Discover Frankenmuth: The Ultimate Bavarian Escape in the USA

 

 Experience Germany without the Passport

Frankenmuth, Michigan is a small town located in Saginaw County, known for its German heritage and charming Bavarian architecture. The town was founded in 1845 by German settlers and still maintains much of its German character to this day.

Nestled in the heart of Michigan, it is a place where time seems to stand still and German heritage is celebrated with pride. Known as “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth offers a unique blend of old-world charm and modern amenities, making it the perfect destination for a weekend getaway or a longer vacation. From indulging in a world-famous chicken dinner to browsing one of the largest Christmas stores in the world, there’s something for everyone in this happy little town.

In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore the best places in Frankenmuth to eat, stay and play. You will be given a glimpse into the rich history and vibrant culture of this hidden gem in the Midwest. So pack your bags and get ready to discover the magic of Frankenmuth! It is like gaining a little insight of what it would be like to travel to Germany, with no passport required.

Where to Eat in Frankenmuth 

Visit the Bavarian Inn, a must-visit for anyone traveling to Frankenmuth. The restaurant offers a variety of authentic German dishes, including sauerbraten, schnitzel, and bratwurst, as well as American favorites like burgers and chicken. But the food is just one part of the experience. The restaurant is also home to the Glockenspiel, a 35-bell carillon that plays twice a day. The Glockenspiel features figures that depict the legend of the Pied Piper of Hamelin and is a highlight of any visit to the Bavarian Inn. Casual.

–Frankenmuth Brewery. This establishment has been in operation since the latter 1800s. The brewery produces a variety of brews, including their flagship beer, Frankenmuth Pilsener.  In addition to the brewery, the restaurant serves a range of classic pub fare, such as burgers, sandwiches, and pizza, as well as more upscale options like steak and seafood. The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, with exposed brick walls and wood beams. Overall, it’s a great spot to enjoy good food and craft beer in Frankenmuth. Casual.

–Station 100. If you’re looking for a unique dining experience that combines history, delicious food, and an incredible atmosphere, then look no further than the Station 100 in Frankenmuth, Michigan. Housed in a beautifully restored train station built in the late 1800s, Station 100 is a restaurant that serves up American and European cuisine with a twist. The restaurant’s menu features a wide variety of dishes made from scratch with locally sourced ingredients. From hand-cut steaks and fresh seafood to vegetarian and vegan options, there is something for everyone who visits.

What really sets Station 100 apart is its incredible atmosphere. The train station has been carefully restored to preserve its historic charm, with many original details intact.

In addition to its incredible food and atmosphere, Station 100 is also known for its excellent service. The restaurant’s staff is friendly, knowledgeable, and attentive, ensuring that every guest has an unforgettable dining experience. Fine Dining. Reservations required.

–Tiffany’s Food & Spirits. This is a laid-back restaurant and bar and it’s a great place to go if you are in the mood for pizza. There are many other offerings as well, including soups, salads, pasta dishes, burgers, hotdogs and more. Traditional pub-type setting with a full restaurant menu. Casual.

-Eat at Zehnders. This is a family-owned and operated restaurant and hotel that has been a staple in Frankenmuth for over 160 years. The restaurant is known for its family-style chicken dinners, which include all-you-can-eat chicken, mashed potatoes, gravy, stuffing, and more. The dinners also come with a variety of sides, including coleslaw, cranberry relish, and hot buttered noodles. In addition to the chicken dinners, Zehnder’s also offers a variety of other menu items, including seafood, steaks, and German favorites like sauerbraten and schnitzel. The restaurant is open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, and also offers a Sunday brunch buffet. Casual.

Side Note: Zehnder’s also operates a bakery, which offers a variety of baked goods, including breads, pastries, and cakes. The bakery is located next to the restaurant and is a popular stop for visitors in Frankenmuth.

