Frankenmuth Is ‘Michigan’s Little Bavaria’—and It’s the Best Small Town for Families

The State of Michigan Images of deep, turbulent waters, windswept dunes and lighthouses dotting 3,000+ miles of “Fresh Coast’ shoreline are conjured up. The state’s inner regions are less known and more ripe for exploration. Enter Frankenmuth. This German-founded town, with a population of about 5,000, is situated approximately 95 miles from the Detroit metro area (a 90-minute journey, or a.k.a. Midwest 20 minutes. It is easy to confuse its Main Street with a Bavarian town, even without the alpine landscape. Flowers cascade out of window boxes. They are almost too lively to contain. Common Bavarian architecture—large murals, steep roofs, ornate trim, and wooden balconies—is present in each and every building. The local insurance office is hidden behind a gingerbread-like, turreted facade. The picturesque town of two square miles is illuminated by old-fashioned lightposts, which adds another historical touch. On a good day, the narrow Cass River flows through town at a very slow pace of just one mile an hour.

Michigan’s Little Bavaria is located in Michigan. Travel + LeisureThe best family town to visit in the U.S. by 2025, according to. As a Midwesterner who has a toddler, I cannot help but be impressed by the warm and welcoming atmosphere that is perfect for trips with multiple generations. Frankenmuth can be walked around (apart from a few attractions outside the main town). After a recent trip to Bavaria, I have already begun planning another adventure in the future. This time it will be for a cousins’ reunion, with all of our kids.

Frankenmuth, the Best Family Town for 2025 in the U.S.

A family-friendly town, this walkable city is perfect for family time. gnome hunt, mural finderThere are festivals throughout the year, as well as family-style dinners and multiple water parks. Frankenmuth is easily accessible from many metro areas including the Detroit Airport for visitors outside of the region.

What to Do in the Area

The Mill at Zehnder Park

Frankenmuth has no luxury accommodation available at the moment, but that is soon to change. The Mill at Zehnder Park. This beautifully crafted boutique hotel (only four rooms) was created in a replica historic flour mill. Abby Curtis shares her thoughts with T+L. “There is nothing like it. It’s high-end luxurious.” The Zehnders have done a fantastic job in making the mill upscale, special, and with incredible views. The Mill, which will also include a speakeasy style establishment that is intended to serve as a local drinking hole, will have a lounge with small plates and bespoke drinks. The Mill is set to open in late 2025, and will feature two one-room and two two room suites. There’s also a duplex option for groups of multiple generations.

Bavarian Inn Lodge

This huge, Germanic lodge is the biggest hotel in town. A playground for children of all ages. Curtis says, “They are so good for families.” “Very few places can satisfy every age group, from little ones to grandparents … they have something for everyone.” The largest indoor waterpark in Michigan has an arcade on site, indoor mini-golf, and multiple restaurants (including a fried chicken restaurant, of course). Bavarian Inn Lodge This is the perfect base for a getaway with your family. The property is bordered by a covered bridge, which crosses the Cass River. It also has some resident peacocks.

What to do

Visit Bavarian Blast waterpark.

In 2025, the Bavarian Inn Lodge will debut Michigan’s largest indoor waterpark. A new wing will be added to an existing water park that is already well-loved. It is an inviting environment with its adult-only pool and separate areas for the little ones. Nicole Torres is the digital marketing manager at Frankenmuth Brewery. She has fond memories about the hotel. She says that “I love Frankenmuth because of what it has to offer people of all ages” and her “family enjoys the water park.” In the past, we shared adjoining rooms with other friends who also had children under 5. She says, “We spent the day at various pools and had babysitters take care of our kids at night.” Autumn Bronner is the manager of Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. She says, “It will be a wonderful addition to our town and I can’t wait to share it with my children.” Day passes are available for those who do not live on the property. They can access both parks. Note: Another water park. Zehnder’s Splash VillageThere are many more fun things to do just a short drive away.

Get on the water.

