Belle Isle's is home to America's oldest running Aquarium, or at least it was until it was sadly closed in 2005. With a history of 60 tank exhibits for native Great Lake species and other international fishes, the basement of the building also served as a speak easy during prohibition. The building was designed by arhictect Albert Kahn - a man infamous for many buildings around the city and the aquarium itself is worthy of being noted for it's beauty. With it's single large open gallery design, the walls and curved ceiling is covered in green glass tiles - ones aimed at recreating the sense of being underwater.
When we visited the aquarium was open every odd weekend but now it's opened every Saturday as they raise funds to keep it open. Granted it's not worth a trip just to see the aquarium as about only a third of the tanks actually have fishes in, the others may be empty of fish but they do have interesting visual displays showcasing local business.
It's sad to know it's future is unknown although just this summer it's been re-roofed, if this aquarium with such a great history was in any other city it would have masses of tourists and never have been left to decay.
Wow that place is gorgeous! We've been to the Long Beach Aquarium and that was so much fun. Sea life is so interesting to see and observe.
ReplyDeleteI'm one of those weird folks who thinks that a half-filled aquarium (especially in this building) has more charm and attraction than your usual run of the mill aquarium. Shame I live so far away.
ReplyDeleteWhat a fabulous place. I do love those green tiles. x
ReplyDeletesuch a lovely building, don't think we have anything like this were I live. Although we do have The Dr Who Experience which is pretty cool.
ReplyDeleteWhat a gorgeous building!
ReplyDeleteI LOVE aquariums!!
ReplyDeleteBeautiful! I love aquariums.
ReplyDeleteJust been having a look through your Detroit posts and found them fascinating. I love learning about new places.
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