Alpena MichiganATTRACTIONS & THINGS TO DO
Listed below are the best attractions and things to do near Alpena, Michigan.
1. Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary
UNDERWATER SHIPWRECK MUSEUM
Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary in Alpena offers a fascinating glimpse into maritime history with its collection of well-preserved shipwrecks. Visitors can explore these underwater treasures through glass-bottom boat tours on the Lady Michigan, a 65-foot vessel that navigates above the historic wrecks. The sanctuary provides a unique opportunity to learn about the legends and lore of Thunder Bay while experiencing the rich nautical heritage of the Great Lakes region.
2. Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center
NAUTICAL HISTORY EXHIBITS
The Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center in Alpena features over 10,000 square feet of exhibit space dedicated to the history of the Great Lakes. Visitors can walk the decks of a wooden Great Lakes vessel replica and engage with exciting interactive displays suitable for all ages. Open year-round along the Thunder Bay River, this educational institution offers enriching experiences for families, tour groups, and students interested in maritime culture.
3. Island Park & Wildlife Sanctuary
SERENE NATURE RETREAT
Island Park & Wildlife Sanctuary provides a peaceful natural escape in the heart of Alpena. This tranquil sanctuary offers visitors the chance to observe local wildlife while enjoying scenic walking trails through the preserved natural habitat. Nature enthusiasts will appreciate the opportunity to connect with Michigan's native flora and fauna in this unspoiled environment.
4. Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan
ART AND HISTORY SHOWCASE
The Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan is an educational institution dedicated to providing enriching cultural experiences in art, history, and science. Its eight-acre campus houses specialty and science collections that showcase the region's heritage and natural wonders. Visitors can explore diverse exhibits that bring to life the cultural and historical significance of Northeast Michigan.
5. Alpena Shipwreck Tours
UNDERWATER EXPLORATION ADVENTURES
Alpena Shipwreck Tours offers an extraordinary opportunity to view historic shipwrecks through glass-bottom boat excursions on Lake Huron. Aboard the Lady Michigan, tourists learn about the maritime history and legends surrounding these preserved underwater time capsules. The tours provide a unique perspective on Thunder Bay's infamous shipwrecks without getting wet, making this attraction accessible for visitors of all ages.
6. ARZO Sports and Fun Park
FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT CENTER
ARZO Sports and Fun Park delivers exciting recreational activities for families visiting Alpena. This entertainment venue offers various amusements and sports facilities designed to provide hours of enjoyment for guests of all ages. Visitors can expect a day filled with fun, games, and memorable experiences at this popular local attraction.
7. Dinosaur Gardens
PREHISTORIC OUTDOOR MUSEUM
Dinosaur Gardens LLC in Alpena features life-sized prehistoric creatures set within a natural woodland environment. Visitors can walk among the impressive dinosaur sculptures while learning about these ancient beings through informative displays. This unique outdoor museum combines education and entertainment, making it an ideal destination for families exploring Michigan's northeast region.
8. Sanctuary Cinema
PREMIUM MOVIE EXPERIENCE
Sanctuary Cinema offers an elevated movie-watching experience in Alpena with its recently renovated facilities and premium amenities. Moviegoers can relax in heated reclining seats while enjoying the latest films in a comfortable, modern setting. The cinema enhances the viewing experience by offering beer and wine purchases, making it a perfect evening entertainment option for visitors and locals alike.
9. Laser Team Challenge
HIGH-TECH GAMING ARENA
Laser Team Challenge provides an immersive gaming experience inside Alpena's historic National Guard Armory with its expansive 45,000 square feet of play space. This unique attraction offers laser tag adventures unlike any other, with advanced equipment and elaborate course designs. Visitors can book their spot online and prepare for an adrenaline-pumping activity that combines strategy, teamwork, and friendly competition.
10. Two Bit Operation
RETRO ARCADE GAMING
Two Bit Operation at Bob's Bullpen in Alpena brings back the golden age of arcade gaming with replica machines featuring over 26,000 classic titles. This nostalgic entertainment venue allows visitors to experience the joy of vintage video games regardless of their age. The arcade offers both regular public hours and private event bookings, making it a versatile attraction for tourists seeking indoor fun in Alpena.
11. Shopping
LOCAL RETAIL THERAPY
Shopping in Alpena offers visitors a diverse retail experience with unique local stores and charming boutiques throughout the downtown area. Highlights include Cedar Panning where visitors can search for treasures, Downtown Alpena's collection of specialty shops offering local crafts and souvenirs, and Rusty Petunias which provides distinctive merchandise alongside its indoor golf simulator. These retail destinations showcase the character and creativity of Alpena while providing memorable shopping experiences for tourists.
12. Dining
TASTY LOCAL FLAVORS
Dining in Alpena provides visitors with delicious culinary experiences showcasing local ingredients and regional specialties. Notable establishments include Thunder Bay Winery where guests can enjoy wine tastings with friendly, knowledgeable staff in a welcoming atmosphere, downtown waterfront restaurants offering fresh Great Lakes fish with scenic river views, and cozy cafés serving homemade comfort food that reflects Michigan's diverse culinary heritage. These dining venues allow visitors to savor the flavors of Northeast Michigan while enjoying Alpena's hospitable atmosphere.
13. Hiking
SCENIC OUTDOOR TRAILS
Hiking in Alpena presents nature enthusiasts with beautiful trails winding through diverse landscapes and ecological zones. Popular routes include the Besser Natural Area with its short but rewarding trails leading to the Ghost Village of Bell, the Island Park & Wildlife Sanctuary's serene paths offering less than a mile of easy walking with abundant wildlife viewing opportunities, and the nearby sinkholes trail system where hikers can explore unique geological formations dating back over 400 million years. These hiking destinations showcase Northeast Michigan's natural beauty and provide accessible outdoor recreation for visitors of all skill levels.
14. Fishing
PREMIER ANGLING SPOTS
Fishing in Alpena offers anglers access to exceptional opportunities across more than 300,000 acres of open water including Lake Huron and the Thunder Bay River. Popular fishing spots include the Thunder Bay River downtown area where urban fishing yields impressive catches, Lake Huron's accessible shoreline fishing locations with diverse species, and charter fishing services that take visitors to prime deep-water locations for salmon, trout, and walleye. These fishing destinations make Alpena a paradise for recreational anglers seeking both quantity and quality in their Great Lakes fishing experience.
15. Camping
NATURAL OVERNIGHT GETAWAYS
Camping near Alpena provides outdoor enthusiasts with beautiful natural settings to experience Northeast Michigan's pristine environments. Notable camping areas include Besser Natural Area where visitors can enjoy rustic camping near historic sites and Lake Huron shoreline, nearby state parks offering well-maintained campgrounds with modern facilities and beach access, and private campgrounds surrounding Alpena that cater to both tent campers and RV travelers with various amenity levels. These camping options allow visitors to fully immerse themselves in the region's natural beauty while staying under the remarkable dark skies for which the area is known.