Where to Stay in Frankenmuth

If you’re planning a trip to Frankenmuth, one of the most important decisions you’ll make is where to stay. Fortunately, this charming town offers a variety of options for accommodations. Here are some of the best places to stay while visiting:

–Bavarian Inn Lodge – This conveniently located inn is one of the most popular places to stay in Frankenmuth, and for good reason. This family-friendly hotel features over 350 rooms and suites, each with its own unique Bavarian-style decor. The hotel also offers a variety of amenities, including indoor and outdoor pools, (including adult-only options), water slides, a miniature golf course, and several on-site restaurants. It also boasts several very large game/arcade areas for adults and children alike, as well as play areas for even the littlest of tykes. 

The Bavarian Inn in Frankenmuth, Michigan also has a treasure trove of unique and fascinating items on display. Here are just a few of the treasures you can see during your visit:

Heritage Room: The Heritage Room at the Bavarian Inn has a museum-like display of artifacts and memorabilia from the Zehnder family’s history in Frankenmuth. The exhibit includes photographs, letters, clothing, and other items that showcase the family’s deep roots in the community.

Nutcracker Collection: The Bavarian Inn features a vast collection of nutcrackers on display throughout the hotel. The collection includes over 1,000 nutcrackers, ranging from traditional wooden designs to modern interpretations.

Musical Instruments: The Bavarian Inn Lodge has a collection of over 20 antique musical instruments on display, including pianos, harpsichords, and organs from the private collection of the hotel’s founder, William “Tiny” Zehnder.

Christmas Decorations: The Bavarian Inn is known for its elaborate Christmas decorations during the holiday season, which include over 100 decorated Christmas trees, thousands of lights, and countless ornaments and decorations throughout the hotel. You will also see many upside-down Christmas trees hanging from the ceilings.

They also have gift shops on-site so you can take home a little piece of Bavaria to remember your time in Frankenmuth.

-The Drury Inn Frankenmuth is another excellent option for accommodations in Frankenmuth. This hotel features clean, comfortable rooms with modern amenities. And while it does not boast the historical options or water views of the other places mentioned here, it does have a complimentary hot breakfast. They also offer a free evening reception with hot food and cold beverage choices, and free popcorn is available as well.

The Drury Inn Frankenmuth is a clean, no-muss/no-fuss option, conveniently located within walking distance to many of the city’s best attractions.

–Marv Herzog Hotel One of the highlights of the Marv Herzog Hotel is its on-site restaurant, which serves delicious German and American cuisine in a cozy and welcoming atmosphere. The restaurant also features live polka music from time-to-time, creating a festive and fun dining experience.

Head out to the spacious back porch and sit in the rockers provided to watch the boats that are moving along Cass River. A beautiful multi-level deck provides a great place to drink your morning coffee, sit and refresh midday, or it can be a wonderful place to unwind before you head up to your comfortable room to retire for the night.

The Marv Herzog Hotel is a one-of-a-kind destination that offers a blend of charm, comfort, and a celebration of German culture. Centrally located to area attractions.

Zehnder's Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark

Discover the ultimate family getaway at Zehnder's Splash Village Hotel and Waterpark, featuring 17 deluxe accommodations, including 7 spacious family suites. Dive into a world of aquatic excitement with attractions designed for all ages. Enjoy thrilling rides, a variety of pools, play areas, and relaxing spots to make your stay unforgettable. 

For those who prefer to stay dry, enjoy the bustling arcade or grab a bite at the Elf Hollow Cafe or Mushroom Grille. The hotel lobby features a 26-foot tree with a cozy gas fireplace at its base, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Complimentary shuttle service is available to Zehnder's Restaurant and the Fortress Golf Course. 

Fun Fact

Hanging Christmas trees upside down does not seem to be a widespread tradition in Germany, the country credited with popularizing the modern Christmas tree tradition. However, there are historical accounts of some German-speaking communities in Eastern Europe hanging Christmas trees upside down as early as the 19th century. In recent years, there has been a renewed interest in this tradition in some parts of Europe and the United States. In Frankenmuth, you will see upside Christmas trees everywhere inside of the Bavarian Inn.

Bronner’s Christmas Store

While they are many things to do in Frankenmuth, Bronner’s deserves a space of its own in this travel guide.

Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is a popular tourist attraction located in Frankenmuth, Michigan, and is known as the world’s largest Christmas store. It was established in 1945 by Wally Bronner and has since become a staple of the local community.

