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Empire Lakeshore Inn

2.5 star property
Sandy fun near Philip A. Hart Visitor Center and Empire Bluff Trail

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Photo gallery for Empire Lakeshore Inn

Exterior
Exterior
Deluxe, 2 Queen Beds | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets
Point of interest
Exterior

Reviews

8.8 out of 10
Excellent

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
11730 S. Lacore Rd, Empire, MI, 49630
  • Place, Philip A. Hart Visitor Center
    ‪5 min walk‬
  • Place, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    ‪13 min walk‬
  • Place, Empire Bluff Trail
    ‪19 min walk‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪40 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for King Bed Annex

King Bed Annex | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

King Bed Annex

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(46 reviews)
  • 301 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for 2 Double Beds Annex

2 Double Beds Annex | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

2 Double Beds Annex

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(40 reviews)
  • 301 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Double Beds

View all photos for Deluxe, 2 Queen Beds

Deluxe, 2 Queen Beds | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Deluxe, 2 Queen Beds

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful
(35 reviews)
  • 355 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Queen Beds

View all photos for Deluxe King Bed

Deluxe King Bed | Desk, free WiFi, bed sheets

Deluxe King Bed

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional
(18 reviews)
  • 355 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Empire

Located in Downtown Mmpire, Empire Lakeshore Inn is adjacent to Philip A. Hart Visitor Center and within a 15-minute walk of popular sights like Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This 12-room motel has in-room conveniences like balconies, refrigerators, and coffee makers.
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What's nearby

  • Philip A. Hart Visitor Center - 5 min walk - 0.3 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 13 min walk - 0.7 miles
  • Empire Bluff Trail - 19 min walk - 1.1 miles
  • Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive - 5 min drive - 4.3 miles
  • Crystal Mountain - 35 min drive - 30.3 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Shipwreck Cafe - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Joes Friendly Tavern - ‬5 min walk
  • ‪Trattoria Funistrada - ‬13 min drive
  • ‪Empire Village Pizza & Spirits - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Food For Thought - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Empire Lakeshore Inn

Sandy fun near Philip A. Hart Visitor Center and Empire Bluff Trail
Guests of Empire Lakeshore Inn enjoy free WiFi in public areas, express check-in, and express check-out. Free parking is available if you drive. Other amenities at this beach motel include a terrace, a garden, and a picnic area.
Guests can expect to find free WiFi and LCD TVs. Beds sport pillow menus and bathrooms offer designer toiletries. Other standard amenities include balconies or patios, refrigerators, and coffee makers.
The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

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Property amenities

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Free self parking on site
  • Limited onsite self parking
  • Onsite parking includes off-street options

Family friendly

  • In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

  • Vending machine

Guest services

  • Daily housekeeping (for a fee)

Outdoors

  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • Picnic area
  • Terrace

Accessibility

  • No elevator

More

  • 1 building
  • 2 floors
  • Built in 1987
  • Colonial architecture
  • Designated smoking areas

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided
  • Pillow menu

Bathroom

  • Designer toiletries
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Shower/bathtub combination
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • LCD TV

Food and drink

  • Coffee/tea maker
  • Refrigerator

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Desk
  • Free local calls
  • Phone

Policies

Check-in

Check-in time starts at 4:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Contactless check-in available
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 11:00 AM
Contactless check-out available
Late check-out subject to availability
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
The check-in location differs from the property location; go to: [11626 S. Sunset Drive Michigan]
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions and key retrieval information; your host will greet you
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property at least 24 hours before arrival using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Host will greet you, key retrieval

Pets

  • Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Up to 4 kids 18 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding

Property payment types

Important information

Optional extras

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

  • Housekeeping fee: USD 25.00 per stay

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 and cash
This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit
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: 4:00 PM
  • Check-out: 11:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
Checking in and out are easy with express services. 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 and cash.
  • This property reserves the right to pre-authorize the guest's credit card prior to arrival.
  • Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, and a first aid kit.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

  • There are no elevators.

Property is also known as

Empire Lakeshore Inn
Empire Lakeshore
Empire Lakeshore Inn Motel
Empire Lakeshore Inn Empire
Empire Lakeshore Inn Motel Empire

Frequently asked questions

What's there to do close to Empire Lakeshore Inn?

This motel is situated in Downtown Mmpire within a short 13-minute walk of Lake Michigan and also 13 minutes on foot from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. You'll also find Empire Bluff Trail and Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive within a short drive.

How much does it cost to stay at Empire Lakeshore Inn?

