Posted in Michigan Attractions, Farms & Wildlife January 07, 2023 by Sophie Boudreau

The Oldest Aquarium In America Is Right Here In Michigan And It’s Amazing

There are few experiences more magical than walking through an aquarium, no matter what your age. The blue glow of water creates a unique ambiance as schools of fish rush by in every direction. A trip to the aquarium incites a childlike glee that simply can’t be found anywhere else — and it’s a pastime that has charmed Americans for years. But did you know that our beloved Michigan is home to the oldest aquarium in the country? Here’s one destination that you simply must visit.

The Belle Isle Aquarium, located at 900 Inselruhe Avenue within Detroit’s famous island park, draws in thousands of visitors each year.

It was meticulously designed and constructed in 1904 by famed architect Albert Kahn.

The “Beaux Art” architectural style of the building itself is a unique and gorgeous sight to behold. The ceilings are covered in green opaline glass that gives the entire aquarium an ethereal atmosphere.

While many of the original tanks and flooring sections have been replaced throughout the years, the building maintains much of its historical charm.

Belle Isle Aquarium also boasts a unique and extensive collection of marine life, featuring fish and other creatures from across the country and the world.

You’ll marvel at everything from graceful jellyfish to well-known fish species that inhabit Michigan’s Great Lakes. The aquarium continues to grow each year.

In 2005, Belle Isle Aquarium was temporarily closed due to economic woes. Thankfully, it reopened in 2012 and has seen immense economic improvement since its return.

Today, visitors will be stunned by the combination of fascinating history and forward momentum that meet inside the walls of the Belle Isle Aquarium.

The best part? Admission to the aquarium is free so you can enjoy a day of childlike excitement without spending a dime.

So, the next time you’re looking to experience an important slice of Michigan history while stepping into a whole new underwater world, look no further than the magnificent Belle Isle Aquarium.

Take a visual journey through this mesmerizing museum:

Do you have any beloved memories from a past visit to Belle Isle Aquarium? We would absolutely love to hear your stories in the comments. If you’d like to see the natural beauty of Michigan, check out these amazing natural attractions.

Address: Inselruhe Avenue, Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207, USA

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The OIYS Visitor Center

The Most Fantastic Attractions In Michigan

January 12, 2023

William Suphan

What are the weirdest attractions in Michigan?

The weirdest attractions in Michigan include:

Weird Michigan Wax Museum. This museum includes wax effigies of people like the wooden leg killer of Grand Rapids and the Belle Isle snake princess.
Edison’s Last Breath. This exhibit at the Henry Ford Museum is a sealed test tube said to contain the last breath of Thomas Edison.
Hamtramck Disneyland. This odd folk-art structure is a found object construction that’s as whimsical as it is weird.
Spirit of the Woods Museum. This place includes some odd taxidermy exhibits including one entirely composed of albino animals.

Learn more about the weirdest attractions in Michigan.

What are some must-see historical landmarks in Michigan?

Some must-see historical landmarks in Michigan include:

Frederik Meijer Gardens. This is a botanical garden and sculpture park that is 58 acres of sheer beauty.
Mackinac Bridge. This bridge spans 26,372 feet and is the longest suspension bridge in the Western hemisphere.
Motown Museum. Located in Detroit, this is the place where most of the Motown hits that people know and love were recorded.
The Henry Ford. This is where you can see the homes of historical figures and many American innovations from throughout history.

Discover more about these and other must-see historical landmarks in Michigan.

What are the most underrated attractions in Michigan?

The most underrated attractions in Michigan include:

Kitsch-iti-Kipi. This place at Manistique has bright turquoise waters that are so clear that you can see the swimming fish with vibrant clarity.
Air Zoo. This museum in Portage is where you can ride in a flight simulator and see some amazing historical aircraft.
Fort Mackinac. This fort displays historic barracks and cannons and has vivid historical re-enactments.
Belle Isle. You already know about the aquarium, but there’s so much more here, like the Whitcomb Conservancy.

Find out more about the most underrated attractions in Michigan.

Address: Inselruhe Avenue, Inselruhe Ave, Detroit, MI 48207, USA

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.