Frankenmuth, Michigan: 3 Ways to Explore Little Bavaria in the USA

Make a stop at the Bavarian Inn Lodge, where you’ll be able to take advantage of countless amenities and German-inspired fun. Sample German-style beer and premium whiskeys at the Lorelei Lounge & Schnitzelbank Bier Garten. It’s a laid-back atmosphere perfect for soaking up the Bavarian-themed fun. Across the Holz Brücke (Covered Bridge), watch musical performances rendered by the adorable Glockenspiel Tower. Settle in for a delicious, home-style meal at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth or the Bavarian Inn Restaurant; both hometown, family-friendly restaurants are known for their famous chicken dinners featuring made-from-scratch sides.

You can even experience a full-fledged Oktoberfest celebration at the Frankenmuth Oktoberfest, which is held the third weekend of September every year. Drink your beer out of a stein and dine on savory German cuisine. Don’t miss the popular wiener dog races, where you can root for your favorite dachshund.

Head beyond downtown and visit the Frankenmuth Aerial Park to combine Frankenmuth’s scenic outdoors with a little adventure. Explore the canopy high above the forest floor on a combination of thrilling zip line and aerial obstacles. The six courses available are versatile and designed with options for all skill levels. For something special, try the twilight “Glow Nights” option, during which visitors can swing through tree-filled courses lit by strings of twinkling lights.

Wind down from all the hijinks with a refreshing craft beer at the historic Frankenmuth Brewery. There’s more than 150 years’ worth of brewing knowledge to be tasted within these expansive brick walls. Grab a pint of Little Bavaria Pilsner or Frankie’s Root Bier, along with some pub food staples, and find a table on the patio overlooking the tree-lined Cass River.

Sparkling Christmas tree lights. Little cute elves on shelves. Stockings in all shapes and sizes. The magical aisles of Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, a Christmas store like no other, are aglow with the holiday spirit year-round. Dubbed “The World’s Largest Christmas Store,” Bronner’s is open seven days a week, 361 days a year, showcasing more than 50,000 holiday items within its 29,700-square-meter space. Shop for personalized ornaments, holiday trinkets and Christmas collectibles. Best of all, Bronner’s ships worldwide so you don’t have to lug any of your purchases back home. Your special merchandise and keepsakes will be carefully boxed, labeled and shipped anywhere worldwide. Even Santa Claus can’t promise that kind of efficiency.

Fly into Detroit Metropolitan Airport (DTW) in Detroit, Michigan, rent a car and drive just 145 kilometers northbound to Frankenmuth.