Entire home

Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River

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Where to?

Dates

July 2025

August 2025

Overview
Amenities
Policies
Location
Host

Entire home

4 bedrooms2 bathroomsSleeps 81400 sq ft

Popular amenities

Parking available
Dryer
Barbecue grill
Washer
Fireplace
Kitchen

Explore the area

Traverse City, MI

Turtle Creek Stadium
‪11 min drive‬
Front Street
‪21 min drive‬
Traverse City Beach
‪22 min drive‬
Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
‪18 min drive‬

Room options

About the neighborhood

Traverse City

This vacation home is located within a 15-minute drive of Forest Lakes and Grand Traverse Natural Education Reserve. The vacation home includes a kitchen, a fireplace, and a patio.

View more Vacation Homes in Traverse City

What's nearby

Turtle Creek Stadium - 11 min drive - 5.7 miles
Arbutus Lake - 11 min drive - 5.0 miles
Spider Lake - 16 min drive - 7.9 miles
Front Street - 21 min drive - 11.4 miles
Traverse City Beach - 22 min drive - 12.5 miles

Getting around

Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 18 min drive

Restaurants

‪Culver's - ‬10 min drive
‪Burger King - ‬10 min drive
‪McDonald's - ‬10 min drive
‪Taco Bell - ‬10 min drive
‪Samsara - ‬10 min drive

About this property

Entire place

You'll have the entire home to yourself and will only share it with other guests in your party.

Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River

Enjoy rural Traverse City's outdoor haven with this riverfront non-smoking home situated directly on the Boardman River just 15-20 minutes south of downtown Traverse City. Hop in the river and kayak or float the spring-fed Boardman River! This home is only minutes away from off-roading in Chums Corner and is a short drive to winery trails up the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas. Visit Traverse City's bustling downtown area that is home to many restaurants, charter boat companies, and TART trails. Take a drive northwest to visit Sleeping Bear Dunes for a day. This home is far enough away from the city to enjoy peace and quiet at the fire pit right next to the river or lounge on the new 600 square foot back porch, but plenty close enough to enjoy what Traverse City has to offer! Home is equipped with central heating and air conditioning! This property is about 45 minutes away from Crystal Mountain, one hour away from Caberfae Peaks, and 1.5 hours away from Boyne Mountain. For snowmobilers, this home offers a close place to stay being only 5-10 minutes away from Mayfield's snowmobile trailhead! Outfitted with central heating and air conditioning. This home is not wheelchair accessible - there are stairs to the entry door and narrow halls and doors inside, as well as stairs to the second floor. NO PETS ALLOWED. NO SMOKING ALLOWED. THERE WILL BE A $500.00 ADDITIONAL CHARGE IF PETS COME TO PROPERTY.

The vacation home is air-conditioned and features a kitchen, 2 bathrooms, and a patio, and there's space to spread out with 4 bedrooms. Guests can expect to find free WiFi and a Smart TV with a DVD player. Other standard amenities include a washing machine, a fireplace, and a coffee maker.

Property manager

Heather

Languages

English

Similar properties

Kitchen
Free WiFi
Air conditioning
Outdoor Space

Property amenities

Ski

Cross-country skiing nearby

Internet

Available in the house: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

Car required
Parking on site

Kitchen

Blender
Coffee/tea maker
Cookware, dishware, and utensils
Dishwasher
Ice maker
Microwave
Oven
Paper towels
Refrigerator
Stovetop
Toaster

Dining

Dining table

Bedrooms

4 bedrooms
Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

2 bathrooms
Bathtub or shower
Hair dryer
Shower
Soap
Toilet paper
Towels provided

Living spaces

Dining table
Fireplace
Living room

Entertainment

Books
DVD player
Games
Smart TV

Outdoor areas

Barbecue grill
Firepit
Garden
Outdoor furniture
Patio

Laundry

Laundry facilities
Washing machine

Work spaces

Desk
Desk chair

Comfort

Air conditioning
Heating

Pets

No pets allowed

Suitability/Accessibility

Smoking not allowed

Location highlights

In a rural location
Near a health/beauty spa
Near a hospital
Near the bay
Near the marina
On a river
On the waterfront

