Daughter booked a big house in Frankenmuth weekend before US Thanksgiving so Mary and I agreed to go down with rest of family, that's 8 adults and two granddaughters.
It's suppose to be neat for Christmas, Food and Shopping, Anybody been there and can offer any advice? What are must see and do's, what restaurant is a must, what to avoid, what can we expect? Any suggestions appreciated.
Crossing at Bluewater Bridge, is there a NEXUS lane going in and exiting USA ?
Thanks in advance - Ray
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Ray White, Toronto ON
Formerly - The one and only 1973 LeMans 454 "Astro-Jet"
I'm going to be there this Sunday, playing golf and then a couple of hours further north for more golf.
It's quite a pretty, touristy town. There is a famous chicken restaurant called Zehnders that serves family-style. A definite must. There is also a year round Christmas store called Bronners that you'll have to check out.
Just a warning about the Bluewater Bridge. One of the spans is closed for construction, so the line ups have been pretty long lately. Maybe you can try to time crossing earlier or later in the day? Also, they do have a Nexus line but it can still be delayed if all the vehicles are backed up on the highway.
Growing up in the Bluewater Area and visiting Frankenmuth often, here are some of my observations:
1. I believe the Blue Water Bridge will be open (one span closed thru October) in both directions, should make for easier crossing. I let my Nexus expire so I can't comment on Nexus
Lanes.
2. If stopping in Port Huron, favorite food places are Palm's Crystal Garden (Art Deco and Chicken) or Lynch's Tavern (Irish)
3. Frankenmuth will be very, very busy at that time of year. Yes, the town will be decked out for Christmas and will very festive. Bronners is Christmas overload but a must see.
4. If going for a Zehnders Chicken Dinner, very very busy place and reservations recommended. Earlier may be better.
5. Many different shops with a wide variety of offerings on the main drag. Horse and Carriage Rides available usually at the south end of the strip by the river. Favorite Sausage shop
is Willi's and Favorite Local Bar is Main Street Tavern which conveniently next door to each other.
6. When walking around, the park area across the Cass River is where the Frankenmuth Autofest is held the weekend after Labor Day, picture 3000 cars in the park and around town.
Very Cool.
7. Birch Run is Outlet shopping, not my thing so I stay away.
8. The area around Frankenmuth is basically flat Mid-Michigan Farmland, the smell of harvesting sugar beets may be in the air. M-25 going around the Thumb is a nice ride (a bit long)
with little towns on the water but will be quiet at that time of year.
9. If the bridge crossing is really backed up, just as an option but a bit out of the way is a ferry crossing (appox 12 cars per trip) from Algonac MI to Walpole Island. Have taken that
crossing many times.
Enjoy your trip, hope you and your family have a great time!!
