What time of the year should you visit Alpena, MI?
Alpena's Northern Michigan location means that this small city welcomes most visitors during the summer months. Visit during July or August, and you'll typically experience highs in the mid- to upper 70s along with sunny skies. Spring and fall temperatures tend to be cooler, usually topping out in the mid-50s, and October is generally the rainiest month of the year. Winters can get very cold in Alpena, with average lows around 15 and about 7 feet of snow throughout the season.
If you visit during the summer months, you can't miss Alpena's popular festivals. In mid-July, the Art on the Bay Fine Art and Craft Show invites local artisans to showcase everything from pottery to quilts to handmade clothing. In late July, the Michigan Brown Trout Festival welcomes experienced and amateur fishermen alike to participate in the 10-day tournament or join one of the many family-friendly events. In early August, you'll want to save plenty of time to check out the Alpena County Fair, which features a carnival, livestock exhibits, car races, and fun for the whole family.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Alpena, MI:
Alpena, MI: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Alpena, MI. Browse these line graphs to calculate the most cost effective seasons to stay in Alpena for your upcoming travels.
Are there luxury hotels in Alpena, MI?
Prefer to plan an upscale stay in Alpena? Browse the area's best-equipped hotels.
Whether you're planning a family vacation or a business trip, the Ramada by Wyndham Alpena Hotel & Conference Center is a great upscale choice. With nearly 150 rooms, this hotel can accommodate groups of any size, and with an average group discount of nearly 12 percent, you'll appreciate the added savings. Book up to four meeting rooms for a conference or get-together, and then unwind in the fitness center or go for a swim in the indoor pool. The whole family will love the mini golf course, the arcade, and the free hot breakfast.
You don't have to venture far from Alpena to enjoy a stay at Young's Getaway Beachfront Resort, a lakefront inn ideal for family vacations. With only six rooms, this resort may be on the small side, but it's perfect for family reunions and special getaways. Cook up a storm in the kitchen, grill out on the beach, or kick back and relax on the sand. You'll love the beach right outside your front door, as well as access to bonfire pits, picnic tables, and a volleyball court.
What budget-friendly hotels can you find near Alpena, Michigan?
3 Star Average Prices: $107.99
Want to visit Alpena without breaking the bank? Book one of the area's top budget-friendly options.
Located in the heart of Alpena, Big Bear Lodge is the ideal choice for visitors on a budget. You'll love the rustic decor and the generous amenities, such as free Wi-Fi, mini fridges, microwaves, and coffee makers. Need extra space? Upgrade to a suite and enjoy the full kitchen, designed to help you keep your dining costs in check throughout your trip. Staying during the summer months? Don't miss the complimentary breakfast, which includes bagels, oatmeal, and hot coffee. Looking for an easy dinner option? You'll find great restaurants and fast food choices minutes away.
Nestled in nearby Tawas City, the Crows Nest Inn Tawas is also a smart option for budget-savvy travelers. Guest rooms include basics like flat-screen TVs and free Wi-Fi, making it easy to stay in touch with family and friends or share photos from your getaway. Start your day with the hotel's continental breakfast, go for a swim in the indoor pool, and take advantage of the free parking. When you're ready to get out and explore, you'll find both Alpena and Tawas Point State Park just a short drive away.
2 Star Average Prices: $87.50
What are the best hotel discounts around Alpena, Michigan?
Before you book your Alpena hotel, make sure you're getting the best deal. Check out the best hotel discounts and group rates on area accommodations.
AAA members can get discounts at the Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alpena, located just minutes from the Thunder Bay waterfront. This mid-range hotel features both standard rooms and suites so you'll always find the ideal room for your group. Kids and families will love the heated indoor swimming pool and guest laundry facilities, while business travelers will appreciate the fitness center and 24-hour business center. Everyone will love the hotel's complimentary breakfast bar, which includes hot pancakes, cinnamon rolls, and freshly brewed coffee.
Seniors and AARP members can save at the Best Western River Terrace, a short drive north in Cheboygan, Michigan. You'll get plenty of value out of this mid-range hotel, which has 53 guest rooms and all of your favorite amenities. You'll appreciate the year-round indoor pool, the free breakfast buffet, and in-room amenities like mini fridges and free Wi-Fi. Whether you're planning to spend your stay in the Alpena area or you want to hear north to Mackinac Island, both are within a short drive of this Best Western.
Government employees can get low rates at the Days Inn Alpena, which is conveniently located right off Highway 32. This budget-friendly hotel is ideal for visitors seeking a great deal, as rooms feature mini fridges and coffee makers that help you save on dining costs. Use the hotel's free Wi-Fi to plan out your stay near Lake Huron, and start each day with the free Daybreak Breakfast buffet. Whether you want to spend the day soaking up the sun on the lake or hiking in the forest, you'll find both just minutes from the hotel.
Where are the best value options in Alpena, MI?
Looking for the right mix of amenities and price? Take a look at the best value hotels in Alpena.
For the perfect balance between price and amenities, book your stay at the Best Western of Alpena. This conveniently located hotel has everything you want from a getaway, including an outdoor swimming pool, free breakfast each morning, and comfortable rooms. In-room amenities like mini fridges, coffee makers, and microwaves help you keep your dining budget in check, and you'll be mere minutes from Alpena's best attractions.
