A Perfect Day Trip to Alpena, Michigan

While Oscoda offers endless opportunities for relaxation and adventure, a short drive north reveals another treasure along Michigan’s Sunrise Coast: Alpena. This lakeside town pairs small-town warmth with an artsy, coastal vibe and is well worth the day trip. Spend the day exploring colorful murals, one-of-a-kind boutiques, local museums, and locally loved dining spots.

Morning: The Scenic Drive and Cultural Discoveries

After a gourmet breakfast in your private suite at our Michigan bed and breakfast, it's time to head north along the Sunrise Coast, where Lake Huron appears through breaks in the trees and small towns blur past in flashes of weathered docks and roadside fruit stands.

Begin your adventure with a stop at Cabin Creek Coffee, where the aroma of freshly roasted beans fills the air. Order a specialty mocha or cappuccino to fuel your morning of exploration. With warm drinks in hand, make your way to Alpena's Mural Trail, a walking tour that transforms the downtown into an open-air gallery. Vibrant murals adorn building facades, each one telling a story of the town's maritime heritage, natural beauty, and creativity, offering the perfect excuse to stop and snap a few photos.

Next, wander into a few of downtown Alpena’s charming boutiques. Inside Rusty Petunia's Marketplace, you'll discover not only an eclectic mix of home décor, local art, and artisan gifts that feel distinctly northern Michigan but also an indoor golf simulator and cocktail lounge. Whether you're searching for a keepsake or simply enjoying the hunt, Alpena, Michigan, shopping delivers character at every turn.

If you have time, make your way to Water Street Commons (123 Water St), the newly opened small-business collective at the corner of Second Avenue and Water Street, along the Thunder Bay River. This innovative space features five tiny shops open Thursday through Saturday, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m., each offering something distinctly their own. Browse Mana Wellness for comfortable modern apparel and sterling silver jewelry, step into Birch Hill Grocery for gourmet chocolates and artisan spreads, or explore Alpena Sourdough & Health Store for organic sourdough breads and wellness essentials. The Commons is part of Downtown Alpena's Social District, meaning you can carry drinks from participating businesses while you browse. When Knaebe's beverage shed opens, flights of hard cider and their famous donuts will make the riverfront stop even more tempting.

Lunch: Lakeside Dining with a View

Alpena's restaurant scene offers several inviting lunch options, each with its own personality and appeal.

Black Sheep Pub serves up authentic English fare in downtown Alpena, where fish and chips, Scottish eggs, and specialty pizzas pair perfectly with a cascading Guinness from tap or one of their Michigan craft beers. Open daily from 11 a.m., this English-themed pub has become a local favorite for its fast, fresh food and welcoming atmosphere.

If you're looking for something lighter and health-focused, Hungry Hippie brings '60s-inspired vibes to your lunch break with their colorful bowls, tacos, and smoothies. This fast-serve spot specializes in grilled cheese sandwiches, food bowls loaded with fresh ingredients, and healthy smoothies that actually taste indulgent. It's the perfect stop for vegetarian options and anyone craving something fresh and flavorful.

For craft beer lovers, Austin Brothers Beer Company delivers a casual lunch experience paired with their own brewed creations. Order a flight to share and settle into the laid-back vibe that makes this spot a local favorite. They are closed on Sundays and Mondays, so keep that in mind when making your plans for your visit!

Afternoon: Museums and Maritime Wonders

With lunch behind you, the afternoon unfolds with cultural exploration. If you haven't yet visited the Great Lakes Maritime Heritage Center (500 W Fletcher St), now is the time. The exhibits immerse you in the stories of ships lost beneath Thunder Bay's waters, with interactive displays and artifacts that bring maritime history to life.

The Besser Museum for Northeast Michigan (491 Johnson St) offers another dimension of discovery, blending art, science, and regional culture under one roof. From rotating art exhibits to displays on the area's natural history, the museum provides a thoughtful interlude before your evening begins.

Evening: Wine, Music, and Dinner Under the Stars

As the day softens into evening, make your way to Thunder Bay Winery, where the tasting room invites you to slow down and savor. Order a wine flight to share, or build a charcuterie board piled with local cheeses, cured meats, and honeycomb. The winery often hosts live music, adding a melodic backdrop to your glasses of wine and quiet conversation.

When dinner calls, Alpena delivers options that suit whatever mood has settled over you.

Red Brick Tap & Barrel offers an elevated yet approachable menu focused on Michigan-made ingredients and brews. Choose from dishes like bourbon-glazed salmon, cherry BBQ ribs, or truffle fries paired with one of over 40 craft beers on tap. The interior’s exposed brick, dim lighting, and polished wood bar create an intimate vibe perfect for date night, especially if you can snag a fireside table in the courtyard.

Pompeyos Mexican Grill brings modern Mexican fare to life with craft cocktails and bold flavors that feel both sophisticated and fun. Start with the tableside guacamole or guava margarita before moving on to shrimp tacos, carne asada, or their popular fajita skillet for two.

If you're looking for something more elevated, Court Yard Ristorante is a local institution known for its cozy, old-world charm. Enjoy generous portions of Italian classics like chicken marsala, baked lasagna, or seafood risotto. Pair your meal with a glass of Chianti and finish with a shared tiramisu or espresso.

Return to Huron House and Continue Your Michigan Getaway

After a full day exploring Alpena’s art, dining, and lakeside charm, the drive back to Huron House feels easy and familiar. Within forty minutes, you’re back in the quiet comfort of your suite, a fireplace waiting, dessert in the room, and the sound of Lake Huron just beyond your balcony.

That balance is what makes a stay at Huron House special: the freedom to explore nearby towns and the promise of returning to your own private retreat. Plan an extra day or two to enjoy both Alpena’s vibrant energy and Oscoda’s peaceful shoreline at your own pace.

Book your Michigan getaway and discover why couples return year after year to reconnect, recharge, and experience the best of Michigan’s Sunrise Coast.