Welcome to Empire

Empire, Michigan is a picturesque lakeside village located on the shores of Lake Michigan and South Bar Lake, right at the gateway to the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Known for its untouched natural beauty, charming small-town feel, and outdoor adventure, Empire offers one of the most peaceful and breathtaking lifestyles in Northern Michigan. With pristine beaches, towering dunes, forested trails, and a welcoming community, Empire is an unforgettable place to call home or to escape for a slower, more scenic life.

What to Love

• Direct access to Lake Michigan and South Bar Lake

• Gateway to the world-famous Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

• Quiet, laid-back atmosphere with small-town charm

• Stunning sunsets, sandy beaches, and crystal-clear waters

• Forested trails, dune climbs, and year-round outdoor recreation

• Friendly community with local shops, cafés, and seasonal events

• Close proximity to Glen Arbor and Traverse City

Local Lifestyle in Empire

Life in Empire is peaceful, nature-focused, and community-driven. Residents enjoy early morning walks along the beach, leisurely days exploring nearby forests and dunes, and evenings gathering with neighbors for bonfires or sunset viewing along Lake Michigan. The pace is slow, the air is clean, and the lifestyle is centered around outdoor beauty and genuine connection.

Whether you’re paddleboarding on South Bar Lake, shopping at local artisan markets, or attending community festivals, everyday life here feels restorative and grounded.

Lakeside & National Park Living

Empire’s lifestyle is deeply intertwined with nature. Living here means:

• Swimming, kayaking, and fishing in Lake Michigan and South Bar Lake

• Hiking dune overlooks with panoramic lake views

• Exploring forests, rivers, and wildlife habitats in Sleeping Bear Dunes

• Enjoying winter activities like snowshoeing and cross-country skiing

• Scenic drives along the iconic Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

• Visiting overlooks, beaches, trailheads, and historic sites in the National Lakeshore

Empire offers unmatched access to some of the Midwest’s most beautiful landscapes.

Things to Do in Empire

• Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore – endless trails, beaches, dune climbs, and breathtaking overlooks

• Empire Beach – sandy shoreline ideal for swimming, sunsets, and picnics

• South Bar Lake – calm waters perfect for kayaking and family-friendly beach time

• Empire Bluff Trail – a favorite hike with sweeping Lake Michigan views

• Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive – must-see overlooks and dune landscapes

• Empire Anchor Museum – showcasing local maritime history

• Local shops & cafés – charming stops for art, treats, and handmade goods

• Seasonal events – Empire Asparagus Festival, Hops & Harvest celebrations, art fairs, and more

Nature and small-town charm shape much of the entertainment here.

Schools in Empire

Empire is part of the Glen Lake Community Schools district, known for its supportive staff, small class sizes, and strong academic and extracurricular programs.

The district serves families throughout the surrounding Leelanau County region, offering:

• Glen Lake Elementary

• Glen Lake Middle School

• Glen Lake High School

Families appreciate the tight-knit learning environment and focus on student success.

Walkability & Transportation

Empire is a small, walkable village with easy access to outdoor spaces:

• Walkable roads connecting homes, beaches, shops, and parks

• Bike-friendly routes throughout the lakeshore and nearby communities

• Scenic highways connecting Empire to Glen Arbor, Glen Haven, and Traverse City

• Seasonal transit and rides services for the National Lakeshore

• Close driving distance to Cherry Capital Airport in Traverse City

The small scale of the village makes everyday life simple and accessible.

History & Culture

Empire’s heritage is rooted in its maritime history, timber industries, and early settlers who were drawn to its natural beauty. The village has preserved its quiet charm over the years, valuing conservation and community pride.

Cultural life includes:

• The Empire Area Museum

• Local music and seasonal festivals

• Community gatherings on the beach

• Artisan markets and locally owned businesses

The combination of history, landscape, and community spirit defines Empire’s unique character.

Homes in Empire

Empire offers a serene selection of home styles, often inspired by lakeside and forest surroundings:

• Cozy cottages near the village center

• Lake Michigan–front homes with private beach access

• Modern homes with nature-integrated architecture

• Wooded cabins and rustic retreats

• Seasonal vacation homes and rental-friendly properties

• Newer builds in small, quiet subdivisions

Many homes feature decks, large windows, and private outdoor spaces designed to embrace the environment.

Housing Market Trends

Empire’s real estate market is desirable due to:

• Strong demand for lakefront and National Lakeshore–adjacent homes

• Appeal for vacation homes, investment properties, and full-time lake living

• Limited building space due to protected natural lands

• Steady long-term appreciation driven by proximity to the dunes and growing interest in Northern Michigan living

Updated homes, cottages near beaches, and lakeview properties tend to receive the most interest.

Popular Neighborhoods in Empire

• Village Center – walkable living close to shops, parks, and beaches

• Lake Michigan Shoreline – stunning sunset views and private beach access

• South Bar Lake Area – family-friendly lakeside living

• Empire Bluff Vicinity – scenic hillsides and wooded retreats

• Leelanau County Outskirts – rural homes with privacy and acreage

Each area offers a different slice of Empire’s natural charm.

Buying or Selling in Empire

Whether you're looking for a lakefront retreat, a wooded hideaway, or a quiet year-round home, Empire offers exceptional living surrounded by natural beauty. Buyers love the area for its scenery and tranquility, while sellers benefit from steady demand and limited supply. From dunes to beaches to forests, Empire is one of Northern Michigan’s most treasured places to live — offering a lifestyle that’s peaceful, scenic, and truly one-of-a-kind.