Family-friendly vacation rentals in Empire

Secluded log cabin with acreage + all the comforts

Located 3 mi. west of the small town of Frederic, Mi, & situated on 20 acres of land, this rustic log cabin provides a peaceful respite from the hectic pace of urban life. The property is bounded on 3 sides by the Au Sable State Forest. Situated in a relatively remote portion of the lower peninsula, guests are virtually assured a tranquil stay. Whether you seek a romantic get away with someone special, or a lively get together with friends or family, this place offers something for everyone.

Grandpa's Little Cabin-Across Big Glen

Stay at our classic, tiny log cabin from the 1940s. Originally the front office for the log cabin retreats on Glen Lake, more recently this was 'Grandpa's Little Cabin', providing decades of family memories. Located across from Old Settler's Park, it is situated in a beautiful, woodsy surrounding, with the benefits of the park's dock access and sunset views. Located just a short drive from Glen Arbor, The Dunes and all that Leelanau offers. Come see Up North as it was originally intended.

1 Bdrm Private Apartment (Milk Chocolate) at GDC

Our Milk Chocolate suite is a large 1 bedroom apartment located above our gelato shop in Empire, Mi. From it's spacious breezy balcony, you can sip coffee and plan your adventure. The apartment is decorated in a colorful mid-century modern style. The bedrooms and living room both have smart tvs. There's a full kitchen stocked with the essentials and we provide toiletries and beach towels/blanket/chairs. It's a great base camp to explore the area and just a few blocks from Empire beach!

Lemon Drop Cottage

This place is a winter and summer wonderland. Our cottage is a small 50's style with much character tucked away in the woods. We’re surrounded by the 70,000 acre Sleeping Bear Dunes. There’s plenty of skiing, canoeing, hiking and fishing, peace and quiet. We're on the boarder of Benzie and Leelanau Counties, the best of wine regions this side of the Mississippi and a true artisanal food destination It's a short drive to Honor, Empire or Glen Arbor. Traverse City is 25 miles east.

Empire Blue House w/ Hot Tub

Clean, new home (in 2020) with 6-person hot tub is less than a 4-minute walk to Lake Michigan, and 3-minutes to downtown Empire. In the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and its amazing trails, there is over 1400 square feet of indoor living space, plus 1000 sq feet of covered decks. The location offers easy access to a variety of outdoor recreation, Leelanau Wineries, and is 25 miles to Traverse City shopping and nightlife or 25 miles to Crystal Mountain Skiing!

Sleeping Bear Stunner - private, gorgeous views

Welcome to Blue Kettle Cottage. Updated home on 4 acres of private land adjacent to 480 acres of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore land. Close to Glen Arbor and Empire. Two generous bedrooms, one bathroom, outdoor shower, beautiful patio with couch and table and fire pit area. The Kettles Trail is your backyard and accessible all year long for hiking, snowshoeing and cross-country skiing. If you are bringing a dog, please read the pet rules and rates before booking.

The Round Haven with Big Glen Lake Access

Experience living in the round. This recently renovated home is a super energy efficient 30 ft diameter circle. We are situated in the heart of Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore and a 300 ft walk to a secluded public access on Big Glen Lake. A place to adventure, relax and restore: this home is designed for sustainability and comfort. The perfect home base to explore the wonder of Sleeping Bear and surrounding quaint towns. We hope you find inspiration and rejuvenation.

*Cabin*Up North*Spring Wildflowers & Relaxing

A delightful tiny cabin on the edge of the forest in Northern Michigan! Close to summer beaches! Close to protected lands for hiking & mountain biking. Sip fair-trade drip coffee & enjoy a hand-crafted space. A chance to live close to nature while remaining close to Frankfort, Elberta, beaches,& more. Guests have explored Sleeping Bear Dunes, Traverse City, Empire, etc. Experience simple living! 125 sq ft!! A perfect place to celebrate your anniversary & birthday!

The Little Perch near Big Glen private 2 bedroom

Encircled within beautiful hardwoods & located less than 7 miles from both Glen Arbor and Empire, The Little Perch is only a rock skip away from the Sleeping Bear National Lakeshore & the Crystal River. We hope you'll enjoy the streamlined kitchen, full bathroom, comfortable 2 bedrooms (3 beds), private laundry tower, personal entrance & spacious parking. The Little Perch is a charming and exclusive upper level guest house, conveniently holding up to 4 guests!

Hobby farm with epic views!

Bright and cozy one-bedroom space with epic views - plus full kitchen and laundry Enjoy your morning coffee while taking in the Platte River Valley. Centrally located between Honor and Beulah. Be at the beach in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in 10 minutes. Close to spots for kayaking, biking, hiking, and skiing. On Home Exchange? This unit is #3073206. No additional cleaning fee. Planning a special occasion, ask the hosts how they can help.

Tavi Haus: Lakefront~Kayaks~SUP~Sauna~Pool Table

🌊 Private Lakefront Modern Chalet 🧘 6-Person Barrel Sauna for Relaxation 🚤 Paddleboards & Kayaks Included 🔥 Cozy Lounge with Fireplace & Pool Table 📍 15 Mins to Sleeping Bear, 20 to TC Hosted by Catered Stays Rentals, we create the ideal guest experience. Enjoy seasonal kayaks and paddleboards (May–Sept) along with cozy spaces to relax inside and out. Perfect for families and friends to unwind and make memories.

West Harbor Hideaway

This cozy, one bedroom cottage with modern farmhouse design sits on a nicely wooded and private lot just 1/4 mile west of Glen Arbor. Convenient walking or biking access to all of town's shops and restaurants as well as the beach and Heritage Bike Trail. In the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this is the perfect starting off spot for you to enjoy all the beauty Leelanau County has to offer.