The area now known as Houghton was originally occupied by native tribes who mined the land for copper. French explorers described the area as early as the 17th century, and it was officially prospected for copper in 1772. Many Finnish and Cornish families arrived to work in the mines, which greatly influenced the area's cuisine and culture. The city takes its name from Douglass Houghton, an American physician and geologist who was known for exploring the Keweenaw Peninsula.
Today, Houghton is regarded as one of “The 100 Best Small Towns in America” by author Norman Crampton. Located on the hills bordering the Portage Waterway, Houghton has a docking area for both motorized and non-motorized boats. Waterfront Park is a popular spot for locals and visitors alike, with its RV park and 4.5-mile long Waterfront Trail. Houghton is also home to Michigan Technological University, a public research college. Thousands of visitors descend on Houghton every February to see the amazing snow sculptures at the Winter Carnival event held at Michigan Tech.
Whatever your reason for visiting this gorgeous waterside community, you'll want to find the right hotel that meets your travel needs and budget. Fortunately, there are a variety of hotel options to choose from.
When is the best time to visit Houghton, MI
The best time to visit Houghton is the summer, when you can take full advantage of the area's outdoor recreational activities. Average highs range from 71 to 77 degrees Fahrenheit from June through August. The only downside to visiting Houghton during the summer, however, is that you'll have to contend with more tourists and higher hotel rates. Still, you can't beat a trip to Houghton during peak tourist season.
If you'd rather avoid the crowds and save a few dollars on accommodations, consider a trip during the spring or fall. The Keweenaw Peninsula comes alive with spring blooms and autumn color changes, making it a beautiful destination for off-season travelers. Expect chilly temperatures, though, as average lows can fall below 40 degrees.
Those who don't mind the cold should take advantage of a winter getaway in Houghton. Upper Michigan experiences a true winter with lake-effect snow, subzero temperatures, and plenty of winter sports opportunities. Just remember that road conditions can be hazardous, so only visit during the winter if you're comfortable driving in ice and snow.
Below is a chart of the current pricing seasonality of hotels and motels in Houghton, MI:
Houghton, MI: Prices by Star Rating Class
Below are 3 charts illustrating avg. price trends by star rating class in Houghton, MI. Browse these line graphs to evaluate the least expensive time to book a room in Houghton for your upcoming travels.
What about luxury hotels in Houghton, MI?
If you'd prefer more upscale amenities during your trip to Houghton, you won't be disappointed.
Magnuson Hotel Franklin Square Inn is Houghton's only full-service hotel, boasting the best hospitality the Keweenaw Peninsula has to offer. Centrally located in historic downtown Houghton, this hotel features a state-of-the-art spa and sauna, an indoor heated pool, tanning beds, a fitness center, and in-house massage therapy sessions.
The on-site Bonfire Bar & Grill provides a casual dining experience on the hotel's 7th floor, offering excellent views of the Portage Canal. The restaurant serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner with a menu items featuring steaks, seafood, burgers, pasta, fresh tableside guacamole, and daily drink specials.
Guest rooms at Magnuson Hotel Franklin Square Inn could use some updating, but they have everything you need to enjoy a quiet, comfortable stay. In-room amenities include flat-screen TVs with extended cable, high-speed Wi-Fi, clock radios, coffee and tea makers, hair dryers, and ironing facilities. Room service, cribs, and rollaway beds are also available upon request.
Another upscale option worth considering is Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Houghton MI. This suburban, family-friendly hotel boasts an indoor pool, a children's pool, a spa tub, a lobby fireplace, and free Wi-Fi. Business amenities include a business center, free newspapers in the lobby, free parking, and express check-out. Every guest can take advantage of the delicious continental breakfast served each morning.
Guest rooms at Country Inn & Suites by Radisson Houghton MI include pillowtop beds, flat-screen TVs with cable programming, hair dryers, and complimentary toiletries. Suites with jetted tubs, whirlpools, and sofa beds are also available.
Are there any low-cost hotel options in Houghton, MI?
3 Star Average Prices: $139.66
Travelers on a tight budget will be happy to know there are a few budget-friendly accommodations close to Houghton.
Super 8 by Wyndham Houghton is a trusted budget hotel with good reviews. The property offers ample parking — including spaces for RVs, buses, and trucks — a 24-hour front desk, a meeting room, an indoor pool, a spa tub, and a complimentary continental breakfast. The comfortable guest rooms feature free wireless internet access, flat-screen TVs with cable programming, work desks, irons, and ironing boards. Cribs are available upon request.
AmericInn by Wyndham Calumet is another highly rated property with a convenient location. Located in Calumet's historical district, this accommodation offers a free continental breakfast, a complimentary evening reception, an indoor pool, a sauna, a spa tub, free Wi-Fi, a gift shop, and a fireplace in the lobby. Business travelers will appreciate the 24-hour front desk, the 24-hour business center, free parking, and the complimentary newspapers in the lobby.
Guest rooms at AmericInn by Wyndham Calumet feature flat-screen TVs with cable programming, mini refrigerators, microwaves, coffee makers, hair dryers, toiletries, and phones with free local calls.
Located near Finlandia University, Magnuson Hotel Copper Crown is an affordable option with a great pool, sauna, and wellness facility. Amenities include a meeting room and conference space, a spa tub, free parking, and a complimentary continental breakfast. Guest rooms feature mini fridges, coffee makers, ironing facilities, deep soaking bathtubs, hair dryers, and free Wi-Fi.