Alpena

Alpena in Northern Lower Peninsula is home to about 10,000 people.

Lansing, the state capital, is located roughly 170 miles (274 kilometers) south of Alpena, while Detroit is 190 miles (306 kilometers) to the south.

If you and your children are interested in the country’s seafaring history and old ships, make sure you have a look at the Thunder Bay National Marine Sanctuary. It's one of the more fascinating museums in the area, so set aside an afternoon to examine fine examples of historical artifacts and crafts about the region’s maritime history.

If you’re intrigued by local zoos, be sure to fit a trip to Dinosaur Gardens Prehistorical Zoo into your list of places to visit to discover all creatures great and small. If you can’t spare too much time, stop by the information counter and collect a map to locate the park’s key exhibits.

The Thunder Bay River Lighthouse by far the most recognized attractions in this coastal vacation destination. To learn more about the structure’s history and the people who who kept it shining bright, check in with the local visitors center about tours.