As of Jan 2, 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Empire Lakeshore Inn on Jan 11, 2026 start from $106.92, 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.

Will I be able to park at Empire Lakeshore Inn?

Yes, self parking is offered for free at the motel.

Does Empire Lakeshore Inn have a casino at the property?

No, Empire Lakeshore Inn doesn't have a casino.

Will I find an indoor pool at Empire Lakeshore Inn?

No, there is no indoor pool at this motel.

What do couples enjoy most about Empire Lakeshore Inn?

Couples staying at this motel will value amenities like a pillow menu, premium bedding in some guestrooms, as well as a terrace.

Does Empire Lakeshore Inn have a hot tub?

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

Does Empire Lakeshore Inn feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

No, Empire Lakeshore Inn doesn't have a restaurant that serves breakfast.

Will Empire Lakeshore Inn allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Empire Lakeshore Inn though service animals are welcome.

Does Empire Lakeshore Inn have connecting rooms?

No, this motel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

How far is the airport from Empire Lakeshore Inn?

The closest major airport to Empire Lakeshore Inn is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is 28.5 mi away (48 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at Empire Lakeshore Inn?

Yes, every guestroom at Empire Lakeshore Inn comes with a balcony.

Empire Lakeshore Inn Reviews

Reviews

8.8

Excellent

Rating 10 - Excellent. 591 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 253 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 87 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 34 out of 1000 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 35 out of 1000 reviews

9.4/10

Cleanliness

8.6/10

Staff & service

8.2/10

Amenities

9.0/10

Property conditions & facilities

8.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Gregory

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Wonderful stay.
Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

8/10 Good

Deborah E

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great location and very comfortable room. We spent a couple days biking the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail. Great ice cream shop in walking distance. Definitely recommend. The reason I did not choose excellent was because we were in the annex and they had no ice machine.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Emily

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Room was clean and met our needs well
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jean

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

10/10 Excellent

ROBERT

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Clean room
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Jeanne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Thought it was closer to the lake. Clean room, comfy beds.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kim

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

8/10 Good

Billie

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Call to check in was easy , phones staffed efficiently
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Robert

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
2nd floor, no elevator, awkward location in dead end hallway, not many food options.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Rebecca

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

William

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Ok
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Tina

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Ferenc

Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 4 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Robin

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

Rob K.

Great location for Sleeping Bear Dunes and surrounding area! Within walking distance of restaurants, beach, gas station, and National Park Visitor's Center. Hotel was very nice, quiet, clean, and comfortable. Empire is a nice little town. Empire Village Inn pizza is amazing! Catch the sunset at Empire beach or on Empire Bluffs Trail!
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

William

Liked: Property conditions & facilities, room comfort

Acceptable motel

Overall, it was acceptable. The bed pillows were much better than average for a hotel; the bed was maybe a little above average for comfort. The bathroom was disappointing in three ways: first, the shower curtain smelled sour. I have run into that problem at a lot of hotels that still use shower curtains. Why can't housekeeping staffs carry a bottle of dilute bleach solution and spray the inside of the curtain? That would be really easy and would kill the sour smell (to which I am really sensitive). Second, the sink drain was very slow. Dirty water sat there a long time, which is pretty disgusting. I told the housekeeper about it; who knows if she passed the word to the owners. Third, I am glad I took my own soap, shampoo because the stuff they stocked the room with was pitiful. They owner left an envelope to encourage tipping of the housekeeping staff, which I find off-putting. And the housekeeping staff did nothing except take away used towels, at my request. Maybe I expect too much........
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Sydney

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Nice and clean! Check in was easy.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Daniel

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property. Spacious and clean room. Just a few maintenance issues spoiled a perfect start. Bath tub stopper not working. Microwave shuts off after a few seconds. Slow drain in sink. All minor details. I’m sure they will take care of it all. Room is still a very good bargain for the area.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Pamela, Ocala

Traveled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
We stayed in the annex and you had to drive or walk across the street through an EZ Mart parking lot to get ice in the main building and that wasn’t very convenient. Also there were no USB plugs in the room which seems below par in my travel experience. And a small roach in my bed one night. It was very convenient to Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Larry

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great quaint place to stay and very convenient to the Lake and Bear Dunes. We will be back for sure.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jay

Traveled with family and small children, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities
Very clean and cozy
Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jay, Grand Rapids

Stayed 1 night in Aug 2025

8/10 Good

kathleen

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
It is in an amazing location. Just a short walk to the lake & short drive to Empire Bluff Trail!
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jennifer

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

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Great place.

Very comforting and clean. The area was quiet and workers were very nice.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

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