OAC updated Brochure - Aug 2025.pdf

Throughout this publication, you will see QR codes, which will direct you to a web page with more information and the ability to register for events or programs.

ABOUT QR CODES

To scan a QR code on your phone, all you have to do is open the camera app and point your phone at the QR code. Make sure the QR code is inside the box on your screen, and then tap the pop-up banner or the yellow QR code icon in the bottom-right corner.

Located on Detroit’s riverfront in the historic former Globe Building, with the Dequindre Cut Trail running through its front yard, the Outdoor Adventure Center gives you a taste of Michigan’s great outdoors in the heart of the city.

Experience the exciting outdoor adventures Michigan has to offer with hands-on activities, exhibits and simulators

– walk behind and touch a waterfall, step into a fishing boat and reel in a big fish, hit the trail on a mountain bike or snowmobile, and much more.

At the OAC, you’ll learn about how the Michigan Department of Natural Resources manages forests, wildlife and fish as you explore the roots and canopy of a bur oak tree, hop aboard our airplane, and see what’s swimming in our aquarium.

Parking is available on the east side of the OAC in the gated lot off Atwater Street.

Parking

About

Outdoor Adventure Center 1801 Atwater Street

Detroit, MI 48207-4020

Facebook.com/MiOutdoorAdventureCenter

12 – 4 p.m.

CLOSED

Groups by appointment only 9:30 a.m. – 4 p.m.

ADMISSION SALES END AT 3:30 P.M.

For most up-to-date information please give us a call or check our website:

Sunday:

Monday:

Tuesday:

Wednesday - Saturday:

General admission:

Children under 2: free; children (ages 2-12): $5;

adults (ages 13-61): $7; seniors (ages 62 and older): $5

Discounted admission - Museums for All Ensuring opportunities for all is important to us, which is why we are part of the “Museums for All” network. Cardholders who a have current SNAP EBT card or WIC card AND a valid photo ID will receive a discounted admission rate of just $3 per person for themselves and up to five guests. The discount applies only to admission and not for special classes and programs. Admission costs must be paid by cash or with credit card at the time of entry.

Annual family membership:

An annual membership can be purchased for $65 for up to five members of the same household. For an additional $35, you can bring up to two guests any time you visit.

Hours

Pricing

Phone: 844-622-6367 (844-OAC-MDNR) Email: DNR-OAC@Michigan.gov

Website: Michigan.gov/OAC

Contact Information

A paved sidewalk runs from the parking lot to our front door.

Electronic-assist doors are available at the entrance and exit.

An elevator is available to access all three floors of the building; ramps are installed within exhibit area.

A secure nursing room and quiet room are available for use on the second floor.

All restrooms are equipped with an accessible stall.

An all-gender restroom is located on the second floor.

Exhibit information can now be translated to Spanish, Arabic, and Mandarin using a smart device and QR codes.

Facility maps are available printed in Arabic, Spanish, German, French, Mandarin, Japanese and English. These maps are in the entrance lobby.

Large print and Braille maps are available for loan at the front desk.

Communication boards are located throughout the building.

A visual tour of our building is available to view at home to prepare for a visit.

All staff is Kulture City-certified annually.

Contact us or visit our website if you have any questions or need to discuss accommodations.

Accessibility

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Detroit River, downtown Detroit, Milliken State Park and Canada, all from your event/meeting room at the Outdoor Adventure Center.

Whether it’s a corporate training retreat, a small business meeting or a large-scale gala, we have a fun and unique place to host it.

Event and meeting space

Field trips to the Outdoor Adventure Center combine Michigan's outdoor resources and hands-on learning for all ages in a climate-controlled, historic building.

Field trips include the following:

A 2.5-hour self-guided visit for up to 90 students.

Time to explore hands-on exhibits.

Time to visit live animals in the Habitat Lodge.

Exploration guides to help guide learning.

Access to lunch room.

Time to shop in the gift shop.

Group admission rate: $3 per person (students, teachers, chaperones); a minimum of 30 guests are required to qualify for the group rate.

$50 nonrefundable deposit: Due upon confirmation. Date changes requested less than four weeks in advance will forfeit the deposit.

$90 classroom sessions: Enhance the learning experience by booking a classroom session for up to 30 students. Up to three classroom sessions can be booked per visit.

Field Trips

We offer a variety of programming just for kids! Join OAC education staff for guided experiences both in the classroom and outside, focused on play, discovery and exploration. Visit our website to learn more about what we’re offering this season.

Just For Kids

The Outdoor Adventure Center’s mission is to connect visitors to Michigan’s natural resources. At Camp Explore, our summer camp, we put that mission into action.

Campers will gain outdoor skills, discover new friendships and develop as leaders, all against the backdrop of our beautiful Michigan state parks. Our camp values – kindness, curiosity and stewardship – direct all that we do.

Camp Explore

For more information about the Friends of the OAC, please scan the QR code

The Outdoor Adventure Center provides a variety of programs and experiences just for adults! Whether it’s discovering a new skill, hearing stories of Michigan’s history, learning about the natural resources around us, or tapping into your artistic side – there is certainly something for everyone.

Keep an eye out for our Grown-Up Gathering adult program series, which is sponsored by the Friends of the Outdoor Adventure Center. Grown-Up Gatherings are for adults ages 21 or older. Each program includes light snacks and refreshments, and most even feature beer and wine!

Just for Adults

Never stop exploring! The Outdoor Adventure Center has many programs for active aging adults. Take a hike, discuss historic tales and modern research with expert presenters, and more – all in the company of good friends.

Active Aging Adventures

Classes at the Outdoor Adventure Center are designed to introduce you to the sport of archery and help you develop your skills. No matter your experience, the OAC archery range has a class for you.

The OAC provides all equipment. Classes are for participants 8 or older. Fees vary; please scan the QR code for more details.

Archery

Join us outdoors! There are countless recreation opportunities in our great state.

We offer a variety of seasonal outdoor programs, both outside of our facility and within our wonderful state parks. Fishing, paddling, birding, hiking and more! Check out what is happening this season.

Get Outside

Adventure awaits your family at the Outdoor Adventure Center! Discover year-round excitement for all ages. From our unforgettable Family Campout to the thrilling Lumberjack Race and Lumberjack Day, to themed Expos, often featuring our wonderful community partners. Every season brings a new adventure at the OAC!

Special Events

The Outdoor Adventure Center is just one of the many places managed by the Michigan Department of Natural Resources.

The Recreation Passport is your key to visit Michigan’s 100 plus beautiful state parks, hundreds of miles of trails, historic sites, boat launches and more. Plus, it’s the easiest way to support and protect our state parks, trails, and waterways for the next generation.

Visit www.Michigan.gov/RecreationPassport to learn more.

Printed August 2025