Alpena: Self-Guided Audio Walk Through Historic Downtown

This self-guided audio walking tour explores the historic heart of Alpena, introducing you to the city’s civic landmarks, churches, commercial blocks, and riverfront character. It will especially appeal to first-time visitors who enjoy local history, architecture, and the stories hidden in downtown streets. The route begins at the Alpena County George N. Fletcher Public Library and leads through the compact downtown core past City Hall, the Maine Cannon, Trinity Episcopal Church, and the historic streetscape of Downtown Alpena. Along the way, you’ll encounter notable blocks such as the Bertrand Block, Hanover Block, Maltz Opera Block, and Alpern Block, as well as long-standing local businesses and gathering places. From there, the walk continues toward the Second Avenue Bascule Bridge, a defining feature of Alpena’s connection to the Thunder Bay River, before finishing near Thunder Bay Theatre and the historic John A. Lau Saloon. By the end, you’ll have experienced Alpena’s blend of public history, preserved architecture, downtown charm, and memorable river views that give this Great Lakes city its distinct personality.