Located in nearby Tawas City, The Bay Inn Tawas has just what you need for a comfortable stay in the Alpena area. Use the guest laundry facilities to stay fresh throughout your visit, take a dip in the indoor pool, stay fit in the workout center, and use the free Wi-Fi to share gorgeous photos of Thunder Bay. Need to host a budget-friendly event in the Alpena area? Book the inn's 40-person conference room. You can also bring your furry family members along for the fun, as pets are welcome at this mid-range hotel.
What can't-miss attractions are near Alpena, Michigan?
From learning about Michigan history to exploring the great outdoors, you'll find plenty to do in the Alpena area. Start your visit at the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, where you can learn about the area's fascinating maritime history. This is the ideal place to learn about the many shipwrecks on the Great Lakes and experience what it's like to endure a storm on the open seas. If you want to get even closer to this intriguing slice of Great Lakes history, rent a canoe and head out to explore some of the shipwrecks that remain in shallow waters.
Next, stop by the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan, which houses a must-see mix of art, history, and science. Take in a show at the planetarium, join an art workshop, or browse the current art exhibitions. Join the museum's historic downtown Alpena scavenger hunt to discover even more of this Norther Michigan city's hidden gems.
When you're ready to get out and explore Alpena's natural beauty, you'll have plenty of options to consider. Head to Mich-e-ke-wis Park to enjoy one of the city's most loved beaches and a great spot for a family picnic. To spot local wildlife, head to the Alpena Wildlife Sanctuary's Island Park, also located right on the shores of Thunder Bay. Depending on the season, you could spot turtles, swans, Canada geese, mallard ducks, great blue herons, and hundreds of other bird species. Whether you choose to walk, canoe, or kayak, this sanctuary offers incredible insight into the area's unique ecosystem.
You can't miss the small red Alpena Light lighthouse during your visit. If you're eager to see grander lighthouses; however, take your pick from the many historic structures along Lake Huron. From New Presque Isle Lighthouse to Sturgeon Point Lighthouse, you'll find plenty to explore.
If you'd rather stay on dry land, don't miss Rockport State Recreation Area, which the whole family will love exploring. From the historic ghost village and the abandoned quarry to the many sinkholes and fossil beds to the stargazing opportunities, this park is designed to amaze visitors of all ages.
Ready to plan your ultimate summer getaway? Book your trip to Alpena and start exploring the beauty of Northern Michigan.
FAQs about hotels in Alpena
How much does a cheap hotel in Alpena cost per night?
In the last year, a 2 star hotel in Alpena can be as cheap as $87.50 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
How much does a 3 star hotel in Alpena cost per night?
In the last year, the average 3 star hotel in Alpena has been $107.99 per night. (based on HotelPlanner prices)
Recent traveler reviews of Alpena, MI
Below are reviews of the city of Alpena, MI from an actual visitor's perspective.
"We Love Alpena"
Score
5.0 / 5
My dad lives on Hubbard Lake, we had a surprise 90th birthday party for him at a restaurant in Alpena. We know and love Alpena
Larson K., from 12-Nov-2024
"Pretty Lake View"
Score
4.0 / 5
The view of the lake is pretty!
Richard L., from 11-Nov-2024
"Nice Downtown Area"
Score
5.0 / 5
The city looked very well maintained. The houses were well kept. Nice downtown area. Friendly business owners!
Victor D., from 31-Jul-2024
"Views of Lake Huron!"
Score
4.0 / 5
Views of Lake Huron!
Ron F., from 20-Mar-2024
"Many Outdoor Activities"
Score
5.0 / 5
A large amount of outside activities are available in Aplena.
Eugene M., from 02-Sep-2023
"Shipwreck Museum"
Score
4.0 / 5
I liked the Shipwreck Museum a lot.
Roberta K., from 13-Jul-2023
"Beautiful & Historic Town"
Score
4.0 / 5
Cute town. Beautiful historical homes.
Christine K., from 19-Jun-2023
"The hotel was nice, everything worked fine, and all employees were very kind and helpful."
Score
4.0 / 5
The hotel was nice, everything worked fine, and all employees were very kind and helpful. Alpena has lots do see and do. Enjoyed the restaurants with local flavor. Boat trip to sunken ships highlight of trip.
Sabrasue M., from 15-May-2023
"Lake Huron"
Score
4.0 / 5
Lake Huron
Antwuan P., from 07-Feb-2023
"Nice & Clean Hotel"
Score
4.0 / 5
Very nice and clean hotel.
David B., from 25-Oct-2022
"Beautiful Scenery, Lighthouses & Lakes!"
Score
4.0 / 5
I loved the beautiful scenery. The lighthouses and the lakes. So beautiful there.
Ryan S., from 04-Oct-2022
"Nice beaches & places to ride bikes."
Score
4.0 / 5
Clean city, nice beaches and places to ride bikes.
Randall P., from 16-Aug-2022
The average traveler rating of the city of Alpena, MI shown above is
4.3 out of 5 based on 12 reviews