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Holiday houses in Empire

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Quick stats about holiday rentals in Empire

  • Total holiday rentals

    Explore 40 holiday rentals in Empire

  • Nightly prices starting at

    Empire holiday rentals start at $230 NZD per night before taxes and fees

  • Verified guest reviews

    Over 1,470 verified reviews to help you choose

  • Family-friendly holiday rentals

    30 properties offer extra space and kid-friendly amenities

  • Pet-friendly accommodation

    Find 10 rentals that welcome pets

  • Rentals with dedicated workspaces

    20 properties have a dedicated workspace

  • Wi-Fi availability

    40 of Empire holiday rentals include Wi-Fi access

  • Popular amenities for guests

    Guests love Self check-in, Beachfront and Gym across Empire rentals

  • 4.8 Average rating

    Empire stays are highly rated by guests—averaging 4.8 out of 5!

Top-rated holiday rentals in Empire

Guests agree: these stays are highly rated for location, cleanliness and more.

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Top Guest favourite
The exterior of a round, recently renovated home is surrounded by lush greenery and colorful flowers. Large windows offer views into the living space, while an inviting patio features seating and a grill. The unique architecture blends harmoniously with the natural landscape.
Dome in Glen Arbor

The Round Haven with Big Glen Lake Access

Experience living in the round. This recently renovated home is a super energy efficient 30ft diameter circle. Situated in the heart of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore and a 300 ft walk to a secluded public access on Big Glen Lake. A place to adventure, relax and restore: this home is designed for sustainability & comfort. The perfect home base to explore the wonder of Sleeping Bear & surrounding quaint towns. We hope you find inspiration & rejuvenation. *prices include 15.5% Airbnb service fee

LocationValueComfort

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 279 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A spacious living area features a comfortable gray sofa facing a television and a wooden ladder leading to the loft area. Sunlight streams through the large windows, illuminating the room and highlighting the open kitchen and dining area in the background.
Apartment in Glen Arbor

Arbor School Lofts - Heart of Glen Arbor

Easy walk to shops, restaurants, the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, and public beaches. This 800+ sq. ft. unit has 2 bedrooms, each with 1 queen bed. A loft area with two twin beds is accessible by a sturdy ladder. The loft can be used by guests 10 years of age or older. A queen sleeper sofa is available in the LR. You may use the sleeper sofa OR the loft area, but not both. The maximum occupancy for this unit is 6 people, regardless of age. We kindly ask that you strictly honor this rule.

LocationFamilyRiver

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 81 reviews
Guest favourite
A living area features two green armchairs positioned across from a simple media console with a television. A round clock hangs on the dark blue wall, while a patterned area rug covers the floor, adding texture to the space.
Home in Honor

Hillside Haven - On 10 acres located near Lake MI.

Cozy home on 10 acres located near Lake Michigan beach access. Perfect for couples or families looking to get away. Close to Traverse City, Frankfort, Sleeping Bear Dunes and so much more. Pet friendly, professionally cleaned. Keurig coffee provided. Fast wifi, streaming TV, central A/C, washer and dryer, refrigerator, oven, microwave, dishes, and towels all included. Pack and play and toddler cot provided. Hunters welcome during hunting season. Boat launch and snow mobile trails also nearby.

FamilyValueHeating

4.86 out of 5 average rating, 222 reviews
Guest favourite
Cottage in Honor

Little Platte Lake Cabin Near Sleeping Bear Dunes

Our two bedroom lakeside cottage is located in a quiet neighborhood, just on the edge of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. It is a special place for us, having been in our family since 1989. Explore one of the nearby Lake Michigan beaches or trails, or enjoy our lakeside cabin in the evenings. Feeling social? Beulah and Empire are 15 minutes from the cottage, while Frankfort and Glen Arbor are about 20 minutes away. There are several great restaurants, and breweries nearby.