Things to do

Birdwatching nearby
Casino nearby
Fishing nearby
Kayaking nearby
Motor boating nearby
Mountain biking nearby
Sledding nearby
Snowmobiling nearby
Wildlife walks nearby
Winery tours nearby

Safety features

Carbon monoxide detector (host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property)
Smoke detector (host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property)
First aid kit
Fire extinguisher
Deadbolt lock

General

Garden
Unit size: 1,400 square feet

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM

Contactless check-in available

Minimum check-in age: 25

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM

Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

You will receive an email from the host with check-in and check-out instructions

Pets

This property doesn't allow pets

Important information

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited

Long-term renters welcome

Host has indicated there is a carbon monoxide detector on the property

Host has indicated there is a smoke detector on the property

Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock

This property is managed through our partner, Vrbo. You will receive an email from Vrbo with a link to a Vrbo account, where you can change or cancel your reservation

Check-in: 4:00 PM
Check-out: 10:00 AM
Minimum check-in age: 25

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a private host, not a professional engaged in trade or business.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
Onsite parties or group events are strictly prohibited.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a first aid kit, and a deadbolt lock.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

Long-term renters welcome.

Property is also known as

Waterfront Cottage Boardman River House Traverse City

Waterfront Cottage Boardman River House

Waterfront Cottage Boardman River Traverse City

Waterfront Cottage Boardman River

Waterfront Boardman River

Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River Traverse City

Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River Private vacation home

Frequently asked questions

What's there to see within easy reach of this vacation home?

This vacation home is located in Traverse City, close to Arbutus Lake, Turtle Creek Stadium, and Centre Ice Arena. Forest Lakes is also within a driving distance of 4.9 mi.

Is parking available on site at this vacation home?

No, there isn't parking available at the vacation home.

Is this vacation home adjacent to a casino?

No, this vacation home is not connected to a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at this vacation home?

No, there is no indoor pool at this vacation home.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River?

Amenities that appeal to couples at this riverfront vacation home include a fireplace, a kitchen, and a smart TV.

Are there hot tubs at Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River?

No, this vacation home doesn't have a spa tub.

Does this vacation home provide breakfast?

No, this vacation home doesn't offer breakfast.

Will this vacation home allow pets to stay free of charge?

No, pets aren't allowed at this vacation home.

Does this vacation home have connecting rooms?

No, this vacation home doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How close is the airport from this vacation home?

The closest major airport to this vacation home is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is 9.1 mi away (18 minutes by car).

Can I book a room with a balcony at Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River?

Yes, every accommodation at Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River comes with a deck.

Waterfront Cottage on the Boardman River Reviews

Exceptional

10/10

Cleanliness

10/10 Excellent

Catherine C.

Jul 20, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing!!!

This was more than we could have ever expected... the beautiful river, lawn, deck were all exaordinary. And indoors, the cleanliness, AC, every amenity you would need from s'mores to coffee to shampoo. I travel the world and this was a special special place. We are rebooking immediately for next year the same week.

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer M.

Jul 4, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

More than we expected!

This property is absolutely beautiful. We are from Florida and came to Michigan to visit family for a week. We didn't know what to expect, but the photos looked nice. When we arrived the property was EXACTLY as advertised... And More! The linens were soft, beds comfortable, lots of space, kitchen fully stocked with utensils, coffee, all the extras we have in our own home. The deck and yard is wonderful and leads out to a pretty river in the back with a fire pit we used every night. The kids loved it... So did the adults. We felt right at home and it was close to the Cherry Festival. Such a great trip. We will definitely come back!

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

tim p.

Jun 22, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

Amazing

We stayed for a long weekend for a softball tournament in traverse city. The house had everything that you could think of to make it feel like home. By far one of the most stocked properties that we have ever stayed. Check in was great and we would definitely stay again.

Stayed 4 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Olivia C.

May 28, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

This place was beautiful

We had a great time, we played some games, enjoyed the deck and beautiful view. Checking in was easy and checking out was easy! Pretty close to downtown TC and even to the wineries, we had the best weekend. If we had any questions they were quick to answer! Highly recommended!!

Stayed 3 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Les M.

Aug 26, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

An AWESOME place!

