Home Vacation Rentals By Owner In Empire, MI

Showing 20 Of 105 Vacation Rentals
Slider Thumb

$314.22

/ Nightly
Private Vacation Home

3-bedrm home in fabulous Empire, walk to beach, ride to bike trail, SAT-SAT ONLY

Empire, Michigan, United States

NEW LISTING 2026brSunset House is a modern, new-construction home located in the heart of Empire, Michigan, the jewel of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Aptly named for its striking red exterior, this bright and spacious retreat offers comfort, privacy, and an unbeatable location.brbrThe home is within walking distance of Empire Beach and the Empire Bluffs Trailhead, just minutes by bike to the Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail, and a short drive to regional favorites such as the Dune Climb, Pierce Stocking Drive, Glen Lake, and the pristine Crystal River.brbrInside, enjoy an open floorplan with soaring 20-foot ceilings and abundant natural light that create an airy, welcoming space. The home comfortably sleeps up to 6 guests with 3 bedrooms and 2.5 bathrooms, including a main-level primary suite with a private en-suite bath.brbrStep outside to relax in the large, private fenced yard, complete with a patio and fire pit—perfect for evenings after a day of fun in the sun and crystal clear waters.brbrSunset House is also our personal residence part of the year. When rented, guests enjoy exclusive, private use of the entire home and property. Ideal for families, couples, and friends seeking a relaxed Northern Michigan getaway.brbrYou can book with confidence from this VRBO Premier Host with 5-star reviews from their previous Leelanau County vacation rental. Your host is friendly, responsive, and only 10 minutes away.brbrKEY FEATURES & AMENITIESbrSleeps 6, 3 Bedrooms, 2.5 BathroomsbrNew-construction modern homebrWalk to Empire Beach & Empire Bluffs TrailheadbrBike to the Sleeping Bear Heritage TrailbrMain-level primary suite with en-suite bathbrOpen-concept living with 20-foot ceilingsbrPrivate fenced yard with patio & fire pitbrEntire home — no shared spacesbrbrHOUSE RULESbrNo smoking or vaping inside the homebrNo parties or eventsbrQuiet hours: 10:00 PM – 8:00 AMbrMaximum occupancy: 6 guestsbrFire pit use permitted when local conditions allow; never leave unattendedbrThis is our personal home part of the year — please treat it with carebrbrbrFailure to follow house rules may result in additional cleaning fees or cancellation without refund.brbrLocation HighlightsbrWalk to Empire Beach for swimming and sunsetsbrWalk or drive to Empire Bluffs Trailhead for iconic viewsbrBike to the Sleeping Bear Heritage TrailbrShort drive to regional favorites:brThe Sleeping Bear Dunes Dune ClimbbrPierce Stocking DrivebrGlen Lake brCrystal River brbrGETTING AROUNDbrEmpire is a walkable, bike-friendly lakeshore town. Many guests enjoy walking to the beach, trails, and local spots. Biking is an excellent way to access the Heritage Trail. A car is recommended for visiting nearby attractions and exploring the region.brbrFOOD & COFFEEbrGrocer’s Daughter Chocolate, Coffee, and gelato (Empire)brShipwreck Café Submarine Sandwiches & Breakfast (Empire)brJoe’s Friendly Tavern (Empire)brArt’s Tavern (Glen Arbor)brThe Village Inn (Empire)brAnderson’s Grocery (Glen Arbor)brTiffany’s Ice Cream (Empire)brbrSHOPPING & EXPLORING IN EMPIREbrSleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Visitors CenterbrThe Miser’s Hoard - Gifts and AntiquesbrSecret Garden - Art and Gifts brSleeping Bear Gallery - Local Artists Original WorksbrJoJo and Bucky Art Studio - Local Artist, Jeweler, and GiftsbrNature Walk Studio - One-of-a-kind Clothing, Jewelry, GiftsbrSleeping Bear Surf - Paddle/Surf Board RentalsbrEmpire Outdoors - Apparel and FudgebrJames R. Johnson Park - Playground, Open SpacebrShalda Park - Baseball Diamonds, Dog Walking, PicnicbrChippewa Run - Hiking (both sides of M-22)brEmpire Area Museum - Old School House, Fire House, LoggingbrGlen Lake Community Library (Empire) - Computers, Printing, Books, etc.brbrOUTDOOR MUST-DOSbrSunset at Empire Beach (& playground)brEmpire Bluffs Hiking TrailbrKayaking or Tubing the Crystal RiverbrDune Climb (early or late = best! The sand can get HOT!)brBiking the Heritage Trail brPierce Stocking Scenic Drive OverlooksbrPyramid Point Hiking TrailbrSouth Manitou Island Ferry and HikebrGlen Haven Beach and Museum - accessible by Heritage Trail or CarbrbrOTHERbrEmpire EZ MartbrState Savings BankbrHuntington BankbrUS Post Office
Bed 3

