Photo: Google
Photo: Google
Photo: Google
MSU Dairy Store
★4.6(260 reviews)$Ice Cream
🕑 30-45 minutes including wait time and enjoying your ice cream👶 Perfect for all ages, from toddlers getting their first ice cream cone to teens who appreciate the unique college campus vibe. Kids of all ages love choosing from the enormous variety of flavors, and the affordable prices mean parents can say yes without breaking the bank.🧡 Saved by 100+ families
About
The MSU Dairy Store is a legendary East Lansing institution where families can enjoy premium ice cream made fresh on campus using milk from Michigan State University's own dairy herd. This beloved spot offers over 40 flavors of creamy, hand-dipped ice cream at budget-friendly prices, making it the perfect sweet treat destination after exploring campus or catching a Spartans game.
Highlights
- ✓Over 40 rotating flavors of premium ice cream made from MSU's own dairy farm
- ✓Famous Sparty Swirl flavor in green and white MSU colors
- ✓Budget-friendly prices (under $5 per person)
- ✓Authentic college campus experience with friendly student staff
- ✓Fresh cheese and dairy products available for purchase
Pro Tips
- 1.Visit on weekday afternoons to avoid the long lines that form on weekends and after MSU sporting events.
- 2.Try the famous Sparty Swirl (green and white ice cream) or Sesquicentennial Swirl for a true MSU experience the kids will remember.
- 3.Park in the nearby Ramp 1 parking structure on Shaw Lane for easy access, especially with strollers.
- 4.The shop also sells MSU cheese and other dairy products, perfect for taking home as souvenirs or picnic snacks.
- 5.Bring cash or card, but note that lines move quickly despite the crowds thanks to efficient staff.
Best Time to Visit
Weekday afternoons between 2-4pm offer the shortest wait times. Avoid game days and weekends when students and alumni pack the shop. Summer evenings are busy but fun if you want the full bustling campus atmosphere.
What to Know
Ice cream cones and cups start around $3-5, making this an incredibly affordable family outing. Limited seating is available inside, but there are benches outside and plenty of green space on campus for enjoying your treats. The shop is stroller accessible.
Seasonal Notes
Open year-round, though hours may vary during university breaks and holidays. Fall is especially festive during football season, while spring and summer offer the best weather for enjoying ice cream on campus lawns. Check hours before visiting during MSU winter and spring breaks.
Nearby Eats
The MSU campus offers numerous dining options within walking distance, including kid-friendly spots in the nearby MSU Union food court. For a sit-down meal, head to downtown East Lansing (5 minute drive) where you will find pizza shops and family restaurants along Grand River Avenue.
More Activities Near East Lansing
Park
Burcham Park
Free
Burcham Park is a fantastic free community destination in East Lansing that offers something for the whole family. With its refreshing splash pad, well-maintained playground equipment, basketball courts, and expansive grassy areas, it's perfect for everything from active play to relaxing family picnics. The park's combination of water play and traditional playground features makes it a go-to spot for local families looking to spend quality time outdoors.
Adventure
Grand River
$$
The Grand River in East Lansing offers families a wonderful opportunity to explore Michigan's natural beauty through gentle paddling adventures and shoreline activities. This scenic waterway is perfect for introducing kids to kayaking and canoeing in a relatively calm setting, with plenty of spots along the banks for picnicking, nature watching, and beginner-friendly fishing.
Theater
Wharton Center for Performing Arts
★4.8$$❤️124
Wharton Center for Performing Arts brings Broadway magic and world-class entertainment to East Lansing families. This premier venue offers a rotating selection of family-friendly shows, from beloved Disney musicals to engaging children's theater productions, all in a comfortable, state-of-the-art setting that makes every seat feel special.
Activity
Horticulture Gardens
★4.8$❤️62
The Horticulture Gardens at Michigan State University offer 14 acres of beautifully maintained themed gardens perfect for introducing children to nature's wonders. Kids can explore peaceful walking trails, discover colorful flowers, and enjoy wide open spaces for running and playing in a safe, educational environment. With free admission and extended hours, it's an affordable option for families seeking outdoor adventure any day of the week.