Three main options are available for Frankenmuth visitors to enjoy the Cass River. The first way is to take a boat ride on the Cass River. Bavarian Belle RiverboatThe experience lasts about an hour and includes a narrated tour of the town. Cass River can be enjoyed by people with a kayak tour Under the perfect picture covered bridge. Another water-based cool activity: a tour of the wineries. Frankenmuth FunShips. The wine and chocolate tour features five Michigan-made drinks paired with handmade treats. FunShips offers a variety of options, including the option to skip the wine.

Discover Grandpa Tiny’s Heritage Farm.

The oldest farm in Little Bavaria Grandpa Tiny’s Heritage Farm Frankenmuth is home to another wonderful spot. Curtis shares that they offer a variety of experiences year-round, beyond the farm and petting Zoo. They have reindeer for Christmas and other holiday events. She also mentions that a Flower Festival is another seasonal attraction, with gourmet dinners held in the sunflower fields.

Enjoy local beverages

Michigan’s Original Craft Brewery is a must-see! Frankenmuth Brewery, located on the top of a hill in the town’s main area. The Hef is one of the many German-style beers brewed to German beer purity law (called Reinheitsgebot). Flights include four beer samples. In warmer weather, enjoy the views of the river (and the Bavarian belle Riverboat) on the outdoor terrace. Visit Michigan’s oldest vineyard. St. JulianThe tasting room is located just across the street. The family-owned company has a history of more than 100years and only uses Michigan fruit. They also have the first craft distillery in Michigan. Bronner’s personal favorite is Witches Brew during the fall. I also enjoy their sparkling ciders, juices, and other products.

Immerse yourself in culture, history and adventure.

There are many places to visit for a bit more culture. small history museum With a gift shop Flavors of Frankenmuth hosts culinary food tours like the Mingle & Munch. You can take a pretzel-rolling class at the if you have a large group (20 or more). Bavarian Inn Restaurant.

Visit the ‘Adventure Zone’ to add some adventure to your trip with family. Frankenmuth Aerial ParkThere is a zip-line and a high-ropes challenge course at. Glow Nights extend the fun of treetop adventures into the night. Little ones can also try the miniature version of an aerial ropes course in the Bavarian Inn Lodge.

Where to shop

Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland

Frankenmuth is known for its holiday lights. Bronner’sThe world’s biggest Christmas store is located in a sprawling complex that covers acres of land and boasts enough lights to illuminate the Eiffel tower 11 times. “One of our family  traditions is for each kid to pick a new ornament every Christmas to hang on the tree, so Bronner’s is a must-visit,” explains Torres. Bronners has every ornament you could imagine, and many are made specifically for the store. It’s a magical place, with the smell of sugary cookies in the air. This is a magical spot that’s worth visiting on any Frankenmuth trip.

Rapunzel’s Boutique

“This upscale store Abby Curtis is the owner of Frankenmuth Woolen Mill. “I love to shop for gifts and accessories.” This shop, located on Main Street, sells knitting accessories, apparel and decor. Gifts like the 8 Hour Knit Kit for a Baby Blanket are thoughtful and make the perfect souvenir.

Frankenmuth Woolen Mill

Michigan’s oldest operating millFrankenmuth is also home to a company that dates back to 1894. Many of their delightful products are manufactured on-site, including comforters and pillows. All wool comes from sheep who have zero carbon footprint. The store has the largest selection in the area of handmade slippers and pet gifts. For just $5 you can take a tour and make your own wool dryer balls to bring home as a unique gift. Bronner shares that the demonstrations and learning how to do things are always worth it.

Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus

Shop for sweets at Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus. This place claims to have the largest selection of toffee flavor in the entire world. Curtis says that toffee is the king. “My go-to is a tried-and-true classic—milk chocolate toffee topped with peanuts. They’re also known for their Walking Strawberry—freshly cut berries drizzled with ooey-gooey chocolate.” With a location on Main Street, as well as in the Riverplace shops, it’s easy to take a sweet sojourn at Zak & Mac’s. Try their chocolate elixir or hot cocoa in the winter.

