Best of Alpena, MI
The best restaurants, cafés, bars, shops and things to do in Alpena, MI — mapped and organized by category.
About Alpena
Alpena serves as the county seat of Alpena County and is the sole city within its boundaries in Michigan. It ranks as the third most populated city in Northern Michigan, following Traverse City and Cadillac. The community anchors a micropolitan statistical area that includes all of Alpena County with a total population of 28,907.
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Besser Museum
Located at 491 Johnson Street, the Besser Museum serves Alpena County and surrounding areas in Michigan. It preserves and presents the history and culture of Northern Michigan and the Great Lakes, featuring a small publicly-owned planetarium.
The museum defines its role as preserving heritage connected with Northern Michigan and the Great Lakes.
View details →Best Hotels in Alpena
7 places · Where to stay, from budget-friendly to boutique.
Best Restaurants in Alpena
23 places · Where to eat, from neighborhood staples to standout kitchens.
Best Cafés & Coffee in Alpena
3 places · Coffee shops, roasters and casual spots to linger.
Best Bars & Nightlife in Alpena
12 places · Cocktail bars, pubs and where the night goes.
Best Things to Do in Alpena
4 places · Museums, landmarks and the experiences worth your time.
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Besser Museum
Located at 491 Johnson Street, the Besser Museum serves Alpena County and surrounding areas in Michigan. It preserves and presents the history and culture of Northern Michigan and the Great Lakes, featuring a small publicly-owned planetarium.
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Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center
A local attraction in 500 West Fletcher Street.
Best Shops in Alpena
17 places · Independent boutiques, bookstores and places to browse.
Best Parks & Outdoors in Alpena
22 places · Green space, gardens and room to breathe.
Nearby cities to explore
More guides within driving distance of Alpena.
- Bay Harbor, MI 4 places
- Elliot Lake, ON 20 places
- Kincardine, ON 42 places
- Port Elgin, ON 56 places
- Sault Ste. Marie, ON 211 places
- Cadillac, MI 28 places
- Goderich, ON 33 places
- Owen Sound, ON 85 places