MSU Welcome Week Crowds Overrun East Lansing

I made a Costco run today for gas and exactly two items; baby wipes and ketchup. Never mind the specifics though, just keep in mind, this was supposed to be a quick and easy trip. However, this seemingly simple trip in the middle of the day on a Tuesday in East Lansing turned into a WHOLE escapade, all because of one thing...

It's Welcome Week at Michigan State University.

What Is MSU Welcome Week?

This is the time of year when new students and those returning make their way to MSU's campus to set up their dorm/living situation for the better part of the next nine months.

Courtesy of McConnell Adams TSM Lansing

This is a big deal because not only are we getting an influx of students, their parents are in town at the moment to help them get settled. So the sheer number of people coming into the area is astounding.

How East Lansing’s Population Doubles Overnight

Let me put it into perspective for you: Let's keep in mind that (according to the latest data I could find) East Lansing has a population of approximately 49,000 people. In 2024, MSU had a grand total of 52,089 students enroll; "the university's largest-ever enrollment for a fall semester".

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So basically, the population in East Lansing doubles, making it harder to navigate through the errands and tasks that you normally go into the city to do.

If you want to avoid the madness that is the return of students to East Lansing, I'd suggest waiting a week until you make your Costco run. And maybe avoid the East Lansing and Okemos Meijer locations too, because they'll certainly be mad houses as well.

Google Maps Images That Show Just How Much East Lansing, Michigan Has Changed

From businesses closing and opening to old buildings coming down and new ones going up, there is so much that has changed about downtown East Lansing. Could you recognize it from these pictures? Join us for a walk down memory lane as we take a look at East Lansing, then and now.

Gallery Credit: Kristen Matthews

Awesome East Lansing Eateries That are Open Late Night

Whether you've been up late at night working, studying, or (let's be honest) partying, you might be in need of some late-night grub. You're in luck because East Lansing has a good amount of places that are open until at least midnight, some even later, for you to grab a bite to eat. Check out the list below.

Gallery Credit: Kristen Matthews

East Lansing Needs A 24-Hour Pizza Vending Machine Like These Ones in Jackson

East Lansing is a college town, home to MSU. And because of that, there are a bunch of young adults around town; living, working, going to school, and going out to the bar. That's why East Lansing needs a 24-hour pizza vending machine like these ones in Jackson.

Gallery Credit: Kristen Matthews