15 Best Things to Do in East Lansing, MI

A Local Guide for MSU Students to Explore, Eat, and Enjoy Your City

Make East Lansing Your Campus & Your Community

Being a Spartan is about more than just classes, tailgates, and walking under Beaumont Tower. It’s about exploring East Lansing and making the city part of your college experience. Whether you're grabbing a midnight bite, digging through a dusty used bookstore, or hiking through hidden trails, East Lansing and nearby Lansing have something for every student vibe.

This guide rounds up 15 of the best things to do in East Lansing and surrounding areas. All off-campus, all local, and all worth checking out during your time at Michigan State University.

15 Best Things to Do in East Lansing, MI

Food & Drink

• Strange Matter Coffee Co.
  Address: 337 S Washington Square, Lansing, MI 48933
  Why go: Beloved local coffee shop with small-batch roasted beans, vegan pastries, and a strong community vibe.
  Website: strangemattercoffee.com


• HopCat East Lansing
  Address: 300 Grove St, East Lansing, MI 48823
  Why go: Craft beer bar famous for “Crack Fries” and late-night bites.
  Website: hopcat.com/east-lansing


• Peanut Barrel
  Address: 521 E Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
  Why go: Classic MSU hangout spot with burgers, beer pitchers, and a lively patio.
  Website: peanutbarrel.com


• Crunchy’s
  Address: 254 W Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
  Why go: Pub food, karaoke nights, and a favorite for students before/after games.
  Website: crunchyseastlansing.com

Arts, Culture & Books

• Curious Book Shop
  Address: 307 E Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
  Why go: Legendary used bookstore with 3 floors of rare books, comics, and collectibles.
  Website: curiousbooks.com


• Elderly Instruments
  Address: 1100 N Washington Ave, Lansing, MI 48906
  Why go: World-famous music shop for rare guitars, banjos, and instruments.
  Website: elderly.com


• Lansing Art Gallery & Education Center
  Address: 300 S Washington Square, Lansing, MI 48933
  Why go: Local art exhibitions, workshops, and rotating galleries.
  Website: lansingartgallery.org

Shopping & Vintage

• RetroDuck Vintage
  Address: 541 E Grand River Ave, East Lansing, MI 48823
  Why go: Vintage and retro MSU apparel, unique tees, and student-favorite styles.
  Website: retroduck.com


• Thrift Witch
  Address: 100-198 E Grand River Ave, Lansing, MI 48906
  Why go: Oddities, Original Dark Art, Pop-Culture Collectibles, Antiques, New/Vintage Clothing & Accessories.
  Website: facebook.com/ThriftWitchVintage

Outdoors & Recreation

• Hawk Island Park
  Address: 1601 E Cavanaugh Rd, Lansing, MI 48910
  Why go: Trails, lake, and water playground — perfect for weekend breaks.
  Website: lansing.org/listings/hawk-island-park


• Fenner Nature Center
  Address: 2020 E Mt Hope Ave, Lansing, MI 48910
  Why go: Hiking trails, birdwatching, and environmental education programs.
  Website: mynaturecenter.org


• Patriarche Park
  Address: 960 Alton Rd, East Lansing, MI 48823
  Why go: Community park with picnic areas, sports fields, and walking trails.
  Website: cityofeastlansing.com

Nightlife & Entertainment

• The Avenue Café
  Address: 2021 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912
  Why go: Hip café by day, bar and live music venue by night.
  Website: avenuecafelansing.com


• Mac’s Bar
  Address: 2700 E Michigan Ave, Lansing, MI 48912
  Why go: Dive bar and music venue with a student-heavy crowd.
  Website: facebook.com/macsbarmsu


• Lansing Brewing Company
  Address: 518 E Shiawassee St, Lansing, MI 48912
  Why go: Local brewery with craft beers, comfort food, and a buzzing social scene.
  Website: lansingbrewingcompany.com

Own Your East Lansing Experience

College is so much more than lectures and finals. It’s a time to discover yourself and where you fit in a new city, support local culture, and make memories that go way beyond the classroom. East Lansing and Lansing are packed with gems just waiting to be found.

So whether you’re grabbing a vintage Michigan State University tee at RetroDuck, howling karaoke at Crunchy’s, or catching a local band at Mac’s Bar, make it count! Explore your city. Support your people. Live your best Spartan life. 💚

FAQ

• What are the best restaurants for MSU students in East Lansing? Popular food spots include Peanut Barrel, HopCat East Lansing, and Crunchy’s for classic student favorites.
• Where can MSU students shop for vintage finds? RetroDuck Vintage for MSU apparel and Thrift Witch for eclectic oddities and clothing.
• What outdoor activities are available near East Lansing? Hawk Island Park, Fenner Nature Center, and Patriarche Park offer trails, birdwatching, and community recreation.
• Where can students experience arts and culture in Lansing? The Curious Book Shop, Elderly Instruments, and the Lansing Art Gallery are must-visits for culture seekers.
• What are the top nightlife spots for MSU students? Mac’s Bar, The Avenue Café, and Lansing Brewing Company are great choices for live music and socializing.

Should I Move or Renew? A Guide for Michigan State University Students Living Off Campus

As a MSU student living in East Lansing, MI, deciding where to live next year is one of the bigger choices you'll make, especially if your current lease is ending. MSU Spartans find themselves asking the same question: Should I renew my lease, or should I move to a different apartment?

