As Michigan's capital city, there is so much for visitors to explore in Lansing. From visiting the state capitol building or the Michigan Hall of Justice (home of the State Supreme Court,) to enjoying outdoor recreation activities in the surrounding nature, such as paddling down the Grand River, check out what you can do in the Lansing and East Lansing communities.

Guide to Lansing Sights & Activities

We understand that many international visitors are only at VIPP and MSU for a few months or a year. It makes sense, sometimes, to borrow or buy secondhand household stuff like a small desk, a lamp, some cooking pans, etc.

The Lending Center makes it easy to acquire these items for your stay. The CVIP International Student Lending Center is based in Spartan Village and loans household items in good condition to MSU international students and scholars. Borrowing items, instead of purchasing new items, cuts back on waste.

The CVIP International Student Lending Center is based in Spartan Village and loans household items in good condition to MSU international students and scholars. Borrowing items, instead of purchasing new items, cuts back on waste.

We also encourage you to donate anything you may not want to take back home by the end of your program in MSU to places such as the Lending Center so future participants can benefit, too.

Shopping at the MSU Surplus Store is one way to find affordable items. Some items sold are new ("surplus" items offered at a discount) while other items are secondhand (used).

Another way to acquire secondhand items at a discounted price is to shop at places like Goodwill or the Salvation Army. Purchases at these stores support charitable efforts.

East Lansing Public Library -  Find out how to get a library card and when public events are taking place.

Capital Area District Libraries - Find locations of CAD Libraries in the surrounding area. 

Community Volunteers for International Programs (CVIP) - Offers a variety of free programs and services to international students and scholars.