Bed

Bath 2

Bath

Sleep 6

Sleeps

Slider Thumb
Exceptional(7)

$681.93

/ Nightly
Chalet

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

Empire, Michigan, United States

Private Lakefront Modern Chaletbr 6-Person Barrel Sauna for Relaxationbr Paddleboards & Kayaks Includedbr Lakeside Fire Pit with Seating Areabr 15 Mins to Sleeping Bear, 20 to TCbrbrHosted by Catered Stays Rentals, we cater to the ideal guest experience. Nestled in the woods on the shores of Garey Lake, this thoughtfully styled chalet is perfect for enjoying modern conveniences while taking in scenic Northern Michigan. The home has three bedrooms, each with an accompanying bathroom. The main level contains the two king bedrooms, the kitchen, dining area, sitting room, a wall of windows, and the wraparound balcony that overlooks the sprawling lakefront lawn. The lower level holds the queen bedroom with additional futon, the laundry area, a cozy fireplace entertainment den, a kitchenette, bar, pool table, and covered patio. The property is very private, quiet, and serene. At the lakefront, a fire pit, chairs, and a dock provide the backdrop for kayaking, fishing, and watching the local wildlife (including the resident bald eagle).brbrOFF-LIMITS AREAS:brbrThe home and property are fully available to guests with the exception of three areas - we ask that guests respect these boundaries:brbr1) There is a boardwalk directly ahead of the home that belongs to the neighbors - we have a sign placed as a reminder. br2) The lower level mechanical/storage room is locked and should not be accessed without permission.br3) The east storage shed (right side) is locked and should not be accessed.brbrAs hosts, our goal is to provide our guests with the best possible experience. If you have any questions at any point, please reach out and we are happy to help. We are local to the area and would love to provide personalized recommendations if needed (you’re also welcome to check out our digital guide books for the basics). Our philosophy is that no surprises are the best surprises so if something unexpected should occur, we ask that you reach out to us immediately and we will do the same. We are happy to provide as much or as little communication as you desire and we will follow your lead.brbrThe home is one of only a handful around the lake. It’s very private and secluded. It’s located about 15 minutes from the famous Sleeping Bear Dunes and 20 minutes from the hustle and bustle of Traverse City.brbrGuests traveling in the winter should note that it is HIGHLY RECOMMENDED that they have a 4x4 or AWD vehicle and/or WINTER TIRES on smaller vehicles, as the driveway (though maintained) is steep. Weather conditions can make the property more difficult to access when deep snow, slush, and icy roads are present. Parking at the top of the driveway and walking down may be necessary under certain weather conditions.brbrPlease be aware that this is a pet-friendly rental. Though we have an exceptional cleaning team, folks with severe allergies or health conditions that may be related to animals should consider renting elsewhere, as even with thorough cleaning, we cannot guarantee non-reaction. Most folks with this severe level of allergies are aware of this risk in renting any home that allows pets.brbr*Kayaks and paddle boards are seasonal amenities that are offered during the Summer months (May through September) - availability of these may be limited or unavailable outside of these dates. Please ask prior to your stay if you hope to use them in the off season if there is warmer weather. Thanks for your understanding.
Bed 3

Bed

Bath 3

Bath

Sleep 7

Sleeps

Slider Thumb
Exceptional(8)

