Beware of callers impersonating MyMichigan Health asking for credit card information. If you receive a suspicious call, request a call back number if possible and report that information to our security team at (989) 839-1911.

Learn More

Alpena, Michigan

The Beauty and Fun of Northern Michigan

Experience scenic landscapes and a low-stress “up north” atmosphere year-round by living in Alpena, a small community (population 10,500) on the shore of Lake Huron that describes itself as “a modern city at nature’s doorstep.” Alpena offers easy access to indoor and outlet shopping, family-owned and chain restaurants, and diverse industry, while providing many opportunities for outdoor recreation such as fishing, kayaking, biking and snowshoeing. You can explore spectacular lighthouses and shipwrecks on Lake Huron, visit wineries and breweries, and enjoy cultural attractions like live theater and music concerts in the park . If you feel like “exploring” for a weekend, the Mackinac Bridge to Michigan’s Upper Peninsula is less than a two-hour drive away.

Diverse Activities That Make Alpena Unique

Alpena has many captivating destinations to experience the nature and culture of northern Michigan.

Just a few of the activities and venues Alpena has to offer include:

  • Thunder Bay Theatre, northern Michigan’s only year-round theater, which features musicals, comedies and other entertainment.
  • Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the only fresh water sanctuary, which hosts tours of the country’s largest collection of shipwrecks.
  • Home to the nation’s only freshwater National Marine Sanctuary, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary interprets hundreds of years of nautical commerce which have created a rich landscape of maritime history and culture in the Alpena area. A destination maritime heritage center with exhibits and programs, museums with nautical exhibits, seven area lighthouses and maritime trails, tours and events bring the stories of ship captains, sailors and lighthouse keepers to life. Kayak, canoe, Stand Up Paddle Board, and snorkel some of the shallow water wrecks with this handy guide.
  • Island Park, part of Alpena’s 500-acre wildlife sanctuary, which features nature trails, fishing and kayaking.

Community Information

Newspaper

Weather and Almanac

Community Organizations

Education

Primary and Secondary Education

Higher Education

Cultural and Recreational

More Activities and Events

Shopping

Alpena

Regional Malls

Restaurants

The Regional Perspective

Cities of Interest

Regional Airports

Video: Make a Difference at Work. Make it Home for Dinner

You wake up in the morning and you're not in a rush. You've got a ten-minute commute to work, yet you live in a safe, affordable community with top-notch schools and resources.

See more videos