Discover the Majestic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Explore the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, where towering dunes meet pristine beaches and endless outdoor adventures await.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is a stunning natural wonder located on the shores of Lake Michigan, celebrated for its towering dunes, lush forests, and breathtaking vistas. This pristine area offers countless opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to hike, swim, and explore the beauty of the Great Lakes region, making it a must-visit destination for tourists seeking adventure and tranquility in nature.
A brief summary to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
- 9922 W Front St, Empire, Michigan, 49630, US
- +1231-326-4700
- Visit website
- Monday 12 am-12 am
- Tuesday 12 am-12 am
- Wednesday 12 am-12 am
- Thursday 12 am-12 am
- Friday 12 am-12 am
- Saturday 12 am-12 am
- Sunday 12 am-12 am
Local tips
- Visit during the early morning or late afternoon for stunning light and fewer crowds.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan to hike the dunes.
- Don’t miss the scenic drive along M-22 for breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
- Check out the visitor center for maps, information, and ranger-led programs.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as the sand can be challenging to navigate.
Getting There
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Car
If you're traveling by car from The Dunes, Indiana, start by heading northeast on IN-49 N. Continue for about 30 miles until you reach I-90 E. Merge onto I-90 E and continue for approximately 50 miles. Next, take the exit for US-31 N toward Michigan City/Chicago. Keep following US-31 N for about 45 miles until you reach the junction with M-22 N. Take M-22 N and follow it for around 40 miles. When you arrive in Empire, Michigan, follow the signs to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, located at 9922 W Front St, Empire, MI 49630. There is a parking fee of $25 per vehicle for a weekly pass.
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Public Transportation
Traveling by public transportation is limited in this area, but you can take a Greyhound or Amtrak bus from The Dunes to Traverse City, Michigan. Once you arrive in Traverse City, you can use a local cab service or ride-sharing app to reach Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, which is approximately 30 miles away. Ensure that you check the schedules in advance, as public transit may not run frequently.
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Bicycle
For the adventurous, biking is a great way to enjoy the scenery. From The Dunes, you can cycle along the scenic back roads. Head northeast on IN-49 N, then follow the path alongside US-31 N until you reach M-22 N in Michigan. The total distance will be around 115 miles, so be prepared for a long ride. Make sure to bring plenty of water and snacks, as well as check your bike's condition before setting out.
Discover more about Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
The Sleeping Bear
1.7 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of The Sleeping Bear, a stunning mountain peak offering panoramic views and outdoor adventures in Glen Arbor Township, Michigan.
Glen Haven Village
3.6 km
Explore Glen Haven Village, a historical landmark full of charm, stunning landscapes, and rich stories of Michigan's past along Lake Michigan's beautiful shores.
Sleeping Bear Point
4.6 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Sleeping Bear Bay
8.3 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Bay, a serene escape with stunning views, outdoor adventures, and rich natural heritage in Michigan.
Empire Bluff
8.9 km
Explore the breathtaking views of Empire Bluff, a stunning natural wonder in Michigan's Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Port Oneida Beach
11.3 km
Experience the serene beauty and recreational charm of Port Oneida Beach, a picturesque park on the shores of Lake Michigan.
Platte Plains Trail
15.2 km
Discover the tranquil Platte Plains Trail in Michigan, where stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife create an unforgettable hiking experience.
Traverse Bay Tours
15.7 km
Discover the beauty of Traverse Bay through personalized tours that showcase the region's stunning landscapes, rich culture, and delectable flavors.
North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station
28.1 km
Discover the historic North Manitou Island Lifesaving Station, a maritime treasure surrounded by stunning natural beauty in Michigan's wilderness.
Clay Cliffs Natural Area: The Leelanau Conservancy
31.5 km
Explore the stunning vistas and rich biodiversity of Clay Cliffs Natural Area, a premier nature preserve on Michigan's Leelanau Peninsula.
Traverse Tall Ship Company
33.8 km
Embark on a scenic sailing adventure with Traverse Tall Ship Company and explore the stunning waters of Lake Michigan in Traverse City.
Hippie Tree
34.0 km
Explore the Hippie Tree in Traverse City, a vibrant landmark where creativity and community come together under its sprawling branches.
The Barrel Room
34.2 km
Explore Traverse City's The Barrel Room for exceptional local wines, ciders, and a charming event venue experience in a rustic setting.
Aberdeen Stone Cottage
34.2 km
Experience the unique charm of Aberdeen Stone Cottage, a historic indoor lodging gem in Traverse City, Michigan, surrounded by stunning landscapes and local attractions.
Left Foot Charley
34.2 km
Experience the taste of Michigan at Left Foot Charley, Traverse City's top winery offering exceptional wines and a warm, inviting atmosphere.
