"With 982 acres, this diverse island park in the middle of the Detroit River is arguably the city’s most famous having been designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, the man behind New York’s Central Park and the U.S. Capitol. There are plenty of picnic tables — and a beach — to choose from. The entry fees of $12 a year for residents and $9 a day for out-of-state residents are currently waived during the pandemic. After a meal, take a bike ride around the island, or repetitive ups and downs on the giant slide. Unfortunately, the aquarium and the conservatory are temporarily closed due to COVID restrictions, but they make a lovely backdrop for a day in the sun. What to eat: Fill up on gas and food items at the same time. Detroit Chill and Grill, tucked inside the Sunoco gas station, has delicious burgers, Philly cheesesteaks, and pitas. The rice bowls include a dizzying number of options that include lamb, fried or jerk chicken, and tabbouleh. The Belle Isle rice bowl comes with grilled onions, green peppers, tomatoes, pineapples, corn, spring mix, and sweet teriyaki sauce." - Monica Williams
