century will be open for tours. Tours begin at the brick "General Store" building.
Michigan Historical Museum 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
702 W. Kalamazoo St., Lansing (517) 241-6852
Over 170 years of Michigan's history have been Yarn Bombed! Come see the new color, texture, and creativity in the exhibits; try your hand at historic knitting, crocheting, and weaving techniques; and create your own extreme yarn projects. Help us preserve Michigan's story by "crafting" history with us!
Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art (MICA) 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1210 Turner St., Lansing (517) 371-4600
The Puppet Theatre presents "Roman Chalk-i-seum!" musical puppet entertainment on Turner St. in Old Town. Performances at 11 a.m., 1 p.m. and 3 p.m. Then stop in between shows at the Michigan Institute for Contemporary Art (MICA) for more fun!
Michigan Women's Historical Center & Hall of Fame 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
213 W. Malcolm X St., Lansing (517) 484-1880
Take a scavenger hunt through the Hall of Fame, visit the latest exhibit, "STEMinists-Michigan Women in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics." Create you own masterpiece to take home!
Modern Skate & Surf 11 a.m. to 6 p.m.
319 E. Grand River Ave., East Lansing (517) 351-3990
Design your own skateboard graphic to be displayed in the shop! Prizes for the best! Photos with the Lansing Mitten Mavens derby team! Free Gatorade!
Mt. Hope Cemetery 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
546 Armstrong Rd., Lansing (517) 648-5730
Lansing's historic Mt. Hope Cemetery is just west of Fenner Nature Center and features varied flora and fauna, glacial geography, intricate monuments, and fascinating "residents."
top? Nokomis Learning Center 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
5153 Marsh Rd., Okemos (517) 349-5777
Visit the new exhibit of past and present pow wow regalia and traditional examples of Great Lakes craft work as well as original contemporary woodland art and sculpture.
top? Old Town-Chalk of the Town10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
1232 Turner St., Lansing (517) 485-4283
Artists of all ages will create chalk masterpieces on the streets of Old Town. Including kids' events, people's choice awards, music and unique shopping opportunities!
Potter Park Zoo 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1301 S. Pennsylvania Ave., Lansing (517) 342-2710
This four-season zoo is home to over 600 wonders of wildlife. Celebrate International Migratory Bird Day throughout the zoo with hands-on activities. See baby birds hatching, live birds of prey and walk through the "Wings Down Under" where you can purchase a seed stick to feed the birds.
Preuss Pets 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
1127 N. Cedar St., Lansing (517) 339-1762
Explore this exotic and aquatic tropical pet paradise! Meet our new mascot and help choose a name! Free snacks, activities for kids and lots of fun!
top? Remembrance Memorial 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
E. Michigan & Grand Ave. in Wentworth Park, Lansing
This memorial is a 10-foot "h-beam" salvaged from the World Trade Center and honors those who lost their lives in New York, Pennsylvania and Virginia on September 11, 2001.
REACH Studio Art Center (REO Town Lot) 12 p.m. to 5 p.m.
Corner of Washington and Malcolm X, Lansing (517) 999-3643
Celebrate Cirque D'Art at REACH's Spring Thing event! Enjoy children's art exhibits and activities, circus themed games, performances, and sign up for summer camps. (For stamps during the month of June visit REACH at its studio location: 1804 S. Washington Ave.)
R. E. Olds Transportation Museum 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
240 Museum Dr., Lansing (517) 372-0529
This collection of cars and memorabilia is a tribute to the auto industry, courtesy of one of Lansing's most prominent citizens, Ransom Eli Olds.
Reutter Park 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Corner of Kalamazoo and Capitol Ave., Lansing (517) 993-4709
Instrument Petting Zoo courtesy of Marshall Music provides hands-on experience with musical instruments of all kinds. Enjoy the park and fountain!
top? Saper Galleries 10 a.m. to 6 p.m.
433 Albert Ave., East Lansing (517) 351-0815
Enjoy 1,500 works of art by 150 of the world's best artists -- sculpture, hand-blown glass, mobiles, art of every media and style for all ages!
(SCENE) Metrospace 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
110 Charles Street, East Lansing (517) 319-6832
(SCENE) Metrospace is East Lansing's city-funded contemporary art gallery and performance space. It features art exhibitions, concerts, readings, recitals, films and more.
Sculptures in the Park 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Wentworth Park Corner of E. Michigan and N. Grand Ave., Lansing (517) 374-6400
Lansing Art Gallery presents Sculptures in the Park, an outdoor sculpture exhibition by 10 Michigan artists in Wentworth Park. Sponsored by City of Lansing, LEAP, LEDC, and ACGL.
SierraRose Farms & Healing Hearts with Horses 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
At Fenner Nature Center Today! 2020 E. Mt. Hope, Lansing (517) 668-0057
Our facility is in DeWitt, but we are bringing the horses to Fenner Nature Center! Learn about our programs, play with our mini horses!
State Capitol Building 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.
Michigan & Capitol Aves., Lansing (517) 373-2353
Step back into the Victorian Era with a visit to Michigan's historic and painstakingly-restored State Capitol Building. Full one hour guided tours start every half hour until 3 p.m. with mini tours of the Capitol Rotunda throughout the entire day.
Suburban Ice - East Lansing 11 a.m. to 3 p.m.
2810 Hannah Blvd., East Lansing (517) 336-4272
This is the 'coolest' spot in town! Enjoy free open ice skating. Limited rental ice skates available.
top? Van Atta's Greenhouse & Flower Shop 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
9008 Old M-78, Haslett(517) 339-1142
Stop by for a FREE 3" perennial plant and a 20% discount coupon for an annual of your choice. Guided garden tours will begin at 11:00 a.m., 2:00 p.m., and 4:00 p.m. Also visit the greenhouse and gift shop.
top? Vietnam Veterans Monument 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Ottawa & Allegan, Lansing (517) 335-6523
The Vietnam Veterans Memorial Monument honors the more than 400,000 Michigan Citizens who served our country during the Vietnam War. The memorial is located in front of the Hall of Justice between Ottawa and Allegan streets
Woldumar Nature Center 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
5739 Old Lansing Rd., Lansing (517) 322-0030
Visit with our live animals, take a self-guided hike and create a summer craft!
top?




