Step aboard the Bavarian Belle Riverboat and drift through the heart of Frankenmuth, Michigan’s own Little Bavaria. The one-hour tour on an authentic paddlewheel boat is consistently rated at the top of the list for best things to do in Frankenmuth. Enjoy views of the Cass River, beautiful scenery, the historic covered bridge, and the charming town of Frankenmuth.
Frankenmuth is a perfect day trip during your couples getaway in Michigan. After you ride the Bavarian Belle Riverboat, stroll hand-in-hand through the Riverplace Shops. The Bavarian-style architecture is quaint and charming. You’ll find more than 40 unique shops and attractions in this charming shopping mall, including local family-owned boutiques. Get in the holiday spirit by visiting the largest Christmas store in the world and finding a personalized ornament to remember your getaway.
After your day of exploring Frankenmuth, head to Bay City for a quieter evening at a romantic Michigan Bed and Breakfast. Our lodging property is a short walk from the Bay City Riverfront, perfect for a romantic stroll at sunset. Historic Webster House offers luxurious rooms and suites with personalized, attentive service. Reserve your room today!
Set Sail on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat & the Top Things to Do in Frankenmuth
During your couples getaway in Michigan, make sure a day trip to Michigan’s Little Bavaria is on your itinerary. There are a variety of romantic things to do for couples outdoors to enjoy the beautiful summer days. TripAdvisor’s number one thing to do in Frankenmuth is ride the Bavarian Belle Riverboats along the Cass River through the heart of the town.
This family-run business operates a carefully restored, authentic, stern-driven paddlewheel boat. From late May until the last weekend in October, passengers enjoy a one-hour relaxing cruise. The narrated tour highlights the history of Frankenmuth in an engaging way, with a good dose of humor. The Bavarian Belle Riverboat is a two-story vessel. There is a fully enclosed lower salon on the lower level and a canopied open-air top deck.
The Bavarian Belle Riverboat is just one way to enjoy the scenery of Frankenmuth and the Cass River. We also recommend the following outdoor activities:
- Enjoy a peaceful paddle on the Cass River Water Trail, passing through Frankenmuth’s urban riverbank with excellent views of the covered bridge and the Bavarian Belle. Kayaks can be rented from Frankenmuth Kayak Adventures. The Cass River Water Trail extends 40 miles, connecting historical, cultural, and recreational sites.
- The Frankenmuth Farmers’ Market is held each Saturday and hosts over 100 vendors selling locally grown produce, artisanal food, and handcrafted items. Stroll through the market picking up items for a picnic in the park.
- Stroll along the scenic, Bavarian-style River Place. It’s a fun mix of flavors, souvenirs, and entertainment with over 40 boutiques, candy shops, mirror mazes, and wine bars.
- Daring couples may enjoy challenging themselves at the Frankenmuth Aerial Park, which features ziplines and obstacle courses in the treetops.
- Take a romantic carriage ride through the historic streets of Frankenmuth. We suggest making a reservation with Fantasy Carriage Company.
- Fischer Platz Sommer Garden is the perfect place to savor a cold beer and tasty snack at this lively outdoor music café, reminiscent of a traditional German beer garden.
- No trip to Frankenmuth is complete without a visit to Bronner’s Christmas Wonderland. Step into the world’s largest Christmas store, spanning over 2 acres and topped with over 300 themed trees, 250 nativity sets, and a spectacular light lane. Revel in holiday cheer any day of the year.
- Try some local beer and wine. Have a wine tasting at St. Julian, the oldest and most awarded winery in the state. If ales are more your style, grab a beer and a pretzel to enjoy on the patio with river views at Frankenmuth Brewery.
Where to Spend Your Couples Getaway in Michigan
Enjoy outdoor adventures and a scenic ride on the Bavarian Belle Riverboat in Frankenmuth, then take a short 30-minute drive to Bay City for a more peaceful and luxurious overnight stay. Our Bed and Breakfast near Frankenmuth is the ideal choice for your romantic couples getaway in Michigan. The Historic Webster House is a cozy, intimate retreat in a meticulously restored 1886 Queen Anne-style mansion that seamlessly blends historic charm with modern amenities.
Beyond its proximity to the best things to do in Frankenmuth, Bay City itself is a charming historic town. Explore unique antique shops and boutiques, visit nearby museums and historic landmarks. Have a romantic dinner at one Bay City’s best restaurants. Take a romantic stroll along the riverfront at sunset. Bay City’s relaxed charm is the perfect complement to Frankenmuth’s lively, festive energy.
Our historic Michigan Bed and Breakfast features six unique guest rooms, each with its own ensuite bath, and many offer luxurious touches such as Jacuzzis, skylights, fireplaces, and saunas. The innkeepers are committed to providing the highest level of personalized service and offer enhancements to rekindle the spark of romance. Reserve your room now!