FamilyValueBarbecue

4.85 out of 5 average rating, 226 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A close-up view of the cabin's exterior, featuring rustic cedar shake siding in a warm red hue. A round light fixture casts a gentle glow, illuminating a playful 'Soo' sign crafted from wood, enhancing the inviting character of the cabin.
Home in Maple City

Soo House

Soo is a very fun cedar shake cabin on 15 forested acres, surrounded by trails, a loon call from Glen Arbor. This scandi-eclectic, cozy spot is a dappled dirt road away from Port Oneida/Good Harbor Bay Beaches and Pyramid Point. Soo stewards a half-mile of private trails on the property itself and borders 27+ miles of maintained MTB/hike/ski trails via the Palmer Woods and Krumwiede Forest Reserves. Soo is the unique family basecamp for your Sleeping Bear Nat'l Lakeshore adventures!

LocationFamilyBiking

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 49 reviews
Guest favourite
The exterior of the home features a two-story design with large windows and a wrap-around balcony. The structure is elevated on stilts, showcasing a blend of modern materials, including wood and stone accents. Outdoor seating and a grill are positioned on the patio area.
Tower in Empire

Exodus: Luxury Tower- Hot tub Near Sleeping Bear

Welcome to the Exodus Watch Tower, our newest addition offering stunning views and a luxurious space perfect for a getaway in the heart of Empire This home presents a unique and unforgettable experience from the panoramic window view and convenient wet bar, to the wrap-around balcony and relaxing hot tub Despite being the perfect hideaway, you are only: 5 min from Empire Beach 5 min from Sleeping Bear 10 min from Glen Arbor 20 min from Traverse City 30 min from Crystal Mountain

FamilyValueHiking

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 130 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A two-story blue house features a welcoming porch with two chairs. Lush green trees surround the property, providing natural shade. A gravel path leads to the house, enhancing the inviting exterior with a strong connection to the outdoor environment.
Home in Empire

Empire Blue House w/ Hot Tub

Clean, new home (in 2020) with 6-person hot tub is less than a 4-minute walk to Lake Michigan, and 3-minutes to downtown Empire. In the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and its amazing trails, there is over 1400 square feet of indoor living space, plus 1000 sq feet of covered decks. The location offers easy access to a variety of outdoor recreation, Leelanau Wineries, and is 25 miles to Traverse City shopping and nightlife or 25 miles to Crystal Mountain Skiing!

FamilyLocationWi-Fi

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 211 reviews
Top Guest favourite
Cabin in Maple City

Meadow Cabin at Parcel

Featured in Domino Magazine: “Midwest on the Outside, Copenhagen on the Inside.” The Meadow Cabin sits amongst a flowering and native meadow. It is our largest cabin, with room for six people. Cedar siding and expansive windows at the Meadow Cabin combine the spirit of a Scandinavian retreat with a nod to regional Northern Michigan architecture. Two main-floor bedrooms, a second-story loft bedroom, two bathrooms, and a big open living + kitchen space make up the Meadow Cabin.

FamilyLocationBarbecue

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 16 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A charming cottage with a light blue exterior features a welcoming porch and landscaped yard. Lush greenery and flower beds surround the home, which is set against a clear blue sky and scattered trees, creating a serene neighborhood ambiance.
Cottage in Empire

Cheerful & Cozy Empire Cottage-walk to the beach!

Relax with the whole family at this peaceful cottage in the heart of Empire Village. Take a short walk to the beautiful Empire public beach. Enjoy the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Lake Michigan beaches, and Glen Arbor all within minutes! The greater Traverse City area is just 30 minutes away! Empire village has plenty of character but fewer crowds. This home is a clean, comfortable, and conveniently located getaway for all that Leelanau Peninsula has to offer.

FamilyLocationHospitality

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 106 reviews
Guest favourite
Cottage in Maple City

Sleeping Bear Stunner | Private Escape | Views

Welcome to Blue Kettle Cottage. Updated home on 4 acres of private land adjacent to 480 acres of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore land. Close to Glen Arbor and Empire. Two generous bedrooms, one bathroom, outdoor shower, beautiful patio with couch and table and fire pit area. The Kettles Trail is your backyard and accessible all year long for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. If you are bringing a dog, please read the pet rules and rates before booking.

