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Frankenmuth, MI

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Bavarian Inn Lodge

3.2 (271 reviews)
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Mike J.

We spent two nights at the Bavarian Inn Lodge, and overall we were really happy with our stay! The location is great; right beside the River Place Shops, and the building itself is massive, with tons to do: multiple pools, water slides, arcades, games, and even a huge indoor waterpark. It's an awesome spot for families. We loved the Bavarian theming and architecture throughout the lodge. Service was solid too; everyone we spoke with was friendly and helpful. Our room was spacious with a very comfy bed, plus a mini fridge with a freezer, microwave, and a couch. You also get a bunch of coupons for activities in the area, which is a great bonus. One thing we really appreciated was the adults-only section, a quieter area with a pool, hot tub, and a billiards table. Perfect for unwinding after busy days exploring Frankenmuth. Overall, a super enjoyable stay and somewhere we'd happily return to. For more honest travel and hotel reviews, make sure to check out our YouTube channel, A&M Roam!

Claiming your tickets from the arcade.
Victoria M.

Came for a family vacation with extended family, what really sparked our trip was the new and improved waterpark family entertainment expansion. Bought our room online, and signed up for the rewards program. The day of, we tried to get an earlier check in, but was told no. Tried to get a late check out and was told no. Checking in was a long line and not fun. The rooms are very outdated. They felt pretty clean? But the room definitely needs an overhaul. The names of the families is a cool concept regarding which room you stay in. But we had about 17 picture frames of this family watching over us while we slept, was weird. The beds at least were comfortable and felt clean with the bedding. It was nice to have a microwave and refrigerator in the room. But the bathrooms are definitely outdated and small. Getting to other areas of the hotels can be tough. I have a pretty good sense of direction, but it still was a challenge to get to which floor you need to go and what not. We got lost a few times or on the wrong floor. Signage is not the greatest. The family fun zone was great! Arcades were a lot of fun with different skill levels for all types of ages. Classic kids' play area gave me nostalgic vibes. Full circle to then have my child play on the same play scape as I did! Pretty good seating areas for families to take a break while playing the arcades and what not. The tickets versus prizes you get is laughable, but I feel like that's like that anywhere. The waterpark is epic! I'd give it five stars alone! The staff are super friendly and helpful. There is a security check of sorts when you walk in, especially if you have diaper bags and other bags. Plenty of tables and chairs for seating. We thought about getting a cabana and glad we didn't waste the money. The food at the waterpark was not horribly overpriced and tasted pretty good. The lazy river is not so lazy. It's more like a rapid than a lazy river. The toddler area is plentiful and has a ton of slides and areas. My kiddo was under 18 months so there wasn't much she could do. She loved the water itself, the swings and there was a tiny little slide she could go on. Kiddos have to wear life jackets and they were provided which was nice. The water slides for the adults were great. Fast and fun! The swim up adult bar was closed so some exhausted parents with grandparents being able to watch the kids...that was disappointing. Food options outside of the waterpark were also good! We didn't do a chicken dinner but got carry out from the hotel restaurant. Good portions, tasty, and easy to order. Enjoyed our stay! Other than the rooms being outdated. Our kiddos were entertained non stopped! You could easily visit the waterpark for a few hours or you could stay a few days.

Gross
Dave H.

Our little room was a bit gross. Empty energy drink can left on the floor, dust and some unknown substance left behind the bathroom door. For the price, it's lackluster. Better to stay at a local chain hotel than this hotel. On top of that brought my kids here to enjoy the new waterpark and it stanks like weed on my floor. We did report all of this and someone did come up to clean a bit after the fact which is appreciated but the marijuana smell was pungent and persisted throughout our stay. The lodge itself seems unchanged since maybe the 70s or 80s? At least that's the feel. Feels like my grandmas basement or something. The Family Funcenter was ok; although expensive and a little Chuck E Cheese- ish. A player card for $100 nets you about 490 credits and games range from 4- 12 credits per play. Good onsite options to grab a drink or food; however the food isn't great. Tried the pizza at the outdoor patio and it was super greasy. The grab and go store had a great variety of drinks and goods and coffee. We also tried the Michigan on Main restaurant patio and food was subpar, much like the service. Very slow and probably very minimal in terms of workers available like most places. Got the chicken sandwich and had to ask for some type of topping, cause it came with a grilled breast and a piece of cheese... that's it. Didn't do the big chicken dinner as I feel like it's gone downhill as of late and it's frankly just too much. Several pools are available to guests including the new Bavarian blast waterpark which is nice, massive and super expensive. $89 for a pretzel, two souvenir drinks and two beers at the stand. Also tried the associated grill for some food of substance and it took 1.5 hours; had to go inquire on my order. At least they give you a coaster to alert you but mine never went off. Another $65 or more for this order as well. It is a bit chaotic in the dome and you gotta watch your kids like a hawk. Too many people, randoms; some irregular people around the kiddie pool/ slides was enough for me to wade about and keep an eye out on my kids and on these older singles that seemed to be out of place in that area. Overall there's much to do but make sure you bankrolled your trip or you're going home with a hurt wallet!

