See all properties

Dune Climb Inn

2.0 star property
Hotel in Empire with free parking

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Dune Climb Inn

Children's play area - outdoor
Family Suite (2 BR) | Private kitchen | Fridge, microwave, coffee/tea maker
Superior Studio (SWS) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets
Exterior
Family Suite (1 BR) | Living area | Flat-screen TV

Reviews

9.2 out of 10
Wonderful

Popular amenities

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

Explore the area

Map
7194 S Dune Hwy, Empire, MI, 49630
  • Little Glen Lake
    ‪1 min drive‬
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
    ‪7 min drive‬
  • Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum
    ‪9 min drive‬
  • Traverse City, MI (TVC-Cherry Capital)
    ‪55 min drive‬

Book today, save on your next hotel stay

It's that easy when you're a member of Orbitz Rewards. It's free to join!

Room options

View all photos for Superior Studio (SWB)

Superior Studio (SWB) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets

Superior Studio (SWB)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 Queen Bed

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

Superior Studio, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed (BDS) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets

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

View all photos for Standard Studio (SS)

Standard Studio (SS) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets

Standard Studio (SS)

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

View all photos for Family Suite (2 BR)

Family Suite (2 BR) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets

Family Suite (2 BR)

  • 2 bedrooms
  • Sleeps 5
  • 2 Queen Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Family Suite (1 BR)

Family Suite (1 BR) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets

Family Suite (1 BR)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(1 review)
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 4
  • 1 Queen Bed and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Superior Studio (SWS)

Superior Studio (SWS) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets

Superior Studio (SWS)

  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King 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 - 1 min drive - 0.3 miles
  • Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive - 4 min drive - 2.5 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore - 7 min drive - 4.7 miles
  • Glen Lake - 7 min drive - 4.3 miles
  • Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum - 9 min drive - 4.1 miles

Getting around

  • Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) - 48 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Cherry Republic - ‬7 min drive
  • ‪Arts Tavern - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Boone Dock's - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Shipwreck Cafe - ‬8 min drive
  • ‪Blu - ‬7 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.

Languages

English

Similar properties

Exterior

Empire Lakeshore Inn

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
8.8 out of 10, Excellent, 953 reviews
$204 nightly
The price is $216
Sep 1 - Sep 2
Total includes 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

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

  • Private 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

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 Aug 5, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dune Climb Inn on Aug 6, 2025 start from $279.45, 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 Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive within a short drive.

Will I be able to park 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 good 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.

Are there connecting rooms at Dune Climb Inn?

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.

Can I book a room with a balcony 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. 36 out of 56 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 16 out of 56 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 56 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 56 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 56 reviews

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

8/10 Good

Mary

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
The manager was extremely nice and accommodating to us. Our room was clean but very small and the bathroom was in need of updating. The area is beautiful and this was convenient.
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kimberly

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Eugene

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

Cozy motel in a spectacular setting

My room was cozy and a throwback to a bygone era, but with modern amenities.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

N

Traveled with partner
Great place
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

8/10 Good

Alicia

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Lynnette

Business traveler
Disliked: Staff & service
The property appears to be closed for the season; however, did permit booking a room. The television did not work on first night, dead ladybug and dust on bedspread, thick dust behind furniture (had to plug charger in) and on the ceiling fan. The room is very small with only space to walk around bed and does not have table or chair to sit at for work space. They do have a nice common area but being the only one on the premises at dark was not somewhere I would choose to sit!
Stayed 5 nights in Jan 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brett

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The Inn was located in the perfect spot to get places, but be outside the busy areas. The room was very cozy and the bed was extremely comfortable. The community room was great.
Stayed 2 nights in Nov 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian

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

8/10 Good

Michelle

Traveled with partner, Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Really nice spot, with access to dunes. Room was mostly clean, with minor dust and some cobwebs in bathroom. Really thin walls! Can hear neighbors TV, door slamming in the morning when they left! Could use better black out curtains for windows and in bathroom (completely see through). Overall, really good location and Was able to bring my dog 🐶
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Joy, Jenison

Liked: Cleanliness
Motel room was clean, comfortable bed and hot water in shower. Property had a nice community room, grills and fire pit areas. Very convenient for enjoying Sleeping Bear Dunes area. We would stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Brian

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

10/10 Excellent

Pam

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Staff was very accommodating. We arrived early and they quickly finished preparations and let us in early.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

2/10 Terrible

Yaoyao, Solana Beach

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

8/10 Good

Adam

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Very good stay, and would do it again. Staff was great. Very clean. Bathroom sink needs to be replaced, and bathroom could use exhaust fan. Common room was cozy and inviting. Very to close to nearby attractions.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

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

Rustic Getaway in the Woods

Perfect spot for anyone planning to spend time in Sleeping Bear or just traveling on M22! Very rustic and humble, it allows you to spend time in nature away from light pollution and people. We were able to see the Northern Lights while sitting next to a bonfire that we built with wood supplied by the hosts. Absolutely perfect spot. If you're wary of spiders, be prepared.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Melinda

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

STEPHEN

Traveled with partner
Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Great location. Close to dunes. Quiet and very comfortable. Refrigerator in cabin 5 was not working.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

Cherrie

Traveled with pets
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I liked the shared kitchen and outdoor spaces. The location was fantastic
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

6/10 Okay

Barbara

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2024

10/10 Excellent

curt

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It was adorable! It also smelled very clean when we entered our room.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

8/10 Good

Naomi

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

Great place for hikers.

Basic but very nice. Comfortable and convenient. Great place to stay to hike in the area.
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Lovrenco

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024

10/10 Excellent

Shirley, Arvada

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

8/10 Good

guruprasad

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in Sep 2024