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DNR Outdoor Adventure Center

OAC graphic

DNR Outdoor Adventure Center

May 4 – MS Walk

The MS Walk will be in our neighborhood Sunday, May 4. Please expect detours near the Outdoor Adventure Center, and allow extra time to reach our location. The parking lot entrance on Atwater Street will be open to traffic coming from St. Aubin for the duration of the race.

Located on Detroit’s riverfront in the historic Globe Building, the Outdoor Adventure Center gives you a taste of Michigan’s great outdoors in the heart of the city. Experience exciting outdoor adventures with hands-on activities, exhibits, simulators and more.

About the OAC
The bridge and big tree displays at the OAC
The bridge and big tree displays at the OAC

1801 Atwater Street, Detroit, MI 48207

Hours:

Monday: closed.
Tuesday: groups by appointment only.
Wednesday: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.*
Thursday: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.*
Friday: 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m.*
Saturday: 9:30 am to 4 p.m.*
Sunday: noon to 4 p.m.*

*Admission sales end at 3:30 p.m. daily.


Plan your visit
pine forest area of Outdoor Adventure Center with waterfall at the edge of photo

Exhibits

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.

Four youngsters shooting bows and arrows at targets

Archery

Do you want to try archery or improve your archery skills? We have programs for every skill level. For first-timers, we have a FREE introductory class!

Kids on Outdoor Adventure Center's suspension bridge to tower hunting blind, seen from below bridge

Groups and education

The OAC is the perfect field trip destination for your group (such as: school, day camp, church, scouts and seniors). We also offer virtual programs.

Young boy touching eastern fox snake held by DNR staffer

Events

Check out our event calendar to see what is happening at the OAC. We offer guided nature walks, archery classes, Science Saturdays, running clinics, ice fishing classes and more.

The Outdoor Adventure Center's Riverview Loft room, decorated in blue and white for a gala event.

Event space

Enjoy the breathtaking views of the Detroit River, downtown Detroit, Milliken State Park and Canada, all from your event room. Hosting a large gala? You can rent out the entire OAC!

girl holding fishing pole at dock on river

Summer camp
Looking for a unique, fun and educational outdoor experience this summer? Check out Camp Explore, with programs for ages 9 to 17 to explore the Detroit Riverfront and state parks.
banners with Happy and OAC balloons

Birthday parties

We cannot offer birthday party service at this time. Groups arriving with cake, presents and other party supplies will not be admitted. We hope to resume birthday parties in the future.

Under the Radar goes inside the Outdoor Adventure Center Video

Under the Radar goes inside the Outdoor Adventure Center

Join "Under the Radar" on a virtual tour of the Outdoor Adventure Center. See the exhibits, learn how they came together, and find out why the OAC is important for getting future generations excited about the outdoors.