Science in the Gardens—Science Festival—Michigan State University

MSU Horticulture Gardens

Saturday, April 9 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

Sunday, April 10 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM

What can I do and see at Science in the Gardens?

View a Science in the Gardens schedule & map to see a list of talks, demonstrations, and activities taking place in the MSU Horticulture Gradens. There are also tours of MSU labs, libraries, makerspaces, archives, special collections, and the MSU Bug House taking place all weekend. View the full schedule of Science Festival events to see a complete list of programs and offerings.

If you'd like to take a virtual tour of the Horticulture Gardens to help plan your visit, Google Maps Street View is an excellent way to help orient yourself prior to visiting. The gardens may look different due to seasonal differences, but you may find it a helpful walkthrough. Below are links to each of the oudoor spaces with Science Festival Activations:

Where can I park?

View the MSU interactive map to explore parking options across campus. Lot 46, 54, 53 are free parking options near the MSU Horticulture Gardens, all of which have accessible parking. Most parking on MSU's campus is free on weekends and on weekdays after 6pm. Visit the MSU parking website for more information on visitor parking.

What if it rains?

While we hope for beautiful, sunny weather, we have made plans to make sure any inclement weather does not spoil our fun. Many talks throughout the weekend take place at the MSU Horticulture's beautiful indoor Conservatory and indoor 4-H Children's Garden. In the event of rain or inclement weather, we will move any outdoor presentations to the Horticulture Gardens Headhouse (Plant and Soil Sciences Building, Room B108).

Where can I grab a bite to eat?

The MSU Dairy Store at Anthony Hall is so close and so delicious. Stop by to get a scoop of ice cream or bowl of mac and cheese.

Hannah Plaza in East Lansing is another nearby option with restaurants like Sindhu Indian Cuisine, Pizza House, Sansu Sushi, Jimmy Johns, and others offering both dine-in and delivery options.

If you choose to pack a lunch or have food delivered, there are benches throughout the gardens as well as a small seating area at the South end of the Gardens, just to the West of the Children's Garden Amphitheater. It's labeled "Rooftop Gardens" on the map.

How much does this event cost?

All MSU Science Festival events are FREE and open to the public.

How can I support this incredible event?

Join us as a volunteer or donate to keep the festival free and accessible to Michigan communities!

Science in the Gardens