Unmissable attractions to see
Dunes Scenic Overlook
0.3 km
Discover the stunning vistas of Sleeping Bear Dunes at the Dunes Scenic Overlook in Glen Arbor, Michigan, a must-visit nature preserve for all outdoor lovers.
Cottonwood Trail
0.4 km
Experience the tranquil beauty of Cottonwood Trail in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where nature awaits with stunning landscapes and serene hiking opportunities.
Dune Climb
1.1 km
Discover the stunning beauty of the Dune Climb in Glen Arbor, Michigan, where towering sand dunes meet breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Dunes Trail
1.2 km
Discover breathtaking views and serene hiking experiences at Dunes Trail, a jewel of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.
Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
1.5 km
Discover the stunning beauty of Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive in Michigan, a scenic route showcasing breathtaking views and natural wonders.
Glen Lake Beach Park
1.6 km
Experience the natural beauty and serene atmosphere of Glen Lake Beach Park, a perfect destination for relaxation and outdoor adventures in Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
2.1 km
Discover the breathtaking beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook, where towering sand dunes meet the sparkling waters of Lake Michigan.
Lake Michigan Overlook
2.3 km
Experience the stunning vistas and serene atmosphere at Lake Michigan Overlook, a must-visit destination for nature lovers in Michigan.
Sleeping Bear Dunes
2.4 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Sleeping Bear Dunes, a natural preserve that offers adventure, beauty, and tranquility along Lake Michigan's shores.
Alligator Hill Trail
2.7 km
Explore the stunning Alligator Hill Trail in Empire, Michigan, where breathtaking views and serene nature await every avid hiker.
North Bar Lake
3.6 km
Experience the serene beauty of North Bar Lake, a hidden swimming gem behind Sleeping Bear Dunes, perfect for relaxation and outdoor adventures.
Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Ranger Station
3.7 km
Explore the stunning Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, a natural wonder with breathtaking views, diverse wildlife, and rich cultural history in Michigan.
Cannery Boathouse Museum
3.8 km
Explore the rich maritime history of Glen Haven at the Cannery Boathouse Museum, a charming destination for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum
4.0 km
Explore the maritime legacy of the Great Lakes at the Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum, where history meets stunning natural beauty.
Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead
4.1 km
Explore the stunning landscapes of Sleeping Bear Point Trailhead, a hiker's paradise on the shores of Lake Michigan, offering breathtaking views and diverse wildlife.
Essential places to dine
Good Harbor Grill
5.2 km
Experience delectable American cuisine at Good Harbor Grill in Glen Arbor, MI - perfect for post-adventure dining with scenic views.
Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
5.2 km
Savor local flavors at Cherry Public House in Glen Arbor – where craft beer meets delicious cuisine and delightful ice cream.
Bear Paw Pizza & Market
5.4 km
Experience delicious pizza and convenience shopping at Bear Paw Pizza & Market in beautiful Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Blu
5.5 km
Experience fine dining at Blu in Glen Arbor, where New American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan for an unforgettable culinary journey.
Empire Village Inn
6.8 km
Discover delicious grill cuisine at Empire Village Inn in scenic Michigan - your perfect dining destination after exploring Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Shipwreck Cafe
6.9 km
Experience the charm of Shipwreck Cafe in Empire, MI – where delicious sandwiches meet stunning natural beauty.
Joe's Friendly Tavern
7.1 km
Experience the best of grill cuisine at Joe's Friendly Tavern in Empire – where hearty meals meet friendly service in a cozy atmosphere.
Cafe Manitou
7.8 km
Discover delightful American cuisine at Café Manitou in Glen Arbor - a perfect stop for food lovers amidst stunning natural beauty.
Nonna's at The Homestead
8.0 km
Discover authentic Italian flavors at Nonna's in Glen Arbor - where every meal tells a story of tradition and taste.
Trattoria Funistrada
8.3 km
Indulge in authentic Italian flavors at Trattoria Funistrada in Maple City, where every dish tells a story.
Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
15.0 km
Discover delightful local flavors at Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse in Maple City—where great food meets community spirit.
Stone Oven
23.1 km
Experience the delightful flavors at Stone Oven in Lake Ann - where comfort food meets affordability in a cozy setting.
Platte River Inn
23.4 km
Experience the heartwarming flavors of American cuisine at Platte River Inn – your cozy culinary retreat in Honor, Michigan.
The Cherry Hut
26.7 km
Experience the taste of Michigan at The Cherry Hut – where delicious pies meet warm hospitality in Beulah.
The Cove
28.0 km
Discover The Cove in Leland, MI - where exceptional American cuisine meets breathtaking views of Lake Michigan.
Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Dune Center Store
1.0 km
Discover the Dune Center Store, a charming bookstore near Sleeping Bear Dunes offering literature, maps, and gifts that celebrate the natural beauty of Michigan.
