2021, Jan-June | Bavarian Inn Lodge

Michael Zehnder celebrates Boss of the Year win at the Bavarian Inn Lodge with Alyssa Bierlein.

Michael Zehnder, Bavarian Inn Lodge, Named Boss of the Year

The Frankenmuth Jaycees presents this award yearly

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – June 29, 2021 – Michael Zehnder, Bavarian Inn Lodge owner and general manager has recently been named Frankenmuth Jaycee Boss of the Year for 2020. The Jaycees present the Boss of the Year Award each year to the boss of a Jaycee member who has shown an abundance of kindness and assistance in working with the Jaycee Organization. Being the boss of a Jaycee member often requires leniency, allowing their employee flexibility in their work schedules to volunteer at Jaycee events.

Zehnder was recognized because he is very active in the day-to-day operations of the Bavarian Inn properties, choosing to not be an owner only in name. As a business owner in a tourism community, he has dedicated his career to serving his guests. However, it is not only his guests that Zehnder cares about, but as a family business owner, his team is a top priority. He works side by side with them; jumping in to do dishes, clearing tables, helping with parking during large festivals, putting up tents or chair and tables or fencing. He is as loyal to his staff as they are to him.

“Hard working does not even begin to describe Michael’s work ethic. No job is too small, if it needs to be done, Michael will do it. He puts in the longest hours and then goes home and works some more. He is truly dedicated to the success of his businesses and his family. Michael is a motivator in the way he works and encourages others,” said Bethany Burnett, past president of Frankenmuth Jaycees.

Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, Zehnder waited to receive the 2020 recognition until this month at the Bavarian Inn Lodge.

About Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor 18-hole mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 1.68 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com

Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth hosting new job fair

A free chicken dinner offered to those who interview for a position

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – June 10, 2021 – For those who might be interested in being a part of the team at Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth, they can receive a free chicken dinner when completing an interview during the next upcoming job fair on Monday, June 14.

With many full-time, part-time and leadership positions available, the job fair is the perfect chance to discover a career, or even a temporary summer job, working in Michigan’s “Little Bavaria.” The fair will run from noon to 6 p.m. in the Bavarian Inn Lodge’s Composer rooms.

The fair includes employment opportunities at both the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Bavarian Inn Lodge. The first 50 candidates who interview for a position will receive a two-piece Bavarian Inn Chicken Dinner along with potatoes and gravy, dressing and a bottled water.

Those seeking employment should bring along a resume (if they have one) and identification. Also keep in mind that social distancing guidelines will be in place and face coverings are mandatory during the fair for those who have not been vaccinated.

Since 1950, the Bavarian Inn family of companies has strived to provide a comfortable, fun working environment for team members and have created a number of forward-thinking, family-oriented benefits that offer outstanding advantages for professional and personal growth.

Bavarian Inn offers team member tuition reimbursement (up to $10,000) as well as a referral reward program, 401K with company match, free lunch and dental/vision/medical options.

For a complete listing of openings, candidates should visit www.bavarianinn.com/jobs.

About Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Celebrating over 133 years of service, the Bavarian Inn Restaurant has become a Michigan landmark. Generations of diners, lodgers and tourists from around the globe have discovered true Bavarian hospitality thanks to Dorothy and her late husband William “Tiny” Zehnder. Guests experience the old-world European charm of the Bavarian Inn – whether it’s the famous chicken dinners, fresh baked goods or Michigan’s greatest selection of German beer. Bavarian Inn also prides itself on being one of the top consumers of Pure Michigan agricultural products, striving to serve more Michigan-grown and produced foods and Michigan-produced beverages than any other restaurant. Nestled within the backdrop of authentic German architecture, a variety of shops and other fun activities, a trip to Frankenmuth would not be complete without a visit to the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Restaurant online press room: https://bavarianinn.logos-communications.com/

About Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 1.68 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com

Opportunities to join the Bavarian Inn team will be offered at their job fair on May 18.