Creative Lane

Swing into the modern, upscale district between Main Street and the Top of the Hill District. Creative Lane. This light and airy place brings something different to the shopping scene. It features tons of beautiful houseplants and fancy toiletries. This artisan shop sells everything from vintage puzzles to hand-poured candle.

Frankenmuth Cheese Haus

The Main Street Building is a striking structure. Frankenmuth Cheese Haus The store offers a huge selection of cheeses (more than 120 varieties) as well as thoughtfully selected gifts and snacks. Their favorite products include Michigan-made Gouda cheese, their cheese spread (garlic tops the list, but horseradish makes it extra special), and cheese curls. For something a bit different, try the made-in-house chocolate cheese, which is exactly like it sounds—a smooth, textured chocolate cheese with a Monterey Jack base. Klaus the Cheese Haus is a plush mouse that kids will love.

What to Eat and Drink

Frankenmuth Chicken dinners

Family-style German food is not your typical German fare. fried chicken dinners Have become a big draw in the city. Curtis explains that Frankenmuth’s reputation is based on its fried chicken. You can try it in two main spots—Zehnder’s and Bavarian Inn Restaurant just across the street from each other on the main drag. It’s not about the recipe, it’s all about the atmosphere. You can choose between a Bavarian-style (at Bavarian Inn Restaurant), or an early American-style (at Zehnder’s) setting. You can choose from a variety of side dishes, including a cold German carrot salad (a Midwest favorite), fried potato ball with homemade ranch sauce, mac and cheese and more. It’s an experience you must have while visiting Frankenmuth.

Prost!

The charcuterie and wine bar in Frankenmuth is a popular destination. There is also a large outdoor patio that overlooks Main Street, which makes it a great spot to watch people.Prost! Bronner says that it’s fun to meet up with friends, enjoy a nice glass of wine, and eat some tasty food. “My favorite dish to order is the bacon Swiss Dip.”

Creation Coffee

Stop by if you can’t begin the day without coffee, especially if you are traveling with multiple generations. Creation CoffeeIt serves ethically-sourced, single-origin brews. There’s a small menu of food, including yogurt and breakfast sandwiches. Frankenmuth also offers some special coffee drinks. Ask for half of the syrup if your preference is less sweet.

The Station 100

Look no further for an award-winning wine menu and European fine dining. The Station 100. The location is a bit outside of the center but you can still walk there in 10 or 15 minutes. The restaurant has a charming patio, a spacious rooftop and a cozy room. It also serves unique Frankenmuth offerings such as foie-gras and a variety of steaks including A5 wagyu. A highlight is the seasonal tasting menu, which can also be ordered à la carte. If you visit in the spring, try the yogurt radish. “The Station 100 offers a brand new dining experience in the city. Bronner says it is expensive but worth every penny. Her favorite is the truffle mushroom Risotto. It comes in two sizes: a small appetizer and a large entree.

Best Time to Visit

Frankenmuth, a destination that is popular all year, has a moniker of “Christmas Town” and the Oktoberfest, which attracts many visitors. However, fall and winter are usually busiest. Curtis says, “Michigan’s fall foliage is legendary. The drive is a must for everyone [to go see them].” She also likes the springtime, which is a little slower. “In May Michiganders might not be quite ready for beach and boats, but they’re still looking forward to the springtime.” World Expo of Beer You can also find out more about the following: Balloons Over Bavarian Inn “Events make Frankenmuth a fun place to visit,” she says. It’s still the holiday season that is the biggest draw for Frankenmuth, but with special Christmas programming. German-style marketSanta Claus is at Bronner’s every day and Main Street sparkles with lights, welcoming visitors from far and wide.

How to Get There

Frankenmuth, located in Saginaw County in the eastern part of Michigan’s Lower Peninsula, is easily accessible from Detroit. Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport DTW is just 100 miles away. MBS International Airport is also an option to reach Frankenmuth. Walking is easy in this area. Nearly all attractions are less than 15 minutes away. Many pedestrian crossings are clearly marked, and there is also a beautiful riverwalk for those who prefer to walk. You’ll need a car to reach the city from the airport, or if driving from another large city. But it will remain untouched during your trip.