The answer isn’t the same for everyone. It depends on your budget, lifestyle, roommate plans, and what you want for your next year in East Lansing. At Hannah Lofts, we’ve helped hundreds of students through the decision, so we’ve put together a breakdown of what to consider when weighing your options.

Option 1: Moving to a New Apartment in East Lansing

• Pro: A Fresh Start
  

  If you’re craving change, moving gives you a clean slate. Whether you're switching up your roommates, trying a different neighborhood, or just want a different layout, moving can give you a chance to reset. You might also get the chance to explore new amenities or be closer to friends who live elsewhere.

• Pro: Potential for Upgraded Features
  

  Many newer off-campus housing properties near MSU are built with modern finishes and flashy amenities. They include things like updated interiors, smart technology, or designer touches. If those features are important to you, and your current place doesn’t have them, a newer complex might better match your style.

• Con: Higher Costs
  

  New construction in East Lansing often comes with a higher price tag. Rent in new developments can be significantly more than established communities, and you’ll likely also face additional move-in fees, deposits, and furniture rental costs if the unit isn’t furnished. It’s important to look beyond the surface and think about whether the cost reflects the value and matches your budget.

• Con: The Stress of Moving
  

  No matter how far you're moving, the process takes time, money, and energy. Between packing, transporting furniture, coordinating move-in dates, and possibly storing your stuff between leases, it can be a major source of stress during an already busy time of year. It might not be worth it, especially while in the midst of MSU finals and graduation.

Option 2: Renewing Your Lease at Your Current Apartment as a MSU Student

• Pro: Convenience and Familiarity
  

  One of the biggest perks of renewing your lease is how simple it is and you already know what to expect. From the distance to campus, to how the appliances work, to the best study spots nearby, you’ve got it figured out. If you're generally happy where you are, renewing can save you time and keep things stable as you go into another year at MSU.

• Pro: You Know the Community
  

  Living in a MSU off-campus student community means more than just having a place to sleep, it’s about having your home away from home. Knowing your roommates, making friends, establishing your routine, they’re all things you’ve already invested energy into. If you’ve built relationships in your current home and enjoy the community vibe, that might be hard to find somewhere else and it can be a gamble.

  At Hannah Lofts, residents tell us our community is their favorite part of living here. From our monthly events to the luxury pool and 24/7 gym, we have built-in ways to stay connected.

• Pro: No Moving Costs
  

  Renewing your lease means you can skip the U-Haul and keep your stuff right where it is. It can save you hundreds of dollars in moving expenses, not to mention hours of your time. You may even be able to stay in your apartment between lease terms, depending on renewal policies.

• Pro: Continued Access to Amenities You Already Use
  

  It’s easy to overlook the value of amenities when you’re used to them. If your current apartment already has the features you need, like a gym, pool, study rooms, or clubhouse, moving might not actually offer a meaningful upgrade.

  At Hannah Lofts, our residents already enjoy:

  • A resort-style pool and outdoor hangout spaces
  • 24/7 fitness center
  • Study rooms and group areas
  • Monthly events and social spaces
  • Pet-friendly policies
  • On-site management and maintenance support
  
  

  If you regularly use these amenities, or if they’ve become part of your routine, renewing helps you hold on to that luxury without starting over.

• Con: May Feel Less Exciting
  

  If you’re someone who thrives on change or wants a different environment, renewing might feel repetitive. It really depends on whether you feel “settled” or “stuck.” Fortunately, some properties (including Hannah Lofts!) allow residents to transfer to a different unit or floor plan while still renewing, which gives you some variety without a full move.

• Con: Potential Rent Increase
  

  Most MSU off-campus student housing communities adjust rent rates each year based on market trends and inflation. Renewing may mean paying a slightly higher rate, but keep in mind, it’s probably still lower than rent and fees at a new complex. Be sure to ask your leasing office about renewal pricing early so you have time to compare options.

Still not sure which path to take? Ask yourself these questions:

• Am I happy with my current apartment, or am I ready for a change?
• Is the cost of moving worth it for what I’d gain?
• Do I regularly use the amenities where I live?
• Am I happy with my roommates and community?
• Do I feel safe and supported where I am?
• Would a move disrupt my schedule or add stress to my semester?

If you're answering “yes” to most of these, renewing could be the right move. On the other hand, if you're itching for something new and need something different, it might be time to explore other options.

At Hannah Lofts, our team is here to help with either decision! Whether you’re thinking about renewing, transferring units, or just weighing your options, we’re happy to talk it through and make sure you feel confident in your next move.

Have questions about your lease or what’s available next year? Contact our leasing team or stop by the office. We’re always happy to help!

FAQ

• Is it cheaper to renew or move to a new apartment in East Lansing? Renewing is often more cost-effective since you avoid moving expenses and may lock in lower rates than newer developments.
• What are the biggest benefits of moving to a new apartment near MSU? A fresh start, upgraded features, and exploring new amenities are major advantages of moving.
• Why do many MSU students renew their leases? Convenience, familiarity, no moving costs, and continued access to valued amenities make renewing a popular choice.
• Do rent rates increase when renewing a lease? Rates may increase slightly, but renewal prices are usually still lower than brand-new apartment rates.
• How can Hannah Lofts help me with my decision? Hannah Lofts offers support with renewals, transfers, and moving options to help you choose the housing path that fits your needs.