Explore Old Town Lansing, MI

Step into the historic heart of the city at Old Town Lansing. Originally the center of Michigan's capital city, this artsy neighborhood has transformed into a trendy waterfront district, filled with colorful murals, boutique shops, annual festivals, a unique music venue, and diverse dining. From the tranquil views of the Grand River to the bustling energy for its four-block shopping strip, Old Town is the perfect destination to spend a day of exploration. 

Don't Miss Checklist

• Absolute Gallery: An eclectic assortment of art for all tastes and budgets.
• Bad Annie's Sweary Goods: A shop known for its vulgarity and wit. 
• Brenke Fish Ladder Music Park: A park with a permanent performance stage, an electric forest, bench swings, a gas fireplace, and numerous accessibility features.
• Cravings Gourmet Popcorn: Delicious and unique flavors of popcorn, ready for snacking.
• Elderly Instruments: A world-renowned music store, specializing in stringed and fretted instruments.
• Grace Boutique: Women's clothing, shoes, and accessories in classic styles with modern flair
• Preuss Pets:  A legendary local pet store with an indoor zoological tropical paradise experience
• The Craft Bar: Explore DIY craft making & unleash your creativity
• Turner Dodge House and Heritage Center: A restored 1858 home built by James and Marior Turner, who helped establish the Capital City. It is maintained by the City of Lansing Parks and Rcreation Department as a Cultural Heritage Center.
• Twiggies: A floral studio and retail boutique that brings unique ideas in all aspects of gift giving.
• UrbanBeat: Exceptional food, craft cocktails, and live entertainment

Annual Events

• Old Town Chocolate Walk (February)
• Brrs, Beards & Brews, A Lumberjack Festival (March)
• Chalk of the Town/Roper Ramp (June)
• Lansing Pride (June)
• ScrapFest (July)
• Dam Jam Music Festival (July)
• JazzFest Michigan (July)
• Old Town ArtFeast (August)
• Michigan BluesFest (September/October)
• Old Town Krampusnacht (December)

Know Before You Go

Where do I park in Old Town?

Old Town is a highly walkable four-block district, but knowing where to leave your car is key. Most parking along Turner Street and César E. Chávez Avenue is metered. You can pay via coins, credit card, or the Passport Parking app. There is a large city-managed parking lot located on the north side of the district near the Brenke Fish Ladder. 

Is Old Town a Social District?

Yes, Old Town is a Social District. In order to participate, you must purchase your drink from a participating business, and it must be in a specially marked, disposable cup. You can walk through the common areas of the district with your drink, but you cannot take a cup purchased at one bar into a different bar or retail shop unless clearly posted.  The Social District is active Sunday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., and Friday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to midnight.  To learn more, visit Old Town Social District.

Should I make a reservation when dining out?

Restaurants fill up quickly. Call ahead for dining reservations or if no reservations are accepted, plan on a bit of a wait time. 

What other activities are there in the area to do?

Old Town Lansing is perfectly situated near some of the city's best outdoor recreation and cultural landmarks. Here are some great activities to do outside of the district.

• Jackson Field: Home of the Lansing Lugnuts minor league baseball team.
• Lansing River Trail: Walk or bike from Old Town to downtown Lansing in about 10-15 minutes using the Lansing River Trail.
• Michigan History Museum:  Explore interactive exhibits on the state's past.
• R.E. Olds Transportation Museum: Dive into Lansing's automotive history.
• Impression 5 Science Center: Visitors of all ages will enjoy their hands-on exhibits and have fun playing while learning basic science principles.
• Michigan State Capitol Building: Take a guided tour of this historic building
• Lansing Shuffle: A food hall with  multiple vendors and indoor shuffleboard
• Royal Scot Golf & Bowl: Play a round of golf or go bowling.
• Play Michigan! Playground: A fully accessible, inclusive playground