Empire, MI

Travel Guide

A coastal landscape with a sandy path, dense greenery, and a clear view of the ocean.
A beach with a wooden structure on a sandy slope.
A sandy landscape with dunes and sparse vegetation under a clear blue sky.
A beach with a tree trunk and a calm sea during sunset.
A white house, a lighthouse, and a red kayak on a sandy beach.

Where to stay in Empire

Find the best Empire areas and neighborhoods for the activities you enjoy most. Learn more about Empire
Learn more about Empire

Downtown Empire

If you're spending some time in Downtown Mmpire, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and South Bar Lake are top sights worth seeing.

Empire Lakeshore Inn

Empire Lakeshore Inn

2.5 out of 5
11730 S. Lacore Rd Empire MI
$111 nightly
The price is $118 total per night from Nov 8 to Nov 9
$118 total
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this beach motel in Empire. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and daily housekeeping. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the clean rooms in ...
Empire Lakeshore Inn
Dune Climb Inn

Dune Climb Inn

2 out of 5
7194 S Dune Hwy Empire MI
$151 nightly
The price is $160 total per night from Nov 10 to Nov 11
$160 total
Nov 10 - Nov 11
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Empire. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and free bicycles on site. Popular attractions Little Glen Lake and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive ...
Dune Climb Inn
Maple Lane Empire

Maple Lane Empire

2.5 out of 5
8720 S Dorsey Rd Empire MI
$98 nightly
The price is $104 total per night from Nov 8 to Nov 9
$104 total
Nov 8 - Nov 9
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this motel in Empire. Enjoy free parking, a garden, and a picnic area. Our guests praise the helpful staff in our reviews. Popular attractions Little ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (310 reviews)
"Great central location to visit Sleeping Bear Dunes, drive the Pierce Stocking Scenic Trial, Glen Arbor, Leland and Traverse City. Room had plenty of space, clean and everything we needed. Staff was friendly and helpful."

Reviewed on Oct 18, 2026

Maple Lane Empire
See all 2,947 properties in Empire
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Storied Two Bedroom in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes

Storied Two Bedroom in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes

Empire MI
Stay at this vacation home in Empire. Enjoy free WiFi, 2 outdoor pickleball courts, and a fitness center. Popular attractions South Bar Lake and Pierce Stocking ...
10/10 Exceptional! (2 reviews)
"Absolutely beautiful! Had everything we needed. Great location! Close to everything but very private. Loved the little drive through the trees. Enjoyed playing rummikub and cat lady with the family. We enjoyed watching the hummingbirds during the day and stargazing at night. Owners are very kind ..."

Reviewed on Aug 8, 2025

Storied Two Bedroom in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes
Boardwalk Suites & Residences By Kasa

Boardwalk Suites & Residences By Kasa

2 out of 5
232 E State St Traverse City MI
Stay at this aparthotel in Traverse City. Enjoy free WiFi, a rooftop terrace, and an in-room coffeemaker. Popular attractions Front Street and Traverse City ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (249 reviews)
"The Suite was better than I realized! Everything was great, though I would recommend better labeling the parking lot on the street view. It is very hard to make out at night or with rainy weather. Other than that would definitely stay here again!!"

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Boardwalk Suites & Residences By Kasa
Pinestead Reef Resort

Pinestead Reef Resort

4 out of 5
1265 N US Highway 31 N Traverse City MI
Book a stay at this beach apartment in Traverse City. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a private beach. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property ...
8.8/10 Excellent! (650 reviews)
"Loved and enjoyed my stay! Will def be back very very soon!"

Reviewed on Nov 6, 2026

Pinestead Reef Resort
See all properties in Empire
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Empire attractions

A beach with a clear view of the ocean and a rocky shoreline.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

9.8/10 (163 reviews)
Find out about the history of Empire when you take a trip to Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.
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Things to do

Andie's NON BUS 4-winery Traverse Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

MOVIE STARS NON-BUS Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

$89
per adult
MOVIE STARS NON-BUS Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour
See all activities in Empire

Frequently asked questions

Is Empire worth visiting?
Empire is worth visiting for its natural beauty, including the serene Little Glen Lake and the picturesque Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Travelers can also enjoy a variety of dining experiences, with local eateries offering delicious North American and Latin American cuisine.
When is the best time to visit Empire?
The best time to visit Empire is from June through August, when it's most popular. For travelers seeking fewer crowds and better value, the quieter months of November through January are a good option. This period offers a different experience with cooler weather and potentially lower rates.
What is Empire known for?
Empire is known for being home to Little Glen Lake, a popular destination for travelers. It also features the scenic Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, offering picturesque views, and the tranquil Pearl Lake Natural Area, perfect for outdoor exploration.
What is a good itinerary length for Empire?
A good itinerary length for Empire is two to three days to experience highlights like Little Glen Lake and the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. For a more relaxed trip, consider four to five days, allowing time to explore Pearl Lake Natural Area and enjoy the local North American, Latin American, or Italian cuisine.
What are the top things to do in and around Empire?
Empire offers beautiful natural landscapes, from scenic drives to serene lakes and beaches:

  • Visit Little Glen Lake, a picturesque natural lake.
  • Drive the scenic Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
  • Explore Pearl Lake Natural Area.
  • Relax at the beach near Village Park.
  • Discover Lime Lake, another tranquil natural lake.

How do I plan a trip to Empire?
To plan your trip to Empire, book flights and places to stay in advance. Explore attractions like Little Glen Lake, Pearl Lake Natural Area, and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. For outdoor activities, always have indoor backups for weather flexibility. Consider a rental car for exploring the area and enjoying North American, Latin American, or Italian cuisine.
What cuisines can you find in Empire?
In Empire you can find Cajun Creole cuisine, offering classic dishes such as gumbo, jambalaya, and étouffée. Travelers can also enjoy a range of other options, including North American favorites, Latin American specialties like tacos, and Italian dishes, alongside Asian and fresh seafood choices.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Empire?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Empire by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Empire with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Empire trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Empire?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Empire can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Empire trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Empire trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Empire trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Empire trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Empire?
If it's your first trip to Empire, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Empire hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Empire hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Empire

A coastal landscape with a clear blue sea, green hills, and a dirt path.

Glen Arbor

A sandy beach with people standing on the slope overlooking the sea.

Maple City

A marina with boats docked, surrounded by greenery and a large body of water.

Honor

A mountain range with a lake nestled in the valley.

Lake Ann

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