How Much Does It Cost To Get Into The Belle Isle Aquarium?

Overview of Belle Isle Aquarium

The Belle Isle Aquarium is located on Belle Isle, an island park in the Detroit River between Detroit, Michigan and Windsor, Ontario. It first opened on August 18, 1904, making it the oldest continuously operating public aquarium in the United States (Belle Isle Aquarium – Wikipedia).

The aquarium was designed by architect Albert Kahn and built at a cost of $150,000. It originally featured 146 tanks showcasing 336 species of fresh and saltwater fish from around the world, including sea horses, electric eels, and piranhas (Belle Isle Aquarium – HistoricDetroit.org).

Today, the aquarium continues to showcase a wide variety of fish species and marine life. Key exhibits include the Oddities Gallery showcasing unusual specimens, the Mangrove Tunnel allowing viewers to walk under a reef habitat, and the Sturgeon Touch Tank where visitors can interact with the massive sturgeon fish (Encyclopedia of Detroit – Belle Isle Aquarium). The aquarium provides an immersive educational experience focused on the conservation of freshwater ecosystems.

Regular Admission Cost

Visiting the Belle Isle Aquarium normally does not require purchasing tickets or paying an entrance fee. According to the aquarium’s website, “Admission is free!” (http://detroitaquarium.weebly.com/location–hours.html).

The standard admission policy welcomes all visitors, regardless of age, at no cost. This includes both adults and children/seniors. As the aquarium states, there is “Free Admission & Free Parking!” (http://detroitaquarium.weebly.com/location–hours.html).

So the regular price is free for adults, seniors, and children. The open and accessible admission makes the Belle Isle Aquarium a budget-friendly attraction for all.

Special Admission Options

The Belle Isle Aquarium offers several special admission options to make your visit more affordable. One of the best deals is that the aquarium offers free admission every day. According to the Belle Isle Aquarium website, “The Aquarium is free, as is the parking” (http://detroitaquarium.weebly.com/location–hours.html). This makes the aquarium a budget-friendly attraction to visit year-round.

The aquarium also offers free admission to organized student, senior and community groups. Educators can schedule free field trips by request. The aquarium requests groups call in advance to schedule visits (https://whichmuseum.com/museum/belle-isle-aquarium-detroit-8912/tickets-prices).

While individual membership options are not available, the Friends of the Belle Isle Aquarium offers membership levels for organizations starting at $100/year. Organizational members receive benefits like free admission for groups and members, as well as discounts on facility rentals (https://whichmuseum.com/museum/belle-isle-aquarium-detroit-8912/tickets-prices).

Purchase Tickets

The Belle Isle Aquarium does not sell tickets in advance online or require reservations. Admission is free for all visitors.

You can simply show up during regular aquarium hours to gain free entry. The aquarium is open 10am-4pm every day except Wednesdays and major holidays (Source).

While you don’t need physical tickets or vouchers to enter, you do need to pay the entrance fee to access Belle Isle itself. There is a standard $10 vehicle entry fee to the island (Source).

If you arrive by bus, bike, or as a pedestrian, there is no charge to enter Belle Isle. This allows you to visit the aquarium for free without any admission costs.

FAQs

The Belle Isle Aquarium is open 7 days a week from 10am to 4pm (Source). It is closed on major holidays. Parking on Belle Isle costs $12 for out-of-state license plates or $8 for Michigan license plates. Vehicles are required to have a Recreation Passport to enter Belle Isle (Source).

The aquarium is wheelchair accessible, with elevators to reach all levels. Service animals are allowed inside. Outside food and beverages are permitted, but no glass containers (Source). Strollers, wagons, and leashed pets are also allowed.

