Philip A. Hart Visitor Center — Attraction in Empire Township

We love the national parks. We have visited many in the attempt for our kids to participate in the junior ranger programs. This was the first experience we have had where the rangers were rude to us. When asking about where the kids could start finding the workbook answers, I got a very rude ‘What?.’ Now perhaps it was because we were wearing mask and trying to talk through plexiglass, but there’s a different way to handle your lack of understanding. Also, when my kids finished and another ranger was checking their answers, she was having a hard time reading my younger child’s writing. He struggles with handwriting and attends educational therapy to build his confidence in reading and writing. When another ranger tried to help the situation the original ranger said, “Well...I don’t know, this kid can’t write his letters right.” VERY unprofessional and insensitive. Not the way to boost a kids confidence who just spent the last hour trying to learn more about the park, while dozens of other kids just filed paying half attention. Management should seriously consider reviewing the experience some of their rangers are creating in this visitor center. They’re tarnishing the honor of the ranger...

My friend and I decided to stop by Philip A. Hart Center last weekend or two weekends ago. It had a museum that related to natures in Western Michigan and had interesting information we didn't know about! They also had interesting books related to nature and Sleeping bear dune. I had purchased a book that was mushroom foraged related and it had good price for that book. I was at cashier and elder ladies who worked there. I had to inform them that we were deaf after one of ladies talked to me vocally and we were tried to communicate through one of apps (Transcribe live) on my phone. I figured it was new to them. They were effective in communicating with us as the deaf customers & tourists. I noticed one of ladies picked a sheet with a picture of communicating device for between hearing and deaf & hard of hearing people. I read my Transcribe live app translateing as the lady told the ladies that they should have gotten the device for deaf people in the future. They were adorable and tried to accommodate! I appreciated...

Amazing visitors center. Includes a cool topography map of the Sleepy Bear Dunes. Push buttons to see the different locations in the National Park. nice displays of the flora and fauna of the area. Different animals that reside in the terrain is fascinating too. Be sure to look.in this big room. Special area is the auditorium that includes artwork on both sides. Look up close to see the different mediums such quilts, acrylic paint, watercolors, wood etc. Super clean bathrooms. At the front area you'll purchase your 7 day pass. Various types to purchase. If anyone is over 62 purchase a pass for $20 lasts 365 days (1 year) otherwise pass is $25. Yes gift items in lobby. Large parking area. Don't forget the beach about one mile away. Beach parking area to right (small lighthouse) to see if looking for lighthouses (tour). Worthy of photos. SUPPORT the national parks. In 2023 I watched an amazing video about this park. Which changes...