Belle Isle Aquarium Hours Of Operation
Introduction
Belle Isle Aquarium is a historic aquarium located on Belle Isle, an island park in the Detroit River. It is one of the oldest aquariums in the United States and has been a popular attraction for over 100 years. If you are planning a visit to the Belle Isle Aquarium, it is important to know the hours of operation to ensure you don't miss out on this unique experience.
History of Belle Isle Aquarium
The Belle Isle Aquarium was first opened to the public in 1904 and was designed by the famous Detroit architect, Albert Kahn. The aquarium was originally built to showcase the fish and other aquatic life found in the Great Lakes region. In the early 20th century, the Belle Isle Aquarium was one of the most popular attractions in Detroit, attracting visitors from all over the country.
Over the years, the Belle Isle Aquarium has undergone several renovations and upgrades to keep up with modern technology and standards. The aquarium was closed in 2005 due to budget cuts but was reopened to the public in 2012 thanks to a group of dedicated volunteers and donors.
Hours of Operation
The Belle Isle Aquarium is open to the public on Fridays, Saturdays, and Sundays from 10:00 am to 4:00 pm. It is important to note that the aquarium is closed on Mondays through Thursdays, as well as on major holidays such as Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year's Day.
If you are planning a visit to the Belle Isle Aquarium, it is a good idea to check the hours of operation in advance. The aquarium may also have special hours or events throughout the year, so be sure to check their website or social media pages for the most up-to-date information.
Admission Prices
The Belle Isle Aquarium is free to the public, but donations are encouraged. The aquarium relies on donations to support its operations and to continue providing educational programs and exhibits for visitors of all ages.
Exhibits and Attractions
The Belle Isle Aquarium features a variety of exhibits and attractions that showcase the aquatic life of the Great Lakes and other regions around the world. Some of the most popular exhibits include:
- The Great Lakes Gallery, which features a variety of fish and other aquatic life native to the Great Lakes region.
- The Coral Reef Gallery, which showcases a variety of colorful fish, coral, and other sea creatures found in coral reefs around the world.
- The Amazon River Gallery, which features fish and other aquatic life found in the Amazon River and its surrounding rainforest.
- The Kelp Forest Gallery, which showcases the underwater ecosystem of kelp forests found in the Pacific Ocean.
In addition to its exhibits, the Belle Isle Aquarium also offers educational programs and activities for visitors of all ages. These programs include guided tours, animal feedings, and educational talks and workshops.
Conclusion
The Belle Isle Aquarium is a historic and educational attraction that is definitely worth a visit. Whether you are a local resident or a visitor to the Detroit area, the aquarium offers a unique and interesting experience for all ages. Just be sure to check the hours of operation before you go!