ValueLocationCheckout

4.92 out of 5 average rating, 166 reviews
Top Guest favourite
Home in Empire

New home within 1/2 mile of Lake Michigan

Relax with the whole family at this peaceful place to stay. Located in the M-22 Village of Empire, this is a new home, close to the visitor information center, and walkable to the center of town and the beach. The town of Empire has several shops, art galleries, a library, restaurants, and sporting good supply retailers, including for bikes and beach gear. *Construction of new homes in this neighborhood may be occurring intermittently during the day.*

LocationFamilyComfort

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 25 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A bright, modern building is shown, featuring a vibrant green exterior. Large glass doors lead to the entrance below, while a spacious covered balcony with seating is visible above. Well-maintained landscaping and a sign indicating 'OPEN' are also part of the inviting setting.
Apartment in Empire

1 Bdrm Private Suite (Dark Chocolate) at GDC

Our Dark Chocolate apartment is a private, spacious 1 bedroom unit located above our new Grocer's Daughter Chocolate gelato shop in the village of Empire, Michigan. We're nestled in the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lake Shore, just 3 blocks from Empire beach. This is the perfect base camp for adventures in the park and a great location to explore the area. This apartment has a private, locked entrance, new Thuma king size bed and large patio!

ValueLocationHiking

4.98 out of 5 average rating, 178 reviews

Popular amenities for Empire holiday rentals

KitchenWi-FiPoolFree parking on premisesAir conditioning

Stay near Empire's top sights

Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak

16 locals recommend

Secret Garden

11 locals recommend

Empire Outdoors

7 locals recommend

Other great holiday rentals in Empire

Top Guest favourite
A charming dome house is captured amid vibrant autumn foliage. The structure features a wrap-around deck that provides views of the surrounding nature. An outdoor wooden pathway leads to the entrance, highlighting the unique architecture of the home nestled on a hillside.
Dome in Maple City

Secluded Dome House w/view of Glen Lake. Sauna

FamilyValueDecor

5.0 out of 5 average rating, 60 reviews
Superhost
Home in Empire

Sleeping Bear - Empire Retreat near Lake Michigan

FamilyLocationComfort

4.78 out of 5 average rating, 9 reviews
Guest favourite
A spacious living area features a comfortable sofa and an accent chair positioned beside windows that allow natural light to fill the space. A spiral staircase leads to the loft above, while a flat-screen TV is mounted on the wall.
Home in Empire

Cottonwood Carriage House

FamilyLocationGetting around

4.91 out of 5 average rating, 56 reviews
Superhost
Home in Empire

Woodlea Cottage in the Heart of the National Park

LocationFamilyAmenities

4.75 out of 5 average rating, 12 reviews
Superhost
Home in Empire

My Roam'n Empire - Super Cute with Toys!

FamilyLocationBeach

4.75 out of 5 average rating, 8 reviews
Guest favourite
Home in Empire

Little Glen Cottage|Lakefront|Hot Tub|Dog Friendly

LocationFamilyPets

4.88 out of 5 average rating, 16 reviews
Top Guest favourite
A wooden house with a green metal roof sits peacefully among vibrant gardens. Solar panels are visible on the roof. A welcoming entryway arch, adorned with climbing plants, leads to the house, surrounded by various colorful flowers and greenery.
Home in Empire

Hughthir's Retreat in The Woods

LocationFamilyHiking

4.99 out of 5 average rating, 81 reviews
Guest favourite
The exterior of a mid-century home is presented, nestled among lush trees. An expansive deck offers seating and outdoor dining options, while a pergola is visible in the backyard. The sky displays soft hues of sunset, enhancing the serene atmosphere of the ridge.
Home in Empire

Glen Lake Ridge

LocationValueAir conditioning

4.97 out of 5 average rating, 58 reviews

When is the best time to visit Empire?

