Discover the Rich History at the Empire Area Museum
Experience the captivating history and culture of the Empire Area at the Empire Area Museum, a treasured destination in Michigan's scenic landscape.
Nestled in the charming village of Empire, the Empire Area Museum offers a captivating glimpse into the local history and culture of this scenic region in Michigan. A must-visit for tourists seeking authentic experiences, the museum showcases a variety of exhibits that celebrate the area's heritage and natural beauty.
A brief summary to Empire Area Museum
- 11544 Lacore Rd, Empire, Michigan, 49630, US
- +1231-326-5568
- Visit website
Local tips
- Check the museum's schedule for special events or guided tours to enhance your visit.
- Plan to spend some time exploring the surrounding village, which offers charming shops and local eateries.
- Don't forget to bring your camera to capture the stunning views of the nearby Sleeping Bear Dunes.
- Visit early in the day for a quieter experience and more interaction with the staff.
- Check out the museum's website for any seasonal exhibits or new collections before your visit.
Getting There
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Car
From the main entrance of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, head south on M-22. Continue on M-22 for about 12 miles. As you approach the town of Empire, keep an eye out for Lacore Road. Turn left onto Lacore Road, and the Empire Area Museum will be on your left at 11544 Lacore Rd, Empire, MI 49630. There is free parking available at the museum.
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Public Transportation
If you are using public transportation, your best option is to take the Leelanau Transit bus service, which connects various towns in the region. Check the schedule ahead of time as services may be limited. You will want to board the bus that heads towards Empire. Once you reach Empire, disembark at the Empire Village Park stop. From there, walk south on Lacore Road for about 0.3 miles, and the museum will be on your left. Keep in mind that the bus fare is approximately $2.00 each way.
Discover more about Empire Area Museum
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Empire Bluff
2.4 km
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The Sleeping Bear
6.5 km
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Platte Plains Trail
8.6 km
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Glen Haven Village
10.2 km
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Sleeping Bear Point
11.3 km
Sleeping Bear Point: A Natural Wonderland in Glen Arbor, Michigan, Where Sand Dunes Meet Lake Michigan's Pristine Shores.
Sleeping Bear Bay
14.6 km
Experience the breathtaking beauty and tranquility of Sleeping Bear Bay, a pristine destination in Michigan's natural paradise.
Port Oneida Beach
17.2 km
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Traverse Bay Tours
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Michigan Legacy Art Park
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Left Foot Charley
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The Village at Grand Traverse Commons
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Moonstruck Gardens
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Aberdeen Stone Cottage
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Unmissable attractions to see
Michigan Shore to Shore Riding and Hiking Trail
0.2 km
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Philip A. Hart Visitor Center
0.3 km
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Robert H. Manning Memorial Lighthouse
0.7 km
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Lake Michigan Beach Park - Village of Empire
0.7 km
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Inland Overlook
1.5 km
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Empire Bluff Trail
1.6 km
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Treat Farm Trail
2.3 km
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North Bar Lake
3.4 km
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Lake Michigan Overlook
4.3 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes Overlook
5.0 km
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Pierce Stocking Scenic Dr
5.2 km
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Cottonwood Trail
6.7 km
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Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore
6.7 km
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Dunes Scenic Overlook
6.8 km
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Inspiration Point
7.5 km
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Essential places to dine
Empire Village Inn
0.1 km
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Shipwreck Cafe
0.2 km
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Joe's Friendly Tavern
0.5 km
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Trattoria Funistrada
9.6 km
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Cherry Public House | Glen Arbor
10.7 km
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Good Harbor Grill
10.8 km
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Bear Paw Pizza & Market
10.9 km
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Blu
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Nonna's at The Homestead
13.5 km
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Cafe Manitou
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Broomstack Kitchen and Taphouse
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Platte River Inn
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Stone Oven
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The Cherry Hut
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Dinghy's Restaurant & Bar
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
Grocer's Daughter Chocolate Shop
0.1 km
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Empire Outdoors
0.2 km
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Sleeping Bear Gallery
0.4 km
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Nature Walk Studio
0.4 km
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Dune Center Store
7.6 km
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Bay Wear
10.7 km
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Cherry Republic | Glen Arbor
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Evolve
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Arabella
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Anderson's Glen Arbor Market
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Imagine That Eclectic Art & Gifts
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Cottage Book Shop
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The Totem Shop
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Momentum Apparel / CSEA Inc.
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Cottonseed Apparel
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Lil Bo Bar and Restaurant
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Kilkenny's Irish Public House
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Low Bar
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Dillinger's Pub
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Union Street Station
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Brady's Bar
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The Pub
35.0 km
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North Bar
35.0 km
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U And I Lounge
35.1 km
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The Parlor TC
35.1 km
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Beacon Lounge
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SideTraxx Dance Bar
35.9 km
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Sail Inn Bar & Grill
36.5 km
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Blue Slipper Tavern
51.5 km
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Bucksnort Bar
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