It was August 18, 1904 in Detroit when architect Albert Kahn's new aquarium would open to the public. Just three years prior ground was broken from the idea of David E. Heineman, the Detroit Chief Assistant attorney.  Heineman was captivated and inspired by a Naples, Italy aquarium that he decided to build Detroit its own as well. The Belle Isle Aquarium, which opened adjacent with the new horticultural building on Belle Isle at a cost of $160,000, would quickly become, "one of the most popular attractions on the Island." The exterior of this structure was most noted for its Gothic style entrance. This highly decorated stone facade incorporated two spitting fish and the emblem of Detroit. Underneath, the word "AQUARIUM" was carved into the stone with the face of Neptune, the Greek God of Water. The facade and the front of building would soon become covered with vines, that would give it a more rustic appeal.    The interior of this aquarium were framed cypress tank-lined walls that were filled with fresh and salt water fish. The water contained in many of these tasks were brought direct from the ocean for the aquarium. Under the domed ceiling in the center of the building was a deep pool that was encircled by several small tanks. Later this pool would become the home to a large tank that would sit in the middle. The  most magnificent part of the interior was the grotto   ceilings lined with shinny jade green titles, giving visitors a unique feeling of being underwater. Underneath this aquarium was a basement, that would be used by many as a speakeasy during Prohibition. Located in the front of the building, a small classroom was built for education. During the 1950’s, the aquarium was slightly updated, resembling much of what it looks like today.   The tanks were revamped and faced with black tiles.  Ceiling lights were removed and new lights were added to reflect on the green titled ceiling.  Also added in the renovations were new tanks in the center of the building in a "X" formation.  In order for this to be done, the central pool had to be covered and tiled over. Today this aquarium still stands next to its neighboring conservatory.  Over 100 years old, this institution remains the oldest existing aquarium in the United States.    Unfortunately, recent budget cuts from Mayor Kwame Kilpatrick has left Detroit at a crossroads. Due to the $230 million deficit, cuts include the closing of 101 year old Belle Isle Aquarium.

The Belle Isle Aquarium is located on Belle Isle just two miles east of downtown Detroit. Entrance to the island is on E. Jefferson at E. Grand Blvd. The Aquarium is at the intersection of Inselruhe Avenue and Loiter Way. The Detroit Zoological Park and Belle Isle Aquarium will be open 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM, Wednesday through Sunday only Admission Rates: $4.00 - 13 years and older $3.00 - Seniors (62 and older) $3.00 - 2 thru 12 years old Free -- UNDER 2 years old

History

Aquarium Information

Historic Postcards

Aquarium Photographs