Michigan’s capital city of Lansing boasts a thriving sports scene that lends itself well to youth events and tournaments while also providing a plethora of activities and attractions athletes can enjoy before, after, or between games. Lansing is located at the center of the state and is accessible by plane into Capital Region International Airport, by train via the Amtrak station in East Lansing, and by car via interstates 96 and 496.
Hotels: “With over 5,000 hotel rooms representing a variety of brands to choose from, [Lansing has] all types of affordable lodging to accommodate your group,” says Meghan Ziehmer, executive director of the Lansing Sports Commission. Properties to note include the AC Hotel Lansing University Area,
Courtyard Lansing, and Crowne Plaza Lansing, among several others.
Venues: Ziehmer specifies several of Lansing’s sports venues available for youth events, including the Biggby Coffee Ice Cube East Lansing, which houses two NHL-size ice rinks; the Hope Sports Complex in Lansing, which features 10 acres of grass and turf fields; and Lansing City Arena, which has an international-size futsal court (indoor soccer played on smaller courts) that can host other sports including volleyball, gymnastics, and martial arts. Additionally, the Lansing Convention Center has capacity for events in dance/cheer, wrestling, volleyball, and many more.
Activities: “For an educational family trip, ignite your curiosity at Impression 5 Science Center, take an engaging tour at the Michigan State Capitol, or step back in time and learn about Michigan’s rich history at the Michigan History Museum,” says Ziehmer. “For outdoor activities, Lansing boasts numerous parks and nature centers, ideal for picnics, hiking, and wildlife watching.”
