MSU Historic North Campus Walking Tour

"The Spartan" statue -- known as "Sparty" -- is located at the intersection of Kalamazoo Street and Red Cedar Road. Sparty is one of the largest free standing ceramic figures in the world. 

W.J. Beal Botanical Garden

Cross the Red Cedar River and walk east along the river trail to the W.J. Beal Botanical Garden, outdoor laboratory for the study and appreciation of plants -- with more than 2,000 different plant species. Also see a historical marker by MSU Campus Parks and Planning describing Beal's work. 

Beaumont Tower

Beaumont Tower is an MSU landmark, commemorating Old College Hall, the site where agriculture was first taught as a science. Beaumont Tower is also the location of the State of Michigan's first Historical marker. Beaumont Tower also houses a carillon with 49 bells and passers by will frequently hear performances - including the MSU fight song! 

Michigan State University Museum

Right next door is the Michigan State University Museum, Michigan's first Smithsonian affiliate and the state's natural history and culture museum. The MSU Museum features three floors of exhibitions exploring the wonders of the world and world cultures. 

"Saints Rest"

MSU's first residence hall was dubbed "Saint's  Rest." It was located immediately east of the museum building, and burned down in 1876. A historical marker produced by MSU Campus Parks and Planning describes a recent campus archaeology project that excavated the site.

MSU Union

Now walk north across Adams Field, crossing West Circle Drive's north loop, to the MSU Union building. The Union provides lifestyle services, shopping, and dining for the entire community.

Among the many stores, restaurants and amenities at the MSU Union are the Spartan Spirit Shop and MSU Dairy Store.

Spartan Spirit Shop

Take home some of the Spartan experience - visit the Spartan Spirit Shop in the MSU Union for MSU apparel and merchandise. The MSU Museum Store also features Michigan-made gifts, jewelry and educational toys. 

MSU Dairy Store

Enjoy some ice cream at the MSU Dairy Store located in the MSU Union. It features signature MSU-made ice cream in 20 flavors, as well as cheeses also manufactured at MSU. 

Also at the MSU Union

The MSU Union also offers billiards at UCue, bowling at Spartan Lanes, and restaurants in the One Union Square Food Court. In addition, the union houses a branch of the MSU Federal Credit Union and a U.S. Post Office. For more information on the union’s many amenities, go here.

Other MSU Visitor Attractions

Touring MSU

Arts & Culture at MSU

Special events, exhibits & programs at MSU

MSU Wharton Center for Performing Arts

MSU Athletics

Activities in East Lansing

Greater Lansing Visitor Information