The Michigan Town Most Sleeping Bear Dunes Visitors Skip Right Through

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of Michigan's most prized destinations. Think: staggering cliffs, crystal-clear inland lakes, dense forests, an iconic lighthouse, and Lake Michigan in all of its glory. And then you have the sand dunes themselves—four square miles of sand whose origin was the last Ice Age. If you've never visited, this otherworldly landscape certainly warrants a place on your travel wish list. But, there's another nearby destination that shouldn't be overlooked, either: the town of Empire, Michigan. Come with us as we uncover the charms of this underrated locale.

Empire is the closest town to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It's centrally located along the iconic M-22 scenic highway, and it's considered the lakeshore's headquarters. There are just shy of 400 year-round residents, but this small town punches above its weight in so many ways. Empire has an impressive arts scene, vibrant local businesses, unforgettable places to dine, and lots of adventures, even outside of the park's boundaries. Just a few minutes from downtown, you'll discover attractions like South Bar Lake and the Empire Area Museum, complete with hundreds of artifacts and fascinating antiques that chronicle the town's history.

After spending some time downtown, be sure to take in the beauty of one of the town's most stunning views: Empire Bluffs. Take the easy, 1.5-mile Empire Bluffs Trail, which offers hikers well-maintained trails and jaw-dropping views of the lakeshore. This trail can get a bit crowded, so your best bet is to arrive early. Another beautiful place to explore is the Chippewa Run Natural Area, 100 acres of protected land featuring a 1.5-mile trail that's especially popular for birding.

As you can see, Empire isn't just a gateway to Sleeping Bear Dunes; it's a destination unto itself. There are plenty of lodging options in town that give you access to the town as well as the park. One popular option is the Cottonwood Inn Bed & Breakfast, a lovely farmstead-style bed and breakfast. Guests rave about the beautiful location and delightful homemade food. And speaking of food, the restaurants in Empire are nothing short of delightful. For a healthy dose of small-town community, check out Joe's Friendly Tavern or the Empire Village Inn.

Of course, since you've made it all the way to Empire, be sure to spend at least a little time inside the famous park. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers a treasure trove of outdoor adventure, from paddling to hiking, exploring historical sites, and, if you visit in the winter, you can even try your hand at ice fishing. Some of the most popular hiking trails include the Dune Climb Trail, Pyramid Point Loop, and the Alligator Hill Easy Loop. Be sure to pack plenty of water, comfortable layers, and sturdy hiking shoes to help you navigate these beautiful trails.

Planning to make a trip to Empire, Michigan, soon? If so, be sure to send this article to a fellow adventure enthusiast and let the planning begin! For related content, take a look at our list of the most beautiful beaches in Michigan where you can find colorful sea glass.