Belle Isle offers a range of activities suitable for families with children or for those seeking some solitary time.
With the arrival of spring-like weather, families in metro Detroit might be eager to step outside and soak up the fresh air.
A trip to this iconic park can fill an entire day with adventure or simply serve as a brief visit for some memorable photographs. No matter how you plan to spend your time on the island, Pure Michigan's official 2016 Travel Guide provides several suggestions to help you make the most of your visit.
1. James Scott Memorial Fountain
Despite his controversial reputation as a gambler and vindictive figure, James Scott's 1910 bequest of $200,000 to Detroit was meant for constructing a fountain and life-sized statue of himself on Belle Isle. Today, the fountain is a popular spot, especially at dusk when it features a water and light show. It operates from June 11 to September 20, from 10 a.m. to 9 p.m.
2. Belle Isle Nature Zoo
The Belle Isle Nature Zoo offers visitors a chance to see 19 species of Michigan wildlife up close, including black rat snakes, snapping turtles, and fallow deer. The Deer Encounter area allows guests to feed and learn about the deer that inhabit Belle Isle. The zoo is open from April to November, Wednesday through Sunday, from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and from November through April, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Admission is free.
3. Dossin Great Lakes Museum
Located on Belle Isle, the Dossin Great Lakes Museum is dedicated to preserving the history of the Great Lakes, with a focus on Detroit’s maritime significance. Among its notable exhibits is the bow anchor of the Edmund Fitzgerald, the famed ship that sank in Lake Superior in 1975. The museum is a treasure trove of regional and national maritime heritage. It is open on Saturdays and Sundays from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., and entry is free.
4. Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory
Explore the world of plants at the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, centrally located on Belle Isle. This historic greenhouse, designed by the famous architect Albert Kahn, first opened its doors on August 18, 1904. It was named of Anna Scripps Whitcomb in 1955, in recognition of her significant donation of orchids to the city of Detroit.
5. Nancy Brown Peace Carillon
The Nancy Brown Peace Carillon stands as a monument to community spirit on Belle Isle, thanks to Nancy Brown, a beloved columnist for the Detroit News. The tower was erected in 1940, following the success of a sunrise service on the island that Brown promoted after a reader's suggestion, drawing thousands annually.
6. Giant Slide
Unleash your inner child on the Giant Slide at Belle Isle, open from June 8 through Labor Day. Operating hours are Wednesday to Sunday, from noon to 8 p.m. Slides are priced at $1 each or $5 for six slides, making for a fun and affordable activity for visitors of all ages.
7. Belle Isle Aquarium
As the oldest aquarium in the United States, the Belle Isle Aquarium offers a peek into aquatic life, housing over 1,000 fish across 118 species. Designed by Albert Kahn and reopened in 2012 after closing in 2005, the aquarium features ocean water in its exhibits. It is open to the public on Saturdays and Sundays from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
8. Water Activities
Enjoy a variety of water activities at Belle Isle when the Detroit River temperatures rise. The island’s half-mile beach and the refreshing river water invite visitors to relax or swim. For those interested in paddling, three lakes and a lagoon interconnected by canals offer scenic routes around the island.
Accessing Belle Isle
Starting from last year, all vehicles entering Belle Isle require a recreation passport. These passports grant access to Belle Isle and all Michigan state parks throughout the year. For Michigan residents, passports can be purchased for $11 for vehicles and $5 for motorcycles during license plate renewal.
Tour of Belle Isle Detroit Michigan | Living in Detroit Michigan
Video by LIVING IN DETROIT MICHIGAN
