30 Best & Fun Things To Do In Frankenmuth (Michigan)

With its sloped roofs, timber-framed buildings, and horse-drawn carriages clattering down Main Street, Frankenmuth is one of the most charming towns in Michigan.

You’ll see its Bavarian roots in everything from its X-shaped architecture to its colorfully festive dirndl dresses that come out on parade days.

It’s nicknamed “Little Bavaria” for this very reason, though its name actually translates to “the courage of the Franconians,” a reference to the Franconia region of Germany where its original settlers called home.

Today, it’s easy to turn back the clock in Frankenmuth.

You can tour a number of historic churches and bridges; you can visit an assortment of museums.

There are even beer halls designed to make you feel like you’re thunking together mugs of ale in the 1800s.

Not all of Frankenmuth is historical, however.

From ziplining to fine dining, there are plenty of fun and modern things to do.

Outdoor enthusiasts will see why Michigan is nicknamed the Great Lakes State.

Foodies will appreciate the cafes and restaurants, and shopaholics will love the malls and markets.

You also won’t want to miss the many fairs, festivals, and festivities that take place year-round.

Are you looking for the best things to do in Frankenmuth, Michigan?

Pull on your lederhosen and get to reading!

1. Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland

The most famous name in Frankenmuth attractions, Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland is the kind of destination that people fly across the world to see.

It’s a claim to fame for not only Frankenmuth but all of Michigan.

Bronner’s is billed as “the world’s largest Christmas store,” and it’s hard to argue with that assessment when it boasts 27 acres of festive cheer.

There are hundreds of thousands of lights, ornaments, trees, tinsel, gingerbread houses, Nativity scenes, and more.

A 17-foot-tall Santa sits at the front entrance next to a 15-foot-tall snowman.

A replica of the Silent Night Chapel, where the carol was first sung in Austria in 1818, has a place of honor on the grounds.

You can’t visit Frankenmuth without visiting Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland.

It’s the tourist destination, and it’s open year round, so you can get into the spirit whenever you’d like.

Remember: Santa is always watching!

Address: 25 Christmas Ln, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

2. Downtown Frankenmuth

Downtown Frankenmuth is a charmingly old-fashioned destination where its Bavarian roots are on full display.

Walking down Main Street is like stepping back in time to a simpler era where everything that you could need is just a friendly neighbor away.

Shops are mostly of the mom and pop variety, though some familiar brands can be found.

Tourist attractions range from museums and art galleries to bakeries, wineries, cheese shops, and chocolate houses.

Another fun aspect of downtown is the way that you can travel it: You can rent everything from pedal trolleys to horse-drawn carriage rides for a unique exploration of the area.

The latter is especially magical during holidays like Christmas and Valentine’s Day when the trees are glittering with lights!

If you aren’t sure where to start during your trip to Frankenmuth, start at the heart of the city.

There’s a reason why it’s featured so prominently in postcards.

Address: Frankenmuth, MI, United States

3. Bavarian Belle Riverboat

Another charming relic from the past, the Bavarian Belle Riverboat is an authentic two-story paddlewheel boat.

It takes off daily during tourist season and provides a relaxing cruise down the Cass River of Michigan.

The views from the water are breathtaking, especially if you’re able to glimpse some curious deer or wave-diving birds as you go.

The top floor has an open-air canopy for the best sightseeing opportunities.

As you move downriver, the captain will share interesting facts about Frankenmuth, so it’ll be an educational trip as well as an entertaining one.

Concessions are available in the form of popcorn, soft pretzels, and soda pop.

Spend some time on the water when you sign up for a cruise on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat.

All ages are welcome, so everyone from babies to grandparents can go along for the ride!

Address: 925 S Main St D3, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

4. Zehnder’s

Spend any time in Frankenmuth and you’ll hear the name Zehnder’s at some point.

It’s a brand that has countless tourist attractions to its name, including Zehnder’s Restaurant, Zehnder’s Marketplace, and Zehnder’s Splash Village and Waterpark.

The restaurant is renowned for its fried chicken, but its entire menu is a tribute to down-home, country-style cuisine, so you’re sure to find something to stick to your ribs.

