The very name Frankenmuth says everything about its origins. The stunning Michigan town was founded by 15 German-Lutheran missionaries when they arrived here to teach Christianity to the Chippewa Indians in 1845. Since their German home province’s name was “Franken” and the German word for courage is “Muth,” the name Frankenmuth was born. After all, it required courage to find this Southeast Michigan town amidst densely wooded land! Today, the tradition has carried forward, and Frankenmuth is Michigan’s “Little Bavaria.” So, the town’s German roots are proudly preserved and presented, including options for a bed and breakfast in Frankenmuth, Michigan. We found friendly German welcomes just about everywhere we roamed, but the warm Bavarian hospitality really shone in the town’s B&Bs.
What’s more, they ranged from homestay B&Bs to 100-year-old farmhouses with mod-cons. That, plus the fact that the town and the surrounding farms are exactly like those found in the German heartland, made us feel like we were smack dab in the heart of the pristine countryside of Bavaria. Here’s a detailed guide to bed and breakfasts in Michigan’s Little Bavaria.
Our Favorite Bed & Breakfast in Frankenmuth, Michigan
- Frankenmuth Country Bed And Breakfast
- Nordic Pineapple Bed And Breakfast, St. Johns
- The Ginkgo Tree Inn, Mt Pleasant
- Newton Of Ypsilanti Bed And Breakfast
- Saravilla Bed And Breakfast, Alma
- Montague Inn Bed & Breakfast, Saginaw
- Himelhoch Bed And Breakfast, Caro
- Knob Hill Bed & Breakfast, Flint
- Historic Webster House Bed And Breakfast, Bay City
- A Dove Nest Bed And Breakfast, Kingston
Modern Stays
Frankenmuth is no stranger to modern stays, and as historic as the town, it has a slew of fantastic modern B&Bs. Here are the best of the lot.
Frankenmuth Country Bed and Breakfast
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Frankenmuth Country Bed and Breakfast sits just five minutes north of downtown. The farmhouse might have been built a century ago, but the digs were modern. We’d spend our days enjoying old-fashioned carriage rides and relaxing on the front porch. Moreover, the lush and verdant surroundings were the perfect antidote after a long and tiring day of exploring the region.
Meet The Hosts
30 years ago, Alice and Jim were on their honeymoon at this wonderful B&B when they fell in love with it. So, they bought this 1900-built farmhouse in 2016 and completely revamped it to make it a home away from home. Not only were they wonderful hosts, but they also showed us around the farm and made our stay very comfortable and cozy. Plus, playing with their friendly and fun-loving Labradoodle, Ruby, was one the best parts of our stay. In fact, we had such a good time that we even extended our vacation by an extra day.
Food And Drink
Every morning, Alice and Jim would whip up a delicious farm-friendly organic breakfast spread and serve it to us at 9 am. Not only did they collect eggs from their own chickens, but also the herbs, veggies, and fruits were harvested from their gardens. Think home-cured bacon, delicious baked goodies, types of bread, juices, tea, coffee, and whatnot.
The Rooms
We had the choice of three rooms: the Gardenrun Room, the Maplefield Room, and the Countryview Room. All of them boasted plush beds and private bathrooms. Plus, the views out of the windows were something we’d never experienced in our lifetime! Our chosen abode, the serene Gardenrun Room, boasted a two-person soaker tub right in the room, just steps from the queen bed.
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Newton of Ypsilanti Bed and Breakfast
Calling all foodies to the Newton of Ypsilanti Bed and Breakfast! This wonderful B&B in the charming and walkable Ypsilanti is owned by a culinary chef, which is what draws people here, including us. In fact, this boutique inn was the best Frankenmuth B&B, according to us.
- Meet the hosts: The hosts are Charles Bultman and Allison Anastasio, who purchased the property in 2021 and support the farm-to-table movement and local artists. Allison is a chef who weaves the magic here that has people returning for her fresh and delectable home-cooked fare. In fact, her breakfast was so top-notch that we can easily say that it was the best breakfast we’ve had in years.
- Food and drink: On weekend mornings, Charles and Allison would lay out an artfully prepared breakfast. They would also deliver garden vegetable trays, charcuterie and cheese boards, seasonal fruit trays, and selections of locally made Mindo chocolate to our rooms.
