Belle Isle Nature Center — Attraction in Detroit

Belle Isle, Detroit's sprawling island park situated in the Detroit River, is a true urban oasis offering a diverse array of attractions and natural beauty. It's easy to spend an entire day exploring its various facets. The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a stunning architectural gem, filled with lush plant life from around the world, while the historic Belle Isle Aquarium, North America's oldest, provides a charming glimpse into aquatic life. Beyond these cultural landmarks, the island boasts the impressive James Scott Memorial Fountain (though currently undergoing renovation for a portion of 2026), plenty of open green spaces for picnicking and recreation, and miles of scenic pathways perfect for walking, running, or cycling. You can also visit the Dossin Great Lakes Museum to delve into maritime history or enjoy the Belle Isle Nature Center, run by the Detroit Zoo. The sheer scale and variety of activities, from a swimming beach in summer to the Giant Slide, make Belle Isle a fantastic destination for families, nature lovers, and anyone looking to escape the city bustle for a while. It's a testament to Detroit's commitment to...

For being the size of my thumb, this place had a bit more than anticipated, although a lot less than I'd hoped - before I saw how very small it was. Bees, aquatics like turtles and frogs, not-your-backyard-deer, a trunk tree house (ground) play room with AWESOME painted walls, an outdoor mini play area before the deer, bird feeders, and pretty much everything you've ever wanted at your own house that you've just never got around to making happen. Parking was good, more down the road. Place did not stink of fragrance but did require a mask. Very friendly, including to people with disabilities. Went for the Bee Fest and, although cute, I think there could have been more to do, see, learn about, explore. There wasn't a lot in the way of HOW YOU CAN HELP! type of concepts. Lots of mini education info....

There may not be a zoo anymore on Belle Isle but there is this lovely nature center with plenty of creatures. It would be easy to spend an hour here inside with young kids. There are the animals but also night cam recordings to watch. There is a 'tunneled out tree' to play in with a painting of seasons and animals on the inside. There are also lots of puppets. There is a bird watching area where we even saw a groundhog! There are bathrooms inside and portapotties outside if the building is closed (this message is for you bikers 😉). Inside there are also vending machines. One for drinks and one for snacks. There is a water bottle filling water fountain inside. Another of my favorite thing that is not on the map is an AMAZING new playground right there on the water!!!...