Belle Isle ParkvsDetroit Zoo
Both are rated very highly by experts. On balance, Detroit Zoo scores significantly better than Belle Isle Park. Detroit Zoo ranks #3 in Detroit with approval from 5 reviews like Atlas Obscura, Michelin Guide and Fodor's.
Belle Isle Park
Fodor's
Afar Magazine
Lonely Planet
Independent
Belle Isle, Detroit, MI
From $0/night
Fodor's "Here you'll find woods, walking trails, sports facilities, a 9-hole golf course, and a ½-mi-long beach. Like many other urban parks, Belle Isle is best visited during the day." Full review
Afar Magazine "A 982-acre island park that offers something for everyone from a single person looking for solace to families with children looking for green space where children can roam." Full review
Lonely Planet "The entire expanse is parkland where kayaking, walking trails and a glass-domed conservatory await. There's a beach, zoo, aquarium and maritime museum, too. " Full review
Independent "For a taste of the outdoors, head to the 982-acre Belle Isle Park, with a swim beach, bike trails and kayaking"
Detroit Zoo Fodor's Lonely Planet
Michelin Guide
Atlas Obscura
U.S. News & World Report
Frommer's
8450 W 10 Mile Road, Royal Oak, MI 48215
From $0/night
Fodor's "More than 2,800 animals from about 300 species live uncaged in natural habitats at the Highlights include a large penguinarium, a walk-through aviary with tropical birds and plants." Full review
Lonely Planet "The Arctic Ring of Life at the Detroit Zoo is the world's largest polar exhibit. " Full review
Michelin Guide 1 Star
"This zoo was one of the first in the country to feature open, natural environments for its animals." Full review
Atlas Obscura "The bones of an old zoo crumbling in the shadow of a new one. " Full review
U.S. News & World Report8.0
"Many recent travelers called the Detroit Zoo one of the city's best family attractions...boasting more than 2,400 animals, the zoo has a longstanding history in Detroit (it's been open since 1928). " Full review
Frommer's "The Detroit Zoo is one of the finest in the nation, with all of the expected animals -- elephants, giraffes, bears, lions, and more" Full review