- Room type(s): We had the choice of three suites: the Barnard, the Newton, and the Gibson suites. They all had the comfiest beds in the world with beautiful bedding, plush linens and drapes, and private bathrooms. In fact, the Newton and Gibson suites even had bathtubs in the bathrooms, while the Barnard room boasts a chaise lounge, which was the perfect reading nook.
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Historic B&Bs
Montague Inn Bed & Breakfast, Saginaw
The minute we set foot into the Montague Inn Bed & Breakfast in Saginaw, we stepped into serenity. Nestled amidst a picturesque setting, the inn exudes historic charm and timeless elegance, with its roots deeply embedded in the past. In fact, its historic ballroom is now used for weddings, and even its sunlit breakfast room features remnants of its iconic past.
- Meet the hosts: Scott Kelly and Julie Bills are the current innkeepers here. Scott is the head chef, and Julie is also the dining room manager and event coordinator.
- Food and drink: Every day, we were served a yummy continental breakfast from 8 to 10 a.m. It included delights like fresh fruit, bagels, toast, applesauce, yogurt, bacon and sausage, pancakes, scrambled eggs, hard-boiled eggs, cocoa, tea, and coffee.
- Room type(s): We had the choice of 16 rooms and suites across the main house and the carriage house, including standard, premier, and deluxe rooms. Moreover, they all had private bathrooms, and some even had bathtubs. If that wasn’t enough, they even had Roku TVs, free Wi-Fi, and plush beds perfect for a good night’s sleep after a long day.
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Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast, St. Johns
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St. Johns residents still talk about a devastating 1992 fire that almost destroyed a huge Civil War-era mansion in the town. However, Kjersten and Greg Offenbecker decided to make it a happy memory by converting it into the stunning Nordic Pineapple Bed and Breakfast in 2018.
- Meet the hosts: The delightful Kjersten and Greg Offenbecker are the owners/innkeepers. They’re warm, kind, friendly, and take care of all our needs.
- Food and drink: Their freshly prepared, home-style breakfast was served in the dining room or on the porch. We’d start off with fresh-ground coffee, sizzling meat, and baking scones, followed by chef’s choice entrees, which could be savory or sweet. Plus, they’d always be accompanied by sides like hickory-smoked ham, thick-sliced bacon, and apple-maple sausage. Kjersten’s heritage was evident in dishes that Greg prepared, like vafflers (heart-shaped waffles, a Norwegian tradition) and pannekaken, an eggier, thicker version of a crepe. Moreover, they even had sodas, cocoa, tea, coffee, and an assortment of small snacks in the Benson Bistro/Barber Lounge 24/7. Are you headed out early in the morning? They even had to-go cups of coffee on offer. Check out the breakfast details.
- Room type(s): There are seven suites here, all named and themed for colors, like the Teal Bear, the Orange Pumpkin, and the Purple Viking below. In addition to private luxe bathrooms, they all have plush beds with luxurious linens, seating areas, and huge windows with sweeping views. In fact, the Pink Pumpkin had a spacious patio with lounge daybeds, while the Yellow Pig (and Piglets) rooms were perfect for large families.
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Saravilla Bed and Breakfast, Alma
The Saravilla Bed and Breakfast is a three-story, 1894-built Dutch Colonial home in the heart of Alma, not far from the town. It features a sunroom, woodburning fireplaces in the rooms and common areas, and a jaw-dropping ballroom that’s very popular for weddings. And since it sits in a neighborhood full of elegant 19th-century homes, how cool, right?
- Meet the hosts: Rochelle and Kelly O’Shay from neighboring Ithaca are the current owners of the Saravilla B&B. In fact, Rochelle has dreamed of owning this mansion since she was a teenager, and her dream came true! Since it became a B&B in 1991, Saravilla has had 10 owners, with the O’Shay’s being the 11th.
- Food and drink: Saravilla B&B served a full breakfast in the Turret dining room, with the guest kitchen open to us 24/7. We’d awaken in the mornings to the aroma of fresh coffee, with the prospect of a delightful breakfast with fresh fruit, pastries, and hot entrees like made-to-order eggs waiting for us. They’d even break out the fine china.
- Room type(s): We had the choice of seven air-conditioned rooms and suites, all of which featured plush beds, free Wi-Fi, and modern private bathrooms. Despite being a historic mansion, we loved how spacious all the digs were, especially our Ammi Wright Suite, which even had a four-poster bed, Turkish rug, and a sitting area.
