Boyne City, located within Charlevoix County, is on the southeast end of Lake Charlevoix's east arm where the Boyne River enters the lake. The first known settlers were John and Harriet Miller of Ireland who went exploring after Harriet, a spiritualist, dreamed about a cabin on a lake shaped like a bear. They found a vacated cabin, south of which flowed a river that reminded Harriet of the River Boyne in Ireland. As a result, the Boyne River acquired its name from this geographic feature. The land nearby became Boyne City.
The community, which at first was simply called Boyne, added a post office in 1869 and an inn in 1879. Boyne was designated as a village in 1885, and the name was changed to Boyne City in 1904. It was incorporated as a city in 1907.
Boyne City became part of the Industrial Revolution during the early 20th century. W.H. White, the owner of White Lumber Company, was one of the first industrialists in the city. He was influential in the startup of the first tannery, owned by Canadian tanner W.S. Shaw, who also helped start Boyne City Clay Products. Railroads drove growth in the lumber industry in the area.
Historic buildings such as Huff's Pharmacy, which was built in 1896, stand as a reminder of the era. The Boyne River Inn started in 1893, and the pub still operates on the original site.
Retail trade and manufacturing are among the top industries in Boyne City today.
When are the best times to visit Boyne City, MI?
Boyne City has warm, comfortable summers and cold, snowy winters. The most comfortable times to travel to the area, and the times with the most activities, would fall between late May and mid-September. Temperatures are in the upper 60s to upper 70s Fahrenheit for daytime highs and drop to lows in the 50s. Hotel rates tend to be highest during the summer months, so it's a good idea to reserve your room a few months early to try to save a little money and to ensure availability.
Spring and fall high temperatures have a wide range, from the mid-30s to the upper 60s, with lows from the low 20s to the upper 40s, and you'll see a range in hotel rates accordingly. The winter months get very cold, with highs from the mid-20s to the mid-30s and lows in the low teens and 20s. Several hotels have lower rates during the winter, but a number of luxury hotels are well-positioned for skiing and other winter activities and may still have higher rates. If you love to ski, winter could be a great time to visit.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Boyne City, MI:
Averate Rates by Star Rating
Below are 3 charts displaying average nightly cost trends by star rating class in Boyne City, MI. Analyze these charts to determine the most cost effective time to book a room in Boyne City during the year.
What are the luxury hotels in Boyne City, MI?
Five minutes from Boyne City in Boyne Falls, the upscale Bluegreen Vacations Mountain Run at Boyne, an Ascend Resort, awaits you. The family-friendly, beautifully furnished condominium complex is within a 15-minute walk of Avalanche Bay Indoor Waterpark. The apartments have private balconies with full kitchens, flat-screen televisions with DVD players, free Wi-Fi, and more. You'll enjoy the indoor spa tub, and during the summer, you can cool off in the outdoor pool. Winter guests can ski in and ski out. Other amenities include an arcade and game room, barbecue grills, on-site tennis courts, and supervised child care and children's activities.
The Boyne Mountain Resort, also in Boyne Falls, has been updated to include the new 220-room Mountain Grand Lodge and Spa, as well as Avalanche Bay, which is the largest indoor waterpark in Michigan. Guests stay here for events, meetings, the waterpark, and downhill skiing and snowboarding. They also enjoy two mountainside golf courses, mountain biking, and kayaking and canoeing on the south branch of the Boyne River. The Solace Spa provides 19 treatment rooms with the latest spa treatments, salon services, and fitness stations. Apartments feature separate living and sleeping areas, along with bedrooms in some apartments. All have balcony seating and kitchenettes.
What are the budget hotels near Boyne City, MI?
3 Star Average Prices: $183.20
Consider some budget hotels near Boyne City. The highly rated AmericInn by Wyndham Petoskey, about 10 miles from Boyne City in Petoskey, is a short drive from the Little Traverse Historical Museum and Bear River Park. Nub's Nob Ski Area is about 12 miles away. The reasonably priced spacious rooms come with microwaves, flat-screen televisions, coffee and tea makers, and free Wi-Fi. Rejuvenate yourself in the large indoor pool and get some exercise in the fitness center. A free buffet breakfast is served every morning. The hotel has a comfortable, inviting lobby area and provides a computer station.
The @ Michigan Inn & Lodge in Petoskey puts you in the business district a short drive from Mackinaw Trail Winery. Your room will come with a refrigerator and microwave so that you can make some of your own meals in your room. The 37-inch LCD television will provide entertainment, and free Wi-Fi will keep you connected so that you can work, share your travels, or keep in touch with family and friends.
The hotel provides a picnic area and barbecue grills for great dining options. Alternatively, you can have lunch or dinner at the on-site Cyber Cafe or get snacks at the coffee shop. A free daily reception with refreshments encourages mingling among guests. The hotel also serves free breakfast every morning. You can get work done in the business center and pick up free newspapers in the lobby. If you like to gamble, take a free shuttle to the nearby Odawa Casino.