Check in line that is ridiculously long

Tldr; Long check in times Confusing hotel layout Bad towel policy at the waterpark Better signage Spacious rooms Warm hallways We arrived a few minutes after 4 and couldn't believe thr check in line. We were coming from out of state so the last thing we wanted was to wait in a long line. It took almost an hour to get checked in. They clearly need to rethink the check in process- maybe allowing some to check in and 3, 3 30, and 4? We weren't even in our room until 5 30. The front desk staff told us "use the tower entrance". We did that and followed the signs to our room. We traveled through the many halls with all of our luggage in tow only to discover it would have been much shorter to go through the front entrance or the courtyard. The tower was almost the furthest one from our room. Bad advice! The numbering system for rooms makes zero sense. We went down a hallway was decreasing only to reach our room which was higher. Huh? That seems to be a common theme with this hotel, have a bunch of stuff with little in common between them. The "fun center" is a perfect example. Room after room of arcade games, a putt putt course, rope course, and many other things. While playing putt putt we see a pool and hot tub. No signs about it anywhere. Why not? Again, random things all over the place with little thought about placement. In the room they have water and snacks. $6 for a bottle of water seems ridiculous. Make sure to bring your own supplies. This place will drain your wallet at every turn. The rooms have paper thin walls so bring a white noise machine or something to drown out your neighbors. It costs $25 for a towel. If you return the towel, the charge is refunded. That seems like a horrible policy. If someone walks off eith your towel, by accident or otherwise, you are stuck with the bill. At zender's, towels are handed out like candy on Halloween. Signage from the hotel to the water park is confusing and easy to miss. Our first night we walked in circles around the restaurant, arcade, and putt putt. After a few laps we finally figured it out but it took some figuring out. Thr hotel does have positives. The hallways are warm which is important when you are wet and it is winter. The rooms have plenty of space. Ours had a microwave and decent sized fridge.

Samuel M.

Completely Overrated - Not Worth the Money We spent nearly $400 for a one-night stay at the Bavarian Inn and were completely disappointed from start to finish. We came expecting a relaxing and fun getaway but left feeling frustrated and let down. The waterpark was chaotic and out of control. The lazy river, which is supposed to be a peaceful float experience, felt more like a free-for-all. People were swimming in it without tubes, yelling, and turning it into something it's not meant to be. There was no staff around to enforce rules or maintain any sense of order, and it completely ruined what should have been a relaxing part of our stay. Trying to escape the chaos, we went to the indoor hotel pool--which was quieter--but we still couldn't enjoy it. Two teenage guests (of the same sex) were openly kissing and making out in the pool, which made the atmosphere uncomfortable for us and other families nearby. Again, there was no staff presence to address or monitor the behavior. The room was just as bad. The headboard was broken, the shower curtain smelled like mold, and the shower didn't drain properly. There was no hand soap at the sink, and the toilet paper was clearly already used--just reset in the holder like we wouldn't notice. The mattress was an old, squeaky spring mattress, and the bedding was thin and uncomfortable. The furniture was outdated and worn. We also ate at Oma's Restaurant inside the hotel, and that was another letdown. The portions were tiny, and the breadsticks seemed premade and bland--not the quality you'd expect from a place with the Bavarian Inn name. To top it all off, the next morning they ran out of coffee, and several of the machines were down. There was no urgency to fix it and no apologies--just another frustrating part of the stay. For almost $400, this felt like a complete waste of money. You're better off booking a more affordable hotel downtown and enjoying Frankenmuth from there. The Bavarian Inn is way overrated and badly in need of improvements. We will not be back.

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Page 1 of 7

Ask the Community - Bavarian Inn Lodge

Is the waterpark included with the stay?

Yes! Each overnight stay includes wristband for up to 4 guests to use the waterslides, whirlpools an pools. There is an additional charge beyond the 4 people only...… 

What the breakfast options at the lodge?

Oma's Restaurant is a sit-down service breakfast option with all the normal fare plus a lot of fun signature dishes like banana bread french toast, belgian waffles, red velvet pancakes & German potato pancakes served with apple sauce (very… 

Don’t See Your Question? Ask Away!

Review Highlights - Bavarian Inn Lodge

“there are so many things to do here, including the arcade, mini golf, restaurants, and pools all inside the hotel!”

