The most iconic landmarks at MSU include Beaumont Tower, the Sparty Statue, Spartan Stadium, and the Breslin Center. Most students will visit these locations or snap a picture of them during their 4 or 5 years of college; however, there are many other wonderful places on campus that every student should visit at least once before they graduate. Here some of them:
The Eli and Edythe Broad Art Museum-
Recently opening in 2012, this museum replaced the Kresge Art Museum. The striking silver structure is hard to miss, and it is located between East Circle Dr. and Grand River Ave, near Farm Lane. Some people love the design and others may think it is ugly, but regardless of how you like it, this "spaceship" is quickly becoming one of MSU's more well known landmarks. Most students walk past it without entering, but take the time to visit at least once before you graduate since admission is free. Keep an eye out for this building in the upcoming Batman vs. Superman movie so you can say "Hey, I've been there!" to your friends.
The MSU Dairy Store-
Alright, if you haven't stopped here and got some ice cream before, you shouldn't be allowed to graduate until you do. Everything about this place is awesome. The ice cream is great, and many flavors are named after other Big Ten schools. All of the ice cream and cheese is made locally at the MSU Dairy Plant. The menu isn't limited to dairy products, and you can grab a coffee or a grilled cheese between class. Oh, and the prices can't be beat. On Mondays you can get a grilled-cheese sandwich with a cup of tomato soup for $2.50. There are two locations on campus, one in Anthony Hall, and the other in the MSU Union.
The Beal Botanical Garden-
Nestled between the MSU Library and IM Sports Circle, this is a wonderful place to study or relax in your free time. Take time to wander through the garden and view some of the plant collections. Each plant has a sign in front of it, which includes its name and interesting facts. Helpful hint: don't touch the poison ivy on display. If you are interested in visiting other gardens, then I'd also recommend visiting the horticultural gardens behind the Molecular Plant Sciences Building, and also the Lewis Landscape Arboretum, which is south of the horticultural gardens past the train tracks.
The Baker Woodlot/Rajendra Bird Sanctuary and the Sanford Natural Area-
Both of these locations offer a chance to escape for a nice hike in the woods with friends, or to be alone with nature. The Sanford Natural Area is 34 acres and only a short walk from campus. It is located just north of the River Trail Neighborhood dorms. The Baker Woodlot/Rajendra Bird sanctuary is much larger, being 78 acres. It is located in the southern part of campus, south of Service Rd. between Farm Lane and Bogue.
The MSU Museum-
The MSU Museum offers a wide variety of exhibits on display throughout the year and free admission. The building has 3 floors and up to 15 exhibits, which include natural history specimens, habitats, cultural artifacts, evolution and world cultures. Some of the exhibits are only temporary, so be sure to check back throughout the year for new ones.
