Known as Michigan’s “Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth is an idyllic destination to spend the holidays. From horse-drawn carriage rides to the world’s largest Christmas store, here are 10 must-do experiences for a holiday weekend in Frankenmuth, Michigan.
Explore Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland
Immerse yourself in seven acres of holiday cheer at Bronner’s CHRISTmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store. Founded in 1945 by Wally “Mr. Christmas” Bronner, the store overflows with more than 50,000 trims and gifts.
Stroll past life-size nutcrackers, nativity scenes, and more ornaments than you could ever hope for. Listen to “Silent Night” outside as it plays from the 56-foot replica of the Austrian Silent Night Chapel. Arrive early to beat the crowds, then return after dark for a drive down 25 Christmas Lane with 100,000 Christmas lights guiding the way.
Shop & Sip at the Frankenmuth ChristKindlMarket
Visit the Frankenmuth ChristKindlMarket to stroll through one of the state’s largest open-air holiday markets. Wander past Bavarian architecture adorned with twinkling lights. Browse artisan stalls with handcrafted ornaments, wooden toys, holiday treats, and local goods.
Embrace Old-World Christmas cheer that transports you to Germany without leaving Michigan. Enjoy live music by carolers, meet Santa Claus, and shop for one-of-a-kind gifts. Stop by the Gathering Barn for mulled wine or seasonal brews, and step inside the snowglobe photo booth for a keepsake picture.
Skate the Frankenmuth Ice Rink in Zehnder Park
Lace up your skates at the Frankenmuth Ice Rink in Zehnder Park and glide across a fully chilled surface under strings of twinkling lights. Use skate helpers if you need a hand, then warm up in the cozy heated tent between laps.
Surround yourself with historic Bavarian facades just steps from downtown shops and restaurants. After skating, snag a hot cocoa from the concession stand and take in the alpine-themed setting. Then, stroll a block over to Main Street for more holiday sights.
Catch the 40-ft Musical Christmas Tree Show
Head to the Visitor Center plaza to watch the 40-foot musical Christmas tree dazzle the crowd. See 23,000 lights dance in sync with holiday tunes during a free seven-minute show every hour from 11:30 a.m. to 8:30 p.m., with an extra 9:30 p.m. show on Fridays and Saturdays.
Arrive early in the evening for lighter crowds, then stick around to take family photos while the tree glows between performances. Pro tip: Grab a warm drink at Harvest Coffee House & Beanery before the show to make it even more magical—it’s just a few steps away.
Clop Down Main Street in a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride
Book a horse-drawn ride with Fantasy Carriage Company and clip-clop your way along Frankenmuth’s Bavarian-style Main Street. Snuggle under blankets as jingle bells accompany your tour past festive storefronts, garland-wrapped lampposts, and the covered bridge.
Loop through the historic downtown on an immersive route that feels more like a living postcard of storybook charm. Weekend rides fill up fast this time of year, so book yours in advance. Bring a camera so you can snap plenty of pictures along the way.
Feast on a Family-Style Chicken Dinner at Zehnder’s
Indulge in a hearty meal at Zehnder’s, a circa-1856 landmark known for its massive portions and nostalgic warmth. Dig into family-style platters piled high with crispy fried chicken, mashed potatoes, buttered egg noodles, vegetables, relishes, and fresh-baked bread.
Expect servers in colonial-style uniforms, dining rooms with old-school furnishings, and expansive halls adorned for Christmas. No visit to Frankenmuth is complete without dining at this legendary spot, so come hungry and plan on going back for seconds (or thirds).
Browse Cuckoo Clocks at Frankenmuth Clock & German Gift Co.
Step into the Frankenmuth Clock & German Gift Co. and explore the Midwest’s largest clock store. Admire hundreds of handcrafted cuckoo clocks imported from Germany’s Black Forest, each with its own unique personality—some musical, some whimsical, all timeless.
Marvel at six-foot Grandfather clocks, musical cuckoo clocks with dancing figurines, and hand-carved mantel clocks. Shop for German Christmas pyramids, nutcrackers, toys, and music boxes while you take in the 17th-century craftsmanship. The shop feels like a living museum, so don’t be surprised if you lose track of time (yes, even surrounded by clocks).
Join ‘Tis the Season Weekends at River Place Shops
Head to River Place Shops to explore the 40-store Bavarian village during one of the ‘Tis the Season weekends they host every December. Walk on heated cobblestone pathways lined with wreaths, candles, and sparkling lights. Enjoy strolling performances by caroling quartets and sample cherry wines or chocolate from local makers.
Keep an eye out for Santa—he stops by often for meet-and-greets atop his Christmas throne. Forge your own magic wand at Bavarian Blacksmith Experience, taste handcrafted fudge at Zak & Mac’s Chocolate Haus, or treat yourself to beignets and coffee at N’Orlin’s Café.
Drive the Little Bavaria Light Tour & Complete the “Stop & Snap” Challenge
Pick up a map at the Visitor Center and drive through Little Bavaria’s nine themed lighting zones. Turn on your favorite holiday playlist and enjoy a self-guided tour past decorated lamp posts, Bavarian storefronts, and festive displays.
Make stops at 15 designated photo spots along the way to earn a special-edition Frankenmuth ornament in the “Stop & Snap” challenge. Expect towering Christmas trees and endless decorations in what’s meant to feel like a drive through a wintry fairytale. If you can, time your drive just after fresh snowfall for an even more magical experience.
