Finally after two years, the John D. Dingell Jr. Visitor Center at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge in Trenton, Michigan officially opened to the public this past week.
Due to the COVID pandemic, the outside areas at the refuge were opened to the public in late 2020, but the visitor center had been closed.
The refuge has been one of my favorite places to go birding and hiking the trails. I’ve enjoyed looking for warblers and finding the infrequent Snow Bunting and rare-for-our-area Neotropic Cormorant at the refuge.
And I’ve been anxious to get inside the center and check it out!
Given the wonderful spring weather today (and that it’s Mother’s Day here in the United States), I spent most of my time with family at the refuge, but outside the visitor center, enjoying the trails, birds, and flowers beginning to open up.
I only spent a few minutes inside checking out the interactive exhibits, Michigan map, and gift shop.
If you’re in the downriver Detroit area, or in metro Detroit and want to visit a wildlife refuge without having to travel hours, I recommend you stop at the Detroit River International Wildlife Refuge.
Hours are currently limited, they’re gearing up to add more volunteers to staff the visitors center.
The observation area in the back of the visitor center looks like it will be delightful in bad weather.

A cozy sitting area, fireplace, and view of the water while sounds from the nearby refuge are piped in. Lovely!