Historic Belle Isle Aquarium exterior facade in DetroitFree
Outdoors

Belle Isle Park: Historic Aquarium & Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory

Visit on your scheduleConservatory: Wed–Sun 10:00 AM–5:00 PM; Aquarium: Fri–Sun 10:00 AM–4:00 PM; Island park open daily 5:00 AM–10:00 PM

Belle Isle Park (Aquarium & Conservatory)900 Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207 · 3.2 mi approx. from DetroitDirections

All ages; fully accessible indoor tropical conservatory and historic aquarium; ideal warm indoor refuge on cold winter days

FreeFree admission to Conservatory and Aquarium (donations welcome); Michigan Recreation Passport required for vehicle entry ($14 annual MI resident / $5 daily non-resident)

About this adventure

Positioned in the Detroit River between Detroit and Windsor, Ontario, Belle Isle Park offers an enchanting winter island escape filled with historical treasures and sweeping views of frozen river currents and drift ice. The island's centerpiece is the historic Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, a palatial 1904 glass dome housing a warm 80-degree tropical paradise of soaring palm trees, fragrant orchids, and desert cacti. Directly next door stands the historic Belle Isle Aquarium—America's oldest continuously operating public aquarium, opened in 1904. Designed by architect Albert Kahn, its vaulted green glass-tiled ceiling and glowing tanks showcase freshwater fish from the Great Lakes and tropical rivers worldwide. Both historic attractions feature free admission, making Belle Isle one of the most accessible and weather-proof family outings in Detroit.

Plan your visit

More options ↓

Loading organizer reviews…

Questions & tips

Ask other families about this activity or share a tip. Comments don’t count toward the organizer’s rating; for anything official, check with the organizer.

Loading comments…

Run this listing? Promote it

From local hosts in Detroit

More options like this in Detroit

This weekend in Detroit

All 46 things to do this weekend →