Picnicking
Belle Isle has some 20 picnic shelters. A permit is required, and a fee is charged, to use the shelters on weekends and holidays from May first through Labor Day.

For more information about reservations, call (313) 852-4075, Monday through Friday during regular business hours. The park begins taking reservations in March.

Fishing
Fishing is permitted from the shores and piers along the Detroit River and in the lagoons and canals on the island.

Exercise
The island's miles of paved roads and paths are ideal for walkers, runners, cyclists and inline skaters.

Athletics
The island serves the needs of athletes with special interest with baseball and softball fields, a handball court, cricket field, soccer and football field, track and tennis courts.
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Conference and meeting facilities
Many of the islands buildings can be rented by groups that wish to conduct meetings, workshops or seminars. The facilities include the Casino, Nature Center and Conservatory.

For Children
The island's Playscape offers children safe and enjoyable recreation. Nearby there is a giant slide for children of all ages to enjoy.

Golf course/driving range
A short, tight nine-hole course takes you into the woods, over the canals and around the east end of the island. The driving range on the backside allows you to practice short and long shots before you tackle the course.

Lighthouse
The 58-foot Georgian marble tower was designed by renowned architect Albert Kahn. The lighthouse still alerts ships to the island's whereabouts and the entrance to the Detroit River at Lake St. Clair.
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Nature Zoo:
The new Belle Isle Nature Zoo (BINZ) opened in April of 2005 as part of the Detroit Zoological Institute and Detroit Zoological Society. It is located across from the Belle Isle (Golf) Driving Range in the former Belle Isle Nature Center building.

A variety of programs are offered during their regular hours Monday thru Sunday 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.

BINZ’s aim is to connect families to their natural environment.

Program schedules are on the Detroit Zoo website: http://www.detroitzoo.org/Visitors/Nature_Center/Belle_Isle NatureZoo/

Police Station
Built in the 1860s, this former home for the Detroit River Harbormaster now houses a Detroit Police station. Police work out of and patrol the island on a 24-hour basis from this building.

Scott Memorial Fountain
Designed by renowned sculptor Cass Gilbert the fountain has delighted visitors since 1924. Surrounded by a circular drive, the Scott Fountain is one of the island's most notable landmarks and attractions for walkers, runners, cyclists and photographers.

White House
The turn-of-the-century farmhouse is the former home to the park's superintendent. Currently, the freshly painted white, two-story frame house is home for the city Parks & Recreation offices.
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