Frankenmuth
Affectionately called “Little Bavaria,” the colorful, wood-heavy architecture of this central Michigan town looks like it’s been transported straight out of a Franconian village. For the full Bavarian experience, stop by one of Frankenmuth’s many German restaurants for schnitzel, soft pretzels, and overflowing beer steins, and take a tour on the historic, paddle-powered Bavarian Belle Riverboat to learn a little more about the town’s Franconian roots. Fans of Christkindlmarkt-Esque decor will also be pleased to learn the town is home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, which professes to be the world’s largest year-round Christmas store.
If you've ever wanted to experience the magic of Germany's Christkindlmarket right here in the Midwest, Frankenmuth makes that possible. It's home to holiday festivities that feel both grand and European in spirit; German-inspired architecture adorned with twinkle lights, gluhwein tastings, and a spectacular shopping market are guaranteed to put you in a merry mood. To celebrate Christmas in July in Frankenmuth, head to Bronner's Christmas Wonderland, the world's largest Christmas store. The city is a magnet for visitors in other seasons as well—a cruise on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat provides views of the town and the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus will satisfy your käse cravings.
Location: Saginaw County, Michigan, United States
Tripadvisor review: 34,272 reviews