Younger visitors will likely enjoy a visit to the Impression 5 Science Center , located on 200 Museum Dr. (517-485-8116). Founded in 1972 by Marilynne Eichinger, the center moved to its downtown location in 1982, and today is considered one of the most important cultural and education resources in the area. The name refers to the five senses, all of which are engaged in the experience while visiting I-5.
     The Impression 5 Science Center is open Monday through Saturday from 10am until 5pm, and is open until 8pm on Thursday. The center is closed on Sundays. Admission if $5.00 for adults, $3.50 for seniors and students (including college students with ID) and children under three years old are free.
     The Potter Park Zoo of Lansing was founded in 1915 as Potter Park with 58 acres of land. It expanded and by 1920 more than 27 additional acres were added to the park. The first animals, including elk from nearby Moore’s Park were transferred to Potter Park. The first buildings, including the Lion House were constructed in 1930, and the popular Monkey Island (now the home of the Bighorn Sheep exhibit) were added in 1936, while the Aviary was completed in 1941, and refurbished in 1985. The zoo grew in size through the 1970s and 1980s, when a zoo railroad that offered rides for 25 cents was added in 1974. A new educational center and animal clinic were recently added to the zoo, and this latest improvement even allows animals to be treated on the grounds rather than having to be taken to MSU’s veterinary facilities.
     Admission to the zoo is $4.00 for adults (Lansing residents), and $6.00 for non-residents. Seniors residents are $2.00 (non-residents are $3.00), and children three to 15 years old are $2.00. The winter months from November through February are free.