I always enjoy visiting Detroit. The city is filled with beautiful architecture, new restaurants, and interesting places to see. Plus, it’s a two-hour car ride from Grand Rapids, so it’s the perfect distance for a day trip or long weekend. One place I’ve wanted to visit in Detroit is Belle Isle, and I’m happy to say, I finally made it there! (Next on my ever-growing to-do list: Masonic Temple Tour).

Belle Isle is an island park in located in the Detroit River. Soooo…it’s a park…what’s special about it? More than you’d think! Belle Isle is home to an aquarium, museum, plant conservatory, zoo, and a beach. If any of these things sound appealing to you, I promise, the drive over the bridge is worth it!

Although Eric and I visited on an unseasonably warm day, it was still chilly outside (especially with the breeze), so we both agreed that outdoor activities did not seem appealing. I was ok with that decision, because I was most interested in visiting the conservatory and aquarium.

The Aquarium: The Belle Isle Aquarium is one of the oldest aquariums in the U.S. and is, architecturally, most beautiful I’ve visited. Built in 1904 by noted architect Albert Kahn, the building retains much of its vintage charm. I’m a sucker for old tilework, and the aquarium did not disappoint here. The shimmering tiles lead you into an underwater dream world.

This is a no-frills aquarium – fish are the stars here, with both freshwater and saltwater on display. My personal favorite were the sting rays. Although bigger aquariums may house more impressive animals, shows, and even roller coasters, the simplicity was refreshing. Best of all, parking is easy and admission is free (although you’re welcome to leave a donation).

The second spot we visited was Belle Isle Aquarium’s next door neighbor, the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. Not to be overshadowed by the aquarium, this building is also beautifully designed (Albert Kahn strikes again). If I were a plant, I’d want to live here. I have a soft spot for conservatories and vicariously live through them, since I tend to kill almost every plant that comes into my care.

The conservatory has five sections: the Show House, Palm House, Tropical House, Cactus House and Fernery. Wandering through each room transported you into a different plant world. From desert to tropical forest, everything was green and blooming. Basically #homegoals for me. I’m not ashamed to say that I was feeling inspired after I visited, and subsequently, bought a plant. Succulents aren’t supposed to die, right?

When Detroit was going through tough economic times, some of the attractions on the Isle were closed to save money. I’m always a little bummed out when I see interesting places like this fall into disrepair (yes, I am one of those people who wants to save every historical structure), so I’m glad it was brought back to life for everyone to enjoy. If you need a break from the city, spend a few hours exploring this historical gem.

Plan Your Visit:

Aquarium Hours of Operation

Thursday – Sunday, 10 am – 4 pm

 

Conservatory Hours of Operation

Wednesday – Sunday, 10 am – 5 pm