What To See & Do
Our Favorite Frankenmuth Attractions
Things to Do in Frankenmuth for a Weekend Getaway
If you are mapping out things to do in Frankenmuth, this small Bavarian-style town is one of Michigan’s most visited destinations. Frankenmuth, Michigan, things to do range from a famous chicken dinner to a stroll along the Cass River, and the town packs in more shopping, dining, and seasonal attractions than its size would suggest. Whether you are planning a weekend getaway for two or a day trip, Frankenmuth is a great destination.
If you would rather skip the crowds of a big Frankenmuth hotel, Bay City makes an ideal home base. It sits about 25 minutes away and offers a walkable downtown and a scenic riverfront, without the tourist traffic. It is a fitting complement to a day spent seeing what to do in Frankenmuth.
Explore Downtown Frankenmuth Shopping and Attractions
Start your day in downtown Frankenmuth, where storefronts with old-world charm line the streets. Plan to spend at least two hours here. Frankenmuth shopping means specialty boutiques selling everything from cheese to handmade goods. For a fun way to see it all, hop on the Golden Ticket Trolley to learn about the town’s history and find a few hidden gems along the way. Among the most popular Frankenmuth attractions for couples is a carriage ride followed by a tasting at St. Julian Winery.
Cruise the Cass River on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat
For a change of pace, the Bavarian Belle Riverboat offers a short cruise along the Cass River. It is a relaxed way to see the town from the water, and it fits naturally into a slower afternoon between shopping stops.
Visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland
No visit to Frankenmuth is complete without a stop at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, open year-round. About 100,000 lights illuminate Bronner’s Christmas Lane from dawn to midnight every night. Do not miss the replica of the Silent Night Chapel, a quiet spot on the grounds honoring the history behind the well-known Christmas hymn. Bronner’s also devotes entire aisles to ornaments that can be personalized on-site, making it one of the more distinctive Frankenmuth activities even in the height of summer.
Make Historic Webster House Your Bay City Home Base
When it is time to rest after a day of shopping and sightseeing, Historic Webster House offers a quiet, elegant alternative to a chain hotel near Frankenmuth. This Bed and Breakfast in Bay City puts you close enough for an easy day trip, while giving you a historic home to return to each evening. Between gourmet breakfasts, a private spa room, and hospitality you will not find at a hotel, they have become a favorite for couples planning a weekend getaway in Michigan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is there to do in Frankenmuth besides shopping?
Beyond downtown shopping, popular things to do in Frankenmuth include Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, a Bavarian Belle Riverboat cruise, a carriage ride and wine tasting at St. Julian Winery, and a family-style chicken dinner at Bavarian Inn or Zehnder’s.
How far is Frankenmuth from Bay City?
Frankenmuth sits about 25 minutes from Bay City, making it an easy day trip for guests staying at Historic Webster House.
What is Frankenmuth Michigan known for?
Frankenmuth is best known for its Bavarian-style architecture, its family-style chicken dinners, and Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store.
Is Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland open year round?
Yes, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is open year round and lit with roughly 100,000 lights every evening.
Penn State Football Tailgate Guide: Lots, Traditions, and Where to Stay
Why a Penn State Football Tailgate Deserves a Real Plan
For thousands of fans, a Penn State football tailgate is the main event, and the game is the finale. Grills are lit hours before kickoff, blue and white cover the lots around West Shore Home Field at Beaver Stadium, and strangers trade plates like longtime neighbors. With four home games left on the 2026 schedule, including the October 10 White Out against USC, fall is prime tailgating season in Happy Valley. This guide covers the lots, the traditions, and the food. For permits and a Penn State tailgate map of the parking zones, start with our Beaver Stadium Parking Guide.
Penn State Tailgate Lots and Opening Times
Stadium lots open at 7 a.m. for noon kickoffs and 8 a.m. for all other start times, and tents and chairs cannot go up before the posted opening. On a night game, that makes for a long day. The 7:30 p.m. White Out kickoff means lots open more than eleven hours ahead, so pack shade, layers, and more food than you think you need.
