Dune Climb Inn

2.0 star property
Hotel in Empire with free parking

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Dune Climb Inn

Superior Studio (SWS) | Free WiFi, bed sheets
Lobby sitting area
Family Suite (1 BR) | Living area | Flat-screen TV
BBQ/picnic area
Meeting facility

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • Pet friendly
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Business services

Explore the area

View in a map
7194 S Dune Hwy, Empire, MI, 49630
  • Place, Little Glen Lake
    ‪2 min walk‬
  • Place, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Place, Glen Lake
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪46 min drive‬

Room options

Standard Studio (SS)

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(4 reviews)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

Superior Studio, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed (BDS)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 reviews)
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Double Sofa Bed

Superior Studio (SWS)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

Superior Studio (SWB)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

Family Suite (2 BR)

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

Family Suite (1 BR)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 6
  • 2 Double Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

About the neighborhood

Empire

Located within a 5-minute walk of Little Glen Lake, Dune Climb Inn is within a few miles (5 km) of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Each of the 14 rooms at this hotel includes a private yard, a coffee maker, and a flat-screen TV.

What's nearby

  • Little Glen Lake - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 5 min drive - 4.7 miles
  • Glen Lake - 6 min drive - 4.3 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum - 8 min drive - 4.1 miles
  • Crystal Mountain - 43 min drive - 36.7 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cherry Republic - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Mill - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Art's Tavern - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Boonedocks - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Foothills Cafe - ‬14 min drive

About this property

Dune Climb Inn

Hotel in Empire with free parking
Guests of Dune Climb Inn enjoy access to free WiFi in public areas, meeting rooms, and microwave in a common area. Free parking is available if you drive. Staff members can help with accommodation requests, and provide front-desk service during limited hours. Additional amenities include a refrigerator in a common area, free use of bicycles, and a TV in a common area.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 43-inch flat-screen TVs. Private yards and coffee makers are also standard. Housekeeping is available once per stay.
Recreational amenities at the hotel include complimentary bicycles.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transportation

  • Free uncovered self parking on site

Things to do

  • Bicycle storage
  • Free bicycle rentals
  • Hiking/biking trails
  • TV in common areas

Conveniences

  • Limited-hour front desk
  • Shared microwave
  • Shared refrigerator
  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Change of towels on request
  • Housekeeping (once per stay)

Business services

  • Meeting rooms

Outdoors

  • Barbecue grill
  • Firepit
  • In a national park
  • Outdoor furniture
  • Picnic area

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Well-lit path to entrance

More

  • 1 floor
  • Built in 1937
  • Renovated entire property - May 2024
  • Smoking not allowed
  • Traditional architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch flat-screen TV

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker

More

  • Air conditioning

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Minimum check-in age: 21

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM

Special check-in instructions

The front desk is open daily from 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM
Front desk staffed during limited hours
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Front desk (limited hours), key retrieval

Pets

  • This property welcomes pets for USD 40 per pet, per night, plus a deposit of USD 150 per stay
  • 1 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 200 per accommodation, per stay

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

  • Pet deposit: USD 150 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 40 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash
This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children; if you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room
  • Check-in: 3:00 PM—-6:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 21
The front desk is available during limited hours. Driving? This property offers free parking.

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

  • This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
  • This property has outdoor spaces, such as balconies, patios, terraces which may not be suitable for children. If you have concerns, we recommend contacting the property prior to your arrival to confirm they can accommodate you in a suitable room.
  • Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
  • A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
  • Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
  • This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.
  • No cribs or infant beds are available.

Property is also known as

Dune Climb Inn Hotel
Dune Climb Inn Empire
Dune Climb Inn Hotel Empire

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Dune Climb Inn?

Dune Climb Inn provides free cancellation on some room rates. If you'd like to learn more, review the cancellation policy on our site.

How much does it cost to stay at Dune Climb Inn?

