Belle Isle Park in Detroit is definitely one of those places that needs to be on every Michigander’s list. I have always felt a strange connection to the island knowing my parents went there to play as kids, and later date as teenagers growing up in the city. Its rich history combined with its endless beauty and views of the Detroit skyline make it a fabulous destination during summer.
Best of all? It’s FREE if you have a state recreation passport. Since the state take-over in 2013, there have been tons of improvements to its 982 acres, too.
So what can you do there, you ask? Here are some ideas for spots to visit with kids:
The Belle Isle Aquarium. The Aquarium has all kinds of great history, plus all the fish and aquatic animals to see, including stingrays {our favorites}! The Aquarium is open 10 a.m. to 4 p.m., Friday through Sunday. FREE.
The iconic green glass tiles inside the aquarium. The building was designed by Albert Khan and opened in 1904.
Learn about maritime marine history at Dossin Great Lakes Museum. Open Saturday and Sunday, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. FREE. {We have yet to visit, but I’ve heard it’s really neat for older kids!}
The Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory. Kids and families are sure to love exploring the Conservatory and its exotic plants, trees, adorable succulents and beautiful surrounding gardens. Open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Wednesday through Sunday. FREE.
The Conservatory is a photographer’s dream! So many places to take great photos.
Ride The Big Slide. Seriously you guys. This thing is a {scary} riot! Riders must be 48″ to ride, so no little kids allowed, and for good reason…It’s fast, bumpy, and you will get air! $1/ride.
See how my friend Erin and I flew down as our kids watched us:
Incredible sunset views. The best spot for watching the sun set is on the western-most tip of Belle Isle, with the best view of the downtown Detroit skyline.
Cool off in the water. Bring swimsuits and enjoy the half-mile long public beach or the water slide {just $3 for an all day pass to ride the slide}.
Stop for a family photo at Scott Foutain. This striking landmark is decorated with white marble and Pewabic tiles. The fountain runs through Labor Day.
Image from the Belle Isle Conservancy
Several playgrounds for burning energy. We visited the area near The Big Slide and the kids had a BLAST. There were several different structures for kids of ALL abilities. And NO mulch! Can I get an alleluia? So nice when you have an infant that wants to explore too!
Tons of structures similar to this throughout the island
Watch freighters. Explore the island and look for freighters along the way. A must for kids of all ages. {Love this suggestion from reader Catherine!}
Plenty of spots to picnic. There aren’t a ton of places to grab food, so plan ahead and pack some food and snacks. We did see a few stands with food and an ice cream truck though if you need a treat during your stay!
See where all the attractions are located here {many are right near each other and walkable for little feet}: belleisleconservancy.org/visit-the-park/map/
For the most current event descriptions and times, visit www.belleisleconservancy.org, or visit the Conservancy on Facebook or Twitter.
A recreation passport is required for vehicle access to Belle Isle Park. No recreation passport is necessary for pedestrian and bike access. Visit michigan.gov/recreationpassport for details.
What’s your favorite reason to visit Belle Isle?
That slide looks fun! But bumpy, lol.
It was crazy scary! But fun too 😉