The waitstaff dresses like traditional servers from the turn of the century, so that’s a fun element as well.

The waterpark is a gigantic indoor park that can be accessed either as a guest of the hotel or as a daytime visitor.

Amenities range from slides and geysers to a six-story raft ride that families can all jump on together.

There are also “courts” for water basketball and water volleyball.

If you’re wondering what to do this weekend while you’re in Frankenmuth, just look for the name Zehnder’s.

Offering countless activities across multiple venues, it won’t steer you wrong.

Address: 730 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

5. Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival

Held every summer, the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival is a multi-day extravaganza that celebrates the city’s founding settlers.

The festivities start in the morning and continue well into the evening.

You’ll be dazzled at every turn by the art, music, food, fashion, and overall revelry associated with the Bavarian culture.

Events range from parades and band performances to one-of-a-kind entertainment like duck racing.

“Street activities” include axe throwing, face painting, and miniature ziplining.

You can watch fireworks or maypole dances.

A “Bavarian festival princess” is crowned every year.

Almost everyone is dressed to the nines in traditional outfits, and most folks walk around with treats in hand like brats, chicken drumsticks, and artisan cotton candy.

If you’ll be in town in the summertime, you won’t want to miss the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival.

It’s a chance to have authentic cultural experiences in a city already known for them.

It’s basically Frankenmuth cranked up to 11!

Address: Frankenmuth, MI, United States

6. Thunder Bay Mining Company

Are you taking a family vacation to Frankenmuth?

Thunder Bay Mining Company is one of the most fun places to go with kids.

Located just on the outskirts of town, it’s an adventure area where your little ones can pretend to be gold rushers looking for exotic gems, minerals, and metals.

They’ll start by rolling up their sleeves and plunging their hands into a sifting station.

Depending on their luck, they might find everything from sapphires and amethysts to moonstones and crystal points.

If they don’t like their jackpot, you can also buy them pre-filled bags with every kind of gemstone already inside.

There’s no such thing as a disappointing day at the Thunder Bay Mining Company!

Another benefit of the mining experience is that it can be combined with a Bavarian Belle Riverboat tour, so if you’re looking to have all kinds of fun on a single trip, these activities make a great one-two duo.

Both parents and kids can get a little something out of the trip!

Address: 925 S Main St D-3, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

7. Heritage Park

New York has Central Park.

Frankenmuth has Heritage Park.

If that sounds like an exaggeration, you should know that it isn’t.

A big, bustling place, Heritage Park is packed with playgrounds, baseball fields, basketball courts, picnic pavilions, and more.

You can launch a canoe from its shoreline; you can hit a spike at its sand volleyball courts.

There’s even a riverwalk along the water for a leisurely afternoon stroll.

Additionally, the park plays host to just about every major event in Frankenmuth, so you’ll probably wind up visiting it at some point.

There are Easter egg hunts in April and lighted kayak parades in August.

In the summertime, there are free outdoor concerts every weekend come rain or shine.

All in all, Heritage Park is one of the most interesting places to visit when you’re in town.

If you play your cards right, it can also be a destination filled with free things to do, so the budget-minded can enjoy it just as much as the rich and extravagant.

Make time to visit this central hub for Frankenmuth fun!

Address: 601 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

8. Frankenmuth River Place Shops

The Frankenmuth River Place Shops are another showstopper.

Designed to look like a Bavarian village, their charming and pastel-painted buildings are home to 40 different stores.

Many of these are locally owned, so supporting them also supports the community.

The things to see at the shops are myriad.

You might like Cherry Republic, a tartly sweet shop full of chocolates, sodas, and wines.

Or maybe you’d prefer something like the Book Nook, home to that “old book” smell and cozy spaces for reading.

You can also check out the Bavarian Blacksmith Experience, a place to forge your own daggers after experiencing live demonstrations.

There are even places beyond the retail.

For example, you can go run around the Ultimate Mirror Maze or play some old-school arcade games at the River Place Game Room.

Rides on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat can also be arranged here.

All in all, the Frankenmuth River Place Shops are so much fun that you could spend days exploring everything.

