Belle Isle Aquarium, Detroit

The Belle Isle Aquarium, nestled in the heart of Belle Isle Park in Detroit, is a historic gem and a testament to architectural and aquatic innovation. Designed by renowned architects George D. Mason and Albert Kahn, the aquarium opened its doors on August 18, 1904. At its inception, it was the third-largest aquarium in the world, holding an impressive 65,007 gallons of water. Its unique arched ceiling, covered with green glass tiles, creates an enchanting underwater ambiance that continues to delight visitors.

The aquarium is currently managed by the Belle Isle Conservancy, a non-profit organization dedicated to preserving and enhancing the park. This stewardship follows a storied history that includes its initial operation by the Detroit Zoological Society until its closure on April 3, 2005, due to budget constraints. After years of dedicated efforts by supporters, the aquarium triumphantly reopened on its 108th anniversary, August 18, 2012, now operating entirely through volunteer and community support.

Today, the Belle Isle Aquarium is home to over 200 species of aquatic animals, including several that are critically endangered or extinct in the wild. While originally focused on Great Lakes freshwater species, its collection now includes saltwater species from around the globe. The facility also spearheads numerous conservation and educational initiatives.

The aquarium offers programs designed to educate students and teachers across all grade levels, emphasizing water and environmental conservation. These initiatives aim to inspire the next generation to protect aquatic ecosystems and biodiversity.

The Belle Isle Aquarium stands as a beacon of resilience, conservation, and community dedication, continuing to enchant visitors while advancing crucial environmental efforts.