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Dune Climb Inn

Property class: 2

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Photo gallery for Dune Climb Inn

A bedroom with a large bed, wooden walls, a window with a view of the outdoors, and a ceiling fan.
A wooden signpost with two circular signs, one for Dune Climb Inn and another indicating a vacancy.
A spacious living area with a wooden dining table, wicker furniture, and a fireplace.
A cozy living room with a fireplace, a television, wooden shelves with books and decorations, and a blue armchair.
A metal fire pit with rocks around it, two Adirondack chairs, and a wooden structure in the background.

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

  • 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
    ‪3 min drive‬
  • Place, Glen Lake
    ‪6 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪48 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Standard Studio (SS)

A wooden-paneled bedroom with a bed, nightstand, and window.

Standard Studio (SS)

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(6 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Double Bed

View all photos for Superior Studio, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed (BDS)

A bedroom with a wooden paneled wall, a bed with a green blanket, a grey sofa, and three framed pictures.

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

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

View all photos for Superior Studio (SWS)

A bedroom with wooden paneling, a bed with white bedding, a desk with a chair, and a bathroom with a sink and mirror.

Superior Studio (SWS)

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(5 reviews)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Superior Studio (SWB)

A wooden-paneled room with a bed, a ceiling fan, and a bathroom visible through an open door.

Superior Studio (SWB)

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for Family Suite (2 BR)

A wooden-paneled room with a bed, a white headboard, a bedside table, and a ceiling fan.

Family Suite (2 BR)

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

View all photos for Family Suite (1 BR)

A bedroom with two beds, a ceiling fan, and three paintings on the wall.

Family Suite (1 BR)

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(2 reviews)
  • 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 mile (2 km) of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Each of the 14 rooms at this hotel includes a private yard, a microwave, and a coffee maker.

What's nearby

  • Little Glen Lake - 2 min walk - 0.1 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 3 min drive - 1.8 miles
  • Glen Lake - 6 min drive - 4.3 miles
  • Crystal River - 7 min drive - 5.7 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum - 8 min drive - 4.1 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cherry Republic - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Art's Tavern - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Boonedocks - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪River Club Glen Arbor - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Leelanau Coffee Roasting Co. - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Dune Climb Inn

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 vending machine.
Guests can expect free WiFi and 43-inch flat-screen TVs with cable channels. Private yards, microwaves, and coffee makers are also available. 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

A two-story building with a blue exterior and white trim, featuring a balcony on the second floor.
Empire Lakeshore Inn
Downtown Empire
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, 1,006 reviews
$111 nightly
The price is $118
Nov 1 - Nov 2
Total with taxes and fees
Empire Lakeshore Inn

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

Family friendly

  • In-room microwave

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

  • Area rugs in room
  • Hardwood flooring in public areas
  • No elevator
  • Smooth flooring in room

More

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

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • 43-inch flat-screen TV with cable channels

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Freezer
  • Microwave

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Ceiling fan
  • Heating

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
If you are planning to arrive after 6:00 PM please contact the property in advance using the information on the booking confirmation
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
  • Dogs only
  • 1 total pets
  • Service animals exempt from fees

Property payment types

  • American Express
  • Discover
  • Mastercard
  • Visa

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
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher
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.
  • Onsite safety features include a fire extinguisher.

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 Oct 24, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dune Climb Inn on Nov 2, 2026 start from $159, including 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 Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive 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.

What will couples enjoy most about a stay at Dune Climb Inn?

Couples staying at this hotel will appreciate amenities like a firepit plus some guestrooms include a fireplace and a hydromassage showerhead.

Does Dune Climb Inn have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

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, dogs 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 available?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

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 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. 90 out of 128 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 25 out of 128 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 9 out of 128 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 1 out of 128 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 3 out of 128 reviews

9.2/10

Cleanliness

9.2/10

Staff & service

9.0/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place to stay if visiting Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Cozy, calm and quiet. We had a relaxing stay.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Tired mom of 4 snuck away for some r&r. Great proximity to the beautiful county beaches, cozy simple clean room. Would definitely come again - with or without the family :)
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Family friendly, right on the Heritage Bike path, and within walking distance to The Dune Climb. The community room was a wonderful ammenity.
Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Great place to stay
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This place is super cute! The room is a bit small but the bed was so comfy that it completely made up for it. It was conveniently located to everything you plan on doing in the area. The check in is contactless, but the girl I was in contact with was very responsive. I would highly recommend & they are pet friendly!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Super convenient location for visiting sleeping Bear dunes. Staff was very nice and friendly. We were able to enjoy the fire pits in the backyard. Rooms are very clean.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great experience!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was friendly and helpful. Great spot to stay and hike the dunes. Empire and glen arbor are just a short drive away.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
It was a great stay plus the bed was super comfortable.
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Verified review

8/10 Good

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location, comfy beds and pillows.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Perfect location; great historic/retro road trip vibe.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

Liked: Staff & service, amenities
It was a nice room but expensive for what we got. The room needed a bit of tlc, the plumbing for example was a little hit or miss. The community room was nice but the coffee maker wasn’t clean. We didn’t know about the community room until we arrived. The location was very good.
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Great place
Stayed 1 night in May 2025
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Clean, comfortable, and cozy for me and my pet. Loved it!
Stayed 3 nights in Mar 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Amenities
Delightful, rustic stay. Will stay again.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified review

8/10 Good

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
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

10/10 Excellent

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Very conveniently located.. We did silver river kayaking, dune climb and sleeping bear dune climb at scenic drive. All are within 2-3 miles distance and we were able to come back in middle of day after one activity to relax a bit, wash off sand, take shower .. which was very nice... Owner was excellent too.. We reached very late and office was closed. She kept curtains off and lights on. Sent me text that room is kept ready ans key is hung inside room.. We were bit worried at first on how to reach out as there was no phone network in the area
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2026
Verified review

10/10 Excellent

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

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