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Romantic Stays
What could be more romantic than a town that’s called Michigan’s “Little Bavaria?” These B&Bs in Frankenmuth are the epitome of romance, with bathtubs, jacuzzis, special romance packages, and more.
Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast, Caro
Our secret to a happy relationship? Surprising each other with romantic getaways. That’s where the Himelhoch Bed and Breakfast come in. This magnificently restored historic Victorian B&B has even been rated as the No. 1 Bed & Breakfast in the entire state—and for a good reason. Think bathtubs in the rooms, jacuzzis for two,
- Meet the hosts: Innkeepers Melissa and Don recently restored the historic B&B’s main structure to its original Victorian beauty. They, along with the affable Miranda, ran the inn and were wonderful hosts, whether it was showing us around, catering to our every need, or giving us recommendations on what to see and where to eat. Melissa and Don started off with three suites in the main building, adding the guest house and Parsonage house, and their rooms after the bed and breakfasts’ popularity skyrocketed.
- Food and drink: We woke up every morning to find a hearty, homemade breakfast waiting for us in the breakfast room. Think made-to-order eggs, bacon, sausage, pancakes, waffles, juices, tea, coffee, and more. We especially loved their choice of parfaits and healthy options.
- Room type(s): The rooms in the main house were luxurious and romantic, especially the Myer and Rosa Suite. It not only had a huge flatscreen TV but also a cozy fireplace and an elegant clawfoot tub, which was perfect for a romantic tete-a-tete. In fact, even the massive heated-tile shower with four showerheads provided a lot of romantic possibilities. The highlight was the large private balcony that overlooked the backyard, which also led directly to the shared hot tub. All other rooms and suites were equally fantastic, with sleek and luxe private bathrooms, plush beds, and mod-cons.
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Knob Hill Bed & Breakfast, Flint
Sitting in the middle of Flint’s auto industry-driven town is the historic Knob Hill Bed & Breakfast. It sits in a 1926-built Colonial-style mansion that was built way back when the auto industry in Flint was booming, and the executives built houses to match. On the inside, the B&B is all about classic elegance and timeless romance in the form of amazing romantic packages and getaways.
- Meet the hosts: This 1926 home was originally owned by the Brownell family. Current owners and innkeepers Diana Phillips and Allan Griggs bought it in 2012, and they spent more than two years lovingly restoring it. Today, they’re proud of this stately and historical home turned inviting and romantic retreat.
- Food and drink: Every morning, they served a delectable breakfast spread in the dining room. All we had to do was text Diana or Allan the night before, and we had fresh breakfast waiting for us. We had the choices of everything from Western-style omelets and cheese and egg soufflé to yogurt, juice, and fresh fruit.
- Room type(s): With just eight rooms to choose from across three types of suites, staying here felt very intimate and exclusive. While suite one was a one-bedroom grand suite, the three suite-two suites were cozy options with both shared and private bathrooms. Two of the suite-three options had private baths, while the other two had shared ones.
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Historic Webster House Bed and Breakfast, Bay City
Did you know that the Historic Webster House Bed and Breakfast is one of the most romantic hotels in Michigan? This alluring B&B is in a restored mansion with old-world touches like fireplaces, but it was the jetted tubs in some rooms and the on-site spa with a jacuzzi that made it romantic. Stargazing under the pergola and relaxing by the outdoor fireplace was the perfect romantic getaway.
In fact, this B&B is also one of the best in-room pool hotels in Michigan.
- Meet the hosts: While Deborah Ingersoll is the owner, Janine Nugent is the innkeeper and runs the operations. The staff is warm and welcoming, and we had a fantastic and comfortable time here as they catered to all our whims and fancies.
- Food and drink: Every morning, we’d be treated to a hearty, multi-course elevated breakfast with a chef’s choice menu that changed daily. Think veggie strata/egg souffle, brie and lobster omelet, eggs Florentine, apple pie French toast, croissants with maple cream syrup, cinnamon-baked French toast, and more. Plus, there would always be fresh fruit in some or the other form, along with a cinnamon roll/muffin to top it off. Of course, breakfast would start with juices, tea, freshly brewed coffee, and even mimosas by 9 am. Did you know they even do breakfast in bed? Yes! Here is the detailed breakfast menu.