MonthJanFebMarAprMayJunJulAugSeptOctNovDec
Avg. price$486 NZD$378 NZD$272 NZD$301 NZD$355 NZD$474 NZD$548 NZD$536 NZD$414 NZD$382 NZD$329 NZD$378 NZD
Avg. temp-8°C-7°C-2°C5°C12°C17°C19°C18°C15°C8°C1°C-4°C

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What are the best places to stay in Empire?

    Many travelers choose accommodations near the village center or just outside, surrounded by nature. Staying near Lake Michigan or the dunes is frequently suggested for scenic experiences.

  • What are the best things to do in Empire with kids?

    Visit the dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, play at Empire Beach, or explore local playgrounds. Family-friendly trails and occasional outdoor programs are commonly enjoyed by younger travelers.

  • What are some of the best things to do in Empire?

    Climb the sand dunes at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, swim or picnic on Empire Beach, and stroll through local art galleries. Explore nature trails or enjoy ice cream near the village center.

  • How is the weather in Empire?

    Winter temperatures range from 12 to 29°F (-11 to -1°C), with occasional snowfall. Summer tends to be mild, often 55–76°F (13–25°C), and waterside breezes are common from late spring into early autumn.

  • When is the best time to visit Empire?

    Late spring through early autumn is often recommended for outdoor activities, as the weather is milder and lakeside views are vibrant. Fall draws visitors for colorful foliage and harvest celebrations.

  • What are the best places to visit in Empire?

    Explore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire Bluff, and Glen Lake for scenic landscapes. Downtown Empire has local shops, art spaces, and community parks to discover.

  • What are some hiking trails in Empire?

    Explore the Empire Bluff Trail for panoramic lake vistas or wander the Windy Moraine Trail's gentle terrain. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore has several trails with forest, dune, and shoreline scenery.

  • What are some family activities we can do in Empire?

    Families often explore the beach at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, climb the dunes, or visit local playgrounds. Picnicking at Glen Lake or exploring small museums around the village are also enjoyable options.

  • What are some of the best day trip ideas from Empire?

    Around Empire, explore local wineries, artist studios, or scenic overlooks within the Sleeping Bear Dunes area. Small nearby villages have charming main streets with local shops, bakeries, and farm stands.

  • Are there any pet friendly accommodations available in Empire?

    Some stays in Empire welcome pets, with easy access to walking paths and dog-friendly beaches. Always check with your host about pet guidelines before booking.

  • What are some local tips for visiting Empire?

    Pack layers, as lake breezes can make evenings cool even in summer. Locals often explore beaches early or at sunset and recommend bringing reusable water bottles for outdoor activities.

  • What is Empire known for?

    Empire is known for scenic lake views, dramatic sand dunes, and access to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. The town has a welcoming village atmosphere and a tradition of summer festivals.

  • What are the best hidden gems to explore in Empire?

    Empire has quiet beaches along Lake Michigan, forested trails around Glen Lake, and the historic Empire Bluff that is often less crowded. For a local touch, explore small art galleries or tucked-away dune overlooks near the village.

  • What are the best foods to try in Empire?

    Empire has casual eateries serving fresh Great Lakes fish, local cherries, and handmade ice cream. Bakeries and cafes often feature regional produce and house-made pastries.

  • What should I bring for a trip to Empire?

    Bring layered clothing for cooler evenings, a rain jacket, comfortable shoes for beach or dune walks, and sun protection. A reusable water bottle and a camera help make the most of nature excursions.

  • What is the nightlife in Empire like?

    Empire has a relaxed evening scene with casual taverns, lakeside patios, and occasional live music. Some local spots feature Michigan craft beverages and informal entertainment around the village.

  • What are the most popular events or festivals in Empire?

    Empire has seasonal events like an annual asparagus festival in spring and art fairs in the warmer months. Fall harvest celebrations and local craft fairs are also frequently suggested.

  • Are there family friendly vacation rentals in Empire?

    Empire has many family friendly rentals, often located in quiet neighborhoods or near local parks. Look for amenities such as kitchens, extra bedrooms, and outdoor spaces for relaxation or play.

Destinations to explore