Our Favorite Hidden Gems in Frankenmuth
Frankenmuth, often referred to as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” is a charming and compact city celebrated for its strong German heritage and architectural style. Whether you’re spending a day or a weekend, here are some must-do experiences: Frankenmuth River Place Shops: Explore this charming shopping area where stores are designed to resemble Bavarian-style buildings. The area hosts exciting events throughout the year including the Frankenmuth Dog Bowl which is the world’s largest Olympic-style festival for dogs to a Scarecrow Fest with pumpkin catapults. Some of our favorites are noted below. Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus: Indulge in freshly-made chocolates that blend old family favorites with bold new flavors. Black Star Farms: Michigan’s premiere winery, located inside Grand Traverse Distillery, with a handcrafted approach to winemaking. Stop in for a taste! Great Lakes Olive Company- Balsamic Vinegars, with taste testing available every day! Charlin’s Book Nook– a used bookstore with literary gems Bavarian Blacksmith- see a master blacksmith at work SugarHigh Bakery: Treat yourself to creative cupcakes and homemade gelato. Wild Birds Unlimited: Offering birdfeeders, birdbaths, handmade Lake Superior stone houses and lamps, gifts and souvenirs. Sticky Tea- Browse a collection of loose-leaf teas from India and Nepal curated for tea aficionados. Holistic, medicinal, and culinary blends – all bee pollen-based! St. Julian Winery: Savor Michigan-produced wines at this winery, where they expertly pair flavors to delight your taste buds1. St. Lorenz Lutheran Church: Discover this historic church just off the main street in Frankenmuth. Its unique architecture is a sight to behold and a highlight of visiting Frankenmuth. Bavarian Inn Holz Brucke Covered Bridge: Admire the beauty and old-fashioned craftsmanship of this covered bridge, especially when it’s illuminated at night Bavarian Belle Riverboat: Climb aboard this authentic paddlewheel riverboat for a narrated tour of Frankenmuth on the Cass River. Michigan Heroes Museum: Immerse yourself in Michigan’s military service history Famous Chicken Dinners: Frankenmuth and classic German chicken dinners are famous. For world-famous chicken dinners give Zehnder’s or Bavarian Inn Restaurant a try. Let us know which is your favorite. Frankenmuth Historical Museum: Learn more about the town’s history Silent Night Chapel at Bronner’s: Step inside this chapel at Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, where the sounds of “Silent Night” evoke a magical Christmas Eve feeling year-round. Wilkommen Park: This beautiful park by the roadside offers a serene escape and a chance to reconnect with nature. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland: Explore the world’s largest Christmas store that is open year-round
Picture via Grandpa’s Tiny Heritage Farm
Grandpa Tiny’s Heritage Farm: Take an educational tractor ride and in the fall escape to the fields of sunflowers
Frankenmuth Carriage Rides– A beautiful 15 or 30-minute horsedrawn carriage ride through charming downtown Frankenmuth. Highlights include the covered bridge, River Place, and Main Street.
Whether you’re interested in history, shopping, or simply enjoying the picturesque surroundings, Frankenmuth has something special for everyone.