Things to Do in Frankenmuth, Michigan – A Christmas Hallmark Town
Searching for that perfect Christmas wonderland? Look no further, one of the best places to visit at Christmas time is the enchanting town of Frankenmuth, Michigan with its Bavarian architecture.
It is home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland – the world’s largest Christmas store! With its unique shops and great places to eat, there are endless things to do in Frankenmuth, Michigan.
If you are looking to get in the Christmas spirit, head to Frankenmuth, Michigan where you will feel as if you are in a Hallmark Christmas movie.
A Christmas movie was actually filmed right in Frankenmuth – A Christmas Movie Christmas.
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Best Time to Visit Frankenmuth, Michigan
I personally think the best time to visit Frankenmuth, Michigan is during the offseason to avoid the large crowds especially if you are coming to visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland – the world’s largest Christmas store!
We visited in late August which was a great time to visit as Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland was not super crowded with all of the holiday shopping.
They have record high visitors the weekend of Thanksgiving and leading up to Christmas which could make for an overwhelming shopping experience.
However, if you are looking for a classic Christmas experience, visiting during the holidays could be a perfect time for you!
Best Places to Stay in Frankenmuth, Michigan
Bavarian Inn
Bavarian Inn is definitely the most popular place to stay in Frankenmuth, Michigan and is the true embodiment of Frankenmuth’s Bavarian style.
It offers four indoor pools, two big water slides, and more – a perfect place to stay with kids!
Springhill Suites by Marriott
We stayed at the Springhill Suites by Marriott and enjoyed our stay!
It was located in the downtown area making it an easy walk to all of the shops and places to eat in Frankenmuth.
Fairfield Inn & Suites by Marriott
Things to Do in Frankenmuth, Michigan
Experience the Magic of Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland
Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is the main attraction in Frankenmuth, Michigan which claims to be the world’s largest Christmas store!
Boasting a sales floor the size of 1 ½ football fields, it offers thousands of ornaments and Christmas decorations. It is the perfect way to get into the Christmas spirit!
Make sure to visit Bronner’s Silent Night Chapel and take a drive down Christmas Lane which is illuminated with Christmas lights and decorations at night.
I would recommend allocating at least a few hours for exploring Bronner’s as it takes quite a while to see everything the store has to offer!
Stroll Around Frankenmuth River Place Shops
If you are looking for fun things to do in Frankenmuth, Michigan during the day, take a trip to the Frankenmuth River Place Shops and browse its 40 shops and attractions.
Of course, it is Bavarian themed as well!
Explore Heritage Park
Walk along the 0.9 mile Riverwalk Pathway in Heritage Park to take in the views of Frankenmuth.
Take a look at their events page to see if any events are happening when you will be there!
Walk Across Michigan’s Largest Covered Wooden Bridge
Located next to the Frankenmuth River Place Shops, walk to see Michigan’s largest covered wooden bridge (the Holz Brücke) and a unique piece of Frankenmuth history.
Go to the Frankenmuth ChristKindlMarkt
If you are visiting Frankenmuth, Michigan during Christmas, the Frankenmuth ChristKindlMarkt needs to be added to your itinerary!
Visitors can wander through the market, indulging in traditional German foods, shopping for handcrafted gifts from local artisans, and immersing themselves in the magical atmosphere.
Admission is free!
It is open for 3 weekends only in 2023:
- November 24th – 26th
- December 1st – 3rd
- December 8th – 10th
Take a Scenic Riverboat Tour
Hop aboard the Bavarian Belle Riverboat for a narrated tour of Frankenmuth while cruising along the Cass River.
It is ADA accessible with ramp access and the dock is wheelchair accessible as well.
It is open early May through mid October.
The current rates for 2023 are:
- $16 for Adults
- $5 for Children 12-5
- Children 4 and under are free
Attend the Frankenmuth Snowfest
If you’re visiting Frankenmuth in January, don’t miss the Snowfest, an annual winter festival featuring incredible snow and ice sculptures, live entertainment, and fun activities.