Job fair planned for the Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth

Many positions available, on-the-spot interviews to be offered

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – APRIL 29, 2021 – Ever thought about working in Michigan’s “Little Bavaria?” The Bavarian Inn of Frankenmuth is hosting a job fair from 1-5 p.m. on Tuesday, May 18 looking for new members to fill a wide variety of positions.

The fair is for potential employment at both the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Bavarian Inn Lodge and will be held in the Bavarian Inn Lodge. Candidates are invited to stop by the fair any time during the four-hour event and on-the-spot interviews will be offered. Those seeking employment should bring along a resume (if they have one) and identification. Also keep in mind that social distancing guidelines will be in place and face coverings are mandatory during the fair.

There are many employment opportunities available at both the Restaurant and the Lodge including servers, cashiers, shuttle bus drivers, water slide attendants, bartenders, housekeepers and sales clerks. There are line staff and manager positions in various departments including the culinary department, marketing, front desk, and maintenance.

For a complete listing of openings candidates should go to Bavarian Inn website: www.bavarianinn.com/jobs/

About Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Celebrating over 131 years of service, the Bavarian Inn Restaurant has become a Michigan landmark. Generations of diners, lodgers and tourists from around the globe have discovered true Bavarian hospitality thanks to Dorothy and her late husband William “Tiny” Zehnder. Guests experience the old-world European charm of the Bavarian Inn – whether it’s the famous chicken dinners, fresh baked goods or Michigan’s greatest selection of German beer. Bavarian Inn also prides itself on being one of the top consumers of Pure Michigan agricultural products, striving to serve more Michigan-grown and produced foods and Michigan-produced beverages than any other restaurant. Nestled within the backdrop of authentic German architecture, a variety of shops and other fun activities, a trip to Frankenmuth would not be complete without a visit to the Bavarian Inn Restaurant. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Restaurant online press room: https://bavarianinn.logos-communications.com/

About Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 1.68 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com

Mothers of the Bavarian Inn family (from left to right: Amy Zehnder Grossi, Karen Zehnder, Dorothy Zehnder, Katie Zehnder Weiss, Martha Zehnder Kaczynski, and Judy Zehnder Keller) pose in front of photo of Emilie Bickel Zehnder, Dorothy’s mother in law.

Celebrate moms with delicious dining experiences at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Bavarian Inn Lodge

Dine in, takeout dinners and giant Lodge buffet offer Mother’s Day options for families

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – APRIL 16, 2021 – Looking for a wonderful way to celebrate Mother’s Day and honor the women of our lives? The Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Bavarian Inn Lodge are offering dine-in, takeout and buffet options on Mother’s Day (Sunday, May 9).

For guests wishing to dine in at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant, reservations for limited seating are now being taken. This year one of the highlights on the Mother’s Day menu is the Ultimate Family Style Bavarian Dinner including Frankenmuth Chicken, Kasseler Rippchen (smoked pork loin), Sauerbraten (marinated roast beef), Bratwurst and Schnitzel (breaded pork loin). Many other Frankenmuth favorites, including all-you-can-eat Frankenmuth Style Chicken, will be offered as well.

To make reservations call the Restaurant at (989) 652-9941.

For those interested in the Restaurant’s Mother’s Day Takeout Dinner, there are two family meal options serving four or eight people. The cost is $109 (four-person dinner) or $189 (eight-person dinner). Orders must be received by Wednesday, May 5 and picked up at designated pick-up times on May 9 at the Castle Shops entrance or curbside, both located on the north side of the restaurant.

The four-person meal includes a 2.5-pound herb rubbed pork loin, 10 pieces of mixed chicken, quarts of mashed potatoes (with a pint of gravy), baked dressing, buttered noodles, and Blue Hubbard squash. In addition, included are pints of cole slaw and chicken pasta salad. The meal also includes a loaf of homemade Bavarian Inn bread and a spring lemon cake. For the eight-person takeout dinner, orders will include two of each item described. Guests can add a half-pound box of assorted chocolates for $10. Substitutions are not available for the takeout dinner.

