With Picnic Areas And Hundreds Of Plants, This Unique Park In Michigan Is Perfect For A Family Day Trip
By Courtnie Erickson|Published June 29, 2023
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Courtnie Erickson
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From Southern Utah to the Panhandle in Idaho, Courtnie Erickson has lived in what she believes are the best (and the most beautiful!) areas in the country. She graduated with a journalism degree from Utah State University and has more than 15 years of professional writing experience. You’ll likely see her with a Dr. Pepper in her hand and a pair of running shoes on her feet. Courtnie is a writer and editor at OnlyInYourState.
There is nothing like a beautiful day outdoors. Fortunately, you don’t have to travel far outside of Michigan’s capital city to surround yourself with beauty. Cooley Gardens is one of Lansing, Michigan’s most incredible city parks and quite a hidden gem. With beautiful plants everywhere you look, picnic tables, a pavilion, and more, this is the ultimate place for a family day trip outside.
Cooley Gardens is one destination in Lansing, Michigan that will leave you impressed the minute you arrive. You will find this enchanting area at 125 W Malcom X Street in Lansing.
This park is essentially a large garden that was planted approximately 100 years ago. The park was designed for the horticultural education and pleasure of garden lovers in Lansing.
Unfortunately, it was neglected and fell into disarray. But, decades later, it was brought back to life and has become a plant lover’s paradise.
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Grab your family and spend some time walking around and enjoying the incredible views. The trees, plants, and flowers make you feel like you are far away in nature — not right in the heart of the city.
There is also a pavilion and park benches where you can sit and relax while you let your kids explore and enjoy some time in the fresh air.
Throughout the park, you’ll find a number of historical plaques that tell you a little about the gardens and Lansing's history. It is a day trip destination that is full of beauty, stories, and a little education.
Due to the beautiful landscaping of this park, Cooley Gardens has also become a popular wedding site. Be aware that while admission to this park is free, hosting a wedding at the park does require an additional fee.
Whether you come to explore and spend time together as a family or you want to meditate, enjoy the quiet, and spend time alone, Cooley Gardens is the perfect park in Michigan. It’s one destination that will immediately capture your heart.
Have you spent time at Cooley Gardens? Do you have a favorite city park in Michigan? Let us know in the comments. You can also learn more about this park on the City of Lansing website.
