43 Things to Do in Frankenmuth – Michigan’s Little Bavaria

If you reside in the Midwest US, you might already know about Frankenmuth, Michigan, but then again, it might still be a hidden gem for you. Hailing from Illinois, just two states away, I had never come across its name until it was recommended as a weekend getaway while we were missing our friends in Duesseldorf but couldn’t travel to Germany. Our decision to spend a weekend in Frankenmuth, often dubbed as Little Bavaria, turned out to be a delightful surprise. Despite not all attractions being solely based on German culture, we relished the almost-Germany feeling and had a blast exploring the diverse things to do in Frankenmuth.

Initially skeptical when friends proposed Frankenmuth as a destination, I had presumed it to be solely about shopping and dining after a quick glance at Google Maps. However, upon our visit, we discovered a plethora of activities beyond shopping and dining, making our experience thoroughly enjoyable. The town’s charm even had us considering a return trip with the grandchildren.

Surprisingly, Frankenmuth ranks as Michigan’s top tourist attraction, drawing over 3 million visitors annually—more than Detroit, Holland, Mackinac Island, or Pictured Rocks. This small town can get quite crowded, especially during festivals, offering both excitement and crowds. Opting for a midweek visit in early fall or late spring can ensure pleasant weather and fewer crowds, making it an ideal time to explore Frankenmuth’s attractions.

What lures hordes of visitors to this quaint Michigan town in the lower peninsula? We’ll delve into the exciting activities Frankenmuth has to offer shortly. While some may not view it as a complete vacation destination, I see it as a perfect 2-4 day getaway. It pairs well with a few days in Detroit, Grand Rapids, or Lansing, creating a comprehensive vacation experience. Additionally, it serves as a convenient stopover on the way to Mackinac Island or other Upper Peninsula destinations such as Pictured Rocks.

For spontaneous travelers, planning a weekend in Frankenmuth requires some foresight, especially during peak seasons or festivals when accommodations fill up quickly. Checking the city events page and booking accommodations in advance is advisable for a hassle-free visit. As for transportation, unless you’re part of a guided tour group, driving remains the primary option given Frankenmuth’s rural Midwest location, situated east of Interstate 75, about 30 miles north of the junction with Interstate 69, between Saginaw and Flint.

 

Getting to Frankenmuth

Getting to Frankenmuth is primarily by car unless you’re part of a guided tour group. Situated in the rural US Midwest, this small town is conveniently located east of Interstate 75, approximately 30 miles north of the junction with Interstate 69, nestled between Saginaw and Flint.

For those flying into a larger city and then driving, Frankenmuth is roughly 95 miles north of Detroit or 140 miles east of Grand Rapids, Michigan’s second-largest city. Other distances in the region include Cleveland at 246 miles, Columbus at 267 miles, Toronto, CA at 278 miles, Chicago at 300 miles, Cincinnati at 325 miles, and Indianapolis at 330 miles. 

Where to Stay for your Weekend in Frankenmuth

Finding accommodation in Frankenmuth is a breeze with numerous hotels offering various options to suit your preferences. If you prefer a place within walking distance of most attractions but away from the hustle and bustle of traffic, with onsite dining options and comfortable amenities like a minifridge, consider the Bavarian Inn.

The Bavarian Inn, our choice for a weekend in Frankenmuth, is strategically located across the Cass River, offering a serene setting yet close enough to the action. It provides shuttle services to the main strip, boasts a full-service restaurant, a cafe, a pub, and an outdoor beer garden (in season). Additionally, guests can enjoy an indoor waterpark with pools and slides, indoor mini-golf, game rooms, and standard hotel amenities

Reserve your stay at the Bavarian Inn now for a memorable weekend in Frankenmuth!

While there aren’t ultra-luxurious options in town, you’ll find that the range of accommodations caters well to different preferences, focusing more on location proximity and desired amenities.

Explore other Frankenmuth Hotels now to find the perfect fit for your getaway.