Nearby Attractions

Belle Isle Aquarium is located in Belle Isle Park, which has many other interesting sights and activities. Some top nearby attractions on Belle Isle include:

• The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory – This beautiful conservatory features exotic plants and flowers year-round. Source
• The Dossin Great Lakes Museum – Dedicated to the maritime history of the Great Lakes region. Source
• The Nancy Brown Peace Carillon – A majestic bell tower with 49 bells. Source

There are also several excellent museums and zoos located near Belle Isle in downtown Detroit:

• Detroit Zoo – A 125-acre zoo home to thousands of animals. Source
• Charles H. Wright Museum of African American History – America’s largest museum dedicated to African American history and culture. Source
• Detroit Historical Museum – Traces the history of Detroit from the 17th century to today. Source

Visitor Reviews

The Belle Isle Aquarium receives mostly positive reviews on sites like TripAdvisor and Yelp. Many visitors describe it as a “hidden gem” with an old-world charm that transports you back in time. According to a TripAdvisor review, “The aquarium is beautifully themed and well maintained. The tickets are moderately priced but I found a good discount which made it well worth it.”

Some negatives mentioned in reviews are the small size of the aquarium and limited exhibits compared to modern aquariums. As one Yelp reviewer wrote, “It’s a very small aquarium, but it’s still interesting to walk through.” Several reviews note that the aquarium could use some updates and renovations.

Overall, most visitors find the historic Belle Isle Aquarium to be an enjoyable experience, especially when visiting the island. As one TripAdvisor reviewer summarized, “This is a nice place to spend an hour or so, especially if you are already in the area.” While it may lack bells and whistles of more modern aquariums, its old-fashioned charm delights many visitors.

Planning Your Visit

The Belle Isle Aquarium is located on Belle Isle in Detroit, Michigan. Here are some tips for planning your visit:

Directions: The aquarium is located on the island’s northeast side off Inselruhe Avenue near the Belle Isle Bridge. From downtown Detroit, take Jefferson Avenue east and cross over the Belle Isle Bridge to reach the island. The aquarium will be on your right just after the bridge.

Parking: Parking on Belle Isle is free. You can park in the lot near the aquarium or at meters nearby. Parking can fill up on busy days so arrive early if possible. Be aware that a Recreation Passport is required to enter Belle Isle by vehicle (source).

Food Options: There are limited food options right at the aquarium. Nearby, the Belle Isle Casino houses a cafe that serves sandwiches, salads, and snacks. Picnic tables are also available around the island if you want to pack food. Outside food is allowed.

Aquarium Highlights

The aquarium is home to many fascinating exhibits and creatures Belle Isle Aquarium. The most popular exhibits are the 400-gallon freshwater stingray habitat and the 250,000 gallon shark tank. The giant pacific octopus and the dangerous tentacles exhibit are other unique highlights. Some of the aquarium’s most unique specimens includeBelles Isle Aquarium:

• Japanese spider crab with a 12 foot leg span
• Rare epaulette shark
• An albino channel catfish
• A giant gulf grouper over 6 feet long and weighing 300 pounds

There are over 1,800 fish representing over 180 species in the aquarium’s exhibits. From the sharks in the giant ocean tank to the tiny seahorses, there are many unique and fascinating creatures to discover at the Belle Isle Aquarium.

Conclusion

Visiting the historic Belle Isle Aquarium is a memorable and affordable experience for visitors of all ages. With its interesting exhibits featuring both native and exotic species, as well as its beautiful architecture reminiscent of the early 1900s, the aquarium offers an enjoyable and educational day out. Admission prices are quite reasonable, especially for Detroit residents, seniors, and children. Special discounted group rates are also available. For animal lovers, history buffs, and families looking for an entertaining indoor activity, the Belle Isle Aquarium is definitely worth a visit.

To get the most out of your aquarium visit, be sure to explore the entire 33,000 square foot building and observe the wide variety of aquatic life on display. Interacting with the touch tanks is especially popular with kids. And don’t forget to spend some time wandering through the lush and tranquil outdoor gardens as well. With advanced planning and awareness of the admission costs and policies, you’re sure to have a memorable trip to this historic Detroit treasure.