Our Backstory: A Historic Look at the Port City of Alpena

Posted on May 15th, 2019

The historic port city of Alpena is nestled between a vast emerald forest and a clear blue bay. Founded in 1871, Alpena began as an early commercial fishing port and soon grew to be one of the nation’s most profitable lumber harvesting locations. Lumber camps dotted the region and logs were f…

9 Ways to Spring Break in your Sanctuary of the Great Lakes

Posted on March 27th, 2019

It’s Spring Break in your Sanctuary of the Great Lakes and it seems Old Man Winter has left our area *knocks on wood*. Although we are still in 30-40 degree temps, there are still lots of fun indoor activities to keep you and your kiddos occupied this week.

Spring Break Family Matinee: 5 diff

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A Complete Guide to Unconventional Pizza in Alpena

Posted on March 14th, 2019

It’s Pi Day, and we’ve gathered up a list of unusual, unique, one-of-a-kind, specialty pizza pies. You can find all of these unconventional pizzas at locally owned restaurants right here in Alpena. Where will you venture off to tonight?

Court Yard Ristorante–

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Adam Zeeman has a blast sledding after a winter snowfall. Photo courtesy, Paul Gerow.

The Ultimate Packing Guide to Winter Adventure in Alpena

Posted on March 7th, 2019

First we brought you “10 Things to Do During an Alpena Winter“, now we are bringing you the ultimate packing guide for a winter adventure here in the Sanctuary of the Great Lakes. Basic clothing needs for any outdoor winter adventure: Layers! Layers! Layers!

First you need your base lay

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Don’t Miss Out! Must-See Film Festivals Happening in Alpena

Posted on January 22nd, 2019

This week brings us the 7th Annual Thunder Bay International Film Festival to Alpena, with over 50 Oceanic and Great Lakes films created by filmmakers from all over the world! Beginning January 23rd, through January 27th. Thunder Bay International Film Festival One special film tha…

New to Forest Bathing? Here are 5 Tips to Winter Forest Bathing in Alpena

Posted on January 18th, 2019

It’s January, which means the spell of winter has been cast down upon us in full force. The frozen ground glistens with a blanket of white snow, the sky…well we haven’t seen much of it these past few weeks. Which is why winter forest bathing should be priority uno on your to-do list.…

12 Days of Christmas in Alpena: The Ultimate Guide to Holiday-Themed Activities

Posted on December 18th, 2018

By Guest Blogger: Lara King Only 1 more week until Christmas! However, we made a list and checked it twice so you can fit in all of these events and activities before Christmas time. Enjoy these holiday-themed activities, shopping local, and festive plates in “The Ultimate Holiday GuideR…

Alpena’s Holiday Shopping Guide

Posted on December 6th, 2018

Looking for that special, unusual Christmas gift or stocking stuffer? Do you have a someone in your life that seems to already have everything? Don’t get lost in online conglomerates and big box stores! Here’s a list of Alpena’s hidden treasures full of unique items for everyone on you…

Changing the Narrative, One Scoop at a Time

Posted on November 28th, 2018

When Aaron Buza and his wife Kari were approached about taking over ownership of Downtown Scoops in Alpena, they were honored and excited. Established in 2011 by Chris and Missi LeFave, Downtown Scoops has delighted local residents and visitors with their homemade waffle cones, unique flavor var…

The Besser Museum Season of Light Shines Bright

Posted on November 21st, 2018

Once again, Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan has brought us the beauty of world traditions relating to Christmas. Each year during their “Season of Light” display, Besser Museum offers us a walk through nations around the world to see how diffe…