The shops are almost like a vacation in their own right.

Your wallet might not like it, but you will!

Address: 925 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

9. Frankenmuth Corn Maze

Located on the Weiss Centennial Farm, the Frankenmuth Corn Maze is a time-honored tradition among the locals.

It offers wholesome family fun with plenty to see and experience in a rustic, country setting.

The main attraction, of course, is the corn maze.

It covers five acres in total and includes several miles of walking paths through eight-foot-tall corn stalks.

There are multiple observation spots and game stations along the way.

When you’re done getting lost in the fields, you can enjoy other farm activities as well.

These include a petting zoo, a treasure hunt, and a hay ride.

If you’re making a shortlist of what to do in Frankenmuth, don’t forget about quirky destinations like the Frankenmuth Corn Maze.

It’s the one-of-a-kind attraction that you’ll remember most once your trip is over and you’ve returned home.

Address: 5450 Weiss Rd, Frankenmuth Township, MI 48734, United States

10. Grandpa Tiny’s Farm

Grandpa Tiny’s Farm is a warm and lively place where visitors of all ages can have some wholesome fun.

Kids will love chasing after bunnies and handling real chicken eggs.

Older teens can take selfies in the sunflower fields.

Even mom and dad can brush a horse, attend a craft show, or book a farm-to-table dinner experience!

There are also seasonal adventures to be had on the farm, so if you’re traveling to Michigan at a specific time, see if your trip coincides with something special.

Winter offers the chance to pet Santa’s reindeer.

Spring is the time of flower festivals and garden shows.

As one of the more family-friendly things to do in Frankenmuth, Grandpa Tiny’s Farm should definitely make your list if you’re traveling with kids.

They’ll love the animals, the atmosphere, and the amazing memories that they’ll make on an authentic farm!

Address: 7775 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

Visiting other parts of Michigan? Why not check out some of the things to do in Detroit & some of the things to do in Traverse City?

11. Christmas Shuttle

If you’ll be in town during the month of December, the Christmas Shuttle is a must-do.

It’s completely free, and it has an easy hop-on, hop-off format that allows you to explore its route at your leisure.

Main attractions include Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, Grandpa Tiny’s Reindeer Farm, and the Christkindlmarkt or German Christmas market.

Other sites range from festive light displays to ice skating rinks and novelty souvenir shops.

There are seven stops in total, but they can branch off into literally dozens of destinations.

For example, Stop #3 is the gigantic and heavily decorated Christmas tree on Main Street, but since that’s located in the heart of downtown, you can wander off and visit all kinds of other attractions while you’re there.

The Christmas Shuttle would be amazing even if it charged a fee, but since it doesn’t cost a dime, it’s all the more magical.

Consider it a Christmas miracle and enjoy.

Address: Frankenmuth, MI, United States

12. Castle Museum of Saginaw County History

Located about 20 minutes outside of Frankenmuth in Saginaw, Michigan, the Castle Museum is exactly what it sounds like: a historical museum that looks like a medieval castle.

Interestingly enough, it was never meant to be a house for royalty.

It was built in 1898 as a US post office!

Over the years, however, the captivating nature of the castle transformed it into a natural tourist attraction.

The historical society of Saginaw Country eventually moved in and claimed it.

Today, the Castle Museum hosts a variety of exhibitions designed to showcase the history and legacy of the region.

The most popular exhibits include an archeology gallery and a vintage cycle-car from 1914.

If you’re willing to travel a little outside of Frankenmuth to explore fun sites in Michigan history, consider a day trip to the Castle Museum.

You’ll love the architecture, and you’ll walk out of the experience a more educated individual, too.

Address: 500 Federal Ave, Saginaw, MI 48607, United States

13. Michigan Heroes Museum

Dedicated to military and space professionals, the Michigan Heroes Museum is a tribute to the state’s best and brightest.

It covers hundreds of years of history through thousands of texts, videos, photos, artifacts, and more.

It even holds more medals of honor than any other museum in the US.

Many exhibitions teach about a specific era or conflict like the Civil War, World Wars I and II, and Operation Enduring Freedom.