 Things to do in Frankenmuth at River Place Shops

One of the most common things to do in Frankenmuth is shopping, as I originally feared.  But, even as a “non-shopper” I enjoyed the River Place Shops.  It is set up in a very pretty fashion, and the atmosphere makes it one of the Frankenmuth attractions in itself. It has a fairly authentic German plaza appearance, or a revived downtown feeling than that of a shopping center. I am almost sure you will find something there that interests you. Even if you absolutely do not want to shop, you can always just sit by the waterfall and take in the vibe.  

Have a French Breakfast 

Eating is one of the most popular things to do in Frankenmuth. You can relish lots of German food. However, there are plenty of other choices, and River Place Shops provides two opportunities to have a French style breakfast.  I find it a little amusing, considering the animosity that has always existed between Germany and France. Regardless, whether you prefer the soft and sweet goodness of beignets, or the more filling stuffed crepe, you will find a delicious option, at N’Orlin Beignets and Coffee, or La Crepe Du Jour.  

Explore the Unique Shops

If you are a lover of cherries, hot sauce, popcorn, jerky, tea blends, flavored olive oils, or honey, there is a shop specializing in your favorite.  If you have dogs, cats, or birds, there is a store catering to your animal loves.  If your hobbies include making jewelry, avid reading, fairy gardens, collectors cards, leather wear, or quirky socks, there is a shop to suit.  Intermix these specialty shops with a candle store, souvenir shop and a woman’s clothing boutique, to round out the actual stores in River Place Shops.  

Forge Your Own Blade

Many historic places feature a blacksmith shop where live demonstrations of the smithing process can be observed and enjoyed.  But few places offer the opportunity to perform the forging, or create your own piece of metal art.  One of the most rewarding Frankenmuth attractions is The Blacksmith Experience.  You’ll walk away from The Blacksmith Experience having learned about ancient techniques, burned off a whole lot of stress, and a handmade item to show off. We say go for the full experience, and make the knife. You’ll be impressed with yourself, as will your friends!

Get Pampered with a Massage, Facial and Pedicure

Some people vacation for adventure, and others vacation to relax. If you are on vacation to relax and relieve some stress during your weekend in Frankenmuth, a spa treatment might be right up your alley.  Serendipity Day Spas offer standard spa services such as pedicures, manicures, facials and massages, but they are taken up a notch with specialty treatment flairs, and high quality botanical products. You’ll need to schedule an appointment, so plan this ahead!

Try a Northern Michigan Classic for Lunch

While this area of Michigan was settled by German immigrants, a hundred miles north there was a preponderance of Flemish and Cornish immigrants.  The Flemish originate in the Netherlands/Belgium area, and the Cornish from the southwest of the UK. The Cornish brought their beloved Pasties with them from Cornwall, and as it happened, the Flemish embraced the convenient handheld pies. They soon became a peninsula staple, and have been part of Michigan life ever since.   In simplest terms, it is a savory handheld pie, stuffed with meat and vegetables. The Pasty Haus menu probably includes an variety that will suit you, and they make a perfect lunch. 

Pan for Gem Stones

If you are traveling with children, no matter how interesting the surrounding shops may be, some activity to break up the browsing will improve the day.  Thunder Bay Mining provides an opportunity to find some some shiny gemstones by sluicing.   While not necessarily the most unique of Frankenmuth attractions, it is fun! Rough bags come in 3 sizes, and contain a random mix of 19 different semi-precious stones. Miners run their rough through the stream in a sluice box, attempting to wash away the debris, and find the items of value. It is a bit of a challenge for young and old, and “miners” get to keep whatever they rescue from the dirt.

Traverse the Mirror Maze

Another amusing intermission in River Place, is the Mirror Maze.  The maze presents a wonderful illusion of multiple repetitions of yourself along with some added theatrical scenery to wander through. It provides lots of mental stimulation, fun, and photo opportunities. The truth is that I did not go into the maze, but people say it is a good one, as far as similar mazes go, and that the staff is very welcoming. I wish I had, as the photos on Google Maps look very cool.

Take a Ride on the Bavarian Belle

Although not native to the area, the Bavarian Belle paddle-wheeler looks right at home on the Cass River alongside River Place, and seems appropriate among the things to do in Frankenmuth.  I love boat trips, and whenever one is offered when I travel, it must be added to the agenda.  I was thrilled when I learned the Belle was one of the Frankenmuth attractions.

