Spring is a wonderful time to explore Michigan’s lower northeastern corner, known as the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes, before the busy summer season hits! Check out our top 5 places to explore in Alpena and the micropolitan region.
Alpena Mural Trail
Downtown Alpena boasts a variety of murals throughout the downtown district, painted by artists both locally and from all over the country. Have you ever heard of Jesse Besser? If you haven’t before, you will when you come to Alpena! Check out the mural of one of Alpena’s famous innovators near HopSide Brewery, and learn more about him at the Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan. Map it out by using our new Visit Alpena app powered by VisitWidget. Available on both Android and iOS
“Welcome to Alpena” mural located at our office, 420 N. 2nd Ave.
Presque Isle Lighthouses
Just a scenic drive north of Alpena to Presque Isle, two towering guardians of the Great Lakes are waiting to be explored. The historic Old Presque Isle Lighthouse and the striking New Presque Isle Lighthouse each tell their own story—offering stunning views, rich history, and an unforgettable day trip experience. Mark your calendar: the lighthouses reopen for the season on May 22nd, just in time for your next adventure. And while you’re in the area, don’t miss a stop at Rockport State Recreation Area. Wander through the old quarry and uncover pieces of ancient history as you hunt for fossils from the Devonian period—it’s like stepping back hundreds of millions of years!
Ocqueoc Falls
Discover a true natural wonder—the nation’s first fully accessible waterfall! Ocqueoc Falls isn’t just the largest waterfall in Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, it’s an unforgettable experience for everyone. Known to Native Americans as “Waw-waugh-waugh-que-noc,” meaning sacred waters, this breathtaking river lives up to its name with rushing cascades, four lively rapids, and a refreshing pool perfect for wading and splashing. Ocqueoc Falls stands out as the first truly universally accessible waterfall in the United States, welcoming visitors of all abilities to enjoy its beauty up close. Adventure awaits along the scenic six-mile Bicentennial Pathway, while picnic spots invite you to relax and soak in the surroundings. Want to stay longer? Spend the night under the stars at the rustic Ocqueoc Falls State Forest Campground and let the sound of the falls complete the experience.
Negwegon State Park
Mysterious, remote, and undeveloped, Negwegon State Park is a hidden treasure with 10 miles of hiking trails and one of the most beautiful beaches on Lake Huron. Negwegon is located on US-23, 12 miles north of Harrisville. Drivers should be wary of the entry route to the park…part of it is a sandy two-track road. To get to the park, take Black River Road off of US 23 to the east 1.5 miles, turn north on Sand Hill Road and go 2.5 miles, turn right or east at the Negwegon State Park sign, and go 1.5 miles to the day-use parking area. No services, backcountry camping available. Negwegon is also a designated Dark Sky Park, making it the perfect location for stargazers!
Lady Michigan Glass Bottom Boat Ride
Find out why the Thunder Bay area is known as “shipwreck alley” when you board the Lady Michigan glass bottom boat. The crystal clear waters and the large ‘glass bottom’ viewing wells allow you to ‘dive’ the wrecks – without getting wet. During the 2-hour cruise, you will experience the magnificently preserved shipwrecks and the scenic shorelines of Thunder Bay. Learn the exciting tales of many famous ships and the history, legends, and lore of Lake Huron. Tours begin again on May 23rd.
Hop aboard the Lady Michigan!
420 N. 2nd Ave. Alpena, MI 49707
989-340-2288 