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Thomas M. Cooley Law School
Nation's largest law school.
Thomas M. Cooley Law School is a private law school in Lansing, Michigan, and Temple Terrace, Florida. It was established in 1972. At its peak in 2010, Cooley had over 3,900 students and was the largest US law school by enrollment; as of October 2024, Cooley had 420 students between its two campuses. In November 2025, Cooley failed to reach the 75% two-year bar passage required of ABA Standard 316 for continued accreditation and, effective 2025, was placed on probation. Cooley was removed from its probationary status and was found in full compliance two months later in November 2025.
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Hidden Lake Gardens is owned and operated by Michigan State University under the division of Land Management, but supported through private endowments and gifts, along with a small amount of money from MSU. The Gardens are open 362 days of the year with an admission fee of $3 per person. Guided tours, requested at least two weeks in advance, are available at no additional charge. In addition to more than 6 miles (10km) of one-way paved drives, there are 5 miles (8 km) of hiking trails to allow the visitor a closer look at the beauty that the Gardens provide. These gardens are physically in Tipton, Michigan, approximately 80 miles (130 km) to the southeast.
Lansing is the only state capital to not also be the county seat. The county seat is in the small town of Mason. The historic courthouse in the center of town is the crown gem of this sleepy village.
Hawk Island County Park
This 100-acre (40 hectares) park, in the south end of Lansing, is a green oasis in a busy city. The beach, playground, Splash Pad, walking and biking trails, picnic shelters and volleyball make it the perfect spot for a summer outing.
Arboretum with small lakes.
The zoo is in a park integrated into the city's excellent river trail, and is a terrific way to spend an afternoon. The park is very children-friendly and features a petting park where the children can pet some of the animals. There are peacocks walking about the park along with pony and camel rides. If you're driving, the zoo's entrance is along Pennsylvania Avenue but it can be accessed on foot or bike using the river trail.