The Charlevoix Circle of Arts is a vibrant, cultural center in downtown Charlevoix that presents six major visual exhibits annually.
Photo by the Charlevoix Historical Society
Charlevoix's Rich History as a Summer Resort Town
The Charlevoix area was part of what was called Michilimackinac formed in the Treaty of Washington in 1836. French explorer Pierre François Xavier de Charlevoix is said to have stayed on nearby Fisherman Island and the area was named after him in 1836.
Several University of Chicago professors visited Charlevoix after the Civil War and formed a summer association- an enclave of homes and summer activities and named it the Chicago Club. Two more summer associations were later formed: The Belvedere Club and the Sequanota Club.
Exclusive hotels, the Inn and the Beach, were the summer destination for people from around the Midwest. Two depots served summer guests, one at Belvedere and the Pere Marquette Railway depot. Guests also arrived in the late 1800’s on steamships including the Manitou, Alabama, North American, South American, Milwaukee Clipper, and Illinois.
During the Prohibition, Chicago area gang members moved their operations to Charlevoix. The Colonial Club became a gambling joint for some of the Midwest’s most powerful. A barge-turned-speakeasy traveled from Charlevoix to Boyne City carrying passengers in style during the summer months.
In later years, Charlevoix became known for events that happened nearby such as the sinking of the freighter the Carl Bradley in 1858 and the crash of an unarmed B-52 aircraft in 1971, both just off shore.
Charlevoix is the home of the nation’s first nuclear plant, Big Rock, which operated from 1962-1971. Visitors come from around the world to see architect Earl Young’s 27 distinctive mushroom houses that still remain and have been restored.
Charlevoix’s history can be revisited at the Harsha House Museum and Charlevoix Depot Museum.
Experience Charlevoix
The sight of this bustling community nestled between Lake Michigan and Round Lake is simply beautiful. The waterfront park is a jewel complete in Charlevoix with a spectacular water fountain. Read the stories below or go to the Charlevoix destination page.
Fisherman's Island State Park has more than 2,600 acres and miles of gorgeous Lake Michigan beach and is located just south of Charlevoix.
Charlevoix is a bustling community nestled between Lake Michigan and Round Lake and hosts many festivals and events throughout the year.
Charlevoix is a bustling community with activities and attractions that include their waterfront park and fountain.
Beaver Island is located 32 miles offshore of Charlevoix, Michigan and is the largest island in Lake Michigan.
With woods, dunes, and frozen lakes, the trails near Charlevoix and Boyne City are the places to cross country ski from December-March.
The Harsha House and the Charlevoix Depot Museum, run by the Charlevoix Historical Society, preserve much of Charlevoix's rich history.
For more information on the history of Charlevoix, please contact:
Charlevoix Historical Society
103 State St., Charlevoix, MI, 49720
(231) 547-0373
Destinations Up North
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Activities & Attractions in Northern Michigan
Fort Mackinac on Mackinac Island
Fort Mackinac is open from May-October and includes buildings restored their original look after the fort’s occupation by the British
Little Traverse History Museum in Petoskey
Within the historic Chicago/West Michigan railroad depot in Petoskey, the Little Traverse History Museum is a history filled gem.
The Little Traverse Wheelway
Bicyclists, walkers, and roller bladers can go from Harbor Springs to Charlevoix on the 26-mile long Little Traverse Wheelway.
Petoskey’s Bear River Valley Recreation Area
This 36 acre, 1.5 mile long Bear River Valley in Petoskey is truly spectacular and filled with natural beauty and things to do.
Ride the Breezeway Scenic Highway Between Atwood & Boyne Falls
This 28-mile scenic highway running between Atwood and Boyne Falls known as the Breezeway draws visitors because it is gorgeous.
Andrew J. Blackbird Museum in Harbor Springs
The Andrew J. Blackbird Museum is named for a counselor who helped Native American veterans. Native American artifacts fill the museum space.
Crooked Tree Arts Center in Petoskey
Crooked Tree Arts Center is a place where artists from northern Michigan can display their talents and artwork to the public.
Historic Mill Creek Discovery Park
Historic Mill Creek Discover Park has 625 acres along Lake Huron, 3.5 miles of hiking trails, a reconstructed saw mill, mill dam, and more.
Northern Michigan Lighthouses
In Northern Michigan, you’ll find lighthouses where lighthouse keepers once lived and worked that have been restored and are open to visitors.
Antiques
Shop Northern Michigan antiques shops, art galleries, and furniture stores for home furnishings that are unique and affordable.