There are also dedicated galleries to things like “Michigan’s Astronauts and Space Pioneers” and “Our Nation’s Service Cross Recipients.”

Distinguished citizens are recognized for great acts of heroism, and both genders are represented.

If you’re looking for fun activities that go beyond a single city and into the history, legacy, and bravery of an entire state, take a trip to the Michigan Heroes Museum.

It’s easily one of the most fascinating things to do in Michigan.

Address: 1250 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

14. Bavarian Inn Lodge

You might be surprised to see a hotel on a list of Frankenmuth attractions, but the Bavarian Inn Lodge isn’t any old accommodation.

Like many other aspects of the town, it was built with a Bavarian theme, so checking in means transporting yourself straight to Germany.

The buildings have big and colorful architecture with the signature X-framed roofs of Bavaria.

The grounds are right across the Cass River, and they’re connected to the water by a wooden bridge woven with fairy lights.

The latter is particularly popular with couples!

Families really enjoy the inn, too.

The amenities range from pools and water slides to indoor mini-golf, so there’s a little something for everyone.

You can even dine at the on-site restaurant or play video games at the rec center.

When you visit at specific times, you can sign up for special events like bingo or trivia night.

If you’re looking for the best accommodation in town, book a room at the Bavarian Inn Lodge.

Not only will it be wonderfully “on theme” for your Bavarian vacation, but with its wide range of events and activities, it’s the kind of hotel that doubles as a tourist attraction in its own right.

Address: 1 Covered Bridge Ln, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

15. Frankenmuth Aerial Park

Fly through the air with the greatest of ease when you visit Frankenmuth Aerial Park.

Home to ziplines, suspension bridges, and other tree-topping obstacle courses, you’ll feel every terrified/thrilled beat of your heart as you have the time of your life up high.

There are six courses in all, and they come with four different difficulty levels depending on both your bravery and your athletic ability.

Everyone over the age of seven is welcome to participate, so don’t worry if you’re new to the world of aerial maneuvering.

The whole family can learn together.

Twilight tours are available if you’d like to see the stars as you climb, swing, and zip.

You can also arrange for group tours and other specialty tours.

Frankenmuth Aerial Park is quite literally one of the top things to do in Frankenmuth.

If you aren’t afraid of taking your feet off the ground, give them a call and see how high you can go!

Address: 1375 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

16. Zehnder’s Snowfest

As you’re probably aware, Michigan can get quite a bit of snow, and Zehnder’s Snowfest is a winter tradition that takes full advantage of that fact.

It’s the biggest event of its kind in the entire country, and it has the pedigree to prove it: The United States Collegiate National Ice Carving Championships is held here every year.

Ice-sculpting competitions are just the beginning, however, when it comes to the fun that you can have at Zehnder’s Snowfest.

There are also fireworks, concerts, pony rides, petting zoos, and chocolate baking contests.

Live entertainment ranges from magicians to dueling pianos.

Warming tents are everywhere, and they offer food, drink, and exhibitions for all.

Did we mention that admission is free?

It doesn’t cost a penny to enter, making Zehnder’s Snowfest one of the best free things to do in the wintertime.

Just make sure to have some money on hand for things like concessions.

Once you’ve sampled the hot cocoa bombs, you’ll definitely go back for a full serving!

Address: Frankenmuth, MI, United States

17. Frankenmuth Farmer’s Market

Held every weekend from June to October, the Farmer’s Market is a treasure trove of goodies.

It doesn’t stop at the customary offerings of produce.

It encompasses meats, breads, desserts, candles, oils, instruments, flowers, and even service shops for things like beauty treatments and home improvement.

More than 100 vendors sign up in the typical year, and their wares are as varied as their shopfronts.

The marketplace also re-opens in November and December for Christkindlmarkt, the German Christmas market.

This holiday bazaar always draws a crowd for its delightfully festive atmosphere as well as its food, drink, and souvenir shopping.

If you’re wondering what to do during your stay in Frankenmuth, how about one of the most iconic of Frankenmuth attractions?

The Farmer’s Market is a must-see, especially during the days of Christkindlmarkt.

