Frankenmuth is a historic city in Saginaw County known throughout Michigan as “Little Bavaria” for its rich German heritage, Bavarian-style architecture and world-famous attractions. Home to roughly 5,000 residents, Frankenmuth blends old-world charm with a thriving tourism industry and strong community traditions.
Founded in 1845 by German Lutheran immigrants from Bavaria, the community was established as a mission colony and quickly became known for preserving its German language, customs and religious traditions. Over the years, Frankenmuth developed into one of Michigan’s most recognizable tourist destinations, with its timber-framed buildings, flower-lined streets and Bavarian-inspired atmosphere drawing visitors from around the world.
Among the city’s best-known landmarks are the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth, both famous for traditional family-style chicken dinners and authentic German cuisine. Frankenmuth is also home to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland, the world’s largest Christmas store, which attracts millions of visitors annually and has become one of Michigan’s most iconic attractions.
The city’s location along the Cass River adds to its scenic beauty and recreational appeal, with opportunities for boating, kayaking and riverboat cruises aboard the Bavarian Belle. Frankenmuth also hosts numerous festivals and events throughout the year, including the Frankenmuth Bavarian Festival, Oktoberfest celebrations and holiday festivities that showcase the city’s German roots and welcoming atmosphere.
Beyond tourism, Frankenmuth maintains strong ties to agriculture and local business, while its schools, churches and civic organizations continue to play an important role in community life.
Today, Frankenmuth remains one of Michigan’s most unique and beloved communities — a place where Bavarian tradition, small-town hospitality and cultural pride come together to create a destination unlike any other in the Midwest.
Current local officials
- Mayor Pro Tem: Tom Meyer
- City Manager: Bridget Smith
- City Treasurer: Richelle Jimenez
School district
- Frankenmuth School District · (989) 652-9958
- List Elementary · 805 E Genesee St., Frankenmuth · (989) 652-6187
- Frankenmuth High School · 525 E. Genesee St., Frankenmuth · (989) 652-9955
- E.F. Rittmueller Middle School · 965 E. Genesee St., Frankenmuth · (989) 652-6119
- St. Lorenz Lutheran School · 140 Churchgrove Rd., Frankenmuth · (989) 652-6141
Service organizations
- Post Office · 119 N. Main St. · (989) 652-6751
- Police Non-Emergency · (989) 652-8371
- Fire Non-Emergency · (989) 652-9901
- James E. Wickson Memorial Library · 359 S. Franklin St. · (989) 652-8323