Each lot has its own character. The ORV lots belong to the RV crowd and open at 6 p.m. on the Thursday before home games, which turns a Saturday into a three-day campout. Lot 41, behind the south end zone, is paved, close to the gates, and reserved. Lots 14 through 17 and Lot 31 tend to draw families and longtime season ticket holders. Groups that want everything handled can book a full-service setup through Tailgate Guys, Penn State’s premium tailgate partner. Fans without a season permit can buy single-game parking at Lot 25 or Lot 36, subject to availability. Tailgating is not permitted in the East Deck.
A Bed and Breakfast Alternative to Hotels Near Beaver Stadium
Overnight parking is prohibited outside designated lots, so most fans need somewhere to land once the lots clear. Apple Pony Inn is a bed and breakfast on a 17-acre working farm in historic Boalsburg, four miles from Penn State, with seven equine-inspired suites and free parking. Guests can add our Tailgaters/Event Rental for $50, which includes a folding table, four camping chairs, a medium cooler, and a bottle opener. Bring your own ice and drinks. We have only two sets, so the rental must be added at the time of booking.
The morning after is where a farm stay earns its place in a fall football getaway. Breakfast is a two-course, farm-to-table meal, and on Sundays we serve our Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Dumplings with cinnamon whipped cream. October game weekends also overlap with fall color across Central Pennsylvania, so a Sunday scenic foliage drive makes a natural encore. If you are comparing hotels near Beaver Stadium, check availability at Apple Pony Inn before the remaining home weekends book up.
Penn State Tailgating Traditions Worth Leaving the Grill For
About two hours before kickoff, the cheerleaders, Lionettes, and Nittany Lion mascot lead a pep rally at the Beaver Stadium Block Party on Curtin Road. The team then steps off the blue buses at Curtin and Porter Roads and follows the Blue Band to the South Tunnel while fans line the street for high-fives. Roughly an hour before kickoff, the Blue Band marches down the middle of the Block Party.
Then there is the chant. One side of the lot shouts “We Are,” the other answers “Penn State,” and it repeats until someone adds “Thank you” and hears “You’re welcome” in return.
What to Put on the Grill
Burgers, hot dogs, and buffalo chicken dip remain the standbys because they prep easily at home and share well in the lot. Local spreads often add Pennsylvania Dutch favorites, such as Seltzer’s Lebanon bologna on a meat-and-cheese tray or pickled red beet eggs. Save room for the Berkey Creamery, where Death by Chocolate and Alumni Swirl draw long lines on game weekends.
Penn State Football Tailgate FAQ
What time do Penn State tailgate lots open?
Lots open at 7 a.m. for noon kickoffs and 8 a.m. for all other games. ORV lots open at 6 p.m. on the Thursday before each home game.
Where is the best place to tailgate at Penn State?
It depends on your group. The ORV lots suit RVs, Lot 41 offers a short, paved walk to the gates, and Lots 14 through 17 and Lot 31 lean family-friendly.
How do I get a tailgate spot at Penn State?
You need a football parking permit for your assigned lot. Fans without season parking can buy single-game parking at Lot 25 or Lot 36, subject to availability.
How much is tailgating at Penn State?
Tailgating requires a valid football parking permit, and prices vary by lot and purchase type. Check gopsusports.com or call 1-800-NITTANY for current rates.
Where should I stay for a Penn State football tailgate weekend?
Staying outside downtown State College can make post-game logistics easier. Apple Pony Inn in Boalsburg is four miles from Penn State and includes free parking and a farm-to-table breakfast.
Penn State Football Weekend: Where to Stay
Plan Your Penn State Football Getaway Right
Penn State football weekends transform State College into one of college sports’ most electric destinations. When the Nittany Lions play at home, over 100,000 fans converge on Beaver Stadium, filling downtown restaurants, tailgating lots, and hotel blocks throughout the region. If you’re attending a home game, the best strategy is simple: make it a full weekend, not a single-day rush.
A well-planned Penn State football weekend gives you time to explore campus traditions, enjoy the energy downtown, experience the legendary tailgating scene, and discover the best things to do in State College, PA. Just as important: you need a place to retreat when the crowds thin and the evening winds down.