Trips depart from the dock below the Shops every 90 minutes, and take a one hour round trip cruise along the river.  Frankenmuth is in the Michigan flatlands, so there is no dramatic scenery. But, it is pretty and green most of the year. The trip is quite relaxing in the midst of a busy day. It is interesting to see the back doors of the Bavarian styled town from the back alley of the river. There is both indoor and outdoor seating, and a snack bar on board.

Taste the Spirits

Fans of local wines and craft liquors will be pleased to find both a distillery tasting room, and two winery tasting rooms.  Grand Traverse Distillery creates their own bourbon, rye whiskey, gin and vodka, with specialty liquors flavored with local cherries, which you can sample inhouse. Located within the distillery, those who prefer a milder drink, Black Star Farms winery offers tastings and flights with the same shop. For a different kind of flair, Modern Craft Wine specializes in mixing different varieties of wines, or adding various “mixers” for a completely unique specialty cocktail.  Be aware that neither location has a food menu.

Things to Do in Frankenmuth on the Strip

So you know, if you asked anyone where the Frankenmuth Strip is, they may look at you and ask what you are talking about. I repurposed that term when I decided to write about the city, as it was the easiest way to describe this area of Frankenmuth attractions. It is the main section of town, and every single building invites you in to see the offerings, just like the Las Vegas Strip or the Branson Strip. In Frankenmuth this strip is only a few blocks long. It is an area of high traffic like those other cities as well, but the attractions are not so in your face. It is also quite pretty.

While our exploration of Frankenmuth began at River Place, the heart of the city beats along the strip. Parking and walking are the best options here, with several hotels nearby offering convenience and shuttle services for those preferring to stay a bit further away.

Try the Word Famous Chicken Dinners

One cannot visit Frankenmuth without indulging in its renowned chicken dinners, often hailed as the city’s claim to fame. Both the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Zehnder’s Restaurant, located across the street from each other, serve up delectable chicken dinners alongside German specialties, making them must-visit destinations in Frankenmuth. Be prepared for a wait, as these dinners are highly popular.

Walk Across the Holz-Brucke

A stroll across the Holz-Brucke, Frankenmuth’s iconic wooden bridge spanning the Cass River, offers a unique perspective of the city and picturesque photo opportunities. Despite its appearance of age, this bridge was specially constructed in the 1970s, adding to Frankenmuth’s charm and historical ambiance.

See the Glockenspiel Performance

The clock tower at the Bavarian Inn is known for the Glockenspiel, a sort of xylophone type German instrument.  The Glockenspiel at the Bavarian Inn, featuring a unique carillon bell system and a storytelling performance atop a clock tower, is one of the most beloved Frankenmuth attractions. Visitors can enjoy the charming clock performances every three hours from noon to 9:00 p.m., depicting the story of the Pied Piper of Hameln with carved wooden figures. It is one of the most popular things to do in Frankenmuth, so be aware that the lunch and dinnertime ringing often draw large crowds, so come early.

Ride in a Horse Drawn Carriage Ride

For a leisurely overview of Frankenmuth’s historic sites and a quiet escape from the crowds, consider a horse-drawn carriage ride. Available near Zehnders and the Bavarian Inn, these rides offer options for different durations, with longer rides venturing along the river and through neighborhoods for a serene experience. Reservations can be made ahead online, but most visitor rides are secured by walk up.

Gather Fountain Photos

One of the distinguishing factors in many German cities is the presence of beautiful and elaborate fountains in central locations, such as town hall squares.  Quite often these fountains, or Brunens as they are called in Germany, depict a historical or fabled story of the city.  Capture the essence of German cityscapes with the beautiful fountains scattered throughout town. The easiest to find are the fountains near Zehnders Restaurant and the Frankenmuth Welcome Center, adding a touch of European charm to your visit. For me, the feeling of Germany could not be accomplished without having some beautiful fountains, and I consider them one of the top Frankenmuth attractions. 

