Alpena is a Vibrant Community in Northern Michigan

alpena Geographic isolation may be thought of as a curse, but it has been a major reason why Alpena has a lifestyle and amenities usually associated with a much larger community.

Alpena, 75 miles from the nearest freeway access point, is definitely off the beaten path, but is the hub of social, cultural, economic, and recreational activity in northeast Michigan. The city is home to Alpena Community College, Alpena Regional Medical Center, two live theaters, two museums, and a first-class art gallery. Northern Lights Arena with two full-sized sheets of ice is the pride of this hockey town with its own Junior A team. Bountiful natural assets highlight this beautiful community located on Lake Huron 250 miles north of Detroit. The city has 20 parks—15 that are located on the water. Within the city limits, discover an entire 2.5 acre island with 1,200 feet of Thunder Bay shoreline surrounded by a waterfowl sanctuary accessible only to foot traffic. Eighteen miles of bike paths lead residents and visitors through the community, winding along the waterfront and connecting parks and recreational venues.

On a summer evening you can sit on the shores of Lake Huron and listen to a rock concert, classical offerings from the Alpena Symphony Orchestra, or tap your toes to the marches of the Alpena City Band—all coming from the Fine Arts Bandshell.

alpena Alpena is also home to the only freshwater National Marine Sanctuary in the National Oceanic & Atmospheric Administration’s system of 14 “underwater national parks.”

Famous researchers such as Titanic discoverer Bob Ballard have searched Thunder Bay to help document over 100 shipwrecks pristinely preserved in the cold waters of the bay known as Shipwreck Alley. Divers from around the world are exploring the depths of the Bay while the Thunder Bay Marine Heritage Center provides landlubbers access to this unique history.

Whether you kayak the Thunder Bay River or walk along the 1,650 foot breakwall at the City Marina on Lake Huron, you will be awestruck by natural beauty. Historic City Hall, built in 1904, is located in the downtown and welcomes you to this “Warm and Friendly Port.”

Find us on the web at alpena.mi.us or visit thunderbay.noaa.gov.