Frankenmuth’s Best: Festivals, Food, and “Little Bavaria”

Frankenmuth’s Best: Festivals, Food, and “Little Bavaria”

Christopher and Ashleigh guide you through all that makes Frankenmuth, Michigan, a memorable destination—whether you’re passing through on a road trip or planning a special getaway. With its Bavarian roots, festive energy, and a blend of quirky and classic attractions, “Michigan’s little Bavaria” offers more than meets the eye.

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Start with Frankenmuth’s unique history, founded by German missionaries in 1845 and now famous for its immersive Bavarian flair. The town’s centerpiece, Bronner’s—the world’s largest Christmas store—draws visitors year-round, but especially shines (and gets crowded) between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Don’t miss the charming replica of the Silent Night Chapel on the grounds, and if you’re shopping for personalized ornaments, it’s the go-to spot.

• Experience the iconic carriage tours and riverboat rides, including the Bavarian Belle and the more intimate Frankenmuth Funship (a favorite for bachelor/bachelorette outings).
• Explore diverse shopping, from the legendary Cheese Haus (look for the mouse statue) to gourmet foods and boutique shops at the River Place Shops.
• Step away from the crowds at the historic Church of St. Lorenz, where Christopher and Ashleigh were married—guided tours of the stained glass windows reveal layers of local history.
• Traveling with kids? Grandpa Tiny’s Farm and the Wilderness Trail Zoo (with a holiday lights drive-through) offer fun, while adventure-seekers can tackle the Frankenmuth Aerial Park zipline course.

During the episode’s break, Christopher shares his homemade Ginjinha—a cherry liqueur from Portugal, not a wine, but full of travel inspiration as he experiments with Michigan twists on a Lisbon classic.

Frankenmuth’s event calendar is packed: from the beloved Snow Fest with its snow and ice sculpting competitions, to May’s World Expo of Beer, Memorial Day’s canine-crazed Dog Bowl, June’s Bavarian Festival (complete with parade and music), summer music fests, and the uniquely sanctioned Oktoberfest in September. The holiday months transform the town into a Christmas wonderland.

• Choose from a range of accommodations, from the classic Bavarian Inn and Splash Village waterpark hotels to the Marv Herzog (each room themed after a year in the musician’s life, with a guest-favorite happy hour and hot breakfast), as well as budget-friendly options like Frankenmuth Motel and family camping at Jellystone Park.
• Dine well: the dueling Zehnders and Bavarian Inn restaurants are known for their all-you-can-eat chicken dinners, but for a contemporary treat, Ashleigh recommends Prost—a wine bar with charcuterie and outdoor seating. Don’t miss the authentic brews at Frankenmuth Brewery, creative fare at Station 100, or cupcakes from Cupcake Wars-winning Sugar High Bakery.

Whether you’re after festive fun, family-friendly activities, or just a taste of Michigan’s German heritage, Frankenmuth delivers. Listen in for honest tips, personal favorites, and practical advice from Christopher and Ashleigh on the Go See Do Explore Podcast.