Meet me at
99 Pleasure Drive
Detroit
Directions & Access
Belle Isle is easily accessible by car, bike, foot, or public transportation. Visitors can arrive via the MacArthur Bridge from Jefferson Avenue and East Grand Boulevard. Below are all the ways to reach and enjoy the island safely and easily.
Recreation Passport
All vehicles entering Belle Isle State Park are required by law to have a Michigan Recreation Passport. Passes can be purchased through the DNR website.
The island is filled with beloved landmarks, beautiful attractions, and rich history. Start your exploration here.
When the temperatures drop, Belle Isle becomes a winter playground. Ice fishing, ice skating, pick-up games of pond hockey, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing… the list of ways to enjoy the island’s frozen beauty is almost endless!
Belle Isle’s trails and scenic 5.4-mile loop become especially peaceful in winter. Bundle up for a brisk walk or jog along the shoreline and enjoy the stillness of the snow-covered trees and icy Detroit River.
Step inside one of the island’s historic attractions for a warm escape from the cold. Explore the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Belle Isle Aquarium, Dossin Great Lakes Museum or the Belle Isle Nature Center. Each one offers its own way to experience the island’s charm, no matter the weather.
Many of Belle Isle’s sheds and pavilions are open year-round and can be reserved for your winter gathering. Contact the DNR to rent and create your own seasonal celebration surrounded by the island’s snowy beauty.
Belle Isle is a favorite winter spot for dogs and their humans alike. Take a snowy stroll along the island’s trails or open fields, let your pup play near the shoreline, and enjoy the fresh air together. Just remember to keep dogs leashed and bring waste bags
Belle Isle is one of the few places in Detroit where you can catch the sunrise and sunset on the same snowy day. Watch the sun come up over the frozen river near Fisherman’s Pier, then return to Sunset Point to see the sky glow and city sparkle. BYO hot cocoa.
When the temperatures drop, Belle Isle becomes a winter playground. Ice fishing, ice skating, pick-up games of pond hockey, cross-country skiing, snowshoeing… the list of ways to enjoy the island’s frozen beauty is almost endless!
Belle Isle’s trails and scenic 5.4-mile loop become especially peaceful in winter. Bundle up for a brisk walk or jog along the shoreline and enjoy the stillness of the snow-covered trees and icy Detroit River.
Step inside one of the island’s historic attractions for a warm escape from the cold. Explore the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, the Belle Isle Aquarium, Dossin Great Lakes Museum or the Belle Isle Nature Center. Each one offers its own way to experience the island’s charm, no matter the weather.
Many of Belle Isle’s sheds and pavilions are open year-round and can be reserved for your winter gathering. Contact the DNR to rent and create your own seasonal celebration surrounded by the island’s snowy beauty.
Belle Isle is a favorite winter spot for dogs and their humans alike. Take a snowy stroll along the island’s trails or open fields, let your pup play near the shoreline, and enjoy the fresh air together. Just remember to keep dogs leashed and bring waste bags
Belle Isle is one of the few places in Detroit where you can catch the sunrise and sunset on the same snowy day. Watch the sun come up over the frozen river near Fisherman’s Pier, then return to Sunset Point to see the sky glow and city sparkle. BYO hot cocoa.
When the snow falls, the island transforms into a winter wonderland, and we’ve curated perfect day-long itineraries for you to experience its magic from sunrise to sunset.
This itinerary is crafted for families with little ones, offering a day packed with wonder, warmth, and winter excitement. From fascinating creatures to serene, snowy landscapes, create unforgettable memories with a day of accessible, kid-friendly adventures on the island.
Begin your day with an indoor adventure learning about Michigan's native wildlife. Kids can enjoy the hands-on exhibits and get a close-up look at local fish and turtles, setting a perfect tone for a day of discovery.
Escape the cold and marvel at the oldest aquarium in the country. The green-tiled interior is magical, and children will love spotting their favorite fish in the various tanks, including the popular 'Finding Nemo'-inspired exhibit and our world-famous axolotls.
Bundle up for some classic outdoor fun. Even in winter, the large play structures at Kids Row are perfect for climbing, sliding, and imaginative play, offering a great way for little ones to get their wiggles out.
Step out of the chilly air and into a tropical oasis. The warm, humid rooms and stunning array of exotic plants will captivate all ages, making it a perfect spot for a peaceful midday stroll and a game of "I Spy" with the vibrant flowers.
As dusk settles, take a slow drive along the island's roads, enjoying the peaceful, snow-covered scenery from the warmth of your car. It's the perfect time to enjoy some hot cocoa you've packed in a thermos, capping off a fun-filled family day.
For the active soul who embraces the crisp winter air, this itinerary is your guide to an invigorating day on Belle Isle. Discover the island's stark beauty in winter, from its icy shores to its quiet, snow-dusted paths. Get ready to explore the more untamed side of the island.
The Belle Isle Loop is primarily formed by Lakeside Drive, which circles the outer edge of the entire island. You can park in any available lot and easily access the path. Begin the day with a brisk journey around the island as the rising sun reflects off your snowy surroundings.
Head to the wooded trails near the Belle Isle Nature Center. Forge your own path through the snow-covered landscape for a challenging and rewarding workout surrounded by the quiet beauty of the winter forest. The best access point for these trails is the area surrounding the Belle Isle Nature Center at 176 Lakeside Dr, Detroit, MI 48207. The trails wind through the forested interior of the island's eastern half.
Venture to the western tip of the island to see the impressive ice formations along the riverbank. The views of the Ambassador Bridge and the downtown skyline are one-of-a-kind.Address: Sunset Drive, Detroit, MI 48207. (This road runs along the westernmost tip of the island.)
If conditions permit, join other hardy anglers on the ice. It’s a classic Michigan winter activity and a peaceful way to end your day, watching the sunset with a line in the water. Popular spots include the island's inland lakes, such as Lake Okonoka or Lake Tacoma, which are located in the center of the island and are generally calmer than the Detroit River.
Designed for those seeking a peaceful escape, this itinerary combines the island's most serene indoor attractions with its quiet winter beauty. Spend a day enveloped in the warmth of history, nature, and art, all at a leisurely, restorative pace.
Begin your morning surrounded by the warmth and life of lush, tropical plants. A slow walk through the various houses of the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory is a perfect, tranquil start to a relaxing day, offering a vibrant escape from the winter chill.
Take a quiet journey through Detroit's rich maritime history. The exhibits offer a peaceful and engaging way to spend a few hours learning about the majestic ships that have sailed the Great Lakes.
Experience the charm of the nation's oldest aquarium. The gentle movement of the fish and the historic, green-tiled interior create a soothing and almost meditative atmosphere, perfect for a quiet afternoon.
Find a parking spot and enjoy the stunning winter sunset over the Detroit skyline. It's a comfortable way to cap off a day of cozy exploration, watching the city lights begin to twinkle as daylight fades.
All attractions, landmarks, and gardens can be accessibly visited. Our environments are meant to provide stress-free experiences for all, including our ADA-compliant play structure next to the Belle Isle Nature Center. For specific information regarding accessibility concerns, please Contact Us
The Michigan DNR manages all facility rentals and applications, from shelters and pavilions to special event and photography permits. Please visit the DNR's website for all official forms and guidelines.
With so much to see and do, it’s helpful to know that there are many great resources available for you to get to know the island, all year long.