Most visitors to Penn State football games stay in conventional hotels near campus. Apple Pony Inn offers something different. Located in historic Boalsburg, just four miles from Penn State University, our bed and breakfast sits on a 17-acre working farm on the slopes of Mount Nittany. After spending hours among thousands at Beaver Stadium, you return to countryside quiet, a comfortable guest suite, and a homemade farm-to-table breakfast the next morning.
What Happens During a Penn State Football Weekend
Fans begin arriving Friday afternoon. Restaurants and bars fill. Penn State gear appears everywhere. Former students retrace familiar routes through downtown. Families gather at the Nittany Lion Shrine. Lines form at the Penn State Berkey Creamery long before game day.
Saturday is the heart of it. Tailgating areas surrounding Beaver Stadium fill with tents, grills, music, and multi-generational gatherings of Penn State fans. The Blue Band, student section chants, and traditions create an atmosphere unmatched in college football. The White Out and Stripe Out games add visual spectacle that shapes how fans remember the day.
Give yourself Friday through Sunday. A multi-night stay lets you absorb the weekend without cramming everything into a single day.
Where to Stay for Penn State Football
If you’re looking for Hotels near Beaver Stadium, choose the Apple Pony Inn, which offers lodging with character, located just 4 miles away in Boalsburg. Our seven individually appointed guest suites feature views of Mount Nittany and the surrounding countryside. The inn sits on working farmland with horses, chickens, and a 17-acre setting that feels removed from campus activity yet close enough for game-day access.
Every registered guest receives a complimentary two-course, made-from-scratch breakfast. Our menus feature eggs from our own chickens, seasonal garden produce, and homemade jams and syrups. On Sundays, we serve our signature Pennsylvania Dutch Apple Dumplings with cinnamon whipped cream.
Instead of joining the Saturday morning scramble at downtown restaurants, you start your game day with breakfast at the Inn. After hours at Beaver Stadium, you have a comfortable retreat outside the center of State College. After the game, there’s time to decompress, sleep well, and enjoy a proper meal before heading home.
Frequently Asked Questions About Penn State Football Weekends
What time should I arrive at Beaver Stadium?
Arrive several hours before kickoff if you want to experience tailgating and pre-game traditions. Parking lots open at 7 a.m. for noon games and 8 a.m. for later kickoffs. Traffic increases steadily as game time approaches, so early arrival makes the day easier.
How far is Apple Pony Inn from Penn State?
Apple Pony Inn is approximately four miles from Penn State University, making it convenient for football games and campus activities while offering a countryside setting away from downtown State College.
Should I buy Penn State football parking in advance?
Yes. Penn State sells limited single-game parking passes. Availability varies by game, so advance purchase is recommended. Parking is issued digitally.
What’s the best thing to do in State College besides the football game?
Campus exploration, the Nittany Lion Shrine, Berkey Creamery, downtown walking, the Arboretum at Penn State, the Palmer Museum of Art, and nearby Boalsburg all offer worthwhile activities during football weekend.
What should I wear to a Penn State football game?
Blue and white are always appropriate. Check whether your specific game has a theme. For the White Out, wear white. Stripe Out games assign blue or white based on seating section.
Can you tailgate at Penn State football games?
Yes. Tailgating is central to the Penn State football experience. Extensive parking and tailgating areas surround Beaver Stadium. Review current parking regulations before game day, especially if bringing a larger vehicle or setting up an elaborate tailgate.
What items are allowed into Beaver Stadium?
Penn State permits clear tote bags no larger than 12 inches by 6 inches by 12 inches. Review current stadium policies before your game, as rules change periodically.
Pennsylvania Dutch Country
Best Amish Towns in Lancaster County
If you’re looking for places to visit in Pennsylvania that feel different from the typical East Coast getaway, Pennsylvania Amish Country offers an experience rooted in tradition, history, and rural beauty. The best Amish towns in Pennsylvania are centered throughout Lancaster County, where horse-drawn buggies travel alongside cars, farmland stretches for miles, and generations-old customs remain part of everyday life. From farm markets and quilt shops to scenic backroads and historic attractions, there is no shortage of things to do near Lancaster PA.