Look at Time in a New Way

When we visited the Black Forest, we spent some time traveling the Uhrenstrasse, or the Clock Route. Doing so, we learned the history of cuckoo clocks and other mechanical time pieces, as well as the great craftsmanship and skill required to create them. It was these clocks that allowed many poor peasants to provide their families with a better life, and that put the Black Forest on the worldwide map, so to speak.

You can delve into the world of these mechanical timepieces and craftsmanship at the Frankenmuth Clock Company, showcasing an array of cuckoo clocks, music boxes, and other wonders. Appreciate the intricate designs and history behind these timeless pieces, making for a fascinating exploration beyond traditional shopping. It has become well-loved among the things to do in Frankenmuth.

Sample Local Craft Beers

Frankenmuth Brewery first began making beer back in 1868, making it not only the oldest brewery in town, but also the oldest in Michigan. They keep 6 favorites on tap, and rotate in 9 seasonal, special occasional, or experimental blends. Beer lovers can try a flight, or a favorite at the Frankenmuth Brewery.  The brewery also features a restaurant that serves the expected pizza and burgers, but beyond that they have real meals such as Blackberry Salmon or Blackened Beef Tips. You may want to come for dinner even if you do not come for beer.

Frankenmuth Historical Museum

Explore the rich history and heritage at the Frankenmuth Historical Museum which offers engaging exhibits on the area’s first few German settlers, the heyday of the logging industry, and the evolution into a renowned tourist destination.  It is an interesting story of learning a new language and new customs, while holding on to the most important of the old, such as their family traditions and Lutheran religion. Dive into the tales of resilience, community spirit, and cultural preservation that shaped Frankenmuth into the charming city it is today.

Taste Cheeses from the Western World

Americans love cheese, and part of this love stems from our ancestry.  Cheesemaking began in Europe and the Middle East centuries ago, and it was a staple in many diets.  The Pilgrims brought cheese with them on the Mayflower, and soon other settlers brought other cheesemaking techniques.  Today, cheese of numerous textures, consistencies and flavors are produced across both continents, but in smaller cities across the US, few varieties can be found.  Frankenmuth Cheese Haus features any number of cheese from both sides of the Atlantic, and cheese connoisseurs will be in heaven, making it a favorite among the Frankenmuth attractions.  I found a strong and salty 30 year aged gouda that really hit the spot! 

See Historic Carding Room and Looms

The Frankenmuth Woolen Mill has been refining wool and producing woolen bedding since 1896, when wool was the primary cloth used during cold weather. Industry has changed a lot in the last century and a quarter. Step back in time at the Frankenmuth Woolen Mill, where historical equipment and exhibits showcase the art of wool refinement and weaving. Explore the museum-like setting to gain insight into traditional wool production methods and appreciate the craftsmanship of yesteryears.

Take a Riverside Walk

Escape the hustle and bustle by strolling along the Gunzenhausen Street Walkway or the river walkway near the Cass River. These serene paths offer a peaceful retreat, perfect for a leisurely walk or a moment of tranquility during your weekend in Frankenmuth, and they are safe both day and night.

On the Gunzenhausen Walkway, you’ll also have the opportunity to observe the Cass River Rock Dam, an ecological feature benefiting fish migration and river health, adding an intriguing ecological element to your riverside experience. A power producing dam built for a mill once stood on the river, obstructing fish movement. The new rock dam creates an staggered rapids which allow fish to move all along the river protecting the Saginaw Bay by giving fish the means to get to their natural breeding grounds up river. Not only is it ecologically sound, it is pleasant to sit for a while and watch as well. The positive effects of the rapids are only just beginning, but when they come to fruition, angling may become another of the best things to do in Frankenmuth.

Enjoy One of the Best Charcuterie Plates Ever

I love a good charcuterie, and lunch on a plate of cheeses! Satisfy your culinary cravings at Prost, in the heart of the Frankenmuth Strip, where an exquisite selection of meats, cheeses, and accompaniments allows you to create your perfect charcuterie plate. With a wide range of options to choose from, including meats like mortadella and prosciutto, cheeses, and various accompaniments, Prost delivers a memorable dining experience on the Frankenmuth Strip. We loved ours!

