10 Things to Do in Empire, Michigan
Share
Where to Hike, Swim, and Snack in Empire, Michigan
Empire, MI, is a tiny village in Leelanau County on the shores of Lake Michigan. Its days as a lumber and shipping town are in its past. These days, it’s a gateway to all of the fun of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Home to the National Park’s Visitor Center, this quiet lakeside town comes alive every summer with visitors drawn to the area’s natural beauty and outdoor rec activities.
As for the town itself, several local shops and restaurants line the main street, with the beach and town park just a short walk away.
Summer isn’t the only time visitors come to Empire, either. The activity continues into the fall when the leaves turn, and even into the winter when snowshoes are the preferred mode of travel.
in this article
Favorite Things to Do in Empire, MI
If you’re in Empire, you’re basically in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, so it’s the obvious first stop. Wander the trails, check out the towering dunes, and soak up those Lake Michigan views that put this corner of Leelanau County on every “best Michigan vacation spots” list.
1 – Start at the Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitor’s Center
Start with a visit to the Philip A. Hart Visitor Center, the Sleeping Bear Dunes headquarters.
Standing tall on Front Street in Empire, the Visitor Center is the unofficial “start here” spot for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Step inside to snag your park pass, pick up free brochures and detailed trail maps, and chat with rangers who’ll help you build a game plan for the park. Up for grabs: big dune climbs, scenic hikes & drives, and family-friendly beach time.
Hands-on displays and exhibits will get you oriented, plus the shop has cool park merch. It’s open year‑round (closed only on major holidays), with restrooms and water, too.
You’ll need a pass for any park activities you wish to do including visiting the picture-perfect beaches, trekking up the Dune Climb, or touring Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.
Philip A. Hart Visitor Center
9922 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630
2 – Hike the Empire Bluff Trail – Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
If you only do one hike in the Sleeping Bear Dunes, the Empire Bluff Trail is a strong contender.
Why? Because Empire Bluff Trail is your classic “short hike, huge payoff” kind of deal.
This 1.5‑ish mile loop serves up sweeping views over Lake Michigan and the dunes, and it’s close enough to town that you can sneak it in before breakfast or after dinner.
Take a short drive up a steep hill from downtown Empire to the parking lot of Empire Bluff Trail. This hike is through hardwoods and ends with a spectacular boardwalk bluff view of Lake Michigan. Bonus points if you get here for the sunset.
Go early or later in the day if you want more quiet and softer light for photos. Sunset here is epic, but bring a light for the hike out because it gets dark in the trees after the sun goes down.
(If you want the ‘sneaky route’ that’s a little more off-the-beaten trail, but with the same epic views, try Treat Farm Trail that’s just a bit further down the road.)
Empire Bluff Trail
Empire Bluff Trail, Honor, MI 49640
3 – Play & Swim at Empire Beach on Lake Michigan
Walk from Tiffany’s or drive the few short blocks to Empire Beach where you’ll be greeted with two water options.
Swim in Lake Michigan or South Bar Lake, depending on the wind and water conditions. A waterside playground, basketball court, and picnic spots are available for public use as well.
Fire rings on the Lake Michigan beach are also available. There is a small parking fee at this beach.
Empire Beach Village Park
10484 Niagara St, Empire, MI 49630
4 – Grocer’s Daughter Chocolates
Grocer’s Daughter is a hidden gem craft chocolate spot in a quirky bright green building on M‑22.
It’s a welcome stop for anyone doing the Sleeping Bear Dunes/Empire loop with their gelato, drinks, rich truffles, chocolate barks, and seasonal treats.
I was drawn in by their patio picnic tables, friendly staff, and interesting flavors.
Grocer’s Daughter
11590 S Lacore St, Empire, MI 49630
5 – North Bar Lake & Beach
North Bar Lake and Beach is one of those “if you know, you know” spots just north of Empire. Its famous duo: warm inland lake on one side, full-on Lake Michigan on the other, with dunes and sand tying it all together.
This secret beach is locally famous for being shallow, sandy, and warmer than the big lake. It’s also great for kayaking.
It sits inside Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, so you do need a park pass.
North Bar Beach
North Bar Beach Parking Lot, Empire, MI 49630
6 – Explore Downtown Empire’s Shops and Eats
For a tiny village, Empire’s downtown packs in a surprising amount of local flavor.
Pop into coffee spots and cafés, grab a burger or sandwich, and check out the mix of vintage, art, and locally made goods, plus gear rentals and lessons.
Where to Eat in Empire
In addition to Grocer’s Daughter,
Tiffany’s Cafe – Quaint on main street Empire, Tiffany’s cafe is a great ice cream or coffee stop.
10213 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630
Empire Village Inn – open evenings. Giant pretzels. Good pizza.
11601 S Lacore St, Empire, MI 49630
Joe’s Friendly Tavern – Burgers, cocktails, patio.
11015 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630
Shipwreck Cafe – Sandwiches, salads, pizza.
11691 S Lacore St, Empire, MI 49630
7 – Get on the water: kayaking, surfing, and paddling
Empire will let you experience Lake Michigan if that’s what you want.
Local outfitters and nearby shops offer kayak rentals, SUPs, and even surf lessons when the waves cooperate, plus special paddles like full-moon outings for a different angle on the shoreline. (If you’re more mellow, nearby rivers and lakes are perfect for a laid-back float.)
8 – Pedal the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail
Bike riders love the 21-mile Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail that winds through the national lakeshore (Empire included!) because it’s easy to pedal and has scenery for days.
Rent a bike in Empire and follow the trail through forests, dunes, and little pockets of parkland, with plenty of chances to stop for beach time or overlook photos along the way.
Some sections are relatively flat, while others have steep sections. (See map for details). You need a park pass to use the trails and trailhead.
9 – Drive M-22
Road Trip! Empire sits right on M‑22, the gorgeous stretch that people love for its curves, lake views, and small towns.
Use Empire as your home base, then roll north or south along M‑22 to hit overlooks, beaches, wineries, and little coastal spots that you won’t find anywhere else.
Where to Stay in Empire
Empire Lakeshore Inn – mom & pop stay
11730 S Lacore St, Empire, MI 49630
Indigo Bluffs RV Resort – RV sites, rental campers & camping cabins. Pool.
6760 W Empire Hwy M-72, Empire, MI 49630
Interactive Map of Places to Stay in Empire
Zoom in or out to find nearby places to stay.
Next Stop: Empire!
If you’re willing to trade a little cell service and convenience for clear water, sand trails, and a village that is uniquely itself, Empire is reason to point the car north and drive!