You don’t even have to spend any money as long as you have the willpower to withstand its many temptations!

Address: 534 N Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

18. Frankenmuth Historical Museum

If you’re curious how a German-themed town came to prominence in the middle of Michigan, you’ll want to check out Frankenmuth Historical Museum.

It offers everything from records to artifacts to photo galleries to teach you more about the area and its legacy.

Even the building is historical: It dates back to 1905 and was originally a hotel.

The museum is also the headquarters for a number of classes, workshops, and field trips, so if you’ve got some extra time during your vacation, you might pop in to learn a new trade or visit a little-known landmark.

You can also grab a map for a self-guided walking tour of Frankenmuth.

The best vacation spots are the ones where you can learn more about the place that you’re visiting.

At Frankenmuth Historical Museum, you’ll learn all sorts of interesting lore about the very land beneath your feet, making it one of the top tourist attractions in the city.

Address: 613 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

19. Iron Belle Trail

Feel the wind in your hair when you bike along the Iron Belle Trail.

Crossing the entire state of Michigan from one end to the other, it offers the chance to see some of the most amazing natural landscapes in the state.

It also winds through and near a number of major cities for those with a travel checklist.

In Frankenmuth, the trail largely follows the Cass River, so you can enjoy the fresh air and sea spray on your face as you ride.

You’ll pass by a number of local shops, restaurants, and landmarks, so you can hop off your bike at any time and take a break.

Detouring is often the most fun thing about cycling, after all!

When you’re done with Frankenmuth, feel free to move on and continue down the trail.

You can go either north or south depending on where your heart wants to lead you.

The Iron Belle Trail covers more than 800 miles in total, so there’ll be plenty to see no matter which direction you wind up taking.

Address: Frankenmuth, MI, United States

20. St. Julian Winery

Hailed as “Michigan’s most-award winery,” St. Julian Winery has won a number of accolades for its vintages.

It’s so popular, in fact, that it has multiple locations throughout the state, including one in Frankenmuth.

Why is it such a hit among wine connoisseurs?

For starters, it offers tastings at either a bar or a barrel room, so you can sample up to six different bottles at once.

It also offers non-wine beverages such as spirits, ciders, cocktails, and even seasonal treats like slushies.

No matter how you’d like to get buzzed, you can have a fun time with your group.

Be sure to ask about specials like the aged solera cream sherry!

Whether you’re a fan of reds or whites, St. Julian Winery is one of the best places to go for a glass of wine.

You’ll love the vintages as well as the overall atmosphere.

There’s a reason why the brand is thriving, so come and experience the magic for yourself!

Address: 127 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

Exploring other areas of Michigan? Why not check out some of things to do in Kalamazoo & some of the things to do in Ann Arbor?

21. Serendipity Wellness Spa

Let’s face it: Vacations can be exhausting.

Sometimes, after filling your days with shopping malls and riverboat cruises, you just want to chill out and do nothing.

This is when you book a day at the Serendipity Wellness Spa.

Offering everything from manicures to massages, the Serendipity Wellness Spa is more than just a beauty treatment center.

It’s an entire practice dedicated to relaxation, healing, and the rejuvenation of the spirit.

You can get a mermaid seaweed wrap; you can sign up for a river dance hot stone ritual.

You can get waxed, buffed, polished, and pampered.

Another great thing about the spa is that they accept new appointments every day, and last-minute requests can often be accommodated as well.

If you’re looking for things to do in Frankenmuth this weekend, consider getting a facial at the Serendipity Wellness Spa.

Not only will it leave you looking like a million bucks, but you’ll also feel refreshed and replenished for further vacation adventures.

It’s a win-win all around!

Address: 925 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

22. Fortress Golf Course

Do you remember the name Zehnder’s?

They’re back again with a golf course that serves as one of the most fun things to do in Frankenmuth.

The course itself offers 18 holes across 6,800 yards of picturesque scenery.

Beginners and experts alike can find something to appreciate about the well-cultivated ponds, fields, and sand dunes.

When you’re done on the green, it’s time to hit the clubhouse.