$649.92

/ Nightly
Private Vacation Home

Borealis Haus Modern Downtown | Grill | Patio

Empire, Michigan, United States

Beautiful Borealis Haus is a Scandinavian-style charming vacation home located in Empire, MI. This simply whimsical home is located just a mile from Lake Michigan beach and conveniently walking distance from downtown Empire for grocery needs or your desire to visit. This rustic charm houses 3 bedrooms, 2 baths, including a queen bed in the basement and can accompany 9 guests. Its bright interior, polished hardwood floors, and comfy furniture brings its guests the ultimate relaxation out of their stay. And with multiple seating arrangements, Borealis Haus offers plenty of space for all! brbrFind delight in different living areas of the house both perfect for social gatherings, reading a book, or watching your favorite show. Cook delicious meals with the simply rustic, sleek kitchen fully equipped for all your cooking needs or enjoy a snack at the island. Taking a nap You’ll get quality rest from one of five comfortably made beds either upstairs or on the lower level. At Borealis Haus, you’re guaranteed a most memorable and unforgettable stay. brbrLiving SpacesbrbrAs soon as you walk in, you’ll find a reading room perfect for those who enjoy books or studying in quiet peace. This room is set up with two comfortable seats and a rocking chair for easy relaxation for anyone’s desire. Only steps away into the house is the main living space with a sectional and two leather chairs perfect for unwinding after a long day of traveling or activities. Cozy up to the fireplace on cooler nights and stream your favorite movies with the TV. brbrKitchen and DiningbrbrCreate exquisite meals with the charming kitchen. Fully equipped with all your cooking needs, there’s no worry for bringing utensils and dishes along. Comes with refrigerator, dishwasher and an island equipped with the oven and gas range stove as well as a kettle perfect for making tea with. With plenty of room to move around, this kitchen is perfect for those who enjoy cooking!brJust steps in between the kitchen and living room is the dining table that seats 6, plus 4 stools at the kitchen island. Or, enjoy BBQ with the grill on the back deck with the outdoor dining table and umbrella perfect for warm, sunny days. The outdoor table seats 6, with additional outdoor chairs available.brbrBedrooms and BathsbrbrUpstairs Bedroom 1 - Queen BedbrUpstairs Bedroom 2 - Full BedbrUpstairs Bedroom 3 - Twin Bed with Twin TrundlebrBasement Bedroom - Queen BedbrThere is also the option of using the sofa from the living room to sleep on for extra space. All bedrooms have convenient storage for clothing and traveling needs.brBorealis Haus also provides a washer and dryer for your laundry needs.brbrOutdoor AmenitiesbrbrWhether you’re visiting for the hiking trails, to ski, or just to get away, there is something for everybody in Empire. Visit the beautiful Lake Michigan for gorgeous water views, take a trip downtown for a shopping spree, or go to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. These are just a few ideas! At Borealis Haus, spend the day relaxing on the front porch or grill some delicious food with the grill on the back deck. During the winter, go skiing using some of the skis provided inside the house.brbrbrEmpire, MI offers a variety of activities and attractions to make your stay even more enjoyable. Here are some things you can do in and around Empire:brbr1. Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore: Explore the stunning sand dunes and picturesque coastline of this iconic national park. Hike the trails, take in breathtaking views from the overlooks, or even try sandboarding down the dunes.brbr2. Relax on Lake Michigan Beach: Spend a day lounging on the beautiful Lake Michigan beach, just a short distance from Borealis Haus. Take a refreshing swim, build sandcastles, or simply soak up the sun.brbr3. Explore Empire Bluff Trail: Embark on a scenic hike along the Empire Bluff Trail, which offers panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the surrounding landscape. This moderate trail is perfect for nature lovers and photography enthusiasts.brbr4. Visit Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive: Take a leisurely drive along the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a 7.4-mile loop that provides stunning vistas of the dunes, forests, and Lake Michigan. Be sure to stop at the designated overlooks for incredible photo opportunities.brbr5. Enjoy Water Sports: Rent a kayak or paddleboard and venture out onto the crystal-clear waters of Lake Michigan. Experience the tranquility of the lake while paddling or try your hand at fishing.brbr6. Discover Empire Museum: Learn about the history and heritage of Empire at the Empire Museum. Explore exhibits that showcase the town's past and gain insights into its vibrant community.brbr7. Indulge in Local Cuisine: Sample delicious local flavors at the charming restaurants in downtown Empire. From fresh seafood to farm-to-table dishes, there's something to satisfy every palate.brbr8. Take a Wine Tour: Empire is located in the heart of Michigan's wine country. Embark on a wine tour and visit nearby wineries and vineyards to taste a variety of local wines.brbr9. Go Birdwatching: Empire is a haven for birdwatching enthusiasts. Grab your binoculars and head to the nearby birding hotspots, such as the Sleeping Bear Birding Trail, to spot a diverse range of bird species.brbr10. Attend Local Events: Check out the local events calendar for festivals, farmers markets, art shows, and live music performances happening during your visit. Immerse yourself in the vibrant community atmosphere of Empire.brbrWith these activities and attractions, your time in Empire, MI will be filled with adventure, relaxation, and memorable experiences. Enjoy exploring the area and creating lifelong memories!
Bed 3

