Hiking, parks and Lake Charlevoix draw residents to Boyne City
The small community of Boyne City, located in the heart of Charlevoix County, is famous for its proximity to nature preserves and one of the state’s largest lakes, Lake Charlevoix. ““A big draw is the parks, the hiking and the water, of course, says Brett Binkley, a Realtor and owner of North Prime Real Estate who sells throughout the area. Binkley says that while Boyne City gets its share of seasonal residents and nature-loving tourists, many of its inhabitants are full time, and tight knit. “Everyone’s got each other’s back,” he says. “We take care of each other here.”
Home styles include Cape Cod, Colonial Revival and retro
Homes in Boyne City are an eclectic mix of styles, including Cape Cod, Colonial Revival, split level, ranch-style and New Traditional. Some historic homes can be found, in retro styles like American Colonial and Sears Catalogue. They sit on lawns landscaped with grass and mature trees. Sidewalks line the quiet residential streets, allowing residents to walk to the lake or downtown. Prices range from $200,000 to about $530,000. The Lakeview Village neighborhood features manufactured homes, ranging from about $47,000 to $130,000.
Boyne City’s schools are rated B or higher on Niche
Boyne City Public Schools serves the area, rates a B-plus on Niche and offers school choice. Schools zoned to the community are B-plus-rated Boyne City Elementary, B-rated Boyne City Middle, and B-plus-rated Boyne City High. Boyne City Middle features the Where Everyone Belongs program, matching incoming fifth graders with eighth-grade mentors who meet with them throughout the school year to teach them problem-solving skills and help build positive relationships.
Outdoor spots range from mountain trails to sandy shores
Residents head to Lake Charlevoix for outdoor fun, including boating, fishing and soaking up the sun. “We have a saying here, ‘No sharks, no salt, no problem,’” Binkley says. Lake Charlevoix is also popular for its access to Lake Michigan, where anglers can catch salmon. Hikers head to nearby Avalanche Mountain Preserve, which offers scenic trails to the top and views of Lake Charlevoix. The trails can also be used for mountain biking and there is a disc golf course throughout.
The city’s green spaces include Veterans Park, which overlooks the lake and features a large playground, a fishing pier and many benches to watch the sun set over the water. Ridge Run Dog Park offers dedicated spaces for large and small breeds and has an agility course.
Grocery stores and health care are close to home
The city’s downtown district sits between Water Street and East Main Street and is filled with local boutiques, restaurants and services. Dining out options include Lake Street Pub, a favorite for its seafood and burgers, and Stiggs Brewing Company, which serves barbecue, sandwiches and local craft beer.
Residents can pick up groceries at Family Faire Supermarket and Louie’s Fresh Market. More shopping and dining options are in Petosky, about 15 miles away. Wine lovers have their pick of several vineyards just outside of town, including Boyne Valley Vineyards, which offers live music.
Summer events include boat races, fireworks and live music
There are regular annual festivities in Boyne City, but the summer is when the biggest events happen. July’s Boyne Thunder is a weekend of high-performance boat racing on Lake Charlevoix. The city’s Fourth of July celebration has been called “the best Fourth in the North” by “Good Morning America” and USA Today and features a day filled with family-friendly activities and ends with fireworks.
Stroll the Streets is when Lake and Main streets become promenades between June and August and feature live music and family-friendly activities. The city’s farmers market is open twice a week year-round at Veterans Park and features fresh produce, baked goods, pasture raised meat and more. “It’s huge,” Binkley says. “It’s really well managed and has great vendors.”
Highways connect residents to Petosky and nearby towns
Due to the lack of a fixed-route bus system, residents get around by car. Boyne Avenue and Michigan Highway 75 run through the city and connect to U.S. Route 131 which leads to Petosky and other nearby communities. Pellston Regional is the closest airport with commercial flights, located in Traverse City, roughly 65 miles away. McLaren Northern Michigan MedCenter – Boyne City is on the city’s southeast side and where residents go for routine care. McLaren Northern Michigan is the closest hospital with an emergency room, located in Petosky.
