If you’re planning a trip to mid Michigan, the things to do in Frankenmuth deserve a spot at the top of your list. This charming Bavarian-style town sits just 25 minutes from Bay City, and it’s packed with more shops, restaurants, and seasonal attractions than most visitors expect from a town its size. Whether you’re visiting for the famous Frankenmuth chicken dinner, a stroll along the Cass River, or the world’s largest Christmas store, Frankenmuth is one of Michigan’s most visited small towns.
If you’d rather skip the crowds and water slides of a big hotel drawing families, Bay City is the perfect alternative. It’s a small town with a walkable downtown and scenic riverfront. There are plenty of things to do in Bay City, from browsing local shops to strolling along the Saginaw River. It’s a great complement to a day trip to Frankenmuth.
And when it’s time to rest after a day of shopping and sightseeing, there’s no better home base than the Historic Webster House. Our Bed and Breakfast in Bay City puts you close enough to Frankenmuth for an easy day trip, while giving you a quiet, elegant space to return to each evening. Between our gourmet breakfasts, our private spa room, and personalized hospitality you won’t find at a chain hotel, we’ve become the go to pick for couples looking for a romantic getaway in Michigan. Book your stay today!
Our Favorite Things to Do in Frankenmuth
Start your day in downtown Frankenmuth, where storefronts full of old-world charm line the streets. We always tell our guests to spend at least two hours here; it’s easy to lose track of time browsing the specialty shops along Main Street. For a fun way to see it all, hop on the Golden Ticket Trolley to learn about the town’s history and find a few hidden gems. One of the most popular things to do in Frankenmuth for couples on a romantic getaway is to take a carriage ride followed by a tasting at St. Julian Winery.
Visit Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland
No day trip to Frankenmuth is complete without exploring Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. It’s open year-round. About 100,000 lights illuminate Bronner’s Christmas Lane from dawn to midnight every night. Don’t miss the replica of the Silent Night Chapel, a quiet spot on the grounds to honor the history behind the beloved Christmas hymn.
If you are looking to take home a memento of your getaway, Bronner’s offers entire aisles dedicated to ornaments that can be personalized on-site. Even in the middle of summer, walking the aisles of the world’s largest Christmas store is one of Michigan’s most distinctive experiences. Guests tell us they didn’t expect to love it as much as they did.
Best Restaurants in Frankenmuth
The same places to eat in Frankenmuth keep coming up for a reason. The Bavarian Inn and Zehnder’s are the two names most people know, and both serve the town’s famous family-style chicken dinners. We recommend going hungry and splitting a dinner between two people; the portions are generous enough that you’ll still leave full.
If you’re looking for something a little different, Prost! Wine Bar is a favorite for a quieter evening, with delicious charcuterie boards, ideal for a date night. Frankenmuth Brewery is worth a stop for a good burger with a locally brewed beer. If you’re there in the evening, a walk across the covered wooden bridge near the Bavarian Inn is a nice way to close out the night, especially if the weather cooperates.
Cruise the River on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat
For something a little different, look into the Bavarian Belle Riverboat for a short cruise along the Cass River. It’s a relaxed way to see the town from a different angle, and it’s a favorite for couples looking for a slower-paced afternoon between shopping stops.
Stay at a Bed and Breakfast Near Frankenmuth
After a full day exploring Frankenmuth, the drive back to Bay City feels like exactly the right way to end things. At Historic Webster House, you’re not just booking a room; you’re stepping into a beautifully restored historic home with thoughtful, personal touches that make a getaway feel special. Our gourmet breakfasts, private spa room, and commitment to genuine hospitality set us apart from any hotel near Frankenmuth.
If you’re planning an anniversary trip, a proposal, or simply a weekend away with someone you love, we’d encourage you to make Historic Webster House your home base for exploring both Bay City and Frankenmuth. Between the small wedding and elopement packages we host on-site and the romantic atmosphere throughout the Inn, it’s easy to see why couples choose us for their Michigan getaway. Reserve your room now!