The Restaurant is also offering an individual takeout dinner available for $15.99. This includes a three-piece chicken and pork loin combination plate served with dressing, mashed potatoes, gravy and cole slaw.

To place a dinner order call the Restaurant at (989) 652-9941 or 1-800-BAVARIA.

The Bavarian Inn Lodge is hosting its annual Mother’s Day Buffet on Sunday, May 9 as well with seating times from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in various dining rooms. The cost is $31.99 for adults, $18.50 for 8-12 year olds, $12.95 for 3-7 year olds and free to those two and younger (not including tax and gratuity).

Besides the current social distancing and mask guidelines already in place, special efforts are

being planned to ensure a safe and fun experience for all Lodge buffet guests. Food selections

will be plated for guests by the staff stationed throughout the buffet from behind plexi-glass

shields.

The Mother’s Day Buffet includes various salads including Mandarin Orange, Oberfranken pasta, tomato rye Panzanella, and cranberry relish; Frankenmuth Cheese Haus cheese spread; waffles, scrambled eggs; Frankenmuth Chicken; Kassler Rippchen (smoked pork loin); carved prime rib; spaghetti with meat sauce; many side items including potatoes and gravy; baked dressing; and an array of vegetables.

For dessert guests can enjoy Bavarian Inn cherry strudel, rum torte, chocolate mousse, fruit salad, mini tarts, whipped cream and an Around the World Cheese Board with crackers.

Call (888) 775-6343 to book reservations for the Lodge Easter Buffet.

This year a takeout option is being offered by the Lodge as well. The $27.99 per person cost includes a three-meat feast of Frankenmuth Chicken, Chicken Fine Herb and Kassler Rippchen as well as whipped potatoes and gravy, Bavarian Inn dressing, a blend of broccoli, carrots and cauliflower along with cherry strudel. Orders can be placed at (888) 775-6343.

All guests should remember that social distancing rules and face covering guidelines apply for dining in and when coming to pick up takeout orders.

About Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Bavarian Inn Restaurant online press room: https://bavarianinn.logos-communications.com/

About Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 1.68 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com

Both the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Restaurant are getting in the Easter spirit with safe in-person and takeout options.

Celebrate Easter safely with dining celebrations Bavarian Inn Lodge and Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Lodge buffet offers Easter options for families; takeout available through both Restaurant and Lodge

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – March 22, 2021 – For those who are still looking to celebrate a safe and fun Easter Sunday (April 4), there’s still time to plan a wonderful holiday dinner from the kitchens at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and the Bavarian Inn Lodge, including either a sumptuous Easter buffet or a special takeout dinner.

The Bavarian Inn Lodge is hosting its annual “Bountiful Easter Buffet” on April 4 with seating times still available between 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in various banquet and dining rooms. The cost is $29.99 for adults, $18.50 for 8-12 year olds, $12.95 for 3-7 year olds and free to those two and younger (not including tax and gratuity).

Besides the current social distancing and mask guidelines already in place, special efforts are being planned to ensure a safe and fun experience for all Lodge buffet guests. Food selections will be plated for guests by the staff stationed throughout the buffet from behind plexi-glass shields.

The Easter Buffet includes a wide-ranging list of flavorful items including (but not limited to) the following: salad table with favorites like Lodge Caesar salad, steakhouse smashed potato salad, Frankenmuth Cheese Haus cheese spreads, pancakes, scrambled eggs, famous Frankenmuth Chicken, maple-glazed baked ham, smoked beef brisket, Lodge baked salmon in herb butter, Bavarian Inn buttered noodles, whipped potatoes and gravy, and vegetables. Dessert choices include Bavarian Inn Apfel Strudel, Edelweiss Torte, Lodge banana bread, honey almond sheet cake and more!

Call (888) 775-6343 to make reservations for the Lodge Easter Buffet.

This year a takeout option is being offered by the Lodge as well. The $27.99 per person cost includes a three-meat feast of Frankenmuth Chicken, glazed ham and Lodge baked salmon, buttered noodles, baked dressing, vegetables and Apfel Strudel for dessert. Orders can be placed at (888) 775-6343.

