Over the last few months there have been lots of businesses announcements in Downtown Alpena, with new businesses opening, expanding, or coming under new ownership. Learn more about the developments below.

123 Water St – This Memorial weekend there’s going to be 5 tiny shops, and one beverage shed on the Alpena Power Site located along the Thunder Bay River! There’s also going to be plenty of food trucks and seating on the site so you can grab a bite to eat when you’re done shopping. We are currently taking applications for small businesses to rent one of the sheds, so if you’re interested you can apply and find more information here. Applications are due May 2nd.

Samantha’s on 2nd – This brand-new restaurant just opened in the Center Building earlier this month and is Alpena’s only scratch kitchen featuring steak and seafood! Theirs is also one of the few restaurants that offers a delicious brunch menu. Be sure to check out their full menu on their Facebook page!

Marithyme – Another business that will be opening soon in the back of the Center building is a Mediterranean café! It’s going to be a coffee shop with Mediterranean snacks, spices and crafts. Check their Facebook for more information and updates on a grand opening date!

Sanctuary Dogs & Riverside Ice Cream – Both of these all-new businesses will be opening this spring along the Thunder Bay River next to the Great lakes Maritime Heritage Center and the Alpena Shipwreck Tours dock. When you’re done exploring the Heritage Center or checking out the shipwrecks in Lake Huron you can grab a hot dog for lunch or an ice cream to suffice your sweet tooth! Find more information and updates on Sanctuary Dogs and Riverside Ice Creams Facebook pages.

Old Polish Corner – Although the Old Polish Corner is not a new business to downtown, they are expanding this summer! Not only are they expanding their kitchen to be able to bring you more delicious food even faster. They’re also adding a very unique outdoor dining area! They are at some point going to have to temporarily close while they work on the renovations so keep an eye on their Facebook to make sure they’re open and to see the finished product.

Sports Page Bar – After previously being owned for 39 years Sports Page came under new ownership just a couple of months ago! Be sure to follow their Facebook page for all of the updates!

Jimmie Garant’s Party Store – Another downtown business that recently came under new ownership is Jimmie Garant’s! Jimmie’s has been a part of this community for over 70 years, and during that time it has always been a family-owned business. New owners Jake and Jillian are keeping it that way continuing the generational family business! Check their Facebook for updates.

Interested in joining downtown? Reach out to the DDA at downtownalpenami@gmail.com or 989-356-6422