Watch the Candy Making Process

Delight in the sights and aromas of fresh candy being made at one of the strip’s candy stores. Whether you prefer taffy, fudge, or a fancier type of chocolate, these stores offer a treat for every sweet tooth, coupled with the fascinating experience of witnessing candy creation firsthand. As a child I found the taffy making process mesmerizing, and I still enjoy it as an adult.  When it came time for buying take home, for us the go to was the truffles.

Try Michigan Made Ice Cream

After a filling chicken dinner, or any other heavy dinner, you may want a lighter, more refreshing desert.  Nothing ever hits the spot like hand dipped ice cream.  Frankenmuth Ice Cream, with a variety of flavors reflecting local tastes and seasonal favorites, you’ll find a refreshing dessert option to complement your culinary experience. I found the Cinnamon Churro flavor delightful.

Great Lakes Escape Game

Challenge your wits and teamwork skills with an escape room.  Beak up the shopping, eating and recreation by putting your brain to work. The Great Lakes Escape Game offers an immersive escape room experiences. Break away from shopping and dining routines to engage in exciting puzzles and mysteries, adding a fun and interactive element to your Frankenmuth getaway. Can you cut the mustard, and escape before time runs out?

Things to Do in Frankenmuth Around Town

Beyond River Place and the strip, the rest of Frankenmuth is a relatively normal town, with regular neighborhoods and business districts. There are still a number of different locations with the Bavarian styling, and others which quietly demonstrate the area’s German heritage. St. Lorenz is a good example of that, with settlers bringing their Lutheran traditions along with them when the city was founded. The church is lovely inside, and if you are spending an actual weekend in Frankenmuth, all visitors are welcome to services. Although most aspects of town look “normal,” there are still a number of other things to do in Frankenmuth, outside the prime tourist areas.

Feel the Christmas Spirit

Bronner’s Christmas Market is known worldwide for their Christmas products. The Frankenmuth store is the largest Christmas store in the world, and one of the primary Frankenmuth attractions.  Almost everyone has had fun shopping from their catalog or online store at one time or another. Heck, John Wayne bought a Santa Suit from the catalog by phone back in the 1970s. But, there is nothing like walking through over 2 acres of Christmas bliss, from trees and ornaments, to lights and lawn decorations, to stockings and nativities.  No matter what style of Christmas you love, you’ll find it in Bronner’s.  

Drive Through the Winter Wonderland

While I typically would never suggest the same place twice in a list of things to do, Bronner’s actually earns 2 spots. It is possible that you may not wish to visit during the day. A giant Christmas store doesn’t appeal to everyone. But, even if you do not visit Bronner’s during the day, you must go at night.  The parking lot comes alive with over 100,000 twinkling lights in the half-mile drive through Christmas Lane. It is one of the can’t miss things to do in Frankenmuth, figuratively and  literally.

Slip and Slide to Your Heart’s Content

What truly took Frankenmuth from being a summer getaway city to being a year round destination was the addition of two incredible indoor water parks, which are among the top Frankenmuth attractions.  Zehnder’s Splash Village Hotel, and the Bavarian Inn both have numerous indoor pools and water features, from family raft rides to speed slides, both include an adjoining cafe or snack room, and an extensive game room.  As for the waterpark aspect, Zehnder’s may have an advantage with more slides, and the retractable roof, allowing a bit of real sunshine when the weather is nice. If you are not staying at the hotel, you can book a waterpark day pass on their website.

Get Out on the Farm

Grandpa Tiny’s Farm is a local tradition in Frankenmuth, and it has become a traditional Frankenmuth attraction for repeat visitors. If you are traveling with children you will want to stop by.  If I didn’t know it before, our farm stay weekend with the grandchildren taught me that children love almost everything about farm life, especially the animals. Grandpa Tiny’s is an actual working farm and daily chores are a part of life.  You may be able to participate in chore, but you can also visit Robert’s Workshop, the Farming Museum, Herb Ill Granary, and the corn box play area at the crib. Animals you may meet include Rosie the donkey, Mr. Nibbles the rabbit, and the reindeers Dasher and Dancer. Additional seasonal activities would include picking your own pumpkins in the fall, and feeding the baby animals in the spring.

