Frankenmuth

Having been to both actual Bavaria and to Frankenmuth I can say that this little town being known as Little Bavaria is no misnomer. It’s so cute, so quaint, and just an hour and a half’s drive from the Canadian border so it’s great place for a quick vacation. The closer you get to Frankenmuth the more the buildings start to take on a Germanic air which makes even the drive in is atmospheric and pleasant.

I don’t normally focus on whole cities but Frankenmuth, much like Mackinac Island, is more of an experience as a whole than just visiting one or two places within it. The atmosphere is relaxed, and rather jovial when I went.

In terms of getting a good picture, the Holz Brucke Covered Bridge is the best place. It’s one of the few covered bridges which is still functional for motor vehicles, and it gives the area around it an air reminiscent of Sleepy Hollow. It’s super cool! Along those lines you might consider a visit to the Frankenmuth Historical Museum.

Another popular spot is Zehnder’s Restaurant. It’s a touch expensive, but well loved by both tourists and locals. I’m pretty sure even by American standards the portions there are massive, so unless it’s one of the ‘all you can eat’ days you’ll likely walk away with a doggy bag.

If Christmas is your thing I suggest checking out Bronners (pronounced Brawners; the way we originally pronounced it was rather awkward). It’s apparently the world’s biggest Christmas store, though whether that’s by square footage or stock I’m not sure. I suspect both. You’ll find a variety of Christmas ornaments and decorations there, many of which you can personalize to say whatever you want. Your name, baby’s first Christmas, memorials, you name it they’ll do it.

There’s also a river boat which is apparently quite popular, though I’ve never experienced it. If I were to go back I’d make it a point of taking a little cruise.

Finally there are the River Place Shops, which I don’t remember much of, probably because I saw there was a book store, went in, and didn’t re-emerge until the mall was about to close. What can I say, I’m happiest where there are books!

There isn’t a lot of need to walk places here, especially if you’ve driven, but I recommend a comfortable set of shoes anyway in case you want to walk down the main street and do a bit of casual sight seeing. I’m told at night the Holz Brucke Bridge is quite cute.

Have you been to Frankenmuth? Let me know what you think of it in the comments!

Wear a mask, wash your hands, and stay safe gentle reader.