Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is a charming town that brings a touch of Europe to the Midwest. With its Bavarian-style architecture, rich German heritage, and year-round festivals, Frankenmuth is one of Michigan’s most popular travel destinations. Whether you’re visiting for a day trip, a family getaway, or a romantic weekend, there are plenty of attractions to keep you entertained. Here’s a guide to the best things to do in Frankenmuth.
Things to Do in Frankenmuth
1. Visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland
No trip to Frankenmuth is complete without a stop at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store. Open year-round, it covers 27 acres filled with ornaments, lights, nativity sets, and holiday décor from around the globe. It’s a magical experience no matter the season.
2. Take a Stroll Through Downtown Frankenmuth
Downtown Frankenmuth looks like it’s straight out of a Bavarian village. Stroll along Main Street and enjoy shops, boutiques, and specialty stores. Don’t forget to stop at the Covered Bridge for a picturesque photo.
3. Enjoy a Famous Chicken Dinner
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It is widely known for its world-famous chicken dinners at Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth. Served family-style, these hearty meals include all the fixings and have become a beloved tradition for visitors.
4. Ride on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat
Take a scenic cruise on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat along the Cass River. This relaxing, narrated tour offers great views of Frankenmuth and is perfect on a sunny afternoon.
5. Explore the River Place Shops
Modeled after a European village, River Place Shops is a shopping complex with over 40 specialty stores, eateries, and attractions. You’ll find everything from souvenirs to sweet treats and craft shops.
6. Visit the Frankenmuth Historical Museum
For a deeper look into the town’s heritage, stop by the Historical Museum, where exhibits detail the story of German immigrants who founded the town in 1845.
7. Have Fun at Frankenmuth Aerial Park
Adventurers will love the Aerial Park, which features ropes courses and zip lines. It’s a great way to enjoy the outdoors and get a bit of a thrill.
8. Sample Craft Beer at Frankenmuth Brewery
Founded in 1862, The Brewery is one of the oldest breweries in Michigan. Visitors can enjoy craft beer flights, hearty pub fare, and views of the Cass River from the brewery’s patio.
9. Experience Seasonal Festivals
Frankenmuth hosts numerous festivals throughout the year, including:
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Bavarian Festival (June) – celebrating German culture.
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Oktoberfest (September) – the first city outside of Germany officially sanctioned to hold an Oktoberfest by Munich.
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Snowfest (January) – famous for its snow and ice sculpture competitions.
10. Stay at Bavarian Inn Lodge or Zehnder’s Splash Village
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Make your visit even more special by staying at one of Frankenmuth’s themed accommodations. The Bavarian Inn Lodge offers indoor pools, mini-golf, and family fun, while Zehnder’s Splash Village features one of the largest indoor waterparks in Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Frankenmuth
1. What is the city known for?
The city is best known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” famous for its Bavarian-style architecture, German heritage festivals, world-famous chicken dinners, and Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas store in the world.
2. Is The city worth visiting?
Yes! Frankenmuth is a unique destination with something for everyone, shopping, dining, festivals, family-friendly attractions, and cultural experiences. It’s especially popular for couples, families, and holiday travelers.
3. What are the best family-friendly activities in The city?
Families love Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, River Place Shops, Waldmeier Park & Aerial Park, Zehnder’s Splash Village (indoor waterpark), and seasonal festivals like Snowfest.
4. What food is The city famous for?
The town is famous for its family-style chicken dinners served at Zehnder’s and the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. These meals often include mashed potatoes, stuffing, noodles, and traditional German-inspired sides.
5. What are the best things to do in The city for couples?
Couples can enjoy a romantic stroll downtown, sample craft beers at the Brewery, take a Bavarian Belle Riverboat cruise, or attend Oktoberfest.
Final Thoughts
Frankenmuth is more than just a Bavarian-themed town, it’s a destination filled with unique attractions, rich traditions, and family-friendly fun.
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