The Belle Isle Aquarium is the oldest aquarium in the continental United States and visitors can enjoy it for FREE!
The Belle Isle Aquarium was designed by famed Detroit architect, Albert Kahn, and opened on August 18, 1904 (it celebrates its 100th anniversary this year!). It is the oldest aquarium in the country and when it opened it was the third-largest Aquarium in the world with salt water being shipped directly in from the ocean. Today, it is home to a unique collection of fish, reptiles and even an octupus! Walking through the aquarium, you will travel all over the globe exploring the Great Lakes and Waters of the world. From Africa to South American from rocky shores to sandy depths all different environments are on display.
You can also enjoy hands-on, educational demonstrations hosted by volunteers. This is a fun, esasy activity for kids of all ages to enjoy.
The Belle Isle Aquarium is open Fridays -Sundays from 10am to 4pm. Admission is free but a $5 donation is encouraged.
The Belle Isle Aquarium is located next to the Belle Isle Conservatory (currently closed for renovations), the Giant Slide, and the Dossin Great Lakes Museum. A short drive down the island you can find the Belle Isle Nature Center (that also has FREE admission). The Nature Center is open 7 days a week and features indoor activities, outdoor nature play area (and a fun modern playground) and recently enhanced nature trail.
Belle Isle State Park is a 982-acre island park. During warm months, visitors can also enjoy the beach, golf course, kayaking, fishing and more. A recreation passport is required to drive on the island and it costs $13 for an annual vehicle pass.
