The Alpena center point is approximately the area of Jesse Besser Museum and 4 miles east of Alpena County Regional Airport.
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.
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.
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.
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.
Below are reviews of the city of Alpena, MI from an actual visitor's perspective.
The city looked very well maintained. The houses were well kept. Nice downtown area. Friendly business owners!
Views of Lake Huron!
A large amount of outside activities are available in Aplena.
I liked the Shipwreck Museum a lot.
Cute town. Beautiful historical homes.
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.
Lake Huron
Very nice and clean hotel.
I loved the beautiful scenery. The lighthouses and the lakes. So beautiful there.
Clean city, nice beaches and places to ride bikes.