Ephrata is an excellent place to begin exploring Pennsylvania Amish towns. Home to the historic Ephrata Cloister, this small town combines early American history with local arts, covered bridges, and Amish-owned farm markets. Nearby Lititz is another favorite in Pennsylvania Dutch Country, known for its walkable downtown, independent shops, and landmarks like the Julius Sturgis Pretzel Bakery and Wilbur Chocolate Shop.
Lancaster City offers a different perspective on Amish towns in PA, blending urban energy with deep agricultural roots. The Lancaster Central Market remains one of the best places to experience local Pennsylvania Dutch culture through fresh produce, baked goods, meats, and handmade specialties sold by Amish and Mennonite vendors.
Stay at a Historic Lancaster County Bed and Breakfast
For visitors looking to experience the region beyond day trips and sightseeing, choosing the right lodging matters. Historic Smithton Inn stands apart from the typical Lancaster Bed and Breakfast. Built in 1763, this thoughtfully restored property combines original stonework, fireplaces, handcrafted furnishings, and modern comforts with the character expected from a historic inn.
Located in Ephrata, the inn offers convenient access to many of the best Amish towns in Pennsylvania, including Bird-in-Hand, Strasburg, Intercourse, and Ronks. Guests can spend the day exploring Amish farm tours, scenic countryside, local restaurants, and artisan shops before returning for an elevated evening experience at the inn’s wine bar and Mediterranean-inspired bistro menu.
Whether you are planning a weekend getaway through Pennsylvania Dutch Country or searching for the best Pennsylvania attractions, Lancaster County remains one of the most interesting destinations in the state.
Plan the Perfect Couple’s Getaway to Mystic
Mystic is the Best Couples Getaway in New England
Winter is the perfect season to slow down and plan a couples getaway in New England that feels intentional, cozy, and easy to enjoy together. Along the Connecticut coast, Mystic stands out as a destination that blends historic character, waterfront scenery, and walkable charm, making it an ideal choice for romantic getaways in New England. With fewer crowds and crisp winter air, the town invites couples to linger a little longer and reconnect.
Spend your days exploring classic Things to do in Mystic, from strolling through Olde Mistick Village to visiting the Mystic Seaport Museum at an unhurried pace. Winter is especially appealing for couples’ weekend getaways, as it allows you to experience the town without the bustle of peak season. Warm up with coffee at a local café, browse boutiques, or enjoy an intimate afternoon at the Mystic Aquarium. As evening approaches, the town sets the mood with cozy wine bars, waterfront walks, and reservations at top restaurants like Shipwright’s Daughter.
Where to Stay in Mystic, CT for Couples
Choosing where to stay in Mystic, CT, plays a big role in shaping your experience, and The Whaler’s Inn delivers exactly what couples look for in romantic getaway hotels. Located near the iconic Bascule Bridge, this coastal hotel in downtown Mystic offers effortless access to dining, shopping, and the Mystic River. The thoughtfully designed rooms balance historic character with modern comfort, creating romantic hotel rooms that feel welcoming and personal.
Many accommodations feature fireplaces or soaking tubs, details that make winter weekend getaways in New England for couples feel especially memorable. After a day of exploring, return to your room to unwind together, or enjoy a glass of wine in one of the inn’s inviting common spaces.
What truly elevates a stay here is the hospitality. The team offers local insight, dining recommendations, and thoughtful touches that help transform a simple trip into a meaningful escape. For couples planning a winter couple’s getaway in New England, our Mystic Hotel provides a setting that feels both relaxed and special.
From daytime adventures to quiet evenings, Mystic offers everything couples want in a coastal escape. When paired with the right hotel, it becomes a destination you will want to return to season after season.
Plan the Ultimate Cape Cod Vacation
Best Cape Cod Vacation for a Coastal Weekend Escape
Planning a Cape Cod vacation is about more than choosing dates; it’s about creating space to slow down, explore, and enjoy the coast at your own pace. Whether you’re visiting for a long weekend or extending your stay, Cape Cod offers an easy mix of classic coastal experiences and spontaneous discoveries that make every trip feel personal.
