The aquarium was designed by the renowned architect Albert Kahn, who also designed many of Detroit's iconic industrial and commercial buildings.
The interior features unique opalescent glass tiles that were originally manufactured in Italy.
It is the only aquarium in the world to have hosted a collection of fish from every Great Lake simultaneously.
The building was closed to the public from 2005 to 2012 due to budget cuts before being reopened by the volunteer-led Belle Isle Conservancy.
The aquarium’s ceiling design is modeled after the underside of a ship, featuring distinctive green glass tiling.
The Belle Isle Aquarium is the oldest continually operating aquarium in the United States, having opened its doors in 1904. Designed by architect Albert Kahn, the facility is renowned for its green glass tile ceiling and mosaic-tiled walls. It houses a diverse collection of freshwater and saltwater fish, including a notable population of gar fish. The building underwent a significant restoration by the Belle Isle Conservancy to preserve its historic aesthetic. It is located on Belle Isle Park, an island park in the Detroit River managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. Visitors can observe various exhibits ranging from regional Great Lakes species to exotic tropical aquatic life.
The main gallery hallway, looking down the length of the green, barrel-vaulted tile ceiling.
Combine your visit with a trip to the nearby Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory for a full park experience.
Parking on Belle Isle requires a State Recreation Passport or a daily vehicle permit.
Check the Belle Isle Conservancy website for occasional weekend special events that may impact visitor flow.
Do not mistake the aquarium for a large-scale commercial zoo or marine park; it is a historic, intimate facility focused on preservation.
Typically operates on a Friday-through-Sunday schedule; closed Monday through Thursday.
