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.