Frequently Asked Questions
What is Lansing known for?
Michigan's Capital - Lansing is the seat of the state government and home to the historic and majestic Michigan State Capitol Building
Birthplace of Oldsmobile - The city is recognized as the birthplace of Oldsmobile, one of America's first car manufacturers.
Festival Capital of Michigan - The Greater Lansing area hosts over 60 festivals and annual events throughout the year, celebrating everything from music to unique traditions.
The Lansing River Trail: The city is bisected by the Grand and Red Cedar Rivers, along which runs the 20+ mile Lansing River Trail. It is a popular path for biking, walking, and running.
What are the top things to do in Lansing?
When is the best time to visit Lansing?
The most popular and comfortable time to visit Lansing is generally late spring through early fall.
Summer (June to August) is the busiest season. Highs average around 82°F. It is the perfect time of year for enjoying the numerous outdoor activities and festivals
Fall (October to November) is an ideal time to visit with cooler temperatures, low humidity, and stunning fall foliage. It is also football season at Michigan State University.
Winter (December to March) is cold, with average high temperatures dipping below 40°F. It is a good season to enjoy indoor attractions, cozy dining, and holiday events like the Wonderland of Lights at Potter Park Zoo.
Spring (March to May) offers a beautiful transition as parks and gardens bloom, making it great for hiking and biking.
How do I get to and around Lansing?
By Air. Lansing has its own airport (LAN - Lansing Regional International Airport) and is an hour from Flint Bishop International Airport (FLN,) one hour from Grand Rapids’ Gerald Ford International Airport (GRR) and 90 minutes from Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW.)
By Car. Lansing is conveniently located in the central part of Michigan at the junction of I-96, I-127, and I-69, with I-496 running east and west through the city.
By Train/Bus. The Capital Area Multimodal Gateway, also known as the East Lansing station, is an intermodal transit station in East Lansing, Michigan. Operated by the Capital Area Transportation Authority, it is served by Amtrak's Blue Water passenger train, local buses, and intercity buses.
Once here, the Capital Area Transportation Authority (CATA) operates the local bus network. Taxis, Uber, and Lyft services are available throughout the area.
Parking Downtown: Metered street parking in downtown Lansing is generally free after 6:00 p.m. on weekdays and all day on weekends.
What do I need to know about parking?
In the City of Lansing, you can park at meters or in ramps in downtown.
- Meter Parking - Use the Passport app or pay at the kiosks located nearby. In Lansing after 6 p.m. weekdays and weekends parking is free! Meter rates vary by location.
- Ramps - South Capitol, North Capitol and North Grand ramps are $3/hr with a daily maximum of $15.
In downtown East Lansing:
- Use the passport app or pay at the kiosks located nearby at $0.75 per half hour. Sundays beginning at 8 a.m. except for event days.
- Surface Lots: $1 per half hour, Max Daily: $20
- Garages: $0.75 per half hour, Max Daily: $15
- Pay-by-Space Machines: $0.75 per half hour
For MSU football parking, public lots and ramps are available for a fee on game day, but you can park for free at the shuttle lots and pay $5 to take the shuttle to and from the game. See the parking map.
Is Lansing affordable?
Compared with many U.S. cities, Lansing is often seen as a budget-friendly destination for hotels and dining.
Where should I stay in Lansing?
Whether you're in town for a romantic getaway, a family vacation, or a business trip, Lansing offers a variety of accommodation options to suit all your needs. With options for hotels in downtown Lansing near the Michigan State Capitol, within walking distance of Michigan State University, and family-friendly stays throughout the community, there's something for everyone. Find the perfect hotel for your getaway.
Most hotels nowadays have a microwave and/or a small refrigerator in the room, but if you’re looking for a room with a stove/oven combination, most long term stay facilities will accommodate your needs. Check out Homewood Suites, Staybridge Suites, Towneplace Suites, Residence Inn by Marriott East Lansing and Residence Inn Lansing West.
Be sure to book early for certain times of the year because hotels fill up fast during the following times.
- MSU student move in and move out days
- MSU Football weekends
- MSU Graduation weekends (Fall and Spring)
- East Lansing Art Festival (East Lansing hotels)
What hotels are pet-friendly?
We know how hard it is to leave your best dog buddy at home while you’re on the road or taking a weekend getaway break. If you’re looking for pet-friendly hotels, check out this list. Once you get checked in, it’s time for fun. Find all kinds of trails, parks and pet-friendly locations throughout the Lansing area. – Pet Friendly Lansing
What's the food and dining scene like?
The Greater Lansing area offers a diverse dining scene, including everything from fine dining to farm-to-table experiences for every taste and budget. Beyond satisfying your appetite, Lansing restaurants create memorable moments for dates, birthdays, and more.
