Alpena is a charming Lake Huron city with a walkable downtown, waterfront parks, local restaurants and breweries, and the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary for diving, boating and scenic lakeside living — plenty of outdoor activities, festivals and a tight-knit community to keep multi‑week stays interesting.
Nearby Gaylord and Mackinaw City (both within ~75 miles) add bigger dining/shopping options, year‑round recreation and gateway access to Mackinac Island when you want more to do.