Wild Things Cottage
Empire, Michigan
Amenities
A/C
Pets Allowed
Parking
Washer & Dryer
Patio/Balcony
Fireplace
Home details
Bedroom 1
2 double beds, 1 twin bed
Bedroom 2
1 queen bed
Bedroom 3
2 twin beds
Bedroom 4
1 queen bed
Escape to the heart of Northern Michigan at Wild Things Cottage, a serene retreat tucked along Benzonia Trail in Empire. Just minutes from the crystal-clear waters of Glen Lake and the iconic Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, this cozy and versatile property sleeps up to 13 guests (ideal for 10 adults due to bunk bed weight limits) and offers the perfect blend of privacy, comfort, and access to outdoor adventure.
Set on a quiet, wooded lot, Wild Things Cottage is ideal for families looking to recharge in a beautiful natural setting. Inside, you’ll find a bright, welcoming interior with rustic charm, modern amenities, and plenty of room to relax after a day of activity.
A major highlight is the separate apartment above the garage—complete with its own living room, kitchen, sleeping area, bathroom, and jetted tub. Sleeping up to 4 guests, it’s the perfect place for grandparents, couples, or anyone seeking extra privacy while still enjoying time with the group.
Highlights
• 10 minutes to Sleeping Bear Dunes & Empire Beach
• Short drive to Glen Arbor, Crystal Lake, and Traverse City
• Spacious yard, fire pit, and quiet forested setting
• Fast Wi-Fi, smart TV, and modern comforts
• Perfect for families, couples, nature lovers, and multi-generational groups
— THE PROPERTY —
Private | WiFi | Wooded Setting
Bedrooms
• Bedroom 1 (Main Floor): Two twin beds
• Bedroom 2 (Upstairs): Queen bed
• Bedroom 3 (Upstairs): 1 twin bed + full-over-full bunk bed
• Bedroom 4 (Garage Apartment): Queen bed
• Additional Sleeping: Pull-out couch in apartment
Bathrooms
• Bathroom 1: ¾ bath on main floor (off kitchen)
• Bathroom 2: Full bathroom with tub (Jack & Jill style between upstairs bedrooms)
• Bathroom 3: Jetted tub + toilet in garage apartment
Outdoor Living
• Grill
• Backyard space
• Fire pit
• Yard games
• Patio furniture
Kitchen
Fully equipped with:
Refrigerator • Stovetop • Oven • Dishwasher • Cooking basics • Coffee maker • Toaster • Paper towels & trash bags
Indoor Living
• Comfortable living room
• Air conditioning
• Smart TV
• Downstairs game room with arcade games: Golden Tee 2025, Mario Bros, and Dream Arcades Vision Pro with hundreds of games to choose from!
• Board games
• Apartment features its own living room + window A/C
General Amenities
Linens • Towels • Heating & A/C • Fast Wi-Fi
Accessibility:
• Steps required to enter home
• Two bedrooms on upper level
• Garage apartment accessed via stairs
Parking: Space for up to 4 vehicles
— REST EASY WITH US —
Property Manager invites you to unwind and enjoy a stress-free getaway. We take pride in cleanliness and property care to ensure you arrive to a home that is comfortable, welcoming, and well maintained. Should any issue arise, our friendly staff is available 24/7 to assist with urgent needs.
— POLICIES —
• No smoking
• Dogs welcome (up to 2); please contact management prior to arrival
• No events, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or large gatherings
• No fireworks
• Respect quiet hours: 10 PM–8 AM
• Day guests must be approved if exceeding 13 total guests; violations may result in fines or eviction
• Must be 25+ to book
• Additional fees and taxes may apply
• Photo ID may be required at check-in
• Please review the rental agreement for full house rules, cancellation policies, and non-refundable management/booking fees
• Starter supplies provided: paper towel, toilet paper, garbage bags, hand soap, dish soap, and dishwasher tabs (if applicable). Additional supplies may be needed for longer stays.
• Seasonal amenities (including grills and docks, if applicable) may not be available year-round.
• If a particular amenity is important to your stay, please reach out prior to booking.
All stays include
At Homes & Villas by Marriott Bonvoy we believe certain amenities should be standard.
24/7 support
Kitchen essentials
Starter kit of bathroom amenities
High-speed wifi
Professional cleaning
Premium linens and towels
Television
Digital free stays
Our Tiny Home rentals may not include all essential amenities inside the home.
About the area
Empire, Michigan, is a serene and picturesque village that serves as a gateway to some of the most stunning natural landscapes in the United States. Nestled in the heart of the Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore, Empire offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in the beauty of pure Michigan wilderness.
The Sleeping Bear Dunes are the star attraction, with majestic sand dunes rising up to 450 feet above Lake Michigan, providing breathtaking panoramic views. The Dune Climb is a popular activity for those looking to test their stamina and be rewarded with stunning vistas. For a more leisurely experience, the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive offers a loop through the park with various overlooks and picnic spots.
Hiking enthusiasts will find a paradise of trails, such as the Empire Bluff Trail, which leads to one of the most iconic overlooks in the area, or the many paths that wind through the forests and dunes, offering glimpses of local wildlife and diverse ecosystems. The national lakeshore also boasts miles of pristine beaches, perfect for sunbathing, swimming, and beachcombing.
For those interested in maritime history, the South Manitou Island Lighthouse and the Sleeping Bear Point Maritime Museum provide insights into the region's past as a hub for shipping on the Great Lakes. South Manitou Island itself is a fascinating day trip, accessible by ferry, where visitors can explore old farmsteads, shipwrecks, and the island's unique flora and fauna.
Empire is not just about natural beauty; the village has a charming downtown area with local shops, art galleries, and eateries that showcase the region's agricultural bounty. The Empire Area Museum Complex gives a glimpse into the local history and culture, while the annual Empire Asparagus Festival celebrates the area's agricultural heritage with food, music, and fun.
For those looking to extend their stay, Empire offers a range of accommodations, from cozy bed and breakfasts to lakeside campgrounds, ensuring a comfortable base from which to explore the surrounding beauty.
In essence, Empire, Michigan, is a destination that offers a tranquil escape into nature's embrace, with enough variety to satisfy outdoor adventurers, beach lovers, history buffs, and those simply seeking a peaceful retreat. Its combination of stunning landscapes, rich history, and small-town charm makes it a hidden gem worth discovering.
House rules
Check-in 4:00 PM • Check-out 10:00 AM
Payment & Cancellation
Required Identification Number:46-0822345