Living Here

Central Michigan University is located in Mount Pleasant, Michigan, offering a charming small-town atmosphere with easy access to major cities. Mount Pleasant is a friendly and welcoming city with a population of around 26,000. It offers a lively community with a variety of shops, restaurants, cafes and entertainment options.

Mount Pleasant is located within driving distance to Detroit (about 2 hours) and Chicago (about 4 hours).

Flying: The closest major airport is MBS International Airport (Midland, Bay City and Saginaw) in Freeland, Michigan, just a 50-minute drive away. MBS offers flights to Detroit and Chicago's O'Hare Airport. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport (DTW), a major international hub with flights around the world, is also a convenient option, located approximately 2.5 hours by car. Also, Lansing Capital Region Airport (LAN) provides service for regional travel needs.
Driving: If you're driving to CMU, our campus is located near major highways, including US-127 and M-20. Simply input our university's address into your GPS or navigation app for directions.
Bus: If you prefer public transportation, there are bus services available that connect various cities and towns to Mount Pleasant.

Where is Central Michigan University?

We are located at: 1200 S. Franklin St. Mount Pleasant, Michigan. 48859

Directions to campus

Experience Michigan seasons

Take a virtual tour of campus

Launch Experience

Discover community and campus

Find a safe, welcoming home on campus. You’ll enjoy a variety of dining options and fully equipped gyms in our residence halls.

A group of students pose around a maroon and gold CMU flag as they are dressed to perform in the international expo.

Connect with like-minded peers through student organizations and cultural experiences.

Explore our international community

A student walks by the maroon and gold CMU seal statue outside, on campus. There are green shrubs behind the seal, as well as two trees and orange leaves on the green grass.

Our welcoming community offers on-campus safety, gym facilities and a variety of food options.

Learn more about campus life

Navigating CMU and Mount Pleasant

Four students in the middle of campus, one riding a bike, two skateboarding and another on rollerblades. All of them are wearing maroon t-shirts.

Once you're on campus, getting around is relatively easy. CMU's campus is pedestrian-friendly, with sidewalks and crosswalks to help you navigate safely. The university also provides shuttle services that run on designated routes around campus, making it convenient to travel between different academic buildings and facilities.

If you need to explore Mount Pleasant or run errands off-campus, there are several transportation options available:

Public transit: Mount Pleasant offers public transit services operated by the Isabella County Transportation Commission (I-Ride). You can use these buses to travel around the city and nearby areas.
Biking: Mount Pleasant is a bike-friendly community, with bike lanes and paths available for cyclists. Consider bringing or renting a bike to explore the area and enjoy outdoor activities.
Walking: Many amenities in Mount Pleasant, such as restaurants, shops, and grocery stores, are within walking distance of CMU's campus. Take advantage of the pedestrian-friendly environment to explore our community.

Is CMU walkable?

Absolutely! Central Michigan University is easily walkable, with sidewalks, walkways and biking lanes connecting you to all areas of campus. Enjoy the convenience and benefits of a walkable community while studying here!

Benefits of a walkable community

Enjoy the scenery around town

Things to do in Mt. Pleasant: The Chippewa River

If you love outdoor activities, you'll enjoy the Chippewa River! From kayaking and tubing to swimming or just taking a scenic walk, there’s fun for everyone around town.