Arabella
5.1 km
Explore Arabella Jewelry in Glen Arbor for stunning handcrafted pieces and stylish women's clothing, capturing the essence of Michigan's beauty.
Bay Wear
5.1 km
Explore Glen Arbor's Bay Wear for unique clothing and exceptional service in a charming boutique setting.
Evolve
5.2 km
Discover a delightful selection of books and unique gifts at Evolve, Glen Arbor's charming bookstore and gift shop.
Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
5.2 km
Discover the best of Michigan’s cherry delights at Cherry Republic in Glen Arbor, where gourmet treats and local beverages await.
Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
5.2 km
Discover Anderson's Glen Arbor Market, your go-to grocery store for fresh produce, local beers, gourmet deli items, and delicious pizza takeout in Glen Arbor, MI.
Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
5.2 km
Discover Glen Arbor's unique style at Momentum Apparel—your go-to boutique for fashion and local flair.
The Totem Shop
5.2 km
Explore The Totem Shop in Glen Arbor, MI – your one-stop destination for outdoor sports gear, local souvenirs, and sweet treats.
Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
5.3 km
Explore a charming gift shop in Glen Arbor, MI, offering unique art, handmade jewelry, and eclectic treasures that capture the local spirit.
Cottage Book Shop
5.3 km
Explore a treasure trove of literature at the Cottage Book Shop, a cozy bookstore in Glen Arbor, Michigan, perfect for book lovers and casual readers alike.
Cottonseed Apparel
5.3 km
Discover unique gifts, stylish clothing, and exquisite jewelry at Cottonseed Apparel, your go-to destination in Glen Arbor, Michigan.
Coastal Clothing And Accessories
5.5 km
Discover the essence of coastal fashion at Coastal Clothing And Accessories, Glen Arbor's premier destination for stylish apparel and unique accessories.
Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
6.8 km
Discover the taste of artisanal chocolates at Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop in Empire, Michigan, where every bite is a celebration of quality and flavor.
Empire Outdoors
6.9 km
Discover outdoor essentials and unique gifts at Empire Outdoors, your go-to store near Sleeping Bear Dunes for all adventure seekers.
Sleeping Bear Gallery
7.0 km
Explore the Sleeping Bear Gallery in Empire, Michigan, where local artistry meets the stunning landscape of the Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
34.8 km
Discover the vibrant flavors of Traverse City at Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant, where local ingredients meet a lively atmosphere.
Kilkenny's Irish Public House
35.1 km
Immerse yourself in an authentic Irish experience at Kilkenny's Irish Public House with traditional cuisine, drinks, and vibrant entertainment in Traverse City.
Low Bar
35.5 km
Discover Low Bar in Traverse City – a prohibition-style cocktail bar offering handcrafted drinks in a cozy, vintage setting for an unforgettable night out.
Dillinger's Pub
35.5 km
Experience the charm of Dillinger's Pub in Traverse City, where delicious grill favorites meet a vibrant bar atmosphere in a rustic setting.
Union Street Station
35.5 km
Experience the charm of Union Street Station, Traverse City's favorite bar for craft beers, cocktails, and a friendly atmosphere.
Brady's Bar
35.7 km
Discover the lively atmosphere of Brady's Bar in Traverse City, where great food, craft beers, and friendly service await every visitor.
The Pub
35.7 km
Experience the vibrant local culture at The Pub in Traverse City, where delicious food, craft beers, and a welcoming atmosphere await.
North Bar
35.7 km
Experience the lively atmosphere and delectable cuisine at North Bar in Traverse City, a must-visit destination for food and drink lovers.
U And I Lounge
35.8 km
Discover the vibrant and welcoming atmosphere of U And I Lounge in Traverse City, where great drinks and friendly service await.
The Parlor TC
35.9 km
Discover Traverse City's vibrant nightlife at The Parlor TC, a cocktail bar and live music venue offering exquisite drinks and a lively atmosphere.
Beacon Lounge
36.0 km
Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Beacon Lounge in Traverse City, a perfect spot for relaxation and socializing with a diverse drink selection.
SideTraxx Dance Bar
36.6 km
Discover the lively atmosphere and affordable drinks at SideTraxx Dance Bar in Traverse City, a perfect spot for dancing and socializing.
Sail Inn Bar & Grill
37.5 km
Discover the perfect blend of delicious food, refreshing drinks, and stunning views at Sail Inn Bar & Grill in Traverse City, MI.
Blue Slipper Tavern
58.1 km
Experience the cozy atmosphere and delectable offerings at Blue Slipper Tavern, the heart of Onekama’s social scene.
Bucksnort Bar
58.3 km
Experience the vibrant flavors and warm atmosphere at Bucksnort Bar, the heart of Mesick's culinary scene.