Bed

Bath 2

Bath

Sleep 9

Sleeps

Slider Thumb

$576

/ Nightly
Private Vacation Home

Immaculate home, perfect for 1 or 2 couples, close to Sleeping Bear Dunes.

Empire, Michigan, United States

Immaculate, 1800 square foot, beautifully furnished home, with all new furniture. 2 bedrooms, 2 full baths, perfect for 1 or 2 couples, or small family. (Sleeps up to 4 adults) The 3rd bedroom has been turned into a yoga/ fitness room ( please see photos)brbrPeaceful setting on 2+acres, in the heart of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Close to Lake Michigan and Big and Little Glen Lakes. Located directly between Glen Arbor and Empire, and just a short 5-7 minute drive in either direction, to shops, restaurants, wineries, beaches, and the National Park. brbrThis home has everything you need to make your vacation up north as comfortable and as pleasant as possible....We even added a brand new “Pro-Form” elliptical machine, so you don’t have to miss your workouts while at Turner Empire! Bluetooth enabled... and located in the yoga/ fitness room, in front of the big screen TV. brbrThe main floor has a master bedroom with a king-sized bed. The living room has 2 brand new comfortable gray recliners and matching love seat, and a linear propane fireplace. The main floor also has an elegant, well-stocked, kitchen with double oven, open floor plan with dining area. brbrThe lower-level is a separate living space... 2 bedrooms with queen-sized bed in one bedroom, and a yoga/fitness room. A living room, with large, brand new sectional couch, full bath, wet bar with mid-sized fridge, microwave and coffee pot. ALL rooms have XL smart TV's on walls.brbrA new, front load, washer and dryer are located in laundry room on main floor. brCable, Internet, linens and towels provided. All bedrooms have TV's...TVs are smart TVs.. so you have the option to sign into your Netflix or other accounts to watch movies/ shows. brbrThere is a covered porch on the front of the house, with 3 adirondack chairs and a coffee table, for relaxing or bird watching in the woods, surrounding the house. The back deck is open for sunning and we just added a large gazebo on the extended deck… with an outdoor dining area, including a brand new large propane grill and flat top grill. Also on the extended deck, are 6 comfortable chairs with cushions and tables, around an outdoor gas fire pit. Additionally, a regular fire pit is located in the backyard, with PLENTY of firewood provided. brbr If you are looking for NEW, CLEAN, and BEAUTIFUL, this is your rental! brbrbrPerfect for a couple's romantic weekend get-a-way... We offer 2-3 day rentals all summer long, for those who don't want to stay in the area an entire week. Owners are local, and will respond promptly to any needs or concerns, or even questions about the area, you may have during your stay. brbrPlenty of parking with room for boat and jet skis. Bring your water toys and bikes! Lakes and trails aplenty, within 5 miles radius from house!brbrThe house has wood and tile floors throughout.. no carpet. We are dog friendly... and have a nice backyard, which is surrounded by woods.. to exercise your pet. : ) br* Please check the Pets box if you are bringing your dog. We DO have a pet fee, and this needs to be added to your reservation before booking. Thank you. : )brOnly one dog allowed , unless cleared with owner first.br*NOTE: If you have dog that sheds excessively, please understand that there will be an extra cleaning fee charged ...it takes lots of extra cleaning and laundry to get the house back to perfect for the next guests arrival. brbrCancellation Policy: brFull refunds on canceled reservations if canceled at least 30 days before your arrival date. No refunds if canceled within 14 days of your stay, However, owner may credit deposit for future stay..... please contact owner for details. brbrSorry, no smoking on property.
Bed 2