Mentioned in 16 reviews

Read more highlights

Zehnder's Splash Village - Courtyard area between buildings.

Zehnder's Splash Village

(242 reviews)

$$$

Awesome place for toddlers and young kids especially for a waterpark. The other big hotel down the…read moreroad is definitely better for older kids, teenagers, and even adults. Very easy to book online and be sure to get a rewards sign up. We did a package that included pizza and pop, a chicken dinner at Zehnders, and a breakfast buffet for both mornings. The hotel is easy to spot next to Bronner's. The theme of gnomes and fairies is so adorable. Staff are awesome! They were so sweet to my daughter and us. Whether it was our waitress, lifeguards at the waterpark, or the front desk. We were able to check in early, so be sure to ask! Our room was one of the older rooms and was one of the ADA compliant rooms, which has larger doorways, no bathtub, a queen bed, and a seating area with a fireplace. The room decorations and everything in it are original. It's very desperately needs to get a facelift. The room was right off of the front desk in waterpark, so walking to the action only took a few steps. I noticed there is no recycling bin. There was a mini refrigerator, but the temperature control wasn't the greatest. Carpet was buckling. The seating area did have a pullout couch, but the couch itself was slippery with the fabric and pretty uncomfortable. Not sure how well house keeping was. There was a Nerf gun instructions paperwork behind one of our bedside nightstands. The water pressure was awesome. The bedding felt clean and the bed overall was comfortable. Housekeeping was able to give us a few more towels off their cleaning cart, which was nice. There is an arcade, but it's definitely not as big as the other hotel down the street. It's very crammed into one room. The pizza and cheese bread was absolutely delicious. Was not expecting that for a kid themed hotel. The breakfast buffet was plentiful, but the buffet items don't change. So the second day we were already kind of sick of the options. They do a nightly movie night in the lobby at 8 PM. If our daughter was older, we definitely would've snuggled up in the lobby to watch the movie. The waterpark was our favorite. Our daughter is just over two, and I was so surprised at how many things she was able to do. She even got to go on a waterslide with us, holding her to go down. Also, she was able to go down a waterslide all by herself, so she thought she was super cool! At the hotel down the street, there's barely anything for a two-year-old to do at their waterpark. She absolutely loved being able to wade in the water with the toddler pool going up to 2 feet. She also was brave enough to go under the big bucket that splashes. We stayed two nights and I think we went to the waterpark at least four or five times and she never got sick of it. There is a security checkpoint for the waterpark. Security will put UV light on your wristband to make sure it's not a fake also go through any bags that you're bringing into the waterpark. Do not bring towel towels, the waterpark provides towels for you. Additionally, they provide lifejackets. There are plenty of tables and chairs all along both water parks, the old side and the new side. The new side wasn't as toddler friendly. There was a small slide she could go down, otherwise there really wasn't much else for her to do. We had a great stay and I think with them updating all of the hotel rooms, I think Zehnder's is the place to be!

This truly breaks my heart to write because we have loved this facility for so many years…read more We have been bringing our children here annually (sometimes multiple times a year) since 2013. But recently in the last few years, we have noticed a shift (some things they may not directly have control over). But this past weekend was bad and we felt it was time to update our review to reflect what is happening now. From the second you walk into their lobby, throughout the hallways, seeping into the rooms, and even penetrating the waterpark areas, all you can smell is that legalized recreational product (I'm sure you can guess what I'm talking about). It's disgusting, lingering scent persisting everywhere. It clings onto your clothing, suitcase, EVERYTHING. And if you get a room that was previously occupied by guests who partake in that, it reeks of it for your whole stay! Adding to this, you can continuously find bandaids, hair and hair extensions floating in the water and lying around on the ground. Many children/teens are running wild (being very disrespectful) with no adult in sight. This place has lost its charm for us and it truly is sad. This was a vacation we looked forward to annually with our children and have created so many beautiful memories but sadly, it no longer does and then to add the price continuously increasing (which we knew would happen). If the smell of recreational products, filthy areas, and disrespectful guests is your vibe, then this is the place for you. What once used to be our favorite has sadly shifted over the last few years.

Marv Herzog Hotel - 2 queen balcony room

Marv Herzog Hotel

(48 reviews)

$$

Cute little hotel in the heart of it all. Room was clean, beds were comfy, staff was great!…read moreWonderful view of the river. The best hotel breakfast I've had and I travel a lot. The bacon/cheese eggs should be offered daily as they were great! I wish fresh oatmeal was an option instead of the packets. The drinks and snacks from 5-7:00 was a nice little extra to have. Only wish was that there was fresh popcorn like the other Drury owned have. No complaints. Would absolutely recommend and return!

