A First-Timer's Guide to Frankenmuth, MI
Is this your first visit to Frankenmuth, MI? Let us start by saying Willkommen!
Here is the need to know information and must-see attractions to consider when planning your first trip:
1. Explore All of Frankenmuth
Stroll the walkable streets of downtown Frankenmuth for shopping, dining, and taking in the details of our charming Bavarian architecture. Snap a photo at the Covered Bridge off of Main Street, then adventure over to the River Place Shops for a German-themed outdoor shopping experience with delicious treats and plenty of activities to keep kids engaged, including a Mirror Maze and Enchanted Forest. Or, tour town by the Golden Ticket Trolley, the Frankenmuth Shuttle, or a horse carriage!
2. Dine on Chicken Dinners
For the ultimate comfort food, bring your family together for a world-famous chicken dinner offered by both Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth and the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. These mouth-watering meals are served family-style and include delicious sides like mashed potatoes, noodles, stuffing, and other German classics.
3. Make it Christmas-time Anytime
Frankenmuth is home to Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas store in the world! Bronner’s offers dazzling twinkling lights and holiday decor all year round. Be sure to create a custom ornament for your tree at the Paint-N-Go counter and then head to the Silent Night Chapel, a replica of the original chapel in Oberndorf/Salzburg, Austria, where "Silent Night" was first sung on Christmas Eve in 1818.
4. Brush Up On Your History
Learn about our unique city and how “Little Bavaria” sprang up right here in Michigan at the Frankenmuth Historical Museum. We also recommend the Michigan Heroes Museum, which honors our service people. The only museum of its kind in the U.S., the Michigan Heroes Museum showcases uniforms from six foreign wars along with the largest collection of Medals of Honor in the U.S. Then head to the Frankenmuth Woolen Mill, Michigan's oldest, continuously operated woolen mill.
5. Take A Ride On The River
Take a guided one-hour tour on The Bavarian Belle, an authentic paddlewheel riverboat that begins and ends at the River Place Shops. Frankenmuth FunShips Tasting & Tours winds its way along the Cass River, providing a stunning backdrop for our quaint Bavarian architecture. Frankenmuth FunShips also offers more intimate 12-person boat tours on the Cass River, including wine and chocolate tour options too. If guided tours are not your thing, explore the Cass River on your own with Frankenmuth Kayak Adventures.
6. There is an Experience for Everyone
What's not to love about our indoor waterparks! Did you know Frankenmuth features two of the largest indoor waterparks in the Midwest? From splashing around to playing in the arcade, you will find endless fun at the Bavarian Blast and Zehnder's Splash Village Hotel & Waterpark!
We told you there is something for everyone! You can experience a hands-on craft at the Bavarian Blacksmith. Creative Lane offers the opportunity to make a custom scented candle or earn a stamp as you enjoy adult beverages through town with the Bierpass. If you are looking for outdoor fun, there is plenty of that too. Head to the Aerial Park for a ropes course and ziplining, hit the course at The Fortress Golf Course, or stroll through town and complete the Gnome Hunt or Mural Finder, but make sure you stop by the Visitor Center to receive your prize upon completion.
Make sure you stop by the Frankenmuth Visitor Center for a Visitor Guide and Coupon Book!
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