I grew up in Saginaw, which happens to be around 20 miles away from this beautiful German oasis in the middle of the mitten. I spent holidays, field trips, and day-long getaways in Frankenmuth.
Now, I live much closer, so I enjoy spending nights enjoying the quaint little town, and love to “sightsee” with my friends, no matter how many times I’ve taken a picture with the Cheese Haus Mouse Statue. Through my various trips to Frankenmuth, I’ve compiled a list of sights and activities for you to check out, as well as come up with some annual events that may entice your trip!
1. Make a festive trip to Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland!
That wasn’t a typo. They actually spell it like that because this family-run store believes that the magic of the Christmas holiday starts with the birth of Jesus Christ. Despite your religious and cultural views, Bronner’s is a store for everyone who would like to say that they visited the Largest Christmas Store in the World! It’s full of thousands of holiday decorations, many of which are handmade!
To see how much artwork lies within the walls of the building is astounding! Make sure to stop by the Silent Night Chapel where the song can be read in all of the known languages of the world!
2. Go make a pretzel at the Bavarian Inn!
I got to do this on a field trip in fifth grade, but it was certainly unforgettable! The pretzels aren’t that hard to make and tastes nothing like the ones you can get at sporting events or out of the freezer section at Meijer. The pretzels are made and baked right there, so while you wait, go check out the stores in the basement of the place!
3. Stop at the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus!
Despite the smell, there are tons of free samples to try out! This is a Cheese Addict’s heaven, especially when they can take cheese flavored everything home with them! Make sure you stop by the statue outside for a photo op!
4. Dine in at Zehnder's!
I hope you came hungry, or ready for leftovers because Zehnder’s makes enough food for a village, even when there’s only a table of four dining! Get some delicious chicken, mashed potatoes, and an assortment of bread. It’ll be all worth it, even when you can barely walk out of the restaurant afterward!
5. Get dessert at Sugar High!
They were the Winner of the Season 7 Cupcake Wars with a few of the cupcakes that they keep stocked all day long! They have some odd cupcakes, including a Pizza cupcake and my personal favorite, the Maple Bacon cupcake! Your sweet tooth will surely be satisfied, and even if you aren’t a fan of cupcakes, they have gelato and other yummy treats!
6. Go for a walk on the Wooden Covered Bridge!
Although you may question how structurally sound the bridge is, it’s no joke that the safety of this historical marker is taken very seriously. Since it acts as a bridge for not only pedestrians but for carriages and vehicles alike, the bridge must be able to withstand the weight of all its traffic! It’s certainly a stop for a photo op, especially since it serves as a backdrop for dozens of weddings and senior pictures every year.
7. Stop at the Riverplace!
There are tons of shops to check out that are sure to attract people of all ages! Whether you are looking for a cool trinket that reminds you are the Gothic period or wanting to start a beaded crafting hobby, you can surely spend a couple of hours here! Be sure to take advantage of all the free samples, like popcorn at Popcorn Wagon, or Cherry infused adult beverages for the 21+ crowd at the Cherry Republic.
8. Check out the Christmas Lights!
If it’s somewhere between Thanksgiving and New Year’s Eve, be sure to take a walking tour of all the Holiday decorations and lights! There’s something spectacular to see at every turn, but make sure to stay cozy and warm since the frosty bite of a Michigan winter isn’t all too forgiving. Maybe even take a carriage tour while you’re at it!
9. Take part in the Bavarian Festival in June!
Annually, this culturally rich event takes place for four days, and gives all who attend a chance to party like the Germans! Make sure you wear your lederhosen or fraulein, and if you’re 21+, hopefully, you have a taste for beer!
10. Take part in the pup festivities at the Dog Bowl!
If you’re a dog lover, then you’ll be in heaven on Memorial Day weekend! There are tons of activities that dogs can take part in, like the Weiner Dog races, a frisbee catch, or an Agility contest! There are tons of Instagram worthy pups here, so get ready for pictures! If you’re looking into adopting, there are tons of area rescues that attend, and bring dogs that are looking for homes! You could just find your next furry friend here!
11. Bundle up for the Frankenmuth Ice Fest!
This event is held annually at the end of January. Ice sculptors from all over the world participate in this event where many prizes are handed out! It always draws a large crowd, even when the icy temperatures are sure to bite! Stay bundled up, and be sure to take a thermos of hot chocolate as you take in all the awesome art placed throughout town!
There are certainly many other places to include in your time in Frankenmuth, especially since many of them are locally owned and sell items that are locally made! I recommend just spending your time taking it all in and enjoying all the sights, especially since there are so many historical markers scattered throughout town!
