Right in the center of the Mitten State, Lansing is Michigan's capital and home to about 120,000 people. Lansing is a diverse community situated along the Grand River with continual development and improvement initiatives. While the capitol building, a National Historic Landmark with its glass-floored rotunda, is a sight to see, there are many more beautiful aspects to living in Mid-Michigan.

When incorporated in 1859, Lansing had already grown to 7 square miles. But that was just the start. By the early 20th century, Lansing had grown significantly, in part due to the completion of railroads and its establishment as the capital. Like much of the state, Lansing's industry was steeped in the production of automobiles, namely the Olds Motor Vehicle Company. Though Oldsmobiles are no longer in production, the R.E. Olds Transportation Museum is a great place to visit. Today, the city covers roughly 33 square miles with an economy based on government, health care, and insurance services, as well as education spilling over from nearby East Lansing (go Green!).

For a family day out, Potter Park Zoo and Impression 5 Science Center are easy choices. Covering 102 acres, Potter Park is home to over 160 species. Spend the day enjoying the park and befriending lions, otters, and anteaters. If the weather's cold, there's plenty to do inside at Impression 5. Located in a former wagon works factory, this family-friendly attraction invites you the explore all five senses through hands-on activities for all ages. For family dinner, enjoy some authentic Italian meatballs at Deluca's.

Basking in the beauty of spring and fall is easy at Brenke Fish Ladder. Built in 1981 to support fish in passing the Grand River dam, the ladder is a peaceful place to visit along the Lansing River Trail. While fishing is not allowed at the ladder, you can drop lines nearby in hopes of catching carp, catfish, and sunfish. In the fall, you'll be able to spot salmon here as well. With 20 miles of paved trail, the Lansing River Trail goes from Potter Park to Michigan State University, and right through downtown.

Once you've ended up downtown, you'll want to stop by Cooley Law School Stadium for a Lansing Lugnuts game. This minor league team is known for the Crosstown Showdown. One of the biggest games of the season, the Lugnuts welcome the Michigan State University Spartans over for a friendly match-up filled with celebration and camaraderie. After the final pitch, head over to Dagwood's for some fried pickles, slider burgers, and a cold beer. This hole-in-the-wall is well-loved by locals, and unknown to outsiders.

Unfortunately, it's hard to enjoy your city when Saturdays are full of outdoor chores. Instead of hauling out the mower, clippers, and fertilizers, leave it to the LawnStarter pros. The premier provider of professional landscaping, LawnStarter handles everything from routine mowing to complete redesigns. All you have to do is download the simple app, enter your ZIP, set your preferences, and relax. LawnStarter will make sure you can enjoy your weekends. And hey, if it's summer - go check out East Lansing now that all the college kids are gone.