For guests wishing to experience the Bavarian Inn Restaurant, a special Easter Takeout Dinner, serving six to eight people, is still being offered as the perfect choice this Easter.

The family meal includes a 10-pound honey cured, hickory smoked spiral sliced ham, and two quarts each of mashed potatoes, baked dressing, and buttered noodles, along with one quart of gravy, one quart of Blue Hubbard squash, one quart of cole slaw, one quart of cranberry relish, Bavarian Chicken Seasoning and a loaf of homemade bread. A large apple or lemon meringue pie can be added for an additional $14. You can even add a custom Easter Basket to pick up with your order.

To place a takeout dinner order call the Restaurant at (989) 652-9941. The cost is $189 (includes taxes) and orders must be received by Wednesday, March 31 for pick up at designated times on April 4. Pick up will be at the north side Castle Shop entrance or using convenient curbside parking spots.

About Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Bavarian Inn Restaurant online press room: https://bavarianinn.logos-communications.com/

About Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In over 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 2.4 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its continuous top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com

Both the Bavarian Inn Lodge and Restaurant are getting in the Easter spirit with in-person and takeout options.

Enjoy Easter dining celebrations at both the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and Bavarian Inn Lodge this year

Dine in, takeout dinners and Lodge buffet offer Easter options for families

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – March 11, 2021 – There are a number of excellent ways to celebrate Easter Sunday (April 4) thanks to the teams at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant and the Bavarian Inn Lodge, including dine-in options, Easter takeout dinners and a sumptuous buffet.

For guests wishing to dine in at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant, reservations for limited seating are now being taken. This year one of the highlights on the Easter menu at the Restaurant will be “The Ultimate Family Style Bavarian Dinner” including not only Frankenmuth Chicken, but Kasseler Rippchen (smoked pork loin), Sauerbraten (roast beef), Bratwurst and Schnitzel (breaded pork loin). Many other Frankenmuth favorites will be offered as well.

To make reservations call the Restaurant at (989) 652-9941.

For those interested in the Easter Takeout Dinner, this filling family meal serves six to eight people and is $189 (includes taxes). Orders must be received by Wednesday, March 31 and picked up at designated pick-up times on April 4 using north side Castle Shop entrance or convenient curbside parking spots.

The meal includes a 10-pound honey cured, hickory smoked spiral sliced ham, and two quarts each of mashed potatoes, baked dressing, and buttered noodles, along with one quart of gravy, one quart of Blue Hubbard squash, one quart of cole slaw, one quart of cranberry relish, Bavarian Chicken Seasoning and a loaf of homemade bread. A large apple or lemon meringue pie can be added for an additional $14. Substitutions are not available for the takeout dinner but diners can ask about adding a custom Easter Basket.

To place a takeout dinner order call the Restaurant at (989) 652-9941.

The Bavarian Inn Lodge is hosting its annual “Bountiful Easter Buffet” on Sunday, April 4 as well, with seating times from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in various banquet and dining rooms. The cost is $29.99 for adults, $18.50 for 8-12 year olds, $12.95 for 3-7 year olds and free to those two and younger (not including tax and gratuity).

Call (888) 775-6343 to book reservations for the Lodge Easter Buffet.

All guests should remember that social distancing rules and face covering guidelines apply for dining in and when coming to pick up takeout orders.

About Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Bavarian Inn Restaurant online press room: https://bavarianinn.logos-communications.com/

Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In over 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 2.4 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its continuous top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com

Martha Zehnder Kaczynski has been vice president of the Bavarian Inn Lodge since 2013.

Bavarian Inn Lodge Vice President earns RUBY Award

Program recognizes region’s young professionals making a difference

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – Feb. 23, 2021 – Martha Zehnder Kaczynski, vice president of the Bavarian Inn Lodge, has been named the recipient of a 16^th Annual RUBY Award, presented by 1^st State Bank. The awards program honors the Tri-City Area’s brightest professionals under the age of 40 who have made a mark in their industries and are making a positive impact throughout the Great Lakes Region.