As of Jan 23, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dune Climb Inn on Jan 29, 2026 start from $115.0, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to do close to Dune Climb Inn?

This hotel is located in Empire within a short 4-minute walk of Little Glen Lake. You'll also find Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum within a short drive.

Is there parking available at Dune Climb Inn?

Yes, uncovered self parking is offered for free at the hotel. Bicycle parking is also available for guests.

Does Dune Climb Inn have a casino?

No, Dune Climb Inn doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Dune Climb Inn?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

Is Dune Climb Inn a good place to stay for couples?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like a nature reserve plus some guestrooms include fireplaces and kitchens.

Are there hot tubs at Dune Climb Inn?

No, there isn't a spa tub at this hotel.

Does Dune Climb Inn have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

No, Dune Climb Inn doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Does Dune Climb Inn allow pets to stay free of charge?

Although they can't stay for free, pets are welcome at Dune Climb Inn for a fee of USD 40 per pet, per night. A deposit of USD 150 per stay is collected.

Does Dune Climb Inn have connecting rooms?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this hotel.

Where is the closest airport to Dune Climb Inn?

The closest major airport to Dune Climb Inn is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is about 24.7 mi away.

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Dune Climb Inn?

Yes, some guestrooms at Dune Climb Inn offer a patio.

Dune Climb Inn Reviews

Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

Rating 10 - Excellent. 49 out of 75 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 21 out of 75 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 4 out of 75 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 75 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 75 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
The room was cozy, clean and had everything I needed esp coffee maker, microwave and refrigerator. I especially liked that it is located on the Heritage Trail so I could easily walk out the hotel door and walk or bike the trail. The management was responsive quickly to my questions. Thanks for a nice stay.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Eric

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Rooms were clean and had a nice retro look to them. Was nice that they had a fire pit area and chairs to hang out in outside.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Marianne

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful management for check in and out. Also quiet. Close to Sleeping Bear Dunes! Bed very comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kathryn

Liked: Cleanliness
Convenient to all attractions, rustic but lovely. Loved the cottage feel
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Christina

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Perfect location, room was clean and staff was super responsive, would stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jeffrey

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
My room had a cozy, retro, cabin vibe that was perfect. Clean, bright, warm, the bed was very comfortable. In the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes and minutes away from all I wanted to do. It was an easy, self check-in that I was well informed of and went off without any glitches. I would definitely stay here again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It is a nice, clean, comfortable place to stay. We would stay there again.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Linda

Traveled with group, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Property is a short drive off M22. Easy to find. Sits between Empire an Glen Arbor Manager was awesome an very helpful. Close to sleepy bear dunes scenic drive. Room was very nice enjoyed our stay
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ben

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Amazing!
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Inna, Woodbridge

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great stay near close to the lake(s) and dunes
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Bruce

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Ken

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Cute property. Unique rooms, brings you back to the 70's. Bed was very comfortable. Rooms are small but we knew that ahead of time. My only complaint was the porch light that shined into our room all night. Recommend turning off or installing some room darkening shades. Other than that, we would stay again. Cute place!
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Aaron

Great place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Liked: Staff & service
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Cheryl

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort

5 stars

Very clean room. The owner was very quick to respond and helpful. Will probably stay here again on my next visit to Glenn arbor. Definitely check out the sunset on the bear dunes overlook, it’s only 7 minutes away.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Chalon

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Catherine

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Friendly staff, clean and close to the dunes
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Will

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Beautiful sky at night.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jenny

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location. Great amenities like borrowing bikes and having a common room available for use (stove, dishes, utensils, etc.). Perfect location to dunes.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Kathleen

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Annemarie

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Cute, clean room. Easy check in. Comfy beds.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

lisa

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Brady

Traveled with family and small children
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Really wonderful place to stay. Very cute & quaint spot, loved the convenience of the check-in & out. space was super snug & the bathroom door & window couldn’t fully close. also was kind of nervous about how chill the door lock was lol. otherwise truly loved staying here & would again!!!
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025