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The Cottonwood Inn B&B

3.5 star property

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Photo gallery for The Cottonwood Inn B&B

Beach
The Cottonwood Carriage House | Individually decorated, individually furnished, travel crib, free WiFi
Front of property
The Cottonwood Carriage House | Living area | Flat-screen TV
Exterior

Reviews

9.6 out of 10
Exceptional

Popular amenities

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping

Explore the area

View in a map
9583 W Front St, 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
    ‪5 min drive‬
  • Airport, Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪41 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for The Empire Room

The Empire Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, travel crib, free WiFi

The Empire Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Double Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for The Sunset Room

The Sunset Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, travel crib, free WiFi

The Sunset Room

  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for The Monarch Room

The Monarch Room | Individually decorated, individually furnished, travel crib, free WiFi

The Monarch Room

  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for The Cottonwood Room

A bedroom with a wooden bed, a bench, a small table, and a chair.

The Cottonwood Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Twin Beds and 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for Trillium Room

A bedroom with a white metal bed frame, a patterned bedspread, two nightstands with green lamps, and a framed picture of a bicycle on the wall.

Trillium Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Garden view
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Twin Trundle Beds and 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for The Roen Room

A bedroom with a bed, two bedside tables, a bench, and a window with curtains.

The Roen Room

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • 4 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Trundle Bed
  • Free WiFi

View all photos for The Cottonwood Carriage House

The Cottonwood Carriage House | Living area | Flat-screen TV

The Cottonwood Carriage House

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(2 reviews)
  • Garden view
  • 4 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 4
  • 2 Twin Beds and 1 Queen Bed
  • Free WiFi

About the neighborhood

Empire

Located in Downtown Mmpire, The Cottonwood Inn B&B is within a 10-minute walk of popular sights such as Philip A. Hart Visitor Center and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This 3.5-star bed & breakfast has 7 rooms and welcomes guests with free breakfast, free in-room WiFi, and free self parking.
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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
  • beach near Village Park - 20 min walk - 1.1 miles
  • beach near Downtown Mmpire - 3 min drive - 1.4 miles
  • Empire Bluff Trail - 5 min drive - 1.8 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 47 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Trattoria Funistrada - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪La Becasse - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Shipwreck Cafe - ‬8 min walk
  • ‪Joes Friendly Tavern - ‬12 min walk
  • ‪Empire Village Pizza & Spirits - ‬10 min walk

About this property

The Cottonwood Inn B&B

The Cottonwood Inn B&B features free WiFi in public areas and a garden. A stay here includes free parking.
Flat-screen TVs come with cable channels, and free WiFi keeps guests connected. Other standard amenities include furnished patios, sitting areas, and private yards.

Similar properties

Exterior
Empire Lakeshore Inn
Downtown Mmpire
  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, 1,011 reviews
$269 nightly
The price is $285
Jul 15 - Jul 16
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 covered self parking on site

Food and drink

  • Free full breakfast available daily 8:00 AM to 9:30 AM

Family friendly

  • Travel crib

Guest services

  • Housekeeping (daily)

Outdoors

  • Firepit
  • Garden
  • In a national park
  • Outdoor furniture

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Stair-free path to entrance
  • Upper floors accessible by stairs only
  • Well-lit path to entrance

More

  • Built in 1895
  • Designated smoking areas
  • Victorian architecture

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Bathtub or shower
  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shampoo
  • Soap
  • Toilet paper
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Flat-screen TV with cable channels

More

  • Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
  • Heating (climate-controlled)
  • Individual decor
  • Individual furnishings
  • Mobile key entry
  • Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM
Early check-in subject to availability
Contactless check-in available
Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before 10:00 AM
Contactless check-out available

Special check-in instructions

There is no front desk at this property
Guests planning to arrive outside of normal check-in hours must contact the property in advance for check-in instructions and an access code; your host will greet you
To make arrangements for check-in please contact the property ahead of time using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools

Access methods

Access code, host will greet you

Pets

  • This property doesn't allow pets

Property payment types

Important information

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
Cashless transactions are available
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: 10:00 AM
  • Minimum check-in age: 18
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.
  • Cashless payment methods are available for all transactions and guests can access their rooms with a mobile device.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

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

Property is also known as

The Cottonwood Inn B&B Empire
The Cottonwood Inn B&B Bed & breakfast
The Cottonwood Inn B&B Bed & breakfast Empire

Frequently asked questions

What can I see around The Cottonwood Inn B&B?

This bed & breakfast is situated in Downtown Mmpire within a short 10-minute walk of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and also 18 minutes on foot from South Bar Lake. You'll also find Lake Michigan and Empire Bluff Trail within a short drive.

Is parking available on site at The Cottonwood Inn B&B?

Yes, covered self parking is offered for free at the bed & breakfast.

Does The Cottonwood Inn B&B feature a casino on the premises?

No, The Cottonwood Inn B&B doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at The Cottonwood Inn B&B?

No, there is no indoor pool at this bed & breakfast.

Is The Cottonwood Inn B&B good for couples?

Couples staying at this bed & breakfast will appreciate amenities like a free daily breakfast plus some guestrooms include a garden view and a kitchen.

Does The Cottonwood Inn B&B have a hot tub?

No, this bed & breakfast doesn't have a spa tub.

Does The Cottonwood Inn B&B have a restaurant with a breakfast menu?

The Cottonwood Inn B&B offers free full breakfasts each morning though there is no restaurant.