This is a luxurious destination that goes above and beyond the usual fare at a golf course.

You can schedule a pig roast, for example, or rent a pavilion for a cookout.

You can attend themed events at the full-service bar.

You can buy anything and everything golf-related at the shop.

Golf lovers, you won’t want to pass by the Fortress Golf Course.

Honestly, once you see the green hills beckoning you and your nine-iron, you won’t even want to pass by.

Address: 950 Flint St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

23. Prost Wine Bar & Charcuterie

For a trendy experience, make a reservation at the Prost Wine Bar & Charcuterie.

It’s a chic, youthful sort of place where girls go for brunch and couples go for date night.

You’ll feel compelled to snap photos every time that you receive a new and intricately presented dish.

The menu itself is a pleasure: You can build your own charcuterie board or indulge in a number of appetizers such as chicken feta flatbread or honey-whipped ricotta.

Everything is designed to pair with your choice in wines or spirits.

Meanwhile, while the menu is upscale, the decor is almost completely rustic.

The waitstaff even wears traditional Bavarian uniforms.

This will make for a unique experience that’ll be hard to describe even in your own social media posts.

Leave the kids at home when you visit the Prost Wine Bar & Charcuterie.

While children are allowed, it’s honestly more of a culinary and alcoholic playground for adults.

It’s definitely one of the best places to visit in Frankenmuth if you’re a foodie!

Address: 576 1/2, S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

24. Jellystone Park Camp

Between its rolling hills and glittering lakeshores, Michigan is one of the most beautiful places in the US.

However, you’ll need to get out of the cities to truly appreciate it.

This is when you call Jellystone Park Camp.

Jellystone Park Camp is the only full-service campground in Frankenmuth, making it an invaluable resource for outdoor enthusiasts in the area.

You can pitch a tent, park a camper, rent a trailer, or book an entire cabin.

Amenities range from pools and hot tubs to playgrounds and gaming rooms, so you’ll have plenty to do even before you start hitting the trails and going deeper into the heart of nature.

There are even campfire rings if you feel the need to cook up some s’mores!

Another great thing about the camp is that it’s centrally located near downtown Frankenmuth, so it won’t require a big day trip outside of the city.

All things considered, it would be a shame to visit the Great Lakes State without actually seeing the lakes.

If you’re interested in exploring the natural wonder of Michigan, book a spot at Jellystone Park Camp.

It’s centrally located, stacked with amenities, and ready to serve as a base for all of your wilderness adventures.

Address: 1339 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

25. Frankenmuth Flower Festival

Held every summer, the Frankenmuth Flower Festival is a joy for all of the senses.

Your eyes won’t believe the towering fields of sunflowers that are even bigger than human beings.

Your nose will work overtime to take in all of the scents.

Your fingertips won’t stop trailing over silky-soft petals.

Activities at the festival are eclectic but fun.

You can pick flowers in the fields; you can enjoy dinner and wine in their midst.

There’s a craft and artisan showcase if you enjoy shopping for gifts, artwork, jewelry, and souvenirs.

There’s even a “fun run” marathon followed by a “color run” experience where you get blasted with rainbow color powder to celebrate your finish!

If you like sightseeing in beautiful, all-natural destinations, the Frankenmuth Flower Festival is one of the best places to visit in the area.

The sunflowers fields alone are something that you’ll never forget, and other events just add to the fun.

Address: Frankenmuth, MI, United States

26. Bavarian Inn Bakery

You’ve already read about the Bavarian Inn Lodge and its charmingly old-fashioned style.

You’ve also read about its many different amenities and experiences.

One of them, however, deserves special attention: the pretzel making course at the Bavarian Inn Bakery.

Offering participants the chance to become a German baker for the day, this experience will walk you through the entire process of creating soft giant pretzels.

You’ll watch a demonstration, roll and twist your own dough, and bake it until it’s piping hot.

Add a few sprinkles of salt, and it’ll be ready to eat!

The pretzel making course is a big hit among groups who want to do something fun together.

It’s ideal for work retreats, wedding parties, school field trips, and more.

