Improving the Economic Vitality of Our Downtowns

This project is not just about a single city—it is part of a larger national and global ecosystem, creating new economic opportunities and redefining how businesses engage with their communities in the virtual space.







We are seeking partnerships with forward-thinking city officials and business leaders to replicate
their downtowns and launch immersive virtual cities together.





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Hotels


The Sanctuary Inn
1000 US 23rd N
Alpena, Michigan

Days Inn Alpena
1496 M 32 W
Alpena, Michigan

BEST WESTERN OF ALPENA
1286 M 32 W
Alpena, Michigan

Sanctuary Inn
1000 US 23 North
Alpena, Michigan


Hotel Tips

Always find a reason to email the front desk manager in hotels that you plan to visit again. Tell them what they did right and express your plans to stay again and ask what opportunities there might be for frequent discounts or upgrades on your next visits. If you become friends with the manager, you just might get the friends and family rate some day.

Bring an actual credit card to avoid deposits and pre-authorizations consuming money in your checking account which will reduce your available balance. Hotels that accept paper cash often ask for a hefty deposit to cover potential damages in your room leaving you scrambling to find an ATM.

Always announce during booking if the trip is for a special event, anniversary or reunion. Group rates can be pre-negotiated and you may qualify for a lower cost and better upgrades for your stay. If you are the one setting up the event, always work directly with the front desk manager to make sure the best service is offered to your party.



Things To Do

Alpena makes shopping for wine and other spirits easy by bringing an incredible collection sourced from local, regional well-known producers from around the World. Hit the wine tasting events and stock up on your favorite choice to be shipped home for your convenience.

Alpena is a great place to rent a bike and take it for a ride around downtown. There are many bike shops that sell bike and accessories as well as provide service and tuning on your ride. Don't forget your helmet and other protective gear such as reflective gear, headlight and horn.

Alpena is the place to plan your wedding. You'll be spending a lot of time downtown as there are so many wonderful shops to find invitations, photographers, bakers, caterers and jewelers. Planning your wedding will be a breeze with so much support from local merchants to make a perfect and memorable day.



Why Do You Love Downtown?

Crystal Stewart
I grew up,visiting Emelton.

Mary Loar
There are so many cute stores in Silverton. We are going on Thursday to shop and dine.

Angela Shields
I will be visiting Ashland for the first time this coming weekend! I have heard from numerous people what a great town it is and how much I will like it. Very excited to check it out and do some shopping!

Deborah
Jacksonville is utterly charming! I love browsing Terra Firma and Pickety Place, eating delicious Umi Sushi, and sitting under the amazing wisteria in the Bella Union garden. I always go to the library in that sweet little building, where Lauren the librarian knows me by name (and recommends good books). The Good Bean people are awfully nice, and even the clerks at Umpqua Bank are especially kind and friendly. Best little downtown ever!

Dianna Branden
I love the quaint little boutiques.


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Alpena
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