My family, which included me and my wife, our two adult sons and daughter-in-law and two grandchildren, had such a great time together and this home was the perfect place for all of us to hang out together for the long weekend! We cannot say enough good about our stay at this home on the Boardman River!! Heather and Allison were prompt, thorough, and friendly with all of their communications. This house had everything, with ample amenities, and then some! The location was perfect for day trips but we also had plenty to do and enjoy at the house and on the property! We will definitely stay there again the next time we plan a trip to Traverse City!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

christina s., Flat Rock mi

Aug 16, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Making memories

Absolutely wonderful! Became a family getaway four times now, making memories. Great communication with manager! Fully stocked, very clean, great location!!! Can’t ask for better.!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Aug 11, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Fabulous house!

Beautiful house just 20 minutes from Traverse City. Very clean, kitchen well stocked, everything labeled and clear directions. New patio and fire pit were a 10. Looking forward to coming back!

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Ann T.

Aug 11, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Adorable Cottage

We had an amazing stay at this adorable cottage. Being here allowed family from the West and East coasts to enjoy a little get away together without anyone having to “host”. The home was stocked with everything we needed, it was very clean & had a great patio with lots of fun games to enjoy too. Being on the river was so peaceful and relaxing. Thank you to Allison for being super helpful and kind throughout our time here. We will absolutely be back.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

Nancy L.

Aug 7, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Family reunion in Traverse City

We were traveling to Traverse City for a family reunion. The other 10 people going to the reunion were staying in a hotel on Lake Michigan in Traverse City (very expensive I might add). Our group of 8 decided since we had a 3 and 5 year old in our group that a house might work better for us. I found this VRBO that was absolutely PERFECT for my husband and I (grandma & grandpa), my son, daughter-in-law and 2 grandkids, and my daughter and son-in-law. There were plenty of bedrooms for all of us - with room to spare. The spacious yard was nice for the kids to be able to run around in. The river in our backyard was great for the kids to fish in and for us to wade around in to cool off. I could not have chosen a better spot for our group to stay in. It was very clean and the beds were comfortable. The kitchen was well equipped. My grandsons were thrilled with the DVD collection they had to choose from. Heather (the owner) and Allison (the property manager) were very easy to communicate with - answered any questions we had promptly. This property gets a 10 out of 10 for sure!! We would definitely stay here again if we come back to Traverse City.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024

10/10 Excellent

cody m.

Jul 31, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

The river is enough

The view from sitting down by the river with a fire going made this trip great. The house was clean and the property manager was in good contact the whole time as well.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Patrick H., St. Louis, MO

Jul 21, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic Guy’s Trip Location

Terrific house for longtime college friends to connect and unwind. Backyard direct-access to the Boardman River, fire pit, and super-comfortable back deck were perfect for dining and activities. Our group of 7 guys had plenty of space inside and the kitchen was well-stocked for our big meals. Bedrooms and bathrooms were nice and mattresses were better than typical VRBO’s. We were blessed with beautiful summer weather and spent much of it enjoying the backyard area and exploring Traverse City. If we return to the area, we would certainly rent this home again. Well done!!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lindsay-Erin B.

Jul 15, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Girls Trip

Beautiful home stocked with everything we could possibly need for our girls weekend! The host was so friendly and easy to communicate with, she even connected with me beforehand to ensure a smooth arrival. Would absolutely stay here again and recommend to anyone travelling to Traverse City & area!

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Grant G.

Jul 15, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

A wonderful place to stay

This place was great! The house was well kept and very accommodating. The atmosphere was wonderful, secluded on the Boardman River while still close to all the destinations in Traverse City. Would definitely stay here again!

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Antonio M.

Jul 8, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

What a wonderful stay!

The house and host were amazing. The house was quietly located on a beautiful river had yard games available and very comfortable and clean inside. The host was friendly helpful and available as needed (but we didn’t need anything).

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lea L.

Jul 2, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Girls Trip Review

This property was perfect for our girls we can get away! It was great to be right by the river. We also went on a wine tour in the bus was able to pick us up at the property. Very clean and equipped with everything we could need during our stay. I would love to use this property again on another trip!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Monica D.