It’s also counted among romantic things to do for couples who are looking for unique date night ideas.

Call the Bavarian Inn Bakery and inquire about their pretzel making course.

You’ll know that you made the right decision when you’re biting into a soft, hot, and delectable pretzel.

Address: 925 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

27. Frankenmuth Brewery

As the oldest brewery in Michigan, the Frankenmuth Brewery is a sight to behold.

It was founded back in 1862 and still retains a lot of its original architectural elements, including red exterior brick.

It has made one major renovation, however: floor-to-ceiling windows that showcase the river outside.

This is in addition to the outdoor patio seating with direct water views.

You can enjoy your food and drink with scenery that takes your breath away!

As for its menu, you won’t be disappointed.

The beer is hand-crafted with a dozen different brews available for sampling.

The cuisine includes both German and American fare; dishes range from brats to cherry salads.

Everything is made with fresh, locally sourced ingredients.

If you’re looking for cool stuff to do in Michigan, the state’s oldest brewery is a fine place to start.

Visit the Frankenmuth Brewery for a taste of history, legacy, and good old-fashioned brewskies.

Address: 425 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

28. Frankenmuth Kayak Adventures

The city of Frankenmuth was built right along the Cass River.

Back in the day, it was a necessity.

Today, it’s more of a scenic feature for local tourist attractions, but it’s still a marvel.

One way to see the river up close is to call Frankenmuth Kayak Adventures.

They offer both single- and double-seated kayaks for rent, so you can hop into the water and experience it all firsthand.

Self-guided tours take off from the nearby location of Tuscola; it’ll take around two hours for the stream to bring you back to Frankenmuth.

Along the way, you’ll enjoy beautifully rugged landscapes far from the hustle and bustle of the city.

The Cass River is one of the top 10 things to see in Michigan, so don’t limit yourself to glimpses outside of windows or from observation decks.

Instead, experience the water with 360° panoramic views while kayaking.

Call Frankenmuth Kayak Adventures to get started.

Address: 445 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

29. Frankenmuth Cheese Haus

Have you ever tried chocolate-flavored cheese?

If not, you can cross a very unique activity off your bucket list when you visit the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus.

A staple of the downtown area, the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus can be seen for miles thanks to its castle-like tower presiding over bright yellow walls and a deep red roof.

Once inside, you’ll be treated to something even more amazing: almost 300 varieties of cheese!

Flavors range from the traditional to the just plain weird.

For every smoked Gouda or tomato basil feta, there’s an Irish whiskey cheddar or a blueberry Monetery Jack.

You can also indulge in cheese-adjacent snacks like pretzels, crackers, and sauces.

Tastings happen daily if you want to try before you buy.

The Frankenmuth Cheese Haus is something that has to be seen to be believed, so if you’re ready to make some unforgettable memories while on vacation, just look for the tower in downtown Frankenmuth.

Address: 545 S Main St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

30. Oktoberfest

It wouldn’t be a German town without Oktoberfest!

Held in the Harvey Kern Community Pavilion, a German-themed beer hell, this weekend celebration draws thousands of boozemongers every year.

People come from all across Michigan to toast Bavarian culture with mugs of ale.

Not everything is alcoholic, however.

While there are plenty of games and events centered around drunken revelry, there are sober things to do at Octoberfest as well.

You can enjoy musical performances, cultural demonstrations, and one-of-a-kind entertainments like the annual weiner dog race.

You haven’t lived until you’ve seen 50 dachshunds flopping their ears across a finish line!

Important note: Despite the name, Frankenmuth’s Oktoberfest is typically held in September.

Make sure to mark your calendar and plan your trip accordingly.

Address: 601 Weiss St, Frankenmuth, MI 48734, United States

Going on a road trip around Michigan? Why not check out some of the things to do in Grand Rapids?

Start Planning Your Trip To Frankenmuth

These are just a few of the most memorable things to do in Frankenmuth, Michigan.

While it might be best known for its Bavarian roots and Christmas festivities, there’s a lot more to the town than its most popular attractions.

You can visit any time of the year and partake in all kinds of events and activities.

It’s a tourist destination for all types of travelers!