Pilot An Airplane Cockpit And Kayak Down Virtual Rivers At This Detroit Adventure Museum

• Attraction: Outdoor Adventure Center
• Location: 1801 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207
• Industry: Museum
• Website: https://www.michigan.gov/oac

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources transformed a historic industrial building into this 40,000-square-foot wonderland where Michigan’s great outdoors comes alive indoors, regardless of weather or season.

Located on Detroit’s scenic riverfront in the historic Globe Building, this three-story interactive museum brings the best of Michigan’s natural beauty and outdoor adventures into the heart of the Motor City.

You’ll discover hands-on exhibits that let families experience everything from fishing and kayaking to snowmobiling and eagle flight simulation, all while learning about the state’s incredible natural resources and conservation efforts.

Interactive Adventures & Exhibits

The Massive Bur Oak Tree: This towering centerpiece steals the show with its sprawling branches, hidden slides, and multiple climbing levels. You can explore from the underground root system all the way up to the canopy, discovering how trees support entire ecosystems along the way.

Real Indoor Waterfall: Step behind and actually touch a flowing waterfall that recreates the experience of visiting Michigan’s 150+ natural waterfalls. Cross the stream using stepping stones while spotting fish below and tiny amphibians hiding in the rocky crevices.

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Fishing & Kayaking Simulators: Cast your line from an authentic fishing boat and feel the thrill of reeling in native Michigan fish species. Then hop into the kayaking simulator to paddle down virtual rivers and learn about water recreation opportunities throughout the Great Lakes region.

Airplane Cockpit Experience: Climb into a suspended real airplane cockpit and discover how the DNR uses aircraft for wildlife monitoring, forest fire fighting, and invasive species detection. The realistic controls and elevated position make you feel like you’re actually flying over Michigan’s wilderness.

Eagle Flight Simulator: Soar above treetops, buildings, and streams with an immersive bird’s-eye view experience. The top-floor simulator lets you see Michigan from an eagle’s perspective, then snap photos in a realistic eagle’s nest display.

Underground Cave Exploration: Journey through tunnels that teach about Michigan’s geology, mining history, and the valuable natural resources hidden beneath the ground. The cave experience includes interactive displays about the state’s rich mineral heritage.

Michigan Aquarium: Marvel at 154 different species of native fish including walleye, sturgeon, and perch in massive freshwater tanks. Learn how the DNR rehabilitates and protects Michigan’s aquatic wildlife while watching these beautiful creatures up close.

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Snowmobile & Mountain Bike Trails: Hit virtual trails on authentic equipment that simulates the thrill of exploring Michigan’s outdoor recreation opportunities year-round.

Atmosphere & Setting

Historic Building Character: The Globe Building dates back to the late 1860s when it served as the Dry Dock Engine Works, where a young Henry Ford worked as an apprentice and first encountered combustion engines. This rich automotive history adds fascinating context to your visit.

Spacious Three-Story Layout: The expansive 40,000-square-foot facility never feels cramped, even during busy periods. An elevator provides easy access to all floors, making it completely stroller-friendly and accessible for visitors with mobility needs.

Realistic Natural Environments: Each exhibit area transports you to different Michigan landscapes with authentic sounds, textures, and visual details. The indoor forest feels genuinely serene, while the waterfall area creates a peaceful, natural ambiance.

Prime Riverfront Location: Floor-to-ceiling windows offer stunning views of the Detroit River, downtown skyline, and Canada. The building sits directly on the Detroit Riverwalk with the Dequindre Cut Trail running through its backyard.

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Other Considerations

Exceptional Value Pricing: At just $5 for adults and $3 for children ages 2-12 (free under 2), this represents outstanding value for 1.5-3 hours of entertainment. Seniors pay only $3, and annual family memberships cost $50 for unlimited visits.

Family-Friendly Logistics: You can bring your own packed lunch to enjoy in their cafeteria area—a rare and budget-friendly perk. Free combo lockers store belongings safely while you explore. Ample free parking is available in the gated lot off Atwater Street.

Educational Without Being Boring: Every exhibit seamlessly blends fun with learning about conservation, wildlife management, and Michigan’s natural heritage. Kids absorb information naturally while playing, making this ideal for curious minds of all ages.

Weather-Independent Fun: Perfect for Michigan’s unpredictable weather, offering year-round indoor adventure when outdoor activities aren’t feasible. Many families return multiple times, discovering new details with each visit.

Age Range Appeal: While designed primarily for families with children up to age 12, the exhibits engage teenagers and adults too. Toddlers can safely explore age-appropriate areas, while older kids tackle more challenging climbing sections.

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Outdoor Adventure Center
📍 1801 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207