Things to do in Empire

Activities, attractions and tours

Empire Bluff Scenic Lookout, Empire Bluff Trail, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan
Sunset at Pierce Stocking Scenic Overlook
Lighthouse in Empire, Michigan, USA.
Sand dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Michigan.
Empire
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What to do in Empire

Popular places to visit

Sunrise on Little Glen Lake in Glen Arbor Michigan

Little Glen Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Little Glen Lake during your travels in Empire. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Little Glen Lake
Landscape at sunrise of sand dune, clouds, and waters of Lake Michigan, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Michigan, USA

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center

After visiting Philip A. Hart Visitor Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Empire. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's sunsets.

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center
"Nature's Zen Garden", ripples on Lake Michigan, on the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, near Empire, Michigan.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

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.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Pearl Lake Natural Area

You can take time to visit Pearl Lake Natural Area during your travels to Empire. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Pearl Lake Natural Area

beach near Village Park

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at beach near Village Park during your trip to Empire? While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

beach near Village Park

Lime Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Lime Lake during your travels in Empire. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Lime Lake

Hartman Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Hartman Lake during your travels in Empire. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Hartman Lake

Armstrong Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Armstrong Lake during your travels in Empire. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Armstrong Lake

beach near Downtown Mmpire

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at beach near Downtown Mmpire during your trip to Empire? While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

beach near Downtown Mmpire

Areas of Empire

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Downtown Mmpire

Though Downtown Mmpire might not have many top sights, you can venture to the surrounding area to see attractions like Empire Bluff Trail and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive.

Downtown Mmpire
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Maple City, Michigan, USA.

Maple City

Frequently asked questions

Is Empire worth visiting?
Whether you're coming to experience the cultural attractions and local charm or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Empire.
How do I spend a day in Empire?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Glen Lake, spend some time experiencing Empire's retail and dining scene.
What is the top tourist attraction in Empire?
Don't go home without visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, ranked the top tourist attraction in Empire.
Is three days enough to stay in Empire?
Three days will give you plenty of time to check out the leading city attractions, including Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Glen Lake and Little Glen Lake. The average stay in Empire is two days. If you have the urge to extend your trip, Traverse City isn't far away.
What are some activities to do in Empire with kids?
Deciding what to do in Empire with kids is easier than ever. Whether you're vacationing with teenagers or toddlers, there's no shortage of family-friendly sights to keep everyone happy here.
What to do in Empire for adults?
From delicious food and cultural highlights to thrilling activities and unique experiences, there are loads of fascinating things to do in Empire for adults.
Are there free things to do in Empire?
From enjoying parks to wandering around vibrant neighborhoods, it's a breeze to discover free things to do in Empire. If you're stuck for ideas, ask a local tour guide for recommendations. Glen Lake is a top spot for anyone planning to save on their traveling adventures.