A Perfect Day in Alpena, Michigan

Alpena, Michigan, is a captivating destination that offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, history and outdoor adventure. Situated on the pristine shores of Lake Huron about an hour north of Huron House, this charming community is Northern Michigan’s second-largest city (right after Traverse City) and dubs itself the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes. From its vibrant downtown district to its serene parks, Alpena is an ideal place to spend a day exploring. Here's a guide on how to make the most of your day in this approachable lakeside city.

Start your day by diving into the region's maritime history with a visit to the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, the only marine sanctuary located on the Great Lakes. The visitor center is a treasure trove of information about shipwrecks and underwater archaeology. You can also take a glass-bottom boat tour to witness some of these fascinating wrecks beneath the clear waters of Lake Huron.

Continue your outdoor adventures at the interconnected Duck Park, Island Park and Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary. Duck Park is a 2.5-acre park set along the Thunder Bay River, with picnic areas and a butterfly garden. Rent bikes or kayaks from Alpena Pedal and Paddle and take advantage of Duck Park's trails and river access. At the southeast end of Duck Park, cross the bridge and head over to the 17-acre Island Park, where you'll find walking trails and fishing platforms among meadows, an oak grove and marsh areas. Island Park is surrounded by a 500-acre wildlife sanctuary right in the heart of Alpena, making it an oasis amidst the cityscape and sounds of city life.

Make your next stop Alpena's downtown district. As you wander along the streets on the shores of the Thunder Bay River, you'll find 200 thriving businesses that reflect this vibrant, artsy and growing city. From art galleries like Thunder Bay Arts and Art in the Loft to boutique shops like Cedar & Threads and Rusty Petunia Marketplace, Alpena's downtown district is the perfect place for a little retail therapy. Of course, you'll need to fuel up for all of the shopping, and there are plenty of coffee shops, pubs and restaurants where you can find a delicious bite.

There are a few more Alpena favorites that you won't want to miss. The Alpena Farmers Market at Mich-e-ke-wis Park is open every Saturday year-round. Farm-fresh produce, baked goods and handcrafted artisan items are just some of what you'll find here. Next, be sure to sample locally produced wine, craft beer and spirits at Thunder Bay Winery and HopSide Brewery. And don't leave Alpena without a visit to Besser Museum for Northern Michigan, featuring art, science and history exhibits, plus a planetarium.

A daytrip to Alpena is a remarkable excursion that offers a little something for everyone. After a day of exploring this charming city's historical sites, museums, parks, quaint shops, galleries and stellar restaurants, you'll be glad you made the trek as part of your Northern Michigan getaway. Afterward, return to your luxurious accommodations at our lakeside bed-and-breakfast in Oscoda to unwind and reflect on your day's adventures enjoying every ounce of Alpena's small-town charm.