If you’re in the mood to visit a botanical garden, W.J. Beal Botanical Garden in East Lansing is the place to go. The 5-acre garden, located on the campus of Michigan State University, is one of the oldest continuously operating university botanical gardens in the United States. It features over 1,800 plant species in displays and is open to the public during daylight hours.
You can also stop by the Broad Museum, which looks like a broken Venetian blind, and view a modern art exhibition. You can learn more about the museum here. After viewing the museum’s collections, you can take a drive to the Beal Botanical Garden, home to more than 2,000 species of plants. You’ll be amazed at the diversity of plants and flowers in this garden. While you’re in town, don’t forget to spend some time at the Broad Museum, which is free to visit and features a wide range of modern art.
Another must-see in Lansing is the Capitol Building. This impressive structure is the symbol of Lansing, and its striking history is worth exploring. Tourists can also find fossils in the old tiled floors and gaze up at the star-filled capitol dome. The Capitol Building’s role in the region’s history is significant, and the tour guides are eager to share all of their secrets with visitors. For example, you might learn that the artist who created the outdoor columns faked the marble work on wood.
For those in need of a car, there are several ways to get to the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden by public transportation. The Capital Area Transportation Authority operates a bus service that serves downtown East Lansing, as well as the University and its surrounding area. Taxis are available 24 hours a day on the Albert Street. They can be found at any time of day and are usually within thirty minutes, but may experience longer delays during weekends and Michigan State football games.
If you’re looking for a day filled with outdoor activities, you might be interested in Hawk Island Park, an adventure park that features a mile-and-a-half trail. There’s a playground, picnic area, and sports fields. There’s also a concession stand, and the island is a popular spot for sledding. The garden also has a renowned ice cream shop that makes its own centennial flavor. We like to stop by here after work at our location in Lansing.
Among the many art pieces at W.J. Beal Botanical Garden are the iconic Red Ribbon in the Sky, which is a sculpture made of red and black glass. Upward Bound is a modern abstract art piece that stretches more than nine feet high. Outside of the Garden, you can visit Meridian Historical Village, where you can see a collection of 19th century buildings, including a church and schoolhouse. This is a great place to appreciate local history and see classic Lansing architecture.
In addition to being a botanical paradise, W.J. Beal Botanical Garden East Lansing MI is also home to the Wharton Center for Performing Arts. Whether you’re interested in a musical, a theater, or a play, W.J. Beal Botanical Garden is a great place to spend a day. The Wharton Center is also home to numerous events throughout the year. All of the points of interest including the botanical garden are close to our office. Learn more here.