Weekend Getaway: Lansing, Michigan!

Adri & Kam
6 days ago
4 min read

If you are looking for a weekend getaway from Chicago that is not too much of a drive, then Lansing, Michigan will be just the perfect choice! Since MSU is located right in the heart of East Lansing, you know this area has great nightlife and dining. Not only that, but there are lots of outdoor activities and family things to do, that are great for anyone. Trust us: you won’t be bored during your visit!

Where To Stay?

We really enjoyed staying at the Hilton Garden Inn Lansing West. The location was super convenient as it was a perfect distance from all the places we ventured out to. Additionally, it has a pool, a very nice patio, and a bar. So, if you decide to stay in, there is still a way to enjoy yourself.

Where To Eat?

Lansing has lots of great dining options even for picky eaters. Whether you are looking for a quick bite, a wood fire pizza, or a full-on meal, you will be able to find the best choice no matter what.

The People’s Kitchen- Now this is the kind of brunch I am talking about! I ordered the Tres Leches French Toast and Kam indulged in Chorizo Sando. Both were incredible and we would highly recommend it! Mornings can get quite busy, so we suggest getting a reservation if possible.

Flour Child– Delicious bakery that has endless options (no joke!). Kam and I had the

hardest time picking something out, because everything looked so good. A perfect spot if you want to eat something quick and delicious. Not only are their pastries amazing, but they also serve sandwiches if you want something bit healthier.

BAD Brewing- We love finding a brewery that also serves food, and this place is exactly that. Really cool atmosphere, incredibly nice bartenders and awesome grub. We both grabbed the Olive Burger and Gochujang Chicken Tots which were exactly what we needed.

Ozone Brewhouse- Another brewery gem that offers food options. They make their own wood fire pizzas which were simply perfect. Kam is a picky pizza eater, but he was ready to order another one because it that was that good. Ozone has a cool, funky vibe where many come to watch soccer games.

What To Do?

Depending on how you want to spend your leisure time, Lansing has something for everyone. Plenty of indoor and outdoor activities to keep you busy during your visit.

Hiking The Ledges- Enjoy this trail amongst 300-million-year-old (yes you read this

right!) rock formations. It is not a busy trail, so you can really zone out and listen to birds singing while getting some steps in. The trail is about 2 miles long, so it takes close to an hour to walk it out.

Kayaking- Lansing is a home to the Grand River which flows through the city and is

perfect for kayaking. We grabbed a double kayak from River Town Kayaking (located right by the kayak launch) and enjoyed a bit of serenity while getting an arm workout. River Town also offers other excursions, so it’s best to look into it ahead of time, especially on the weekends.

RE Olds Transportation Museum- Michigan being THE state for automotive industry, it is no surprise that you can find a place to learn all about its’ rich history. It was really cool to go back in time and even touch a couple of these vehicles that were so heavily relied on in the past.

Horrocks Farm Market- Now this is not your typical farmer’s market. You can purchase any product you can potentially think of in addition to being able to enjoy an incredible beer garden serving wine and beer. What’s better than relaxing with a glass of your preferred beverage after an intense shopping spree?

Michigan History Center- Explore 3 floors of Michigan history eras showcasing exhibits, films, and artifacts from many years ago. Fun fact: Sundays are free to enter!

Where To Grab a Beverage?

If you like alcoholic beverages, make sure to sign up for the FREE Craft Beverage Pass before your visit to Lansing. It offers lots of deals, discounts at participating breweries, wineries, and distilleries. Save some $ and let your taste buds do the work!

American Fifth Spirits- Lansing’s 1 st distillery that makes unique and one-of-a-kind

cocktails. Plenty of indoor seating with board games to enjoy while sipping on a delicious drink.

Phillips Cider Bar & Market- If you know us, you know that we LOVE cider. And how can you not try it when Michigan has some of the best apples?! Phillips cider is more on the drier side which is EXACTLY what we like. We grabbed a flight, and we loved it all. Make sure to grab their Lavender cookie: pairs perfectly!

Graham Vineyards- Family-owned restaurant and winery where you can enjoy your

dining (and drinking) experience in their tasting room or out on the patio. They have abig outdoor area with picnic tables, a stage for live music, and yard games.

Uncle John’s- Another cider gem that should not be missed. They have lots of activities going on outside of the taproom, especially in the fall. Enjoy fresh donuts, warm pie,hard cider and a bit of shopping while here.