You Can Visit Belle Isle's Aquarium In Detroit For Free: What To Know

DETROIT — The Belle Isle Conservancy is offering guests free entry to the aquarium every Thursday in August.

The Belle Isle Aquarium, located at 3 InselRuhe Ave. in Detroit, is open from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Thursday through Sunday until Aug. 29. In addition, the park will open an extra two days (Thursday and Friday) during the week.

Tickets are not required, but officials do encourage donations.

The free event is possible due to a $10,000 contribution from Comerica Bank. The money also supports the preservation and restoration of the park.

"Comerica and the Belle Isle Aquarium have long served Detroit, and as we approach our own historic 175th anniversary we felt it fitting to support another notable institution that has given back so much to the city," Comerica Bank Michigan Market President Steve Davis said in a news release. "It’s crucial we uphold and preserve our natural surroundings and historical landmarks, ensuring our city thrives and that future generations can enjoy the park’s distinctive environment."

The Belle Isle Aquarium first opened in 1904, making it one of the oldest aquariums in the nation. It houses more than 200 different saltwater and freshwater species, including tropical fish from all over the world.

The aquarium closed in 2005, but then reopened in 2012 after the community showed there was enough demand to support it.

The aquarium was recently ranked No. 1 for the most beautiful aquarium in the nation.