How to enjoy a family day with kids in Empire

By Chris Loud

Sun contributor

How is Empire still Empire? It’s one of the main hubs for the Sleeping Bear Dunes, it has epic beaches, and it’s right along one of the most beautiful stretches of road in the entire region. Yet, the town of Empire remains solidly quaint, comfortable, and relaxed. Sure, the crowds come through, and the beaches get busy, but the town simply swells with the ebb and flow, and returns to its steadfast self. There have been small additions with big, positive impacts over the years, but it’s truly remarkable how Empire has stayed a classic northern Michigan beach town. And for families with kids, it’s a place where they can be active, get dirty, and start fostering those uniquely vibrant lakeside memories.

There are a couple northern Michigan staple activities that parents with small children wish they could just jump right into, but often can’t, and struggle with the patience to introduce their kids to these incredible experiences. One is Sleeping Bear Dunes, and the other is the “Big Lake” of Lake Michigan. Toddlers and long, deep-sand hikes don’t always mix well, and even if you have a backpack carrier, it can be pretty grueling. And the big lake can be a little daunting at times for kiddos who are just learning to stand on their own two feet on dry land, let alone the sloping and undulating shorelines, coupled with often crashing waves.

Before I became a parent, I brought friends from out of town to Empire Beach to experience the big lake. They had two small children at the time, and I was so excited to be there as they experienced Lake Michigan. I had visions of the kids standing at the shoreline and jumping the waves, collecting rocks, and building castles with wet sand and self-filling motes. But as they approached the big beach, with loud crashing waves, and the limitless deep water, they stopped several feet from the shore and just stared, wide-eyed and scared. I learned that maybe not every little kid is ready to tackle a Great Lake, or even more poignantly, sometimes just wants to feel safe and have fun. And same goes for the parents.

However, that’s why Empire Beach is one of the best spots for this exact scenario. We wandered over on the other side of the parking lot to the chill, easy, relaxed beach on beautiful South Bar Lake, and those kids had the time of their lives. And the parents could kick back and enjoy. This little gem of a beach on South Bar has a dock, shallow water, plenty of sand, and a playground with playsets and activities made for smaller children. It’s a true beach haven right in the midst of the wild and wonderful atmosphere of a classic, big Lake Michigan beach. In addition to this perfect little oasis, there’s a large playground with a basketball court that sits right next to the main beach. So, this really is a playground and beach for all ages, and all levels of interest, curiosity, and capabilities.

For the bigger kids, or forever kids (parents) who want to do the opposite of above and really dive into the wonders of the big lake, Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak has all the water toys you can imagine, plus they’re available for advice and information to stay safe and have the best experience. You can even rent and take lessons if you’re interested in just having the kids try something out or hone their skills. This is a locally owned and operated business and outfitter, with some of the most respected products and knowledge on the coast.

You can make Empire all about the water, and rightfully so, but there’s so much more just steps in from the shore. For hiking with kids, the Empire Bluff Trail is well-known to be one of the best “bang for your buck” trails in the area. In other words, it’s not that difficult of a hike, but the view at the top is famously spectacular. Also, it’s mostly through the woods, and mostly non-deep-sinking sand, so it’s quite a bit easier on the kids, and the ole calf muscles.

With enough uphill battles already on vacation, there are plenty of easier hikes, bikes, and walks to be enjoyed around Empire. The Sleeping Bear Heritage Trail can be accessed just north of Empire. It’s a paved, easy to moderate trail. If you’re not up for packing your own kid-bike contraptions, you can rent bikes at Sleeping Bear Surf & Kayak, where they have cargo bikes ready for kid hauling. You can also find bike rentals at Empire Outdoors nearby.

For an easy way to get the kids into nature, check out the Chippewa Run Natural Area. This is more of a nature walk than a hike, with easy pathways and boardwalks. The 110-acre reserve really highlights the area’s wetland and forest habitats. It’s a great spot to get the kids moving through nature, and to spark curiosity in the surrounding local ecosystems.

I’m sure by now you’ve worked up an appetite. For a small town, Empire offers amazing plethora of indulgences to reward your active morning. One of the best sandwich shops in the region that is still somewhat under the radar is Shipwreck Cafe. Delightfully on-theme sandwiches, with fresh ingredients and big portions for the price. They also have a classic frozen custard that’s always a kid favorite.

Speaking of ice cream and treats, Tiffany’s Cafe is located right downtown with hand-dipped ice cream. It’s a great place to start before a stroll around town. If you’re really looking for a special and unique treat, Grocer’s Daughter has amazing gelato, and it’s one of northern Michigan’s most respected chocolate shops. They have sustainably sourced products, and creatively curated and crafted treats, perfect for gifts, or treating your family to the best of the best. Also, if you need a super casual spot to sit down for table service and classic bar & grill fare, Joe’s Friendly Tavern hits all the marks.

If you don’t catch the best weather day, the new Glen Lake Community Library is right there on Front Street in downtown Empire. It’s really a nice place to take the kids for a chill inside time, for reading and playing games. The Empire Area Museum, located just north up the main road into town, is also a nice option for an indoor activity, and a great way to get a true sense of the area you’re visiting.

Overall, considering that Empire is just a half hour from Traverse City, and a half hour up the coast from Frankfort, this small town packs in so much to do for families, while impressively staying true to its casual beach town roots.