Smack in Detroit’s riverfront hustle, the Outdoor Adventure Center at 1801 Atwater St, Detroit, MI 48207, turns urban grit into Michigan’s wild side. Part of the Detroit Customer Service Center in Wayne County, this spot—opened May 8, 2015—brings the state’s outdoors indoors, just steps from the Detroit River. Whether you’re an angler, hiker, or city dweller craving nature, this Wayne County gem off I-375 blends Motor City edge with up-north vibes.
Michigan Wild, Urban Style
Housed in the old Globe Building—a 1909 brick warehouse once crafting ship parts—the Outdoor Adventure Center (OAC) is a DNR-run love letter to Michigan’s outdoors. Inside, climb a 36-foot oak tree simulator, paddle a virtual kayak through rapids, or fish a stocked pond—without leaving downtown. Exhibits hit hard: a 14-foot waterfall mimics Tahquamenon, while displays unpack hunting, fishing, and forestry from Ojibwe days to now. A snowmobile trail simulator and biking setup keep it real, tying Detroit to the state’s 6,500 miles of trails.
It’s hands-on—kids and adults alike can aim a crossbow or explore a trapper’s cabin. The Michigan DNR website dives into its 2015 launch, born from a $16 million glow-up of a historic site listed on the National Register since 1976.
Riverfront and Beyond
Step outside, and the Detroit Riverwalk hums—bike it, fish it, or watch freighters roll by with Windsor’s skyline across the water. Hart Plaza’s a block west, and the Dequindre Cut’s urban trail kicks off nearby, linking to 200+ miles of metro bike paths. No wilderness here, but gulls, geese, and the odd fox roam the river’s edge. Inside, the OAC’s 3½-acre footprint packs a punch—interactive zones and a 200-seat auditorium host talks on Great Lakes lore or urban wildlife like peregrine falcons nesting in skyscrapers.
Summer’s river buzz and winter’s indoor escape make it a year-round draw—just 5 minutes from the Renaissance Center, it’s Detroit’s wild heartbeat.
Plan Your Visit
The OAC’s open year-round—typically weekends and select weekdays—so call 313-396-6890 to confirm with Alex McCollough’s team. A Michigan Recreation Passport isn’t needed, but parking or entry might require a pass or fee; check ahead. Hit the Michigan DNR website for more, then roll down Atwater St—east of the GM HQ—to dive in. Public transit’s an option via the Detroit People Mover too.
From virtual rapids to riverfront grit, the Outdoor Adventure Center brings Michigan’s wild to Detroit’s core. Pack curiosity and explore urban nature done right.
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