When you think of a cool Midwestern city, glamorous Chicago or hip Detroit might come to mind. An alternative to consider is a medium-sized city like Lansing, MI. With affordable housing, exceptional people, and lots to do, Greater Lansing can be a cool place to live.
If you happen to make the Lansing area home, or if Lansing is a place you plan to visit, here are some cool things to do:
Unique Festivals
There are a lot of festivals, fairs, and parades throughout the Greater Lansing area. Here are a few highlights:
East Lansing Art Festival is an annual event that takes over the streets of downtown East Lansing during the third weekend in May. Hundreds of artists showcase their talents. The event includes a juried show as well as an arts and crafts fair on the MSU Campus. There are live performances and a children’s art area as well. This festival definitely offers something for everyone.
The Old Town Neighborhood in Lansing celebrates the shortest day of the year and the longest day of summer with their annual Festival of the Moon and Festival of the Sun, which take place in June. This popular event is held in one of Greater Lansing’s hippest neighborhoods and attendees can enjoy craft beer, wine, and delicious foods while listening to live music.
Common Ground is a music festival held each July in Adado Riverfront Park in downtown Lansing. The festival is a four-day event with several stages. Performances range from rap to country and everything in between.
Exceptional Recreational Opportunities
Kayaking on the Grand River is a great way to see the city, enjoy nature, and get in your workout! River Town Adventures, located right near the Lansing City Market, rents kayaks and canoes by the hour. They offer different tour options as well as special events throughout the summer.
The Lansing River Trail consists of over 20 miles of paved, non-motorized path that runs along the Red Cedar River and the Grand River through the City of Lansing. It’s a great place to run, walk your dog, roller blade, or bike. The trail winds through county parks, through the Potter Park Zoo, past museums, and the trail offers a unique way to see the city.
If running is your passion, Lansing Brewing Company sponsors a monthly Brew Run/Walk in downtown Lansing. This fun run starts and finishes at Lansing Brewing Company where participants can enjoy great microbrews and delicious food. Proceeds from the event support a different local charity each month.
Lively Bar Scene
Whether you are looking for a patio to relax on, something extra unique, or live music, Greater Lansing bars offer a little something for everyone.
One of Lansing’s newest venues is the Grid Arcade & Bar; this unique place in Lansing’s Old Town features craft beers and as well as retro pinball and arcade games.
If you are seeking live music, you can enjoy everything from jazz to pop at the Exchange located downtown. Different artists perform nightly.
Another local place is Troppo where you can sip a craft cocktail on their patio while enjoying views of the Michigan State Capitol.
If you are looking for a weekend destination or new place to call home, the Greater Lansing area has so much to offer!
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