- Room type(s): We had the choice of six rooms, three of which had jacuzzi tubs. Our choice, the Webster Room, had a whirlpool for two in front of our soft bed. Moreover, we had many in-room amenities like turndown services, stone fireplaces, and massages.
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Secluded Stays
Staying out of the way is easy in Frankenmuth, a vast and undulating region with lush greenery all around. Here are some of the best-secluded stays for a quiet and serene holiday in Michigan.
A Dove Nest Bed and Breakfast, Kingston
Sitting on 112 acres of wetlands, woods, open fields, and rolling hills on the shores of English Lake, a Dove Nest Bed and Breakfast is the pinnacle of secluded lodging. Innkeeper Robert and his late wife, Theresa Dove, built this quiet retreat to raise their children, truly making it a dove’s nest. While the tranquility is not for everyone, it was the perfect place for us to enjoy a romantic vacation away from the bustle.
“Dove Nest was truly the embodiment of seclusion with connection; the location couldn’t be more secluded, and we were always connected, thanks to the Wi-Fi. Amazing!”
WOW Travel
- Meet the hosts: Jitka and John Nelson are the current owners and innkeepers at Dove Nest. If you thought that the semi-rural location meant that you’d have to compromise on comforts, think again. The Nelsons took care of our every need and even gave us a tour of the expansive and undulating region and its varied wildlife.
- Food and drink: Every morning, we were treated to a delectable full country breakfast. The breakfast during our two-day stay included fruit, toast, pancakes, sausage, bacon, and eggs, as well as baked eggs, waffles, and a whole lot of similar sides. Plus, the Nelsons were so prompt when it came to our dietary restrictions, so much so that breakfast was our main meal when we stayed here!
- Room type(s): We had the choice of two loft rooms and a suite, all of which featured queen beds, in-room jacuzzi tubs, electric fireplaces, a private bathroom, TVs, vibrating loungers, and private decks with alfresco seating that overlooked English Lake. Could it get any better? It could, apparently, as all rooms, and the rest of the B&B, also had free high-speed Wi-Fi.
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The Ginkgo Tree Inn, Mt Pleasant
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Imagine building a home slowly with precise detail, only to finish it quickly so you can marry your beloved. That’s the stunning boutique Ginkgo Tree Inn in Mt. Pleasant, a 1901-built B&B away from the bustle, and yet occupying an enviable location in the heart of Mt Pleasant.
- Meet the hosts: Owners Layla and David Davis have been Central Michiganders since 2003 and have been the owners and innkeepers here since late 2021. They love talking about the history of this hidden gem and taking care of all our needs. Since this inn is a prime wedding venue spot, too, they’re utter romantics and will also recommend the best things that couples on a romantic sojourn can do.
- Food and drink: The all-inclusive gourmet breakfast here was one of the best we’d ever eaten. Think made-to-order eggs, juices, tea, coffee, waffles with fresh fruit and syrup, avocado on toast, and whatnot. We could even enhance our stay by ordering charcuterie boards, flowers, and more.
- Room type(s): We had the choice of 10 rooms and suites peppered across the second and third floors of the main house and the ground floor of the carriage house. What’s more, they all had private baths, plush beds, Wi-Fi, smart TVs, and even fireplaces and period antiques.
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Where to Stay in Frankenmuth, Michigan
Frankenmuth is a hidden gem and quite the winter wonderland. In fact, the quaint little town was hailed as one of the country’s most underrated winter vacation destinations. Frankenmuth is as quaint as it gets, and the B&Bs are spread in the towns around. The first is Bay City in the north. It boasts rehabbed historical areas, dining, shopping, and entertainment on the Saginaw River. Second is St John’s to the southwest, perhaps the town farthest from Frankenmuth but the largest town in Clinton County. Furthermore, there’s the eclectic and oft-overlooked Ypsilanti, which is extremely walkable and charming.
Caro, just half an hour from Frankenmuth, has many historic structures, and Downtown Caro is home to many festivals. Finally, there’s Kingston, which is in the same direction as Caro. It’s rich in natural scenic beauty, outdoor activities, and a strong cultural heritage.
Why is Frankenmuth so popular?
Frankenmuth is a well-rounded destination with outdoor adventures, rich historical beauty and culture, and eclectic shopping opportunities.
Where are most of Frankenmuth’s B&Bs located?
While there are a few in town, most are located in some of Michigan’s most charming cities.
