The very name of Frankenmuth reveals something about its origins. It was founded by fifteen German-Lutheran missionaries who came here in 1845 to teach the Chippewa Indians about Christianity. Franken is the name of their home province in Germany, and Muth is the German word for courage. It certainly required courage to found a town in the densely wooded land that is now Southeast Michigan.
Today, Frankenmuth is known as Michigan’s Little Bavaria, and the town’s German roots are proudly preserved. The town and surrounding farms are well cared for, with well-tended flower beds like those found in Bavaria. Travel the hour and a half from Detroit to a Frankenmuth bed and breakfast and it will seem like you’ve left the country.
The people of Frankenmuth know how to put on a festival. There are festivals to celebrate the 1980s and festivals to honor garage sales. There is a Bavarian Festival of course, but also an Antique Fire Muster and a Farm Fest. Lovers of Polka will book every Frankenmuth bed and breakfast during the Summer Music Festival, while beer drinkers will raise their glasses during Oktoberfest. In January, marvel at the ice carvings created during Zehnder’s Snowfest. In May, attend what has to be the one and only Barks-Bikes and Balloons festival, which involves hot air hounds, a bike race, and fireworks. The list goes on and on.
Ask the bed and breakfast innkeepers where they like to eat in town. Beer aficionados must enjoy a beer at the historic Frankenmuth Brewing Company, established in 1862. Wine drinkers will want to stop by Wolcott Winery.
There is so much fun to be had in the town of Frankenmuth, so make sure to check out our Frankenmuth bed and breakfasts!
Relax on the front porch of this red country farmhouse surrounded by pastoral views and minutes from the famous Frankenmuth. Fall in love with an old-fashioned carriage ride and historic bridges. Sample the addicting fried chicken German-style dinners and celebrate Christmas year-round. Indulge in farm-to-table breakfast straight from the farm!
Arrive in style in a vintage 1948 Buick Roadmaster and escape to your retreat in one of six literary-themed suites. Discover timeless elegance, indulge in a gourmet breakfast, and relax in the gardens of this Flint, Michigan, bed and breakfast.
Cozy up by the fireplace in the parlor, play pool in the game room, sip wine on the covered porch, or relax in the hot tub at this historic Victorian Inn. Enjoy old-fashioned home cooking with legacy “farmer’s” breakfasts and inviting hospitality.
Dreamy log cabin set amidst 112 acres filled with Michigan wildflowers. Views of a private lake on property, complement the natural beauty surrounding. A perfect place to escape for stargazing, nature, and bird-watching. Take in a sunset and relax on the cabin porch.
A touch of elegance meets hospitality at the storied Inn and world-class spa. Chef’s daily choice breakfast menu invites tastes of all seasons; enjoy lavish tea parties and sitting in the gardens with the songbirds. All suites invite romance and relaxation. Nourish yourself in Bay City and take advantage of the ultimate romance in The Keep Room, or reinvigorate your soul in the designated spa.
Michigan Bed and Breakfast Association
6757 Cascade Road SE, Ste 241
Grand Rapids, MI 49546
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