DOWNTOWN ALPENA
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history + culture

THUNDER BAY MARINE SANCTUARY | GREAT LAKES MARITIME HERITAGE CENTER

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GLASS BOTTOM BOAT TOURS

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EVENTS

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EDUCATION

Alpena, Michigan is home to Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary (TBNMS), the only freshwater Marine Sanctuary in the world. TBNMS protects a nationally significant collection of historic shipwrecks. Through resource protection, research, and education, TBNMS works to ensure that future generations will continue to value our irreplaceable underwater treasures.

Visit the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center, located at 500 W. Fletcher Street in downtown Alpena, which is the visitor center for the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, featuring exciting exhibits for all ages. Exploring the Shipwreck Century is located in the center’s main hall and includes a full-size replica wooden Great Lakes schooner and shipwreck where visitors can walk the decks, feel a Great Lakes storm, and touch the massive timbers of the boat resting on the lake bottom … without getting wet! For more information, check out their website here. 
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The glass-bottom boat, Lady Michigan, also operates out of the visitor center and offers cruises through Thunder Bay to learn more about the maritime history and shipwrecks of Alpena. Learn more about Alpena Shipwreck tours here.

ALPENA COUNTY GEORGE N. FLETCHER PUBLIC LIBRARY 

The Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library was established as a county library in 1967. The library offers extensive resources for historical research, enrichment opportunities, and educational support. They are serve as a regional gathering place for learning and cultural experiences, like author visits, Monday Night Movies,  the Summer Reading Program and much more.

The Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library's downtown location is currently closed as they undergo renovations. The main library has temporarily moved to Bear Pointe Plaza between Joann Fabrics and Big Lots. The Special Collections Department has moved to 3rd Avenue and remains closed to the public. For updates on their renovation, check out their website.

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Alpena Downtown Development Authority (DDA)

124 E. Chisholm St.
Alpena, MI  49707
(989) 356-6422

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  • Our Downtown
    • Events >
      • Winter
      • Spring
      • Summer
      • Autumn
    • Available Properties
    • Parking
    • Testimonials
  • Arts + Culture
    • Visual + Culinary Arts
    • Performance Art
    • History + Culture
  • Food + Drink
    • Restaurants + Bars
    • Coffee + Treats
    • Quick Bites
  • Shopping
    • Apparel + Accessories
    • Books
    • Home + Gift
    • Fitness + Outdoor Recreation
    • Specialty Shops
  • DDA Info
    • Programs + Projects >
      • Downtown Dollars
      • Downtown Street Performers
      • Facade Grants
      • Fresh Waves Mural Project
      • Retail Recruitment Grant
      • Social Media Boosted Post Matching Program
    • For Merchants
    • Meet the Team
    • Press
    • Contact Us