Zehnder was one of eight area professionals selected for the awards.

Zehnder, who has served as the Bavarian Inn Lodge vice president since 2013, has been involved in other ventures of Frankenmuth Bavarian Inn, Inc. throughout her entire career. She started at the Bavarian Inn Restaurant working in the kitchen with the family matriarch, Dorothy Zehnder. Today she is also vice president of the Frankenmuth Cheese Haus.

After graduating from Michigan State University, she was director of convention services for a major property in downtown Chicago. She has participated in a Sister City Work Exchange program with a community in Germany and is a Certified Meeting Professional (CMP) through the Convention Industry Council.

Other members of the Bavarian Inn Zehnder family leadership, including Michael Zehnder, general manager of the Lodge, and Amy Zehnder-Grossi, general manager of the Bavarian Inn Restaurant, are past RUBY winners.

This year the awards were presented in digital ceremonies held on Tuesday evening, Feb. 23.

Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In over 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 2.4 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its continuous top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

The Bavarian Inn Lodge has grown from 100 guest rooms to 360 in 35 years of business, as well as adding several water slides, pools, restaurants and other amenities.

For 35 years Frankenmuth’s Bavarian Inn Lodge has offered modern hospitality experience in old-world setting

With decades hosting over 7 million guests, Lodge continues to grow and expand its offerings

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. – FEB. 8, 2021 – Looking back since opening its doors to guests in 1986, today the Bavarian Inn Lodge continues a 35-year-old tradition of wishing a warm “willkommen” to visitors enjoying one of Michigan’s top tourist destinations – Frankenmuth.

This month, and continuing throughout the year, the Lodge is observing its 35th anniversary of providing old-world hospitality in a fun and family-friendly atmosphere with its 350 employees.

To help celebrate the 35th anniversary, the Lodge is offering guests $35 off the standard rack rate for an overnight stay on most Sunday through Thursday nights during the month of February. The offer applies to all room types, for any number of mid-week nights, but does excludes Feb. 14-15.

Throughout the 2020 health pandemic the entire Lodge team worked to offer a safe and fun place for guests. During that time, the Lodge developed extensive health and cleanliness protocols. It also adapted in several ways, expanding its famous fun center to outdoors for the summer, enhancing outdoor dining options and finding other safe, unique ways to serve guests and visitors. Overall, this past year the Lodge has sought to expand, improve and be the “go-to” place for people to stay in Frankenmuth.

Since its opening, the Lodge has completed seven major property projects, investing millions in the Frankenmuth community. Starting out with 100 guest rooms in 1986, the Lodge now encompasses 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites. Extensive upgrades have improved the rooms over the past five years as well.

A single swimming pool back in 1986 (which is now reserved for adult guests only) the Lodge has grown to become one of Michigan’s largest indoor water park hotels with the expansive Family Fun Center, housing two dramatic waterslides, three pools and two whirlpools.

Today the Lodge’s expanded Family Fun Center includes over 160 video and redemption games, a two-story children’s play village, Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course and the Ratskeller Café which offers family karaoke on Friday and Saturday nights.

The Bavarian Inn Lodge offers two lounges and two restaurants (decorated with authentic German woodcarvings) to provide guests a variety of dining and entertainment options. In true resort style, the lodge hosts year-round nightly entertainment.

In addition, the Lodge – situated on seven acres of lush lawns – has become a popular central destination for a variety of family events, such as weddings, reunions and weekend getaways. It has hosted over 2,200 weddings in its 35 years and been visited by U.S. presidents and other national and international dignitaries.

Business meeting and convention planners have named the Lodge a favorite comfortable conference space, with the amenities that make for successful business events from 2-500 people. The Lodge has logged more than 2.4 million room-nights since its opening and has continuously earned a top rating on TripAdvisor®.

