Alpena

Turn down the volume of the stressful life that surrounds you, and tune into the vibrance of life experienced in the moments that naturally unfold before your eyes.

We invite you to relax, rejuvenate, and restore in Alpena, your Sanctuary of the Great Lakes. A haven where history and heritage collide with relaxed outdoor adventure. Centrally located to 3 Dark Sky Preserve Parks, 7 lighthouses, more than 12 sinkholes, 300,000 acres of open water, 400+ million-year-old fossils, and more than 100 miles of groomed trails; the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes is your relaxed adventure oasis.

You deserve to reconnect with what matters most in life; time spent with people you care about. Load up your kayak, telescope, fishing gear, snorkel mask, bird book, bikes, and hiking boots and point yourself toward Alpena.

Stargazing, sunken forests, and 'Shipwreck Alley': Alpena, Michigan is a haven for nature lovers

Lonely Planet - 2019

Shipwreck Snorkel

Dive into our freshwater marine sanctuary preserve and snorkel the ill-fated ships of the Thunder Bay.

Alpena Stars

Nothing says "Pure Michigan" like a bonfire under the stars. Get lost under the cosmos at one of three state-designated Dark Sky Preserves: Rockport State Recreation Area, Negwegon State Park, & Thompson's Harbor State park.

Family Vacation

Light Therapy

You'll find inspiration on every turn in Alpena, whether it be on land or on water. This community welcomes you to your ultimate vacation destination for relaxed outdoor recreation.

Ossineke Beach

The sandy shores of Lake Huron await you with tranquil waters and pristine sandy beaches. Immerse yourself in the emerald waters and relax in our Sanctuary of the Great Lakes.

Bike Trails

Trail blazing has never been easier. Take an easy ride through Alpena's 18.5 mile bike path and let your cares melt away or get your adrenaline pumping on a mountain bike trail.

Sunset Kayak

Paddle through the serene waters of the Thunder Bay River at sundown and admire the beautiful display of the setting sun over the horizon.

Northern Lights

Witness the phenomenon of the Aurora Borealis dance and swirl in the night sky. These northern lights paint our Sanctuary of the Great Lakes randomly throughout the year.

TB Island Lighthouse

Thunder Bay Island Lighthouse, the second oldest lighthouse of the Great Lakes, helped to guide many ships into Alpena's safe harbor a dozen miles away.