Michigan History Center

Take a journey through Michigan’s rich past, from the time of the state’s earliest peoples to the late 20th century. Located in the Michigan Library and Historical Center Building in Lansing, the museum’s five floors provide a walk through time, beginning with Michigan’s first people’s, the Anishinaabe, and ending in the mid-20th century. Yearly special exhibitions provide a deeper look at Michigan history topics.

Although our name is fairly new, the Michigan History Center’s story goes back more than 100 years. That’s when the first effort to organize and sustain the Historical Society of Michigan was made. It was followed by a pioneer society organized in 1874, provision of museum space in the 1879 State Capitol, and the 1913 creation of the Michigan Historical Commission.

Since that time, through name and organizational changes, our collections have grown as state citizens and their descendants entrusted us with materials that have meaning for the future as well as the present. Our footprint has expanded through field sites and the Michigan Library and Historical Center. Opened in 1989, that facility was the first home for Michigan history built to encourage archival research, house museum exhibits and welcome learners of all ages.

In 2016, Public Act 470 created the center as an entity separate from the Michigan Historical Commission. Today, the Michigan History Center, which includes the Michigan History Museum and 11 museums and historic sites, continues to expand its reach – online, on trails and onsite. We share not only collections and ideas, but also the experience of asking questions, finding answers and reaching conclusions.

Admission FREE for everyone on Sundays!

• We participate in Museums For All. Admission is $2 for adults and FREE for children 17 and under with an EBT card and a photo ID.

Explore More While You’re Here

Make the most of your visit! Explore local dining, unique places to stay, and exciting things to see and do with guidance from the Visitor Bureau. From hidden gems to must-see attractions, your next adventure begins here.

Choose Lansing
500 E Michigan Ave Ste 180
Lansing, MI 48912