Downtown Alpena: a year-round cultural destination in Northern Michigan, blending historic charm with authenticity and unique waterfront experiences.
Located on the shores of the Thunder Bay River and beautiful Lake Huron, Downtown Alpena has been the economic hub of Northeast Michigan since the city was settled in the 1870's. Our downtown is home to a diverse and vibrant set of over 200 businesses, including art galleries, three theaters, a winery, brewery, and cidery, the first National Marine Sanctuary on the Great Lakes, and a variety of offices, restaurants, bars, non-profits and shops. Walk through downtown and you'll find over 30 pieces of public art and a variety of architectural styles including Italianate, modernist, and more! Alpena is the third largest city in Northern Michigan, and our downtown is proud to be the commercial and cultural heart of our community.
Explore Downtown Alpena
What's New
brown trout social district happy hours
The 50th Annual Michigan Brown Trout Festival kicks off next week. Each day during the festival, join us for a Happy Hour in the Social District! 🍻
Each day from 7/19 through 7/28, a different downtown business will have a happy hour from 4-6 pm with themed cocktails and drink specials.
Check out the schedule below! 🐠
Each day from 7/19 through 7/28, a different downtown business will have a happy hour from 4-6 pm with themed cocktails and drink specials.
Check out the schedule below! 🐠
upcoming meetings
The Alpena Downtown Development Authority Board of Directors has its next meeting on Tuesday, August 13 2024 at 3:00 pm at City Hall Council Chambers. Members of the public are welcome to attend in person or remotely with the link found on the agenda.