Does The Cottonwood Inn B&B allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at The Cottonwood Inn B&B.

Does The Cottonwood Inn B&B have connecting rooms available?

No, there aren't connecting guestrooms at this bed & breakfast.

Where is the closest airport to The Cottonwood Inn B&B?

The closest major airport to The Cottonwood Inn B&B is Cherry Capital Airport (TVC), which is 28.2 mi away (47 minutes by car).

Are there rooms with balconies that I can book at The Cottonwood Inn B&B?

Yes, every guestroom at The Cottonwood Inn B&B comes with a furnished patio and some offer garden views.

The Cottonwood Inn B&B Reviews

Reviews

9.6

Exceptional

Rating 10 - Excellent. 31 out of 41 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 10 out of 41 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 41 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 0 out of 41 reviews

9.6/10

Cleanliness

9.8/10

Staff & service

9.6/10

Amenities

9.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

Verified

10/10 Excellent

M

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Best B&B Wonderful little gem!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michael

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Friendly and welcoming staff in a cozy comfortable b&b
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jacob

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property and hosts were very nice, first B&B I've stayed at and it was a great experience
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Julie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful property. Staff was friendly and we really enjoyed breakfast. We look forward to staying here again!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Suzanne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great staff, breakfast and lovely grounds. Close to visitors center and Sleeping Bear Dune.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Jenn

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
the staff was execellent and the property was close to town and trails for hiking!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Terri

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Awesome property!!
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

Darlene

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Quiet and within walking distance to downtown Empire.
Stayed 5 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Bil

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very friendly staff. Great proximity to Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Prasanna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
great hosts.. The breakfast was amazing
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

TF

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

we love empire

great food and conversation with innkeepers
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Joanna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I visited the area for 79.3 Ironman. As I was late to look for lodging, affordable space was slim. That’s how I came across The Cottonwood. The place is very charming. Toby makes an excellent breakfast and Holly is a wonderful welcoming host! Empire is a close drive to many attractions in the area! I would definitely stay here again!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Anna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Breakfast was amazing! Toby did a spectacular "restaurant-style" breakfast. We got to stay at the Carriage house which was private with our own seperate kitchen which was a nice treat. Local restaurant rec Art's tavern for sanwiches/onion rings/cheese curds and blueberry and whipped cream and the village inn for pizza. Grocer's daughter is a must for chocolates. This B&B is perfectly placed for easy access to all the nearby sights!
Stayed 3 nights in Sep 2025
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Gabriel

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Always wanted to stay in a farm house. Had so much personality! Lots of personality!
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Alexandru

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location, super nice and quiet vintage home , somewhat like a Victorian style. The hosts, super nice people!!! Delicious breakfast with real eggs . Our family liked the experience a lot! Recommend!
Stayed 2 nights in May 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Michelle

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

Second Family

We felt so welcomed by everyone. Like a second family. The Inn is beautifully decorated and very comfortable. The setting is idyllic.
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Rosanna

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The property and our Cottage House was absolutely adorable. The Fresh flowers all around the cottage topped it off! Very relaxing and restful stay. The breakfast! Love how all guests would be talking and the host, Holly and the staff were exceptional!! Can't wait to come back!
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

8/10 Good

wissam

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Very nice place , friendly people , good breakfast. We stayed in the Empire room, It was very clean, just needs a bigger bed and fix the lights going upstairs. Thank you guys
Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2023
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Sonya

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Must Stay! This is a cute and cozy Bed and Breakfast in a perfect central location, within walking distance to downtown. Throughly enjoyed morning talks with our host, Toby. Served a great breakfast every morning, made you feel right at home! Met the owner Holly, who also is very accommodating! We will definitely be staying here again! Thanks for the great service!! Sonya & Joe
Stayed 4 nights in Jul 2025
Verified

8/10 Good

jackie

Expensive for what you get
Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Judy

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
We enjoyed our stay at the Cottonwood inn. It’s conveniently located in an area not too far from the beach and local restaurants. The staff was friendly and inviting. Our room was clean and comfortable. Our remote had dead batteries and we contacted our host and they were promptly replaced. The one thing I would note is that we had to take really quick showers because the hot water would run cold fast. I will say, It is an old building and there were other guests there at the time, so that may have had a lot to do with it. Overall, it was a pleasant experience.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2024
Verified

8/10 Good

Alain

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Très bonne localisation. Environnement très agréable. Hôtes sympathiques Lit trop petit dans la 1ère chambre
Stayed 3 nights in Jun 2024
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Laurie

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The rural setting (bright red barn, porch, lawn and garden) were even prettier than the pictures. Our upper room (three beds) was cozy and welcoming after a long day of exploring the Upper Peninsula and Sleeping Bear Dunes park. I would describe it as homey rather than chic, exactly what we were looking for. Very friendly staff and delicious breakfast. I would recommend the Cottonwood, a genuine, traditional bed and breakfast, to anyone looking for a unique experience in this beautiful part of Michigan.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2019
Verified

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Quiet and peaceful, nice surroundings, close to everything.
Stayed 2 nights in Sep 2019
Verified

8/10 Good

Verified traveler

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This farmhouse is in a beautiful, peaceful setting. We enjoyed the breakfast in particular. But the bed was not comfortable and had no extra pillows to choose from. The second floor bedrooms might pose a challenge to anyone who had trouble with the steep stairs.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2019

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