Welcome to the Village of Alanson!
The Village of Alanson is serenely nestled on the bank of the Crooked River, a major link in the Inland Waterway of Northern Michigan, making it easily accessible by either boat or automobile. We are conveniently located 10 miles north of Petoskey on U.S. 31 and M-68.
The Village was first settled in 1875 and incorporated in 1905 during the great Michigan lumber boom. Our Village retains the character of that bygone era even though visitors will find the sawmills are long gone.
The Downtown area is contained in several short blocks that place many shops and services within easy walking distance. Shoppers can browse for antiques, flowers, fresh baked goodies or visit the hairdresser, bank and post office. There are restaurants galore, a first class hotel, and a hardware store that is a historical landmark.
For tranquility, walk the boardwalk along the river, sit on the Island for a fresh breeze off the water, or sit among the fragrant flowers on the Hillside Gardens. You will find Alanson is "a Place to Enjoy… a Place to Remember".
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Alanson Riverfest 2008
August 8th, 9th, 10th
Mayor's Message
Hello, and welcome to the Village of Alanson!
We pronounce it Ah-lan-son and when asked where Alanson is located, we like to joke that it is situated between Ponshewaing and Brutus. It's easy to find -- by car it is at the intersection of US 31 and M-68; by boat it is reached by the way of the Crooked River, part of the famous Inland Waterway.
Our Village, like so many of its neighbors in northern Michigan, got its start during the lumbering days in the latter part of the 1800's. There were saw mills and specialty mills that made products from the abundant wood and kept Alanson's economy humming. The location on the Crooked River played a vital part in moving the logs to the mills for processing. As the lumbering industry waned, a new one was born-tourism-which remains a vital part of today's economy. We provide easy access for winter sports and the Crooked River invites boaters and fishermen to enjoy the 40 mile stretch of the rivers and lakes that comprise the Inland Waterway.
Whether you come by car or boat, you'll find the compactness of the Village of Alanson appealing. An easy stroll brings you to the beautiful Hillside Garden and the shops and restaurants along US 31. Don't miss a visit to the Inland Water Route Historical Society's Museum and Gift Shop on River Street. You'll enjoy the photos and artifacts commemorating the history of the communities along the Water Route.
We hope to see you soon in the Village of Alanson!
Richard Weidenhamer,
President, Village of Alanson
Alanson Weather
The 4th of July Parade
Children's Playground at Civic Park