Start your days with time at the beach, from well-known stretches with wide views to quieter spots tucked away from the crowds. Morning walks along the shoreline, afternoon swims, and golden hour views all feel different, which is part of the charm. When deciding what to do on Cape Cod, balance a few planned highlights with time to wander. Browsing local boutiques, exploring art galleries, or stopping for coffee in one of the many Cape Cod towns often leads to the most memorable moments.
Lighthouse visits are a must for any coastal weekend. Pair them with scenic drives or short walks along the water for an easy way to take in the landscape. Food lovers will also feel right at home. Fresh seafood, creative menus, and casual waterfront dining turn meals into part of the experience. From lobster rolls to oysters and seasonal specials, Cape Cod’s dining scene adds flavor to every day.
For those looking for more active Cape Cod vacation ideas, biking the Cape Cod Rail Trail offers a relaxed way to explore. The trail connects towns, beaches, and local stops you might otherwise miss. Museums and cultural attractions are also worth adding to your itinerary, especially if you want a change of pace or a rainy day option.
Where to Stay for Your Cape Cod Weekend Getaway
Choosing where to stay on Cape Cod sets the tone for your trip. An adults-only Cape Cod bed and breakfast offers couples a comfortable, refined place to recharge after full days of exploring. Centrally located in Harwich, Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn makes it easy to reach beaches, dining, and nearby towns while still offering a peaceful retreat. With thoughtful amenities, stylish rooms, and a gourmet breakfast each morning, it’s a natural fit for a relaxed New England getaway. Book direct and start planning your coastal escape today.
Plan Unforgettable Cape Cod Whale Watching Adventures
Best Cape Cod Whale Watching Tours for Weekend Getaways
A Cape Cod vacation in spring and summer offers a clear path to one of the most memorable coastal experiences, Cape Cod Whale Watching Tours. Just offshore, the Atlantic Ocean becomes an active wildlife corridor where humpback whales, fin whales, and other marine species gather to feed. This seasonal movement, most active from April through October, makes whale watching on Cape Cod a natural addition to any weekend adventure getaway.
Days on the Cape can begin with simple pleasures, including a walk along nearby beaches, a ride on the Cape Cod Rail Trail, or time exploring coastal towns like Chatham and Harwich. Local shops, waterfront dining, and scenic drives create a balanced itinerary without overplanning. Adding Cape Cod whale watching tours introduces a focused excursion that brings you directly into one of the most biologically active marine areas on the East Coast.
The Best Place to Stay on Cape Cod for These Adventures
Choosing places to stay on Cape Cod that offer both comfort and proximity to top experiences is key to a well-paced trip. Staying at Platinum Pebble Boutique Inn in Harwich places you within reach of several departure points while maintaining a central location for exploring the coast. The property provides a modern coastal setting, along with guidance for booking tours that align with your schedule and interests.
Cape Cod whale watching tours typically depart from Provincetown or Barnstable, with many routes heading toward Stellwagen Bank. This protected marine sanctuary creates ideal feeding conditions, which is why it is widely recognized as a prime location for whale watching Massachusetts visitors seek out each year. Onboard naturalists often provide context throughout the trip, helping you identify species and understand behaviors as they unfold.
Operators such as Captain John Boats and Hyannis Whale Watcher Cruises are well-known for consistent access to whale activity and efficient routes to feeding grounds. In Provincetown, Dolphin Fleet Whale Watch offers decades of experience and educational insight, while smaller charters provide more private alternatives for those seeking a quieter outing.
Whether you choose a group excursion or a private charter, Cape Cod whale watching tours offer a structured yet unpredictable experience. Each trip presents new wildlife sightings, from breaching whales to dolphins moving alongside the boat. For a spring or summer weekend on the coast, this experience remains one of the most engaging things to do on Cape Cod.
