The Belle Isle Aquarium has a new friend, an eight-legged octopus, and you can meet him for FREE!
The Belle Isle Aquarium is over 100 year old and one of the oldest in the county. The Albert Kahn designed building originally opened in 1904 but closed in 2005. In 2012 the Belle Isle Conservancy reopened the building and has provided a home for underwater creatures and free fun for metro Detroit families. To celebrate the 10 year re-opening anniversary, the Conservancy is welcoming its first octopus.
The male octopus is a year old and comes from the Pacific Northwest. He joins an array of animals from around the world, including air-breathing and local freshwater fish. Although it is relatively small, the aquarium is fun to explore and includes a ‘Finding Nemo’ inspired exhibit and sting rays.
The Aquarium is located right next door to the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, which also offers free admission and beautiful flowers and greenery all year long.
Both are operated by the Belle Isle Conservancy, a non-profit organization that protects, preserves, restores, and enhances the natural environment, historic structures, and unique character of Belle Isle as a public park. Belle Isle is a Michigan State Park and a vehicle pass is required ($12 annually for admission to all state parks).
Belle Isle Aquarium // 3 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207