Michigan State University

Eli & Edythe Broad Art Museum 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
556 E. Circle Dr., MSU (517) 884-3900
Stop by for Family Day Arts & Crafts from noon-4 p.m! No strollers permitted in individual galleries.
top? MSU Bikes Service Center 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
434 Farm Ln., Bessey Hall, Room B10, MSU (517) 432-3400
Located 300 Ft. NW of the Farm Ln. Bridge on the River Trail. Free one hour bike rental (valid driver's license and credit card/cash deposit required.) Limited quantity. Adult bikes only. Free basic bike maintenance, commuting tips and repair estimates for those visiting by bike.
MSU Bug House 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
147 Natural Science Bldg., MSU (517) 355-4662
Educational displays, plus live bugs for people to handle!
MSU Community Music School 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
4930 S. Hagadorn Rd., East Lansing (517) 355-7661
Try various instruments at the instrument petting zoo. Make musical crafts and learn more about CMS programs for all ages and abilities.
MSU Dairy Store Noon to 8 p.m.
2100 S. Anthony Hall, MSU (517) 355-8466
Stop by the Dairy Store and purchase the freshest ice cream in town! MSU's homemade ice cream is available at two locations - Anthony Hall on Farm Lane and the MSU Student Union.
MSU Demmer Shooting Sports Educational & Training Center 10 a.m. to 8 p.m.
3365 E. Jolly Rd. Lansing (517) 884-0550
Shooting Sports, Education & Training. Tour the 24,000 sq. ft. training and education site for MSU shooting sports. Advance reservations for firearms and/or archery shooting is required. There is a fee for shooting.
MSU Horticulture Gardens & 4-H Children's Garden 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
Bogue St. & Wilson Rd., MSU (517) 355-5191
Stroll through more than 60 theme areas of these scenic gardens. Get lost in Alice in Wonderland's maze. Find the Secret Garden.
MSU Museum 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
W. Circle Drive, MSU (517) 355-2370
Stop in to see the new exhibits: "Adventures in Time and the 3rd Dimension," where you can learn about 3D history and technology and "Voice," exploring communication in the human and animal world.
MSU Surplus Store & Recycling Center 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
468 Green Way, MSU (517) 355-0364
Come see what MSU does with their "stuff" when they are done with it. Limited tours available!
Wharton Center for Performing Arts 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
750 E Shaw Ln, MSU (517) 353-1982
Wharton Center is Michigan's largest presenter of performing art; from the best of Broadway to touring jazz, dance, classical music and more. Get a behind the scenes tour where the magic starts!
W. J. Beal Botanical Gardens 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.
W. Circle Drive, MSU (517) 355-9582
Visit the oldest continuously operated university botanical garden of its kind in the U. S. with more than 5,000 different kinds of plants. Presentations include: "Edible plants in and for the yard" at 10:15 a.m. and "Plants toxic to family and pets" at 12 p.m.

Ride CATA all day for $.50 per person!

You can reach most of the participating attractions by jumping on the bus! Click on the links below to view the maps. (There is also one included with your passport!) These special routes will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. on the day of the event. Children 42" or less ride for free! (NOTE: Please have exact change ready when boarding. Or use our CATA Bus Pass!)

CATA bus routes for Be A Tourist

CATA bus routes for Be A Tourist (East Lansing Attractions)

Volunteer

We will be looking for people to join the staff of the Greater Lansing CVB as volunteers to assist with the Be a Tourist in Your Own Town event by helping participants with directions and general information. All volunteers will receive a t-shirt, complimentary refreshments and an opportunity to act as an ambassador for the Greater Lansing area... not to mention a great time!

We are still getting things ready to go for 2013. Check back soon for a link to volunteer.

If you have any questions, please contact Jennifer Hagen at jhagen@lansing.org or call (517) 377-1416

We hope you can join us for Be A Tourist 2013!