Lansing

Lansing is a state capital in Michigan that spreads across three counties and sits where the Grand River meets the Red Cedar River. The area includes surrounding suburbs and is organized around residential neighborhoods, government buildings, and university campuses.

Michigan chose this location as its seat of government in 1847 to move administration from Detroit inland. The decision transformed a small settlement quickly into an urban center with state institutions and higher education facilities.

The name comes from Lansing Township in New York, where many early settlers originated. The State Capitol and expansive campus grounds shape the streetscape visibly today.

The local transit authority runs buses connecting major neighborhoods, shopping areas, and university locations. Visitors walking around will find the government district centrally located and accessible on foot.

The local university operates several particle accelerators for research purposes, including one of the most powerful facilities of its kind on the continent. These devices sit on campus and support experimental studies in nuclear physics.

Location: Ingham County

Location: Eaton County

Location: Clinton County

Inception: 1835

Elevation above the sea: 262 m

Shares border with: Portland

Website: http://lansingmi.gov

GPS coordinates: 42.73383,-84.55463

Latest update: December 16, 2025 08:09