This is our 2nd year in a row visiting Frankenmuth with family members…read more We tried a new hotel this year and we were very satisfied with our choice. (Last year not so much) The Marv Herzog Hotel sits along the Cass River we chose the River side view, our room had a jacuzzi & small balcony. Our room was very clean with no visible signs of any issues. Bathroom had body wash, shampoo & conditioner all full. Daily room checks with fresh towels & bed makeover. We didn't feel comfortable on the balcony but the large patio was very nice with plenty of room and seating. Included with your stay is breakfast, typical of most hotels. What surprised us was you receive a drink ticket for 2 drinks German beer , wine or soda & hors d'oeuvres for a happy hour. All staff were very friendly & accommodating. Our refrigerator was not cooling the best & they allowed us to store our freezer packs & food in their refrigerator. Greatly appreciated this. Parking garage is tight, we have a truck and it was snug. No pool as this seems to be more of place for couples not necessarily families with small children. Although there were families there. The town offers a free shuttle which we used but most things are within walking distance. I am giving 4 stars because of the refrigerator & I wish we could have set the air conditioner for the fan to run continuously it didn't seem to have that function. & the tv didn't have a sleep mode. Overall I think we will stay here again in the future it has been kept up very well.

Frankenmuth Motel - Toys for tots

Frankenmuth Motel

(49 reviews)

$$

We have traveled to Frankenmuth for decades but had not visited for almost 10 yrs. We searched for…read morea hotel and seen great reviews here and decided to check it out. Upon arrival , even though we had not been in the area for such a long time I noticed the outside had been freshly painted and appears they are still working on that too. The room was completely remodeled to a modern look. Clean and fresh. A nice sized mini fridge even with a small freezer at the top. Microwave, Nice TV. Shower was clean and hot water worked fast. They have a free breakfast but we typically travel with or own breakfast food so we didn't eat there. The price was very reasonable especially for this tourist town. We would stay here again and will share the new find with friends. Check in girl was very friendly and efficient. Checking out a different girl not as friendly and she had nothing much to say. Room service was efficient also.

Jennifer is an incredible asset to this business & I return year after year to this lovely location…read morebecause of her & the cleanliness of this quaint motel! Emma was my housekeeper & she keeps the room which have been updated spotless. I feel safe & it's within walking distance. A military museum is across the street. It's very safe & quiet!! Plenty of parking right outside your door. Handicap accessible, etc. ice machine & frig & microwave with comfortable desk, beds & plenty of pillows! My pet peeve is I never have enough pillows & this are new & clean & both hard & soft are provided. They have AAA discount & you can not find a better value & a very nice continental breakfast with boiled eggs & yogurt & choice of juices & other items are included with a breakfast area. I just can't say enough good things about this place!!! Check it out for yourself!! I could easily stay a week!!

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Frankenmuth

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Frankenmuth

(62 reviews)

$$

We had a nice 3 night stay here. It was a perfect location for walking the strip. Our room was…read moreclean, but we did have to seek housekeeping since the body gel soap dispenser in the shower was empty (shampoo, conditioner, and body soap are in dispensers, no small bottles are left). We didn't have breakfast at all since it was very limited due to covid, and we didn't get to take advantage of fitness room or pool since they were closed due to covid. They probably need to be a little more aware of things that need cleaning in the common areas -- there was what appeared to be a cherry pit on the floor near the stairwell door on the 3rd floor (which we used every time we left the hotel since we were in room 301) -- it laid there from when we checked in on Tuesday .... until we left on Friday. It also took until Thursday before we noticed the garbage outside the hotel door had been emptied (it was full, as we could see our white castle bag we tossed in there at arrival at the top every time we passed, and watched it fill up moreso with someone's beer bottles that were almost falling out). It was also a little frustrating that they were having "internet issues", and their fancy television system that should have allowed for us to connect to Netflix, or watch HBO or Showtime apps - or even be able to see the guide & what was on TV -- didn't work. We got TV channels, but nothing on the guide would come up, and we couldn't connect to anything else because of these issues. I get that it's kind of out of their control with their internet provider, but it was a tad frustrating when it came time to unwind in our room for the evening (especially since so many shops and things closed in the area at 7pm - there wasn't much else to do). Other than that - no other complaints. We got to check in a little early when we arrived, our room itself was clean, and housekeeping took care of us promptly when we made them aware of the empty body gel.

From the reviews, it looks like this hotel went through a rough time during covid. I found it…read moreclean, easy to park, decent breakfast (nothing fancy, but well stocked). Checkin was easy and rooms were clean. The elevator is a bit sketch, but other than that it was a great stay.

Bavarian Inn Lodge - hotels - Updated October 2026

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