The very name of Frankenmuth reveals something about its origins. It was founded by fifteen German-Lutheran missionaries who came here in 1845 to teach the Chippewa Indians about Christianity. Franken is the name of their home province in Germany, and Muth is the German word for courage. It certainly required courage to found a town in the densely wooded land that is now Southeast Michigan.
Today, Frankenmuth is known as Michigan’s Little Bavaria, and the town’s German roots are proudly preserved. The town and surrounding farms are well cared for, with well-tended flower beds like those found in Bavaria. Travel the hour and a half from Detroit to a Frankenmuth bed and breakfast and it will seem like you’ve left the country.
The people of Frankenmuth know how to put on a festival. There are festivals to celebrate the 1980s and festivals to honor garage sales. There is a Bavarian Festival of course, but also an Antique Fire Muster and a Farm Fest. Lovers of Polka will book every Frankenmuth bed and breakfast during the Summer Music Festival, while beer drinkers will raise their glasses during Oktoberfest. In January, marvel at the ice carvings created during Zehnder’s Snowfest. In May, attend what has to be the one and only Barks-Bikes and Balloons festival, which involves hot air hounds, a bike race, and fireworks. The list goes on and on.
Ask the bed and breakfast innkeepers where they like to eat in town. Beer aficionados must enjoy a beer at the historic Frankenmuth Brewing Company, established in 1862. Wine drinkers will want to stop by Wolcott Winery.
There is so much fun to be had in the town of Frankenmuth, so make sure to check out our Frankenmuth bed and breakfasts!