Bed

Bath 2

Bath

Sleep 5

Sleeps

Slider Thumb
Exceptional(34)

$838.3

/ Nightly
Cabin

4 Bedroom Rustic and Secluded Cabin. Dogs Welcome!

Empire, Michigan, United States

Looking for that rich blend of adventure, relaxation and breathtaking natural attractions Look no further than the Sleeping Bear Lair! Situated between downtown Traverse City and the majestic shoreline of Lake Michigan, our home is tucked away amongst the rolling terrain and towering trees of Northern Michigan. The Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a short drive away, as are more than 30 wineries across the Leelanau & Old Mission Peninsulas that begin just minutes from the house.brbrCome and enjoy your cabin-away-from-home at the Sleeping Bear Lair in Empire, Michigan. Nestled within a beautifully wooded 3+ acre estate, this four-bedroom, three-bathroom house is the perfect spot for 8 guests but can accommodate 10 upon request. The house is centrally located near Crystal Mountain, Benzie & Leelanau County snowmobile trails, Sleeping Bear Sand Dunes, Glen Arbor, Cedar, Traverse City and much more. brbrThe spacious living room invites you and your guests into this comfortable home with 300-mbps Wi-Fi and four Roku TV's setup to play your favorite streaming services. Be sure to bring your log-in information. We have provided games for all ages and entertainment, and feel free to Bring a Book, Leave a Book with the growing collection of reading materials.brbrSince the kitchen is the heartbeat of a home, we have equipped it with all the cookware you will need, including a crock pot, toaster, griddle, blender and a well-stocked Keurig coffee & hot cocoa station.brbrWhether you are planning a family vacation, a girls' weekend, a golf trip or a snowmobiling adventure, you always need a place to come back to that screams “Rest and Relaxation”, and that is precisely what you will get at the Sleeping Bear Lair. brbrThe ground floor has two bedrooms, one with a king bed and the other with a queen bed, and a full-size bathroom. In the second floor lofts, the spacious primary bedroom has a queen bed, an en suite bathroom, and a walkout deck. Also upstairs, you will find another full bathroom, a combo guestroom with a king bed, two twin beds, and a lounging area with a smart TV. All rooms have ample storage for clothing. Most importantly, all mattresses are pressure relieving, 12-inch thick memory foam, come with a variety of pillows, and are made with high quality linens.brbrThe first-floor laundry is conveniently located near the kitchen. We have provided laundry detergent and fabric softener for your washing needs, as well as an iron and small ironing board. You will also find 'Smores sticks for roasting marshmallows in the kitchen drawer, and doggie supplies for your pet's stay.brbrOutside you have hammocks for napping in the shade, Adirondack chairs around the fire pit, and corn hole boards for settling all disputes. Lastly, the large private lot is surrounded by beautiful trees and has ample parking for your boat or snowmobiles, and any outside toys you wish to bring!
Bed 4

Bed

Bath 3

Bath

Sleep 10

Sleeps

Slider Thumb

$483.53

/ Nightly
Apartment

Walkable Sunset Retreat in the heart of Empire!

