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.

Plan your visit

What's New

Fresh Waves 2026
​Applications Open! 

Applications for artists and locations are officially OPEN for 2026! We are looking for artists who want to paint vibrant murals in Downtown Alpena this summer (flexible dates). Interested in applying? Learn more at the links below. Artist applications due March 15 and location applications due February 15. 

Water Street Commons
Applications due March 17

We’re excited to announce that applications for the 2026 seasons at the Water Street Commons are officially open! We’re looking for businesses interested in renting space for:
  • Summer (May-August)
  • Fall (September-October)
  • Holiday Season (November-December)
We’re also inviting vendors who’d like to be notified about pop-up opportunities as they arise throughout the year.

If you’ve been thinking about showcasing your products, growing your customer base, testing a new concept, or trying out downtown— this is your chance!

Applications close March 17. Full details on rental rates, hours, and participation guidelines are available directly in the application form.

Match on Main
Applications due April 1

The DDA is looking for up to two projects to submit to the MEDC’s Match on Main grant program that will activate underutilized commercial space and support small business growth within the downtown. The program is applied for and administered through the DDA. If you are interested in applying, please contact us with the button below.

Upcoming Meetings

The January DDA Board Meeting is scheduled for Tuesday, March 3, 2026 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. 

Calendar of Events

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