20 Attractions to Explore Near Empire Beach

The Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse stands sentinel over the winding shores of Leelanau County. Located on the peaceful shoreline of Good Harbor Bay, the 26-foot onion-domed lighthouse is a tribute to Robert H. Manning, a former resident of Traverse City and Korean War veteran. Constructed in 1996 as part of a local “Lighthouses for Learning” program, this beloved beacon has served as a powerful symbol of hope and resilience throughout its history.

The Michigan Shore to Shore Trail is a continuously growing trail that spans over 137 miles and passes through three of Michigan's counties - Leelanau, Benzie, and Manistee. It is composed of several connected paths that enthusiasts can explore by foot, bike, or horseback. It brings together historical sites, old growth forests, abundant wildlife and stunning shorelines along the entire length of its route.

The Empire Bluff Trail offers a breathtaking nature experience. It starts at the top of Empire Bluffs, providing hikers with stunning views of Lake Michigan and the Manitou Islands. Along the 2.6 mile trail, hikers will find many spectacular sights such as dramatic 60 foot limestone cliffs sheer rock walls, deep ravines, troughs, and dense cedar forests—all of which are reminiscent of an area untouched by time.

North Bar Lake is the perfect spot for a summer getaway. It offers crystal-clear waters, sandy beaches and plenty of activities for all. There are five public access points to the lake allowing visitors to explore its scenic beauty from every angle. Aside from its aquatic charms, there are multiple trails nearby that reveal lush green trees and breathtaking views any time of year. Be sure to bring your fishing gear too as North Bar Lake is known for its abundant bluegill and bass.

Lake Michigan Overlook provides a stunning view of the lake and its shoreline. Visitors can take in all the sights and sounds of this majestic body of water right from the overlook. Whether it is gazing out across the expanse of azure blue water as far as the eye can see or taking in the sound of waves crashing against the rocky shore below, it is no wonder why this spot is so popular with locals and tourists alike.

The Shauger Hill Trail is an expansive 6.5 mile loop that provides hikers with breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and the countryside of Northport. With over 500 feet of elevation change, the trail offers a challenging climb as it weaves through tall pines, wildflowers, and other native vegetation. Along the way there are several primitive campsites for those who want to spend more than a single day exploring the hillside, which also offers many opportunities for wildlife viewing.

The Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook in Leelanau County, Michigan is an incredible sight to behold. From atop this sand dune, visitors can admire the sweeping panorama of Lake Michigan and its many islands. Its picturesque scenery is not just beautiful – there’s also a rich history behind it. It was named by early Native Americans for the legend of a mother bear and her two cubs, who swam ashore after their canoe capsized in Lake Michigan.

Esch Beach is a beautiful area that's perfect for beachgoers looking to escape the crowds. Located just a stones throw from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore and Crystal Lake, Esch Beach offers much more than just sunny skies and sandy shores. Visitors can enjoy browsing the local shops around town or discover some of the many outdoor activities available such as hiking trails and fishing spots.

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive is an 8.5 mile sightseeing tour winds its way through sandy beaches, forests, sand dunes and wetlands that are part of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Park. The drive offers visitors a chance to view some of the region's most breathtaking scenery including Lake Michigan, Glen Lake, and Rolling Hills. Visitors also have access to 15 overlooks offering breath-taking panoramic views across the forested hills and dunes below.

Glen Lake Narrows is a long, narrow channel with several smaller bays along the way. Photographer favorite picturesque sunsets over the crystal-clear water and the towering pine trees that line the bank. Boaters are often spotted cutting through the channel and numerous fish species can be found in these waters. The area also has ample opportunities for outdoor recreation including hiking, kayaking, and canoeing.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a stunning natural wonder that offers unparalleled beauty and unique experiences. Located along Lake Michigan, visitors to the area can explore miles of breathtaking sand dunes, select beaches, and woodlands filled with wildlife. Visitors can take a restorative plunge into pristine waters or wander through lush forests. No matter how an individual prefers to spend time outdoors, Sleeping Bear Dunes guarantees something special.

The Dune Climb is one of the most thrilling attractions in the area. Located close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Park, it offers a unique opportunity to see the stunning views of Lake Michigan as you ascend and descend endless stair steps. An 850 foot climb with spectacular vistas of nature awaits those bold enough to attempt this adventure. Once at the top, visitors have the chance to look out over tree-lined hills and orange sand formations that stretch across miles of beautiful scenery.

The Platte Plains Trail is a beautiful and scenic path that begins in the small town of Thompsonville and ends at Honor. The 10-mile trail is ideal for hiking, as it runs adjacent to the Platte River for a large portion of the trip. You'll cross grassy open fields interspersed with groves of hardwood trees, weaving along the same paths used by settlers and merchants in the 1800s. Additionally, it's not uncommon to spot wildlife like deer, turkey, and great blue herons while traversing the trail.

Glen Lake is a 3,231-acre lake, Part of the larger Lake Michigan-Huron chain, Glen Lake is home to a wide variety of fish and wildlife. It also features several sandy beaches and crystal clear waters that make it perfect for swimming, kayaking, canoeing, and fishing. Fishing enthusiasts will find plenty of largemouth bass, walleye, northern pike and bluegill - although catching them isn't always easy! Spectacular sunsets over the lake's waters bring locals and visitors back time after time.

Glen Haven Village is the perfect destination for anyone looking to relax and enjoy nature. Boasting miles of rolling hills and sandy Great Lakes beaches, it offers something for all levels of outdoor enthusiast – from beachcombing and hiking to fishing, boating and camping. Locals take advantage of the area's abundant wineries and orchards, while visitors can browse through museums, galleries or catch a performance at one of its charming theatre venues.

Sleeping Bear Point, offers breathtaking panoramic views of Lake Michigan. As part of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this historic point offers incredible sunsets, sandy beaches that stretch for miles, and rolling dunes of sand set against views of nearby islands. Kayaking and hiking are popular activities here; visitors can paddle along the shoreline during summer months or explore the nature trails during autumn.

The Cherry Bowl Drive-In Theatre is an icon of classic movie going experiences. Founded in 1962, the drive-in has delightfully entertained generations of movie goers with its double feature programming and nostalgic atmosphere. Movie lovers can enjoy a different classic movie every night along with their special events such as Cruzins and Car Shows. There's even a seasonal haunted house for extra thrills!

Crystal Lake with its tranquil waters and stunning views of the countryside, it's easy to understand why this postcard-perfect lake has drawn visitors from all around. The lake is the largest natural freshwater lake in the county, spanning over two thousand acres and providing plenty of space for swimming, fishing, and boating activities. One can also find camping along the shore and nearby rolling hills that provide great opportunities for hiking and exploration.

This 18-hole championship golf course offers something special for golfers of every skill level. From the spectacular views of Lake Michigan to the majestic maple and pine-tree lined fairways and greens, Champion Hill provides an unforgettable experience for golfers of all ages. Strategically placed bunkers, native grasses, and challenging distances make this course an interesting test where accuracy and strategy are essential to low scores.

Point Betsie Lighthouse stands tall to this day on the southwesternmost point of Sleeping Bear Point. The light station, with its stunning red brick structure, is still active and staffed by volunteers from the local community who man the lighthouse two days a week for visitors to explore. In addition to its historical significance, the Point Betsie Lighthouse also enjoys a unique position on Lake Michigan that gives visitors an unobstructed view of this vast and beautiful body of water.