In 2024, it will be held from January 24th – 28th at Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth.
Go Ice Skating Outside
The Frankenmuth Ice Rink is a fun thing to do in Frankenmuth, Michigan during the winter.
This outdoor rink is located in the heart of Frankenmuth at Zehnder Park.
Whether you’re a novice or an experienced skater, the Frankenmuth Ice Rink welcomes all ages and skill levels, making it a fantastic family-friendly activity during the winter months.
It will be open from November 20th, 2023 until February 29th, 2024.
Have Fun at Zehnder’s Splash Village
Zehnder’s Splash Village is an indoor water park and resort destination located in the heart of Frankenmuth, Michigan.
Known for its family-friendly atmosphere, Zehnder’s Splash Village offers a great time for visitors of all ages.
With multiple water slides, a lazy river, a relaxing hot tub, and an interactive water play area, there’s no shortage of fun things to do.
Thrilling Adventures at Frankenmuth Aerial Park
Frankenmuth Aerial Park is an exciting outdoor attraction in Frankenmuth, Michigan.
It offers visitors of all skill levels the chance to enjoy high ropes courses and thrilling zip lines while securely harnessed.
With its diverse array of adventures, the park provides an unforgettable treetop experience for those seeking outdoor excitement.
Visit Grandpa Tiny’s Farm
Grandpa Tiny’s Farm in Frankenmuth, Michigan, offers a great family-friendly farm experience.
Visitors are able to get close to and pet friendly animals and learn about farm life in a relaxed and welcoming setting. The farm is home to donkeys, cows, rabbits, peacocks, chickens, miniature horses, and even reindeers!
If you are in Frankenmuth in November or December, be sure to visit when Santa’s Reindeer Farm is open.
In 2023, it will be open on Saturdays and Sundays from November 18th – December 17th.
You will need to purchase tickets for this event online and they will not be available at the gate.
Included with your ticket is making your own ornament with the help of Santa’s workers!
During this event, Santa and his reindeer will be in attendance.
Make sure to bring a letter to Santa if you have not mailed it yet!
Looking for a Hotel?
Explore Booking.com for your hotel needs – they offer budget-friendly prices and a variety of room types!
Need a Rental Car?
For all your rental car needs, head over to Expedia! It’s user-friendly and offers plenty of affordable options!
Guided Tours/Activities
When it comes to booking guided tours and excursions, my top pick is Get Your Guide!
Places to Eat in Frankenmuth, Michigan
Breakfast at Honey B’s Eatery
I highly recommend visiting Honey B’s Eatery for breakfast during your trip.
I got the Honey’s Hash, and it was great!
There is not much seating inside (especially if outside seating is a no-go due to weather) so make sure to get there close to when they open at 7:30 a.m.
Coffee at Creation Coffee
We all LOVED Creation Coffee and their fall drink specials, specifically the Maple Oat Latte, Crème Brulée Latte, and Brown Sugar Roasted Hazelnut Latte.
They also offer several breakfast sandwiches and pastries.
Prost! Wine Bar & Charcuterie
Prost is a great place to eat in Frankenmuth to sit outside and enjoy the nice weather.
We loved all of the food we tried – bruschetta, cheese tortellini, and a charcuterie board (try out the cheese “Le Roule Garlic & Herb” it was the best!).
Zehnder’s
I recommend making a reservation as Zehnder’s is definitely the most popular restaurant in Frankenmuth!
Sadly though, it did not live up to the hype for us. Maybe it was just not our style of food but we found it underwhelming.
We did enjoy the fried chicken but that is about it 😂.
Jaami’s Ice Cream and Treats
If you are looking for a dessert after dinner, look no further than Jaami’s Ice Cream and Treats which offers a wide array of sweet treats that are delicious!
Whether you’re strolling through Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, savoring traditional German cuisine, or enjoying the festive lights and decorations, Frankenmuth, Michigan offers a magical holiday experience that cannot be missed!
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