Ok, not literally! But this is as close as we can get for now, so let’s take a walk…

Community Culture-

Besser Museum of Northeast Michigan – Besser Museum houses the story of Alpena’s cultural past and present. Learn about the area’s Native American culture, early fishing and logging operations; and experience the unique walk-through exhibits including a historic Alpena lumber village. Fine art, science, and even fossils can be experienced at this beloved community treasure. And, don’t forget to lay back in our state-of-the-art planetarium and take a journey through space!

Prehistoric Times-

Dinosaur Gardens – Wander through this world-renowned prehistoric garden to discover more than 26 life-size dinosaurs tucked away in the forest. This unique experience includes an 18-hole mini golf course, a souvenir shop, and a frozen treat bar.

Shipwreck Alley-

marine sanctuary

Climb aboard the Western Hope of Alpena for a real-life reenactment of what it’s like on a stormy night on Lake Huron. Photo courtesy of the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary

Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center – Dive into this one-of-a-kind maritime history center and explore shipwrecks lost in Lake Huron’s Thunder Bay, also known as “Shipwreck Alley”. Immerse yourself in the stories of these ships and the brave crew that sailed them. This interactive center interprets the story of more than 200 shipwrecks that are protected in the nation’s only freshwater marine sanctuary, Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary, just off the coast of Alpena, Alcona, and Presque Isle counties.

View From the Top-

New Presque Isle Lighthouse – New Presque Isle Light is the tallest lighthouse tower open to the public on the Great Lakes, and offers a spectacular view. On a clear day you can even see Canada! Explore the vast grounds that include a fully restored 1905 Keeper’s house, gift shop, playground, picnic area, and nature trails.

Guided by the Light-

Ever feel like you're being followed?

This prehistoric creature stalks an unsuspecting human…find your dinosaur adventure at Dinosaur Gardens in Ossineke!

Old Presque Isle Lighthouse – Climb the hand-hewn stone steps of the oldest surviving lighthouse on the Great Lakes and enjoy a panoramic view of the Lake Huron shoreline and Presque Isle harbor. Is it haunted? Some say they still see the light come on at dusk, despite this lighthouse being deactivated in 1871.

Dark Skies Abound-

Rockport State Recreation Area, Thompson’s Harbor State Park, Negwegon State Park – Soak in a view of space like you’ve never seen before at one of three of our designated dark sky preserves. With the lowest light pollution readings around, this cosmic backdrop gives us a glimpse into the past, present, and potential future. All wrapped up in one big, beautiful night sky!