Spanning over 7 acres, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is home to more than 50,000 unique gifts and decorations, and attracts over two million visitors each year. The store features dozens of themed Christmas displays and hundreds of Christmas trees, each adorned with unique ornaments and decorations.

Visitors can shop for a wide variety of Christmas decorations, including ornaments, lights, wreaths, nativity scenes, and much more. Bronner’s also offers a large selection of items, where customers can choose from a variety of designs and have their names and special messages personalized on them, immediately on-site.

Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland also boasts several attractions, such as the Silent Night Memorial Chapel, which features a beautiful stained glass window and a replica of the original Silent Night chapel in Oberndorf, Austria (where it is said the first Christmas Carol was performed). There’s also a large outdoor nativity scene, a life-size Santa Claus statue, and a giant Santa Claus chair that visitors can sit in and take photos.

Bronner’s is a must-visit destination for anyone who loves Christmas and the holiday season. With its vast selection of decorations, immersive displays, and festive atmosphere, it’s a beloved tradition for families from all over the world. Get the Christmas Spirit any time of the year by visiting Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.

What to Do in Frankenmuth, Michigan

Outdoor Enthusiasts

Those who enjoy being outside will find plenty to do in Frankenmuth, from hiking and biking to kayaking and fishing. The town is located on the Cass River, and visitors can rent kayaks or canoes and explore the river on their own.

-Paddleboat Rides

A paddleboat ride in Frankenmuth is a fun and relaxing way to explore the town’s scenic riverfront. The Bavarian Belle Riverboat offers one-hour sightseeing tours of the Cass River, which winds through the heart of Frankenmuth.

As you cruise down the river, you’ll pass historic covered bridges and past picturesque landscapes, while the captain provides interesting commentary on the town’s history and landmarks. You can sit back and relax in the open-air upper deck or enjoy the comfort of the climate-controlled lower deck, which features large windows for optimal viewing.

In addition to the sightseeing tours, the Bavarian Belle Riverboat also offers specialty cruises throughout the year. Check ahead for cruise availability.

Overall, a paddleboat ride on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat is a great way to enjoy the natural beauty of Frankenmuth and learn more about the town’s history and culture.

–Concerts and Festivals. Frankenmuth is known for its lively outdoor concerts and festivals that take place throughout the year. One of the most popular events is the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival, which is held annually in June and celebrates the town’s German heritage with music, dancing, food, and beer.

-During the summer months, visitors can enjoy the Music in the Park concert series, which features free outdoor concerts on specified days in Memorial Park. The concerts showcase a variety of musical genres, including rock, country, and jazz.

-The Frankenmuth Farmers Market is another popular outdoor event, which takes place seasonally. Visitors can browse a variety of fresh produce, baked goods, and handmade crafts from local vendors, while enjoying live music and entertainment.

-Another popular event is the Frankenmuth Oktoberfest, which features traditional Bavarian music, food, and drinks. Visitors can enjoy polka dancing, live music, and a wide variety of German beers and cuisine.

-Zehnder's Snowfest has been happening annually for over three decades. Here you'll find incredible ice and snow carving contests, as well as an "All Things Chocolate Baking" contest. Fireworks displays on Saturday while the festival is running.

Whether you are enjoying a single day, or are planning a longer stay, it is easy to find enjoyment in Frankenmuth. There are always plenty of things to see and do, no matter the time of year you visit.

Museums

-When you are ready to head indoors, the Frankenmuth Historical Museum is a fascinating attraction. It showcases the rich history of the town, from its earliest settlers to the present. It is small but interesting and it has a really cute gift shop.

-The Michigan Heroes Museum honors over 900 service men and women from the state of Michigan.

The Shops!

The Cheese Haus is a popular specialty food store located in the heart of Frankenmuth, Michigan. It offers a wide selection of artisanal cheeses, meats, and gourmet food products that are sourced from local producers and from around the world.

Fudge is a beloved treat in Frankenmuth, and there are several fudge shops in town where visitors can indulge in this sweet confection. One of the most popular fudge shops in Frankenmuth is the Frankenmuth Fudge Kitchen. This family-owned business has been making homemade fudge for over 50 years and offers a variety of flavors, including classic chocolate and vanilla, as well as unique options like pumpkin pie and maple nut.