Learn the Michigan Military History

Every state has its special set of military heroes, and the Michigan Military Heroes Museum showcases those of the home state, as well as the astronauts who have represented the state in space exploration.  There is an individual display for each of those celebrated, plus exhibits outlining the states history throughout the various wars of the US. The museum also pays special homage to the Polar Bears, an often overlooked group of soldiers officially designated the American North Russia Expeditionary Force (ANREF), that were sent to combat with the Bolshevik Red Army in Russia during 1918 and 1919. The museum is definitely one of the things to do in Frankenmuth that will teach you some things you did not know.

Shop at the Frankenmuth Farmer’s Market 

A typical farmer’s market featuring the freshest of local fare, the Frankenmuth Farmer’s Market is a hub of activity during the Saturday markets, which run from May through October.  It is a perfect place to grab a healthy lunch during a weekend in Frankenmuth. When fresh garden fare is most abundant, from June to August, a Wednesday market operates as well.  With the German heritage, it is no surprise that weekends between Thanksgiving and Christmas come alive with the Christkindlemarket.  Outside of the holiday season, this is one of the least known Frankenmuth attractions for visitors.

Take to the Trees

For those who thirst for a bit more adrenaline than the waterparks can afford, ziplining and a canopy walk may be just what is needed.  The Frankenmuth Aerial Park offers both, and is fun for young and old, and definitely the most adrenaline stimulating of all things to do in Frankenmuth. Participants must be 7 years or older, and all children must have a parental signed waiver.  There are 6 separate t rails, with 21 total ziplines and over 100 challenges. Trails are color coded by difficulty level, so each participant can choose a level that is right for them. Sessions are bought in 2 hour blocks, so many climbers complete 2 or 3 trails during their time frame.

Explore the Historic Structures

If you are a history buff, or you’re just looking for something lowkey to do as a wind down, we suggest a drive around town checking out the various historic buildings.  The city maintains them as historical memorials, but the add nicely to the Frankenmuth attractions. Most of them are just a quick look around, but they are interesting. If you are not sure where to look, the city Frankenmuth Welcome Center will provide directions.  You’ll find a replica of the original St. Lorenz Log Church, an original log house, the Hart One Room School House, once key locations in town.  There are a number of historic barns around the area, and you’ll also find the Silent Night Memorial Chapel, a replica of a very important chapel in Austria. 

Take Another Shot at Local Wines

If wine tasting was not on your mind at River Place Shops, you’ll find St. Julian winery as one of the things to do in Frankenmuth in the further town.  Although St. Julian went through a series of different names and locations in its early days, the family began making wine in 1921, and is now 4 generations in. With this history, the now make over 100 products. Although various wines ae the feature, they also distill a series of wines and rums, brew a brand of hard ciders, and bottle sparkling juices. One factor the company remains proud of is their exclusive use of Michigan fruits.

Find Your Way Through The Fields

If you find yourself making your visit to the area in the late summer or fall, one of the great seasonal Frankenmuth attractions is the  Weiss Centennial Farm.  The farm is actually open year round, for scheduled tours, but one of its best features is the corn maze that comes to life as the crops reach their full growth and harvest approaches.  Visitors wind their way through the tall corridors of corn in search of hidden stations and clues that lead them to the lost Farmer John.  There is also a petting farm and scavenger hunt on the farm.  

Kayak on the Cass River

To get away from it all and get some fresh air and exercise, a kayak ride on the river is a good nice weather option.  While your ride will stretch far beyond the city, it is nice to have some kayaking as one of he Frankenmuth attractions. Skilled riders can rent kayaks can be rented by the hour at Kayak Frankenmuth, or schedule two hour guided tours along the Cass River. The Cass is a very calm river, allowing for smooth riding even for the less experienced.

Things to Do Near Frankenmuth

As much as we loved Frankenmuth, we took a little break in the middle of our visit, and did some things in the surrounding area. To our pleasant surprise, we found several things to do near Frankenmuth, without having to travel to either Flint or Saginaw. If you prefer to go to the city, both are less than 25 miles from Frankenmuth, and you will find an entire new host of activities to add to your trip. We preferred to stay in quieter places for this trip, so the activities we found were almost all in nearby Birch Run, or rural, adding nicely to our long weekend in Frankenmuth.

