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Dune Climb Inn

2.0 star property
Hotel near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Empire

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Dune Climb Inn

Family Suite (2 BR) | Living area | Flat-screen TV
Family Suite (1 BR) | Private kitchen | Fridge, microwave, coffee/tea maker
BBQ/picnic area
Superior Studio, 1 Queen Bed with Sofa bed (BDS) | 1 bedroom, free WiFi, bed sheets
Family Suite (2 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

View in a 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

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)

9.4 out of 10
Exceptional
(3 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 6
  • 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 6
  • 2 Double Beds and 1 Queen Sofa Bed

View all photos for Superior Studio (SWS)

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

Superior Studio (SWS)

10.0 out of 10
Exceptional
(1 review)
  • Sleeps 2
  • 1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Empire

Close to the beach.At this Empire hotel, you'll be within half a mile (1 km) of Little Glen Lake and 3 miles (5 km) of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum are also within 6 miles (10 km).

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 - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Art's Tavern - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪The Foothills Cafe - ‬14 min drive
  • ‪Leelanau Coffee Roasting Co. - ‬6 min drive
  • ‪Boonedocks - ‬6 min drive

About this property

Dune Climb Inn

Hotel near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore in Empire
Dune Climb Inn offers its guests barbecue grills, a vending machine, and a picnic area. Public spaces have free WiFi. Dune Climb Inn also features a television in a common area, a microwave in a common area, and a refrigerator in a common area. Free self parking is available. A complete renovation of Dune Climb Inn was completed in May 2024.

This Empire hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 floor
  • 14 guestrooms or units
  • Meeting rooms
  • Built in 1937
  • Front desk (limited hours)
  • BBQ grill(s)
  • Outdoor picnic space
  • Television in lobby
  • No smoking on site
  • Microwave in a common area
  • Refrigerator in a common area
Dune Climb Inn offers 14 air-conditioned accommodations with coffee/tea makers. Flat-screen televisions are featured in guestrooms. Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access. Housekeeping is offered once per stay and change of towels can be requested. Housekeeping is provided on a limited basis.

Similar properties

Exterior

Empire Lakeshore Inn

  • Parking included
  • Free WiFi
  • Air conditioning
  • Housekeeping
4.4 out of 5, Excellent, 983 reviews
$160 nightly
The price is $170
Sep 14 - Sep 15
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

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

Room amenities

Entertainment

  • 43-inch flat-screen TV

Bedroom

  • Bedsheets provided

Bathroom

  • Towels provided

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

  • Pets: USD 40 per pet, per night, plus a deposit of USD 150 per stay
  • Maximum 1 pets
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Cribs (infant beds) are not available.

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 200 per accommodation, per stay

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

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

  • Pet deposit: USD 150 per stay
  • Pet fee: USD 40 per pet, per night
  • Service animals are exempt from fees

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

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
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    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. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, debit cards, and cash.

Property is also known as

Dune Climb Inn Hotel
Dune Climb Inn Empire
Dune Climb Inn Hotel Empire

Frequently asked questions

How close is Dune Climb Inn to the airport?

Dune Climb Inn is 33.1 mi (48-min drive) away from the Cherry Capital Airport (TVC) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Dune Climb Inn?

As of Sep 10, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Dune Climb Inn on Sep 22, 2025 start from $178.25, 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.

Does Dune Climb Inn have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Dune Climb Inn.

Does Dune Climb Inn offer free breakfast?

Dune Climb Inn does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Dune Climb Inn?

No, there is no casino at this hotel.

What time is check-in at Dune Climb Inn?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: 6:00 PM.

Is there free parking at Dune Climb Inn?

This hotel offers free self parking.

Does Dune Climb Inn have a pool?

Dune Climb Inn does not have a pool.

Does Dune Climb Inn have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is Dune Climb Inn to downtown Empire?

Dune Climb Inn is 4.5 mi away from Empire.

Reviews

Dune Climb Inn Reviews

9.2

Wonderful

9.0/10

Cleanliness

9.0/10

Staff & service

8.8/10

Amenities

8.8/10

Property conditions & facilities

9.2/10

Eco-friendliness
Rating 10 - Excellent. 42 out of 64 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 18 out of 64 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 3 out of 64 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 0 out of 64 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 1 out of 64 reviews

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Mami

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Stayed at the Family Suite (2 BR). It was recently renovated and clean. The staff we met were all very nice. The kitchen in the Family Suite had plates, silverware, cups, coffee maker, coffee, creamer, plastic wrap, etc. Very convenient! Looked like the community room also had similar things. They sell bottles of water in front of the office (cash or venmo only). The location is really convenient, few minute drive to Pierce Stocking Scenic drive and the dune climb. 7 minute drive to Glen Arbor or Empire for shopping and dining.
Family Suite (2 BR)
Family Suite (2 BR)
Back yard
Family Suite (2 BR)
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Michael

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

10/10 Excellent

Dawn

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Stayed 1 night in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Debbie

Traveled with group, Traveled with pets, Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
This was an awesome hotel… we were able to use the community room. The rooms were so cute with vintage frig.
Stayed 2 nights in May 2025

10/10 Excellent

Barbara

Stayed 2 nights in May 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