Another popular fudge shop in Frankenmuth is the SugarHigh Bakery. This bakery specializes in homemade fudge, as well as other sweet treats like cookies, cupcakes, and brownies. Their fudge is made fresh daily and comes in a variety of flavors.

Zac & Mac's (formerly Zak's Bavarian Candy House) is yet another place to find hand-dipped chocolates, fudge, toffees, caramels and other delightful confections. The father, Mac, named the store after his son, and hoped that one day he would take over the family business. When his dream came to fruition, his son renamed the store Zac & Macs to honor his father, as he had done for him so many years, with the store name.

Sausage! There are several sausage stores in Frankenmuth that offer a variety of high-quality sausages and other German-inspired products. Bratwurst, knockwurst, weisswurst, and mettwurst are just some of the products you will find.

Frankenmuth River Place: Located next to River Place Shops, Frankenmuth River Place is another outdoor shopping center that features a variety of stores and attractions, including the Bavarian Belle Riverboat, a candy store, a fudge shop, and several clothing and gift stores.

Rau's Country Store is a store in Frankenmuth that specializes in nostalgic and vintage items. It is a charming old-fashioned store and features a wide variety of products that are reminiscent of the past, such as classic toys, pick-and-choose retro candies (set out in barrels), and vintage collectibles. Visitors can find items like old-fashioned candy sticks, glass soda bottles, vintage board games, and classic toys like Slinkys and yo-yos. They also have a variety of retro-inspired kitchen items, such as glass milk bottles and vintage-inspired kitchen towels.

In addition to the nostalgic products, The Old Time Frankenmuth also has a section dedicated to Michigan-made products, including jams, jellies, and handmade crafts.

River Place Shops: This outdoor shopping complex is located along the Cass River and features over 40 unique specialty shops, including clothing stores, gift shops, and home decor stores. There are also places that offer amusement, such as the Mirror Maze. Visitors will find a variety of restaurants and cafes here as well, and a nice outdoor seating area to sit and people watch or just enjoy the fresh air (while you take a break from shopping).

Toyberg is a popular toy store for both children and adults (who doesn't love toys?). It is located on Main Street in the heart of Frankenmuth’s shopping district. Inside, visitors will find a wide selection of classic and modern toys, games, puzzles, and collectibles.

Birch Run Premium Outlets: While not located in Frankenmuth itself, Birch Run Premium Outlets is just a short drive away and is a popular destination for outlet shopping. The center features over 100 stores, including designer clothing brands, sports apparel stores, and home goods stores.

How to Get Around

Frankenmuth is a small town that is easy to get around on foot. Many of the popular attractions, restaurants, and shops are located within walking distance of each other.

However, if you prefer not to walk, there are several other transportation options available:

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides: Frankenmuth is famous for its horse-drawn carriage rides, which take visitors on a tour of the town’s beautiful streets and landmarks.

Frankenmuth FunShuttle: The Frankenmuth FunShuttle is a free shuttle service that runs between several of the town’s popular attractions, including the Bavarian Inn Restaurant, the Frankenmuth River Place Shops, and Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.

Biking: Frankenmuth also has several bike rental shops, where visitors can rent bicycles to explore the town and its scenic bike paths.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Several taxi and ride-sharing services operate in Frankenmuth, providing visitors with convenient transportation options for getting around town.

Driving. While you can shuttle, walk or bike to most places, driving is an easy option as well. Some destinations (such as Bronner’s or the Birch Run Premium Outlet Mall) are a little further out than most places. Parking is ample and easy to find.

The City is Charming

To wrap up this travel guide, let me just say that Frankenmuth, Michigan is a charming destination that offers visitors a unique glimpse into Bavarian culture and traditions. From the delicious food to the beautiful architecture and outdoor activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing weekend getaway or an action-packed family vacation, Frankenmuth has it all. So why not plan your next trip to this delightful “Little Bavaria” and experience all that it has to offer? You won’t be disappointed!