The view of the new official Visitor Welcome Center and Tourism Office as you are driving North on Second Ave.

The Alpena Area Convention & Visitors Bureau has moved to its new location in Old Downtown Alpena and invites you to join in celebrating this occasion during a public open house later this week! 

What was formerly Sweet Tooth’s Ice Cream Shop, The Display Case, and Rudolph’s Christmas Shoppe, has since been remodeled and converted into Alpena’s official Visitor Welcome Center and Tourism Office. Located next door to the historic John A. Lau Saloon restaurant, this building is known for its hand-made water wheel and painted mural out front, adding to the charm of this quaint building.

We have received some amazing items from the community that have been loaned or donated to display in the new Visitor Welcome Center lobby, including three framed newspapers published in the early 1900’s. It was interesting to learn that one paper was published for Republicans, one paper for Democrats, and one paper for local farmers. Other special artifacts that have been given for display include a hand-carved totem pole, beautiful wooden skis, an authentic Alpena Savings Bank money bag, antique fishing gear, and much, much more! We are so grateful for the enthusiasm and support from the community. We look forward to serving you from this new space. 

The view of our official Visitor Welcome Center and Tourism Office from across the street on N. 2nd Ave.

Join together for the official public Grand Opening Celebration that takes place Friday, April 20th between 9 am and 5 pm. WATZ radio will be broadcasting live with giveaways and prizes between 11 am and 1 pm, with the broadcast generously sponsored by Northland Area Federal Credit Union. 

We hope to see you there and if not be sure to stop in and say “hello” when you are in the area! 

Click here for our Alpena Visitor Welcome Center Grand Opening Facebook event.