Michigan
Trip Ideas|Small Towns

The Charming Town Of Frankenmuth Looks Like A Gingerbread Village, And It’s So Worth The Drive From Detroit

Frankenmuth, Michigan, transforms into a magical Bavarian village during the holiday season with twinkling lights and festive activities.

Updated Dec 9, 2022

Written by 

Jamie Alvarenga

So many Christmasy towns to explore in Michigan -- so little time. The following town in the state is great for visiting year-round, particularly during the holiday season when the Bavarian-esque buildings are decked out in twinkling lights and classic greenery. There's so much to see and do here during the month of December, so better get started! Here's what to expect during Christmas in Frankenmuth:

Frankenmuth is about an hour and a half drive from Detroit, but it's so worth the distance.

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Google Maps

The area was settled by German immigrants long ago and the town still retains much of its Bavarian culture. In fact, Frankenmuth is known as Michigan's Little Bavaria.

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Facebook / Frankenmuth

As soon as you arrive, you'll feel like you've been transported to Germany. From the buildings on Main Street...

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Wikimedia / Peter K Burian

...to the local inn, it seems every inch of this place is filled with character.

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Wikimedia / NoahGul

You can head here year-round for unique finds at the Riverside shops...

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Wikimedia / Crisco 1492

...or better yet, visit during the holiday season to see the Bavarian buildings adorned with twinkling lights galore. It looks like a magical gingerbread village!

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Facebook / Frankenmuth

While you're here, be sure to visit Bronner's Christmas Wonderland.

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Flickr / Ken Lund

This place markets itself as The World's Largest Christmas Store and it's truly a must-see in person.

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Flickr / Ken Lund

Don't forget to also visit the massive town tree...

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Facebook / Frankenmuth

...and be sure to eat a lot during your adventures. The food in this town is top-notch, especially when it comes to the famous chicken dinners.

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Wikimedia / AndrewHorne

We could go on and on about how magical Frankenmuth is, but there are some places you've just got to see to believe. For more details, visit the website below, and have a happy holiday season!

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Wikimedia / Crisco 1492

For a list of events coming up in this charming town, visit the official Frankenmuth website. You can also follow the town's official Facebook page to stay up to date on the festivities and more.

Check out more Christmas-infused towns around the city by clicking on: Christmas In These 9 Towns Near Detroit Looks Like Something From A Hallmark Movie

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Trip Ideas|Small Towns

The Surprising Town Near Detroit That Makes An Excellent Weekend Getaway

Holly, a small town near Detroit, offers a perfect blend of nature, history, and charm for a refreshing weekend getaway.

Updated Jul 6, 2024

Written by 

Sophie Boudreau

As much as we adore the Motor City, there’s much to be said for a slow-paced getaway from time to time. Metro Detroit is home to a seemingly endless array of attractions and unique communities, but there’s one locale that perfectly combines nature, history, and small-town charm. The next time you’re planning a weekend getaway near Detroit, check out this unforgettable spot.

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Holly is located in northern Oakland County, just under an hour from Detroit.

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Google Maps

With a population of just under 6,000 full-time residents, this delightful little town offers a welcomed change of pace from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

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Downtown Holly / Facebook

No matter how you choose to spend your downtime, you’ll find something to enjoy when you venture to Holly for a weekend getaway. There’s fun here for everyone.

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Downtown Holly / Facebook

Let's take a look at some things to do in Holly, MI.

Check in at Holly House Inn Bed & Breakfast or a local hotel before starting your journey. Next, you’ll want to explore the beauty of Holly’s historic downtown area.

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Do some antique shopping at The Vintage Farm House. If you’re seeking retail therapy, downtown Holly has you covered.

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Of course, outdoor exploration is just as therapeutic. Venture to Holly Recreation Area for all-season fun, including hiking and cross-country skiing during winter months.

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For dinner, you can’t beat the historic Holly Hotel Restaurant, which sits in a gorgeous converted inn and boasts a fascinating haunted past - not to mention delicious eats.

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As if that weren’t enough, you’ll encounter plenty of friendly faces during your visit to Holly. You might just make a few new friends during your adventures throughout town.

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Downtown Holly / Facebook

By the time you’re ready to head back to the Motor City, you’ll feel refreshed and renewed. This weekend getaway destination will surely steal your heart.

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Downtown Holly / Facebook

If you are looking for a weekend getaway near Detroit, keep this delightful town in mind. Have you made memories in this charming Metro Detroit town? Be sure to share your experiences with us in the comment section!

To learn more about Holly, MI, and its many attractions during the holidays, check out our featured article.

https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/michigan/detroit/twinkliest-town-detroit/

Another small town getaway near Detroit, especially during the holidays, is Frankenmuth. Check out some of our favorite spots in this charming town in this quick video:

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Trip Ideas|Small Towns

Detroit’s Art Alley Will Become Your New Favorite Destination

The Belt in downtown Detroit is an art-focused alley offering a unique escape with murals, creative installations, and light-based pieces.

Updated Apr 5, 2024

Written by 

Sophie Boudreau

A day in downtown Detroit is often filled with sporting events, delicious eats, and plenty of hustle and bustle. After all, the Motor City offers endless attractions and excitement for visitors of all ages. Tucked away in the heart of the city, though, is a truly unique haven that will transport you to a new world. You’ll have a blast exploring this art-focused wonderland at the Belt in downtown Detroit.

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The Belt is situated between Broadway Street and Library Street in downtown Detroit.

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Google Maps

As soon as you arrive here, you’ll feel as if you’ve stepped into an artistic dreamland. The Belt features a variety of art pieces that seem to stretch on forever. It’s one of my favorite art installations in Detroit.

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Facebook/The Belt

No matter when you stop by, this spot will totally charm you. From murals to creative installations to light-based pieces, the creations here are sure to amaze and delight.

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The Belt is tucked away in Detroit’s former garment district, hence its name. Today, it offers a pedestrian-friendly attraction among the Motor City’s busy streets

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Facebook/The Belt

Pose for a few photos or snap some artistic shots of the pieces that make this spot so special. Even the most amateur photographers can capture a brilliant image here at the Belt Detroit.

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Facebook/The Belt

As if that weren’t enough, you’ll even find several tables and seating areas throughout the alley. Whether you sip a cup of coffee or simply sit to chat, you’ll love the ambiance.

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Orchestrated by the city’s Library Street Collective, The Belt exists in an effort to continue Detroit’s upward growth by bringing new and thought-provoking art to the area.

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Facebook/The Belt

When you’re in need of a break from the stresses of everyday life, make a trip to this one-of-a-kind art alley in the heart of the Motor City. The Belt offers a beautiful escape.

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For more information about the Belt in downtown Detroit and its many fascinating facets, read more at the Belt’s website. Do you have a favorite art installation within this incredible destination? Share your experiences in the comment section below! We also love these free museums in Detroit.

Need somewhere to stay while you’re visiting Motor City? Stay local at VRBO.

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