Day 1
Arrive in Frankenmuth: Known as Michigan’s Little Bavaria, Frankenmuth provides a unique look at how German heritage continues to inspire the city’s festive spirit. Here, you’ll experience the authentic culture and charming Bavarian architecture of this iconic city nestled on the Cass River.
Day 1 Activity
Bavarian Belle Riverboat
See Frankenmuth from the water when you board the Bavarian Belle Riverboat. Docked by the waterfalls at River Place Shops, this 150-passenger paddlewheel riverboat features a relaxing, narrated tour that passes under the Holz Brücke, Frankenmuth’s covered wooden bridge.
Travel Tip
Browse River Place Shops before you board to experience more than 40 unique stores and eateries that make up this European-inspired shopping district!
Day 1 Dining
Bavarian Inn Restaurant, Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth
Get your fill of world-famous, family-style chicken dinners at either of two iconic mainstays: Bavarian Inn Restaurant or Zehnder’s of Frankenmuth! Enjoy premium, golden-fried chicken and the crave-worthy sides this tasty town is known for. Pair your meal with a German beer, or follow it up with a pint of local craft at Michigan’s oldest microbrewery, Frankenmuth Brewery.
Travel Tip
Both Bavarian Inn and Zehnder’s have exquisite bakeries and gift shops in their lower levels. After dinner, swing by to get some tasty goodies and souvenirs from your trip!
Day 1 Lodging
Stay Cozy (or Splash Around!)
After a full day of exploring Michigan’s Little Bavaria, you’ll need a good night’s rest. Choose from charming riverfront stays to inviting B&Bs—or two of Michigan’s top indoor waterpark hotels! Each and every place to stay in Frankenmuth boasts the city’s iconic character and exudes its warm, German-inspired hospitality.
Travel Tip
Most of the accommodations in Frankenmuth are located right along Main Street within walking distance of local shops and attractions. If you’re bringing the family, try Zehnder’s Splash Village, Michigan’s only retractable-roof waterpark, or Bavarian Inn Lodge for more waterpark play and the Midwest’s largest hotel family fun center!
Day 2
Depart Frankenmuth for Birch Run: After you experience Michigan’s Little Bavaria, take a short drive south on M-83 to discover Birch Run. Best known as the home to one of the country’s original outlet malls, Birch Run offers great brands and bargains from its 100-plus options of retail stores, along with delicious dining.
Day 2 Dining
Tony’s I-75 Restaurant
Fuel up for an exciting day on the epic portions served at Tony’s I-75 Restaurant. This no-frills diner is famous for the size of its plates, so you’ll be satisfied until lunchtime—or much longer.
Travel Tip
Order a twelve-egg omelet with a full-pound side of bacon and you certainly won’t walk away hungry!
Day 2 Activity
Birch Run Premium Outlets
Experience this shopping mecca featuring 100-plus stores that shouldn’t be missed. From Coach and Kate Spade to Michael Kors and Columbia, you’ll find plenty of unbeatable savings at Birch Run Premium Outlets—and plenty to bring home with you!
Travel Tip
Join the VIP Shopper Club for free access to exclusive rewards, discounts and more!
Day 2
Depart Birch Run for Midland: Once you’ve wrapped up your shopping excursion, head north on I-75 to Midland—a city where you can experience the beauty of inspiring nature and art. Your afternoon in Midland will consist of touring gorgeous botanicals, tasting exquisite foods and enjoying a restful evening at one of Michigan’s top-rated hotels.
Day 2 Activity
Dow Gardens
Within Dow Gardens’ 110 acres, you’ll find more than 22,000 flowering bulbs in spring and more than 35,000 annuals each spring and summer. Tour the Color Garden, Estate Garden, the award-winning Children’s Garden and a tropical conservatory—and enjoy the tranquil water features and architectural bridges throughout. While you’re here, stroll four stories high in the trees on the nation’s longest canopy walk that weaves through the Gardens’ Whiting Forest. Soak up the breathtaking vistas from three unique viewing platforms, including a glass-bottomed overlook 40 feet high above an orchard!
Travel Tip
The Canopy Walk at Whiting Forest of Dow Gardens spans 1,400 feet, soars up to 40 feet above the ground and is ADA-accessible. It also includes 1.5 miles of ADA-accessible, hard-surface pathways throughout the forest.
Day 2 Dining
Dining in Downtown Midland
After exploring the lush forest and bountiful blooms, head to downtown Midland to sample and savor. Tour the regions of Italy with Gratzi’s authentic and layered courses, or experience Midland’s newest farm-to-table gourmet concept, Aster. Taste slow-smoked Southern barbecue and mouthwatering sides at Molasses Smokehouse + Bar, or sample from 40+ Michigan-made beers, ciders and meads on tap at WhichCraft Taproom.
Travel Tip
Many of Downtown Midland’s restaurants feature special street-side patios, perfect for enjoying on a cool summer evening!
Day 2 Lodging
The H Hotel
Experience AAA Four Diamond luxury at the heart of Midland with an inviting stay at The H Hotel. With an on-site bistro, chic lounge and American tavern tucked inside—plus complimentary perks like valet parking and bicycles to explore the area—you’ll enjoy every thoughtful detail of this remarkable stay.
Travel Tip
Take an evening stroll along The Tridge—a one-of-a-kind, three-legged bridge that hovers over the confluence of two rivers—and watch its colorful lights dance on the water.
Day 3
Depart Midland for Bay City: Head directly east on M-10 to visit your final road trip destination, Bay City. Nestled near Michigan’s eastern shoreline with easy access to Lake Huron’s Saginaw Bay, you’ll find this waterfront city has plenty to discover.
Day 3 Dining
Uptown Grill
Enjoy an exceptional brunch experience at Uptown Grill. Fill up on Gourmet French Toast (in signature flavors like Banana Bread or Baklava) or try a Lobster & Brie Omelet topped with creamy lobster bisque.
Travel Tip
After brunch, stroll around Uptown with a cup of locally-roasted, specialty coffee from Live Oak Coffeehouse (and be sure to stop for a photo in front of Uptown’s gorgeous fountain).
Day 3 Activity
Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum
Board the U.S.S. Edson DD-946, a permanently moored destroyer that is home to the Saginaw Valley Naval Ship Museum. Plan ahead and schedule your guided tour aboard this storied ship, which is designated as a National Historic Landmark.
Travel Tip
Have a flag flown over the U.S.S. Edson! Stop by the ship’s store to purchase a special souvenir flag, then have it flown overhead for an unforgettable photo op!
There are plenty more adventures to be had in the Great Lakes Bay Region, and six unique cities to continue exploring. For more inspiration and ways to discover this area, including travel bucket lists by city and season, visit GoGreat.com!