The Detroit River flows approximately 28 miles from Lake St. Clair to Lake Erie. One of North America’s busiest waterways, the Detroit River is navigated by lake freighters, tug-barge combinations, ocean going ships, and other commercial vessels. Much of the river is popular for ship spotting.
Located along the Detroit riverfront, Belle Isle Park is a 982-acre island park. The park is home to the Belle Isle Aquarium, Anna Scripps Whitcomb Conservatory, Dossin Great Lakes Museum, Belle Isle Nature Center, the James Scott Memorial Fountain, and other attractions
Near Lake St. Claire, Peche Island is a popular destination for recreation. The island-park is managed by the City of Windsor, Ontario. The island was previously managed as a provincial park by the Province of Ontario.
Near La Salle Canada are several islands that are part of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.
Grosse Ile is both an island and a community on the lower Detroit River. The township encompasses several islands, of which the largest is named as Grosse Ile.
At Amhurstberg Canada, Bois Blanc Island is accessible by ferry. A public beach is located in White Sands Conservation Area.
Near the convergence of the Detroit and Huron Rivers, Lake Erie Metropark has riverfront access, a marina, trails, and other attractions. The park is one of several Huron-Clinton Metroparks, one of the nation’s premier regional park systems.
At the southern end of the river, Detroit River Lighthouse marks the entrance to Lake Erie.
The Detroit River is a Canadian Heritage River and is home to rare species found nowhere else in Canada. In 1997, the Detroit River was designated an American Heritage Rivers by President Bill Clinton. A collection of islands on the river are part of the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.
The Detroit River is a popular fishing destination. In spring, anglers converge for fish for walleye as they move up the river from Lake Erie. Piers and docks along the river provide fishing opportunities for shore-bound anglers. Boat anglers target walleye along much of the river.