The Belle Isle Aquarium, located in Belle Isle Park in Detroit, Michigan, is a public aquarium with a rich history. It was designed by renowned architects George D. Mason and Albert Kahn and first opened its doors to the public on August 18, 1904. This makes it one of the oldest aquariums in North America.
After a period of closure, the Belle Isle Aquarium reopened to the public on August 18, 2012. It is now managed entirely by the Belle Isle Conservancy, a non-profit organization that partners with Belle Isle Park. This partnership ensures the continued operation and preservation of this historic aquarium.
The Belle Isle Aquarium is open to the public free of charge, thanks to community funding and the efforts of the Belle Isle Conservancy. Visitors are welcome from Friday to Sunday, between the hours of 10am and 4pm. This makes it an accessible and affordable option for families and individuals interested in marine life.
The Belle Isle Aquarium is home to over 200 species of aquatic animals. While it primarily features freshwater species native to the Great Lakes region, it also houses salt-water species from around the world. This diverse collection of marine life offers visitors a unique opportunity to learn about and appreciate the biodiversity of our planet's aquatic ecosystems.
Nature & Natural History Aquarium Animals
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No exhibitions in Belle Isle Aquarium have been found.
Belle Isle Aquarium has 1 rating.
The Belle Isle Aquarium in Detroit offers visitors a chance to explore aquatic life in a historic setting. Opened in 1904, it's one of the oldest aquariums in North America. The building's architecture, with its green-tiled arched ceiling, adds to the experience.
Visitors appreciate the free admission and the variety of fish species on display, including both freshwater and saltwater exhibits. The aquarium houses some rare and local species, which many find educational. The staff is generally described as friendly and knowledgeable.
However, the aquarium is relatively small compared to modern facilities, which can lead to crowding during peak times. Some visitors mention that certain exhibits could benefit from updates or expansions. The limited parking on Belle Isle can also be a challenge during busy periods.
While not as extensive as larger aquariums, the Belle Isle Aquarium provides a pleasant, educational experience that's especially appealing to families and those interested in local history. Its recent renovations have improved the overall visitor experience, though there's still room for further enhancements.
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