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.

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Plan your visit

Upcoming Events

TOP ACTIVITIES

Water Street Commons

Available Properties

Grow your Business

Where to Shop

Where to Eat

Fresh Waves Murals

What's New

2026 Alpena Flower Festival
Friday, June 5- Sunday, June 7

For three days in June, Downtown Alpena brims with beautiful floral displays, interactive floral photo-ops, live music, kids' activities, floral themed vendors, and blooming good energy to kick off the summer season!

• Thursday, June 4- Petal Pub Crawl
  Preview the festival and sip themed cocktails with a pub crawl throughout downtown bars and taprooms.
• Friday, June 5- Festival Begins in the Evening
  Friday evening has a high-energy vibe as the festival kicks off with live music, vendors, and freshly installed floral displays throughout downtown.
• Saturday- June 6- Full Festival Day
  Saturday is our main festival day- highlights include a floral 5K, creative play kids' zone, live music, bouquet bars, and more.
• Sunday, June 7- Festival Wraps Up
  Close out the festival with our more relaxed Sunday festival day with mimosa bars, music, and more.
  

Full Schedule

Installation Map

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Upcoming Meetings

The DDA Board Meeting is having its June meeting on June 9 at 3:00 pm at City Hall Council Chambers, with the option to join virtually. A link to attend is found on the agenda below which will be posted the week before the meeting. 

View Agenda

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Calendar of Events