Plan Your Next Getaway from Seattle on Bainbridge Island
Best Bainbridge Island Day Trip Weekend Guide
A Bainbridge Island day trip offers one of the most rewarding escapes from Seattle, combining scenic ferry views with a relaxed island atmosphere. Just 35 minutes on the Seattle-Bainbridge Island ferry, the transition from the city skyline to the forested shoreline sets the tone for a beautiful day. Whether you are planning a quick outing or extending your visit into a weekend, Bainbridge Island provides a well-rounded experience.
Most day trips begin in Winslow, the island’s walkable village just steps from the ferry terminal. Here, independent shops, galleries, wine bars, and cafés create a compact area that is easy to explore without a set plan. Stops like Eagle Harbor Book Co. and local artisan studios offer a glimpse into the island’s creative culture, while nearby Bainbridge Island restaurants provide options for a relaxed meal.
For those interested in cultural attractions, the Bainbridge Island Museum of Art is a convenient and worthwhile stop. Located near the ferry, the museum features rotating exhibits focused on regional artists. Outdoor spaces also play a central role in what to do on Bainbridge Island. The Waterfront Trail follows Eagle Harbor and connects easily to Winslow, offering views of boats, wildlife, and the Seattle skyline in the distance.
One of the Best Hotels on Bainbridge Island
Extending your Bainbridge Island day trip allows for a more complete experience. Eagle Harbor Inn, located in the heart of Winslow, is one of the only boutique Hotels on Bainbridge Island within walking distance of shops, dining, and the ferry terminal. Guests can explore the island and return to a quiet, comfortable setting in the evening.
Beyond Winslow, additional highlights include Bloedel Reserve, a landscaped garden known for its distinct natural environments, and Fay Bainbridge Park, where shoreline views stretch across Puget Sound. Dining options such as BASA and Bruciato provide well-regarded meals that reflect local ingredients and regional style.
With its balance of accessibility, scenery, and cultural offerings, a Bainbridge Island day trip remains one of the most appealing weekend experiences in the Pacific Northwest.
Plan Your Next Getaway to Deep Creek Lake
Best Time to Visit Deep Creek Lake
Deep Creek Lake is one of the most versatile destinations in Maryland, offering couples a year-round setting for both relaxation and recreation. Located in the mountains of western Maryland, this expansive freshwater lake provides a wide range of experiences that shift with the seasons. Whether you are planning a quiet escape or an active getaway, there are so many fantastic things to do at Deep Creek Lake helps you tailor your trip to your preferences.
Spring introduces a quieter side of Deep Creek Lake, Maryland, with blooming wildflowers, flowing waterfalls, and fewer crowds. It is an ideal time for couples who enjoy peaceful hikes through Swallow Falls State Park or paddling across calm waters. Fishing conditions are strong in early spring, and local shops and galleries begin reopening for the season.
Summer brings energy and activity to the lake. From late June through August, days are filled with boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and swimming. Many visitors also take advantage of hiking trails, mountain biking routes, and a full calendar of events. It is the busiest season, so planning ahead is essential for securing accommodations and preferred activities.
Fall offers a striking change in scenery, as the surrounding mountains display vibrant foliage. Cooler temperatures create ideal conditions for hiking, scenic drives, and exploring local vineyards. The lake remains suitable for paddling well into the season, making it one of the most balanced times to experience both land and water activities.
Winter transforms the region into a destination for snow sports, with Wisp Resort offering skiing, snowboarding, and tubing just minutes away. Additional Deep Creek Lake activities include snowshoeing and cross-country skiing in nearby parks, as well as quiet evenings by the fire.
One of the Most Romantic Deep Creek Lake Hotels
Where you stay plays a central role in your experience. Lake Pointe Inn, a boutique hotel on Deep Creek Lake, offers lakefront accommodations designed for comfort and convenience. Guests can enjoy water views, thoughtfully appointed rooms, and amenities that support a relaxed couples getaway.
With distinct experiences in every season, Deep Creek Lake remains one of the best destinations for couples seeking variety, scenery, and a refined place to stay. Make your trip even more memorable by staying right on the water at Lake Pointe Inn. Book your lodging today.