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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What's New

Cozy Crawl
​Saturday, January 25th

Get ready to embrace all things cozy in Downtown Alpena at our first-ever Cozy Crawl on Saturday, January 25th from 11 am- 5 pm.

Spend a cozy day downtown strolling through local shops and galleries offering special promotions, sip a warm drink at your favorite downtown cafe, sample hot cocoa... and wear your PJ's for special deals!

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Alpena Ice Festival
​Saturday, February 15th

Who is ready for the 2025 Alpena Ice Festival ? Save the date for Saturday, February 15th! The festival kicks off at Michekewis Park from 11 am- 2 pm with wagon rides, live sculpting, hot cocoa, a snow hill, Police vs. Fire broomball from 1-2 pm, and more.
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Then come downtown for the POLAR PLUNGE (new this year) to benefit Special Olympics, happening on 2nd Avenue at 3 pm. Stroll downtown streets with ice sculptures on display, cozy drink specials, and more! 

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Upcoming Meetings

The DDA has its next Board Meeting on Tuesday, January 7, 2025 at 3:00 pm at City Hall Council Chambers (208 N. First Ave., Alpena, MI 49707, 2nd floor). The meeting agenda is posted below, along with a link for virtual attendance. 

View Agenda

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Calendar of Events