Jun 24, 2024

Liked: Cleanliness

Flawless wedding weekend stay

Thank you for providing this amazing home for our family during my daughter’s wedding weekend. Everything from arrival to departure was flawless. This home is absolutely beautiful & equipped with everything we needed and more!! Amazing location & amenities When we come back to TC, we will most definitely book here again. Highly highly recommend!!!

Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024

10/10 Excellent

Scott S.

Sep 16, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Great relaxing oasis

Loved the outdoor space right by the river.

Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2023

10/10 Excellent

Kelsey W.

Sep 9, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Excellent location!

We loved this location! Close to everything and the host was quick to respond and so helpful!

Stayed 6 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

christina s., Flat Rock mi

Aug 23, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Family memories!

So many great memories made. Our third year staying, looking forward to returning next year!

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Scott W.

Aug 14, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Beautiful home with everything you need!

We absolutely loved our stay for a girl’s weekend at this beautiful home. Every detail was taken into account, communication was top-notch, impeccably clean, and included everything guests may need down to chip clips and sound machines! The private yard and outdoor area, including the fire pit and large deck with lights and flowers, made it so inviting! Would definitely stay there again and recommend to anyone looking to explore the Traverse City area.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2023

10/10 Excellent

Katie C., Oak Park, IL

Aug 1, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Sweet and comfy river house--LOVED it!

I booked this house for my 50th birthday celebration with friends after seeing the great photos and stellar reviews. The property manager checked in ahead of our check-in time and I mentioned it was my birthday...and when we arrived we found a cake and balloons! Everything was adorable, nice quality, clean. The kitchen was well-equipped with essentials, snacks, and kitchen tools. Gorgeous (huge) backyard and the prettiest brand-new wraparound deck with brand-new gorgeous deck furniture. The campfire area was fun and beautiful. Location felt remote while being only 5 miles from a major supermarket. I would definitely recommend this house for a group of adults looking for a getaway! Well-maintained and a perfect place to gather in comfort and style. :)

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brandi G.

Jul 27, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Well Equipped & would stay again

This home is by far the most well equipped rental we’ve had in vacation rentals. All we really had to bring is food, clothes, and our preferred recreational gear for fun. Alison and Heather are great hosts and were quick to respond to any questions or issues we had. The property was well maintained on a beautiful setting along the river. There was a bookshelf full of games, books, and some movies (plus Netflix) for in house entertainment, but we didn’t use it much because we wanted to be outside. The back deck is fantastic. They had plenty of yard games too. To set expectations for the serious river recreation enthusiasts, please note that the river is swift moving at the house and just upstream from a public access site. It was a little tougher to get in and out of the river at the house, but the public access site (in short walking distance) was easier for all to use. It was a popular spot for kayakers to go in or out. For the trout fishermen, it was a more difficult place to fish but there are other locations within a short drive that we had success with (caught 3 species). If you want more options check out the railroad trestle 3 miles down River Road (respect private property) or the trail systems down stream. Just do your river research early to make the most of your trip. Traverse City is a fantastic vacation region with tons of places to eat, hike, fish, or whatever other recreational fun. We would definitely stay again and recommend to others.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Jul 25, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Great hub for Traverse City family vacation

This is a very well-managed home in a location that was even better than we expected. It had everything we needed, plus many niceties like board games, yard games, and bluetooth speaker. We were also surprised with a gift basket upon arrival including wine and custom glasses. Kayaking down the river was a ton of fun - it's about 1 hour to the next outlet which was just perfect. Pretty much everywhere we wanted to go in TC was just a short drive. Definitely recommend.

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Laura D.

Jul 17, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Fantastic property!

This place was awesome! Literally comes with anything you need! A welcome basket greeted us with glasses (to keep) and a bottle of wine. The layout was great for privacy to all. We loved the bonfire pit by the river. The large deck was perfect for our family to hang outside. Lots of yard games to use. I’ve used VRBO for years and this home was one of my favorites!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023

10/10 Excellent

Brenda F.

Jul 9, 2023

Liked: Cleanliness

Wonderful family stay in Traverse City!

Family of 5 adults enjoyed a lovely stay at this VRBO! The home is impeccable, very well appointed and updated. The back deck is a lovely entertainment area. The kitchen is well stocked and updated. The living area has a great array of games and books. Would definitely return if in the area!

Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023