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Belle Isle Aquarium

America's oldest aquarium beckons with historic charm and aquatic wonders.

About

America's oldest aquarium beckons with historic charm and aquatic wonders. Opened in 1904, the Belle Isle Aquarium, designed by the renowned architect Albert Kahn, offers visitors a unique journey through diverse aquatic environments within its stunning Beaux-Arts architecture. Its iconic vaulted ceiling, adorned with sea-green glass tiles, creates an immersive underwater ambiance, making the building itself as much an exhibit as the marine life it houses.

Housing over 200 species of aquatic animals, the aquarium features a remarkable collection that spans freshwater and marine ecosystems from around the globe. Highlights include North America's only known collection of all seven species of gar, fascinating creatures such as the adorable axolotl, and a captivating electric eel exhibit that dramatizes its electrical discharges. Visitors can also marvel at majestic sturgeon, a variety of colorful tropical fish, and even an octopus. Beyond its diverse inhabitants, the aquarium actively participates in conservation efforts, including assisting with repopulating sturgeon in the Detroit River.

A visit to the Belle Isle Aquarium is an intimate and educational experience, perfect for those seeking both natural beauty and a glimpse into Detroit's rich history. With its free admission and tranquil atmosphere, it's a memorable destination to explore unique aquatic life and appreciate Albert Kahn's architectural genius, all within the picturesque setting of Belle Isle Park. Unlock an interactive field guide for this spot: get the Snappit app to identify nature on the go.

The Belle Isle Aquarium first opened its doors on August 18, 1904, a sister attraction to the adjacent Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. Designed by prominent architects Albert Kahn and George D. Mason, it was initially the third largest aquarium in the world and the oldest continuously operating public aquarium in North America before its temporary closure. The building's basement even served as a speakeasy during the Prohibition era. Due to budgetary constraints, the City of Detroit closed the aquarium in 2005. However, a dedicated group of volunteers and the Belle Isle Conservancy successfully campaigned for its reopening, and it welcomed the public once again on August 18, 2012, exactly 108 years after its original debut. Since then, the Belle Isle Conservancy has been instrumental in its restoration, restocking, and ongoing operations, relying on community funding and volunteer efforts to maintain this historic treasure.

What to do here

Stroll through the single gallery, admire the diverse fish collections, attend educational demonstrations by volunteers, and visit the gift shop for souvenirs.

Seasonal info

The aquarium is open year-round. Koi from the outdoor pond are brought inside during colder months for protection.

Accessibility

The Belle Isle Aquarium offers accessible entries with gentle ramps and manual doors. Inside, spacious walkways accommodate comfortable mobility, and accessible restrooms are available, though they may be limited in number. The entire Belle Isle Park is wheelchair accessible, connecting major attractions like the aquarium.

Don't miss

Albert Kahn's Architecture

The stunning Beaux-Arts building itself, particularly the vaulted ceiling covered in green glass tiles that evoke an underwater feeling.

Gar Collection

Discover North America's only known collection of all seven species of gar, including those native to the Great Lakes and Africa.

Axolotl

Observe these unique and charming salamanders from Mexico with their distinctive feathery gills.

Electric Eel

Witness the dramatic visual and audible demonstrations of the electric eel's discharges.

Wildlife you might spot

Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.

Monarch Butterfly

Canada Goose

Eastern Gray Squirrel

Bald Eagle

Bee

Red Winged Blackbird

Snap map for this place

Start with the big picture, then zoom in to explore individual wildlife observations around this place.

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Good to know before you go

Plan for the Recreation Passport

** If driving, ensure you have a Michigan Recreation Passport. It can be purchased with your vehicle registration or at the park entrance.

Combine your visit

The aquarium is located within Belle Isle Park, close to the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory and the Belle Isle Nature Center, making it easy to visit multiple attractions in one trip.

Look up and around

Don't forget to appreciate the intricate architecture, especially the iconic green-tiled vaulted ceiling and the detailed facade.

Consider a donation

While admission is free, the aquarium is run by the Belle Isle Conservancy and relies on donations to operate and maintain its exhibits. A $5 donation is encouraged.

Parking is available

Free parking is available near the aquarium within Belle Isle Park.

Check for events

The aquarium occasionally hosts special educational programs or events, which can enhance your visit.

Frequently asked questions

: No, admission to the Belle Isle Aquarium is free. However, a Michigan Recreation Passport is required for all vehicles entering Belle Isle Park.
: The Belle Isle Aquarium is currently open Thursday through Sunday, from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
: Visitors can marvel at a diverse range of species, including North America's only collection of all seven gar species, the fascinating axolotl, an electrifying electric eel, various types of sturgeon, and an elusive octopus, among many others.