Empire, Michigan, United States

Be in the center of it all with a stay on Front Street in Empire! Steps from Sleeping Bear Dunes & local charm. Perfect for guests seeking art, relaxation, & outdoor activities!brbr❥ Artistic touches - Above the Sleeping Bear Art Gallery - decor thoughtfully curated by the gallery owner.br❥ Walk to beach, shops, food, & trailsbr❥ Onsite massage therapy room with therapist by requestbr❥ Washer/Dryerbr❥ 2 Bedrooms with queen bedsbr❥ The Sleeping Bear Art Gallery is open by appointment only.brbrTHE SPACEbr❥ Two bedroom, 1 bathroom 900SF with 2 Queen beds.br❥ Equipped kitchen, perfect for cooking meals. No dishwasher.br❥ Living and dining areas perfect for gathering.br❥ Fast WiFi and Smart TV for streamingbr❥ In unit washer/dryerbrbrFABULOUS LOCATION - In the heart of Empire right on Front Street, the main thoroughfare walking distance to shops, restaurants and outdoor activities.brbrNEARBY ACTIVITIES - Nearby activities include hiking/biking, lake activities like kayaking/paddle boarding, winter cross country skiing/snowshoeing.brbr❥ Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, 0.3 miles, about 5-7 minutes walkbr❥ Secret Garden Gallery (local shop), 0.5 miles, about 10 minutes walk or 3 minutes drivebr❥ Empire Bluff Trail, 1 mile, about 20 minutes walk or 5 minutes drivebr❥ Empire Area Museum Complex, 1 mile, about 5 minutes drive or 20 minutes walkbr❥ Pyramid Point Trail, 5 miles, about 12 minutes drivebr❥ Glen Haven Historic Village, 4 miles, about 10 minutes drivebr❥ Secret Garden Gallery (local shop), 0.5 miles, about 10 minutes walk or 3 minutes drivebrbrGUEST ACCESSbr❥ This is one of 2 apartments located in the same building as the Sleeping Bear Art Gallery.br❥ You have access to the entire unit. There is a private entrance to your unit with a shared entry into the building and hallway.br❥ There is also a massage therapy room that can be used upon request with a massage therapist pending availability.brbrOTHER THINGS TO NOTEbr❥ The Sleeping Bear Art Gallery is open by appointment only.br❥ Must climb stairsbr❥ The mailbox is not available for guest use and deliveries are not recommended.br❥ No dishwasherbr❥ We provide starter toiletries and paper supplies. Guests are responsible for their own supplies thereafter.
Bed 2

Bed

Bath 1

Bath

Sleep 4

Sleeps

Slider Thumb
Exceptional(15)

$1010.29

/ Nightly
Private Vacation Home

Empire Beach House - Lake Michigan cottage with firepit, grill & furnished deck

Empire, Michigan, United States

Welcome to Empire Beach House, a coastal retreat nestled in the picturesque town of Empire, Michigan. Immerse yourself in the tranquility and serenity of this stunning lakefront property, where the beauty of Lake Michigan seamlessly merges with the comforts of home.brbrThis charming cottage offers a soothing atmosphere, perfect for those seeking a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life. Step inside and be greeted by a warm and inviting ambiance, as the breathtaking views of the lake greet you through large windows that bring the outdoors in.brbrWith three bedrooms, Empire Beach House comfortably accommodates up to eight guests. The two queen beds ensure a restful night's sleep, while the twin over twin bunk beds provide a cozy space for the younger members of your group. One and half well-appointed bathrooms offer convenience and privacy for all.brbrIndulge in the ultimate relaxation experience on the spacious deck, where you can bask in the gentle lake breeze and soak up the sun. Unwind with a book as you lounge on the outdoor furniture or gather around the fire pit in the evenings for stories and s'mores. For the culinary enthusiasts, a grill is available for whipping up delicious meals using the freshest local ingredients.brbrAt Empire Beach House, the lake is your backyard playground. Spend your days swimming in the crystal-clear waters, building sandcastles on the pristine shores, or simply strolling along the beach as you listen to the soothing sound of the waves crashing against the shore.brbrWhether you are seeking a romantic getaway or a fun-filled family vacation, Empire Beach House offers the perfect blend of coastal charm and modern conveniences. Book your stay today and let the beauty of Lake Michigan transport you to a world of relaxation and bliss.brbrOur property is also ideally located just steps away from the stunning South Bar Lake. Nestled in the heart of nature, our location offers breathtaking views and easy access to the tranquil waters of the lake. Whether you're looking to relax on the sandy shores, enjoy water activities like swimming or kayaking, or simply take in the beauty of the surrounding landscape, our property provides the perfect retreat. With its proximity to South Bar Lake, you'll have unparalleled opportunities to immerse yourself in the peaceful ambiance and create unforgettable memories.
Bed 3

Bed

Bath 1

Bath

Sleep 8

Sleeps

Home Most popular vacation rentals in Empire