Belle Isle Park, Detroit (must see)

Belle Isle Park, often referred to simply as Belle Isle, is a sprawling 982-acre island park in the Detroit River, making it the largest city-owned island park in the United States. Located just south of the U.S.-Canada border, the park is connected to mainland Detroit via the historic MacArthur Bridge, offering residents and visitors an expansive retreat from urban life.

Originally known as "Hog Island" by French settlers in the 1700s, the land served as a communal grazing area before the City of Detroit purchased it in 1879. The park officially opened to the public in 1880 and soon became a cornerstone of urban recreation. Renowned landscape architect Frederick Law Olmsted designed elements of its layout, ensuring a harmonious blend of natural beauty and human-made structures.

Belle Isle Park offers diverse attractions, including the Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory (1904), the oldest continuously operating U.S. conservatory, and the Belle Isle Aquarium, both designed by Albert Kahn. The Dossin Great Lakes Museum highlights maritime heritage, while the Belle Isle Nature Center features trails, wooded areas, and fallow deer. Recreational amenities include a sandy beach, golf course, picnic spots, and sports facilities, making it ideal for hiking, biking, and water activities.

Belle Isle has hosted the Detroit Grand Prix multiple times, further cementing its reputation as a dynamic recreational venue. Its rich history and diverse attractions draw locals and tourists alike, offering something for everyone—whether it's exploring maritime history, relaxing by the water, or marveling at historic structures.

Managed as a state park since 2013 under a lease agreement with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources, Belle Isle continues to be a treasured green space, blending natural beauty with cultural and recreational opportunities in the heart of Detroit.