Battle Of The Shores: Alpena Vs. Traverse City In Michigan’s North

Some would say the pinnacle of life in Michigan is 'Up North.' The debate begins from there - is it the Upper Peninsula or the Northern Lower Peninsula? Sticking with the northern Lower Peninsula, would it be the west side with its Lake Michigan shoreline or the east side along Lake Huron.

A Redditor recently ignited an interesting debate proposing that the 'Sunrise Side' of the state - meaning Northeastern Michigan around Alpena - is superior to Northwest Michigan and the environs around Traverse City.

The argument goes the area around Traverse City has grown out of reach and out-of-touch for many Michiganders. Home prices have exploded forcing many out of the market while the nouveau riche of Grand Traverse and Leelanau have given a formerly quiet, rural and humble area a gloss of pretentiousness.

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The Northeast side, while it lacks the allure of the cherries, wineries and beaches provides a ruggedness paired with natural beauty more akin to the Upper Peninsula.

Perhaps it boils down to what kind of experience one values - built-up, affluent and touristy or laid-back, solitude and seclusion.

Some, while they feel affinity for Alpena, see the shortcomings of the region.

Alpena has always held a special place in my heart but she has a long way to go

A long way. We visit every year and I grew up there and every year it's more and more sad. Some real gems hidden in there but it needs some love and industry to bring younger people in. Always has.

Alpena is just so... lifeless. and half the downtown area is just parking lots.

Perhaps it's not a fair comparison as the two regions developed differently as the northwest made a decided play for tourism while the northeast attempted to hang on to some industry.

Is it apples and oranges?

Comparing Alpena to Traverse is like comparing Saginaw to Saugatuck

That could be it. Both regions are what they are and one may prefer one or the other. Those who do love the Sunrise Side and what to keep it secret for a little while longer would prefer no one talk about Alpena and give anyone any ideas about becoming Traverse on Huron.