The Oldest Aquarium In America Is Right Here In Michigan And It's Amazing
Sophie Boudreau
Author
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, turtles, and sea creatures 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 U.S.? Here’s one destination that you simply must visit.
Related Stories
This Is The Most Michigan Sound You'll Ever Hear, And We Can't Stop Listening To It
This Enchanting Garden Restaurant In Michigan Will Transport You To Another World
Get Away From The Crowds At This Incredible, Little-Known State Park In Michigan
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. In fact, you can book a number of epic Michigan experiences right from your phone!
OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.
More to Explore
Aquariums In Michigan
What are some other aquariums near me in Michigan?
While Belle Isle earns its claim to fame as the oldest aquarium in the U.S., Michigan has a few other aquatic centers and aquariums tucked away! Check out even more Michigan aquariums:
- Carl T. Johnson Hunt and Fish Center
- Critchlow Alligator Sanctuary & Zoological Gardens
- The Reptarium
- SEA LIFE Michigan Aquarium
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.