Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

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Spectacular sand dunes loom over the deep blue waters of Lake Michigan at this national park, where the rivers run clear and the forest rings with birdcalls.

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the most beautiful places in the Midwest. Hike the nature trails, swim on the beaches and camp under a star-filled sky.

Climb the sand dunes and you’ll be rewarded with spectacular views in all directions. The walk begins at the Dune Center, which has information and restroom facilities available.

If you’re not keen on climbing, consider the Sleeping Bear Heritage trail that starts at the same location. Cycle, walk or skate the hard-surface path, which winds for miles through the park.

Cruise along Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive for an unforgettable experience. This 7.4-mile (12-kilometer) road takes you past some of the park’s most well-known attractions. See a covered bridge and stop to appreciate the view at key sites. Glen Lake Overlook, Dune Overlook and Lake Michigan Overlook are great places to get out your camera and capture memories. Pass through shady forests and sun-drenched clearings before you end up back where you started.

Visit Glen Haven Village to explore an example of a typical lakeside logging town. Many of the buildings from the 1920s have been restored and are filled with historical exhibits that will interest children. Enjoy a live demonstration at the blacksmith shop and check out the boats on display at the Cannery Boathouse Museum. Shop for interesting items at the historic Glen Haven General Store.

Kayak past the leafy shores of the Platte River or visit one of the inland lakes. Watch for birds during the summer months and enjoy the lovely display of wildflowers in spring. Enroll the kids in a Junior Ranger Program if you’re here for a longer stay. They’ll be kept busy with hikes, rides and other fun activities organized by park rangers.

Sleep at one of the little villages nearby to enjoy all the modern amenities or spend an evening camping out in the forest if you feel like a bit of adventure.

Enjoy the natural wonderland of Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Popular places to visit

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive

Find out about the history of Empire when you spend time at Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Glen Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Glen Lake during your travels in Glen Arbor. You can enjoy the restaurants while in the area.

Philip A. Hart Visitor Center

After visiting Philip A. Hart Visitor Center, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Empire. Stroll along the lakeside or discover the area's sunsets.

Empire Bluff Trail

Find out about the history of Honor when you spend time at Empire Bluff Trail. Wander the lakeside or discover the area's sunsets.

Little Glen Lake

Commune with nature and explore the great outdoors at Little Glen Lake during your travels in Empire. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum in Glen Arbor. While you're in the area, stroll along the beaches.

Top Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Hotel Deals

Check availability on hotels close to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Maple Lane Empire

8720 S Dorsey Rd, Empire, MI

Dune Climb Inn

7194 S Dune Hwy, Empire, MI

The Sylvan Inn

6680 Western Ave, Glen Arbor, MI

See all 1,810 properties in Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Things to do near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

At Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, visitors can enjoy a variety of activities including scenic hiking trails, exciting opportunities for exploration, thrilling fishing excursions, and exhilarating mountain biking. Additionally, group camping offers a chance to experience the stunning natural beauty with friends or family. Don't miss out on shopping in the nearby areas to complete your adventure.

Shopping

For a delightful shopping experience, visit the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, located 30.6km away, offering a range of boutiques and local crafts. If you're up for a drive, head to Grand Traverse Mall, 32.2km away, featuring various shops and family-friendly entertainment options.

Recreation

Experience tranquillity at Almira Township Park, where you can unwind amidst nature's beauty. For sports enthusiasts, Mistwood Golf Course and Manitou Passage Golf Club offer stunning landscapes and invigorating challenges, perfect for a day of outdoor activity and relaxation.

Adventure

Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers stunning views and hiking trails just 1.6km from Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, perfect for those seeking adventure amidst nature. For skiing enthusiasts, Crystal Mountain, located 37.0km away, provides exhilarating slopes and outdoor fun. Families can enjoy the Great Wolf Lodge Water Park, situated 30.6km away, featuring thrilling water attractions.

Nightlife

The nightlife near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is vibrant and inviting. The Old Town Playhouse, located 32.2km away, offers a charming theatre experience with rich culture, romantic ambiance, and family-friendly shows, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring the stunning dunes.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions near Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore offers a delightful array of attractions, including stunning lakes, a maritime museum, and a visitor centre, ideal for those seeking outdoor adventures and breathtaking scenery. Explore the enchanting dunes and beaches while immersing yourself in the natural beauty of the region. Whether you are hiking the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes or relaxing by the water, this destination promises a memorable experience for every traveller.

Glen Lake: Nestled merely 3.2km from Sleeping Bear Dunes, Glen Lake is renowned for its stunning scenery and tranquil beaches. Perfect for romantic getaways or family outings, this idyllic spot offers opportunities for swimming, picnicking, and enjoying the natural beauty that surrounds the area.
Sleeping Bear Point Coast Guard Station Maritime Museum: Located 6.4km away, this maritime museum immerses visitors in the rich maritime culture of the Great Lakes. Explore fascinating exhibits that highlight the history of the region's maritime activities and the heroic efforts of the Coast Guard.
Philip A. Hart Visitor Center: Just 6.4km from the dunes, this visitor centre is an adventure hub for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Engage with interactive exhibits, learn about local wildlife, and gather information on hiking trails and activities in the national lakeshore.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

To save money during your trip to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, consider visiting from January to March when hotel prices drop significantly. Tuesdays are the cheapest days to book accommodation, while Fridays tend to be the priciest. Use Expedia’s search tool to filter by budget and location, and consider bundling your hotel with flights and activities for extra savings. Additionally, explore free outdoor activities in the national lakeshore and utilise public transport options to keep travel costs low.

The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The hotel pricing around Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is moderately seasonal. The cheapest months to stay around Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore are January to March, where the prices are moderately lower. This is in comparison to June to August, where prices are moderately higher.
The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay around Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay around Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is Friday.
Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, preferred location, and the type of hotel you desire. To discover the most affordable prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
Consider bundling your trip: You can make significant savings by combining your hotel reservation at Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

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* Savings based on package bookings compared to the price of the same components booked separately. Savings not available on all packages. Book Flight + Lodging, save up to 100% of flight price - Savings based on flight + lodging package prices as compared to the price of the same components available for booking separately before all discounts and rewards applied. Your bundled savings cover up to 100% of your flight. Savings vary based on origin/destination, length of trip, stay dates and travel suppliers. Savings not available on all flight + lodging package bookings.

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