Boyne City is on the shores of crystal clear Lake Charlevoix in Boyne City, a small quite town that outdoor enthusiasts travel to year round to take advantage of snowboarding, ice skating, hiking, snowmobiling, skiing, camping and fishing. Several festivals take place here throughout the year and reflect the community spirit and pride that makes this small town unforgettable. The community also takes pride in the local school system and education system that has state wide recognition.
The population is over 3,700 and was first settled in 1856. Boyne City is at the southeast end of the east arm of Lake Charlevoix, where the Boyne River enters the lake. It is at the corners of four townships, though it is politically independent: Evangeline Township is to the northwest, Melrose Township to the northeast, Boyne Valley Township to the southeast, and Wilson Township to the southwest. M-75 connects with US 131 twice, once at Walloon Lake about six miles to the northeast and again at Boyne Falls about six miles to the southeast. County roads run west out of the city along the north and south shores of Lake Charlevoix.
Boyne City is nestled along Lake Charlevoix and you’re never more than a few minutes from the water in each direction. Downtown Boyne City is also home to wonderful street music, in fact, it has been recognized by the state as Michigan’s “Premier Main Street.” Nearby are Boyne Mountain Resort, Boyne Falls and Walloon Lake. Boyne City is a growing, bustling city and has it all from music, art, fun, outdoor activities, dining, shopping, hiking, biking, skiing, and so much more. With over 3,700 year round residents, during the change of Northern Michigan’s seasons that number swells to many times that size especially in the summer months, Boyne City’s charm is enticing new businesses and restaurants. The bustling farmer’s market draws vendors and shoppers from all around Northern Michigan.
“The primary force behind the rebirth of Boyne City were brothers David and Rick Smith. When the old Tannery property was still an ecological mess they took it on and created the Harborage Condominium Community including the Marina. I took a small part in that wonderful project. As for my former business, Puff’s, in which I supplied Interior Design Services and furnishings for that project for many years. I am not a Boyne City expert but it is my impression that the Smith brothers did more than anyone in the initial turnaround of that now wonderful community.” Joe Blachy