Get Outside with the Animals

Although I am not a big patron of zoos, I understand that many people really enjoy them.  If you are among them, Wilderness Trails Zoo, located just 6 miles south of Frankenmuth, features a variety of both large and small animals in a wooded setting.  You’ll find everything from parakeets to alligators to a tiger, along with a petting zoo for little ones, and a few encounter type attractions.  

Step Back in Time

Get a real taste of the fifties, along with some traditional diner fare across the street at the Comet Diner.  The atmosphere is bright and fun, with its nostalgic decor. You half expect a waitress in a pink mini-dress with a ruffled white apron. While Frankenmuth is beautiful, there is nothing with a solid flare of Americana, so it is nice that Comet is one of the things to do near Frankenmuth. The menu offers burgers, sandwiches, salads and finger foods, along with their specialty real ice cream shakes.  

Get Your Antique Fix

Antique lovers will find themselves in heaven, at this same corner just a few miles south of Frankenmuth, where three antique malls sit on the corner: Thrifty Treasures Antiques, The Iron Gate Emporium, and Around the Farm Antiques. These malls are the typical Midwest type where many small vendors have spots in a single large store.  So each of the stores feature an number of individual stalls, each with their own flair, so the variety of antique goods available is plentiful and quite eclectic.  You may want to visit when you are spending more than a weekend in Frankenmuth, as an antique lover could spend half a day here.

Alpine Mountain Golf

If you are traveling with children a stop at Alpine Mountain Golf is likely in order.  As one assumes, it is a miniature golf course, but it also features a go-kart track and a bumper boat pond.  This makes good fun for all.  So if the waterparks have not completely satiated the need for adventure, the little amusement center offers a different excitement, often with no crowd, during your weekend in Frankenmuth.

Get a Great Deal

If all of the unique shops in Frankenmuth have not satisfied the shoppers in your group, you’ll find mainstream stores in the nearby town of Birch Run.  It is fabulous that the outlets are one of the things to do near Frankenmuth, as the Premium Outlets in Birch Run is known as the best outlet mall in Michigan.  You’ll find over 100 stores in the mall, including some of the names that you love.

Take in a Short Track Race

If you are feeling a little rebellious, perhaps a little short track drag car racing will be up your alley.  Races are good fun for adults, and families without very young children.  It is certainly the loudest of all the things to do near Frankenmuth. The cars are LOUD, and can be disconcerting for little ones, or anyone sensitive to sound.  You can find the races in Birch Run on weekend nights in the summer.

Head Out for a Hike in a National Wildlife Refuge

If the yearning for a real trail hits you while you are spending a weekend in Frankenmuth, you’ll find the Shiawassee National Wildlife Refuge about 20 miles west, along the Shiawassee River.  The refuge protects the Shiawassee Watershed, and encompasses the confluence of 3 different rivers, the Bad River, the lint River, and the Cass River, into the Shiawassee River. The refuge area includes wetlands and bottomland forest, and has trails through both, although it does close for exclusively hunting during deer season, for the safety reasons.

Ready to Spend a Weekend in Frankenmuth?

If you are looking for a memorable place to spend a weekend in the upper Midwest, look no further than a weekend in Frankenmuth. Beyond its renowned shopping and dining scenes, this charming town offers a plethora of activities and attractions to suit every traveler’s interests. From exploring historic landmarks and indulging in culinary delights to experiencing local culture and scenic walks, there’s something for everyone in Frankenmuth and its surrounding areas.

We’ve shared just a glimpse of the many things to do in Frankenmuth and the Frankenmuth attractions waiting to be discovered. Whether you’re planning a romantic escape, a family adventure, or a solo retreat, Frankenmuth promises a delightful experience that will leave you wanting more. Start planning your trip today, and embark on a journey filled with joy, relaxation, and unforgettable memories. You’ll be glad you chose Frankenmuth for your weekend getaway.

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