“From the very beginning it was our goal to ensure every stay was memorable for each and every one of our guests,” says Bavarian Inn Lodge President and Owner Judy Zehnder Keller. “Over this past year we have been challenged, like so many businesses in Michigan, to operate safely and effectively without missing a beat when it comes to serving our guests.

“We’ve been proud to be a part of so many generations of families who return to stay with us,” she added, “and we look forward to continuing to provide the best possible lodging experience.”

Looking back, Zehnder recalls the opening of the hotel in 1986 didn’t come without some last-minute, on-the-run preparations, including moving her home’s living room furniture to the lobby when the ordered furniture hadn’t arrived in time, and emptying her family’s kitchen pantry of cereals to fill out the breakfast menu. “Now, 35 years later,” she says, “we can all laugh about it.”

To enjoy the anniversary offer, a credit card payment will be charged within 24 hours of booking and is non-refundable. The limited time offer must be booked online and cannot be combined with any additional discounts, coupons, gift cards, or vouchers. To book go online to bavarianin.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge

For 35 years, nestled along the banks of the Cass River in Frankenmuth, is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. Banquet facilities can accommodate events for 2-500 guests to enjoy Old World Charm with modern technology and delicious meals. In over 35 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 2.4 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its continuous top rating on TripAdvisor®. Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

The main course of the Bavarian Inn Restaurant’s Valentine’s Day Dinner is prime rib, accompanied by garlic smashed potatoes and green bean almondine.

Frankenmuth’s Bavarian Inn Restaurant offers romantic 4-course Valentine’s Day dinner

Lodge is also offering dinners and deals for February

FRANKENMUTH, Mich. Jan. 29, 2021 – This year make Valentine’s a delight by joining the Bavarian Inn Restaurant for a romantic four course dine-in experience, or enjoy a two-night romantic stay at the Bavarian Inn Lodge complete with incredible dinner deals.

The Valentine’s Dinner on Saturday, Feb. 13 at the Restaurant will include an appetizer of pretzel sticks with Hofbrau cheese dip, followed by a broccoli crunch salad, a sorbet refresher, and a main course of prime rib with garlic smashed potatoes and green bean almondine. Dessert is a chocolate ganache cake.

Seating for the dine-in begins at 6 p.m. The cost is $45 per person and includes the choice of a special Valentine’s Day cocktail.

The takeout meal includes the same items as dining in, along with four pieces of mixed Frankenmuth Chicken and the choice of a bottle of Champagne, Red Currant or Piesporter wine instead of the cocktail. The takeout cost is $99 with meal pickup times scheduled between 4-7 p.m. on Valentine’s Day.

To make a dine-in reservation for the Bavarian Inn Restaurant go to bavarianinn.com/events. To order a takeout meal please call (989) 652-9941.

The Bavarian Inn Lodge is also celebrating the season with special dinner and room deals. The “2-Night Romantic Stay” package runs from Feb. 4-28, with mid-week rates starting at $273, and $398 for Friday and Saturday stays (plus tax). Guests can also enjoy delicious deals on food like mozzarella medallions, warm pretzel bites, steak pilz senfcreme, and salmon with tomato herb relish. Dine-in or takeout options are available every weekend in February. To view Lodge specials, visit https://bavarianinn.com/stay/packages-specials/. To make a reservation, visit https://bavarianinn.com/ and click the Book a Room link.

For those wishing to visit the Restaurant or Lodge, please note that guests will be required to follow social distancing and face covering guidelines.

About Bavarian Inn Restaurant

Bavarian Inn Restaurant online press room: https://bavarianinn.logos-communications.com/

About Bavarian Inn Lodge

Nestled along the Cass River in Frankenmuth is one of the state’s largest indoor water park hotels. The Lodge has 360 European-themed guest rooms, including whirlpool and family suites, an adult-only pool and whirlpool, two gift shops, two lounges and two restaurants — all under one roof. The expansive 35,000 square foot Family Fun Center houses two thrilling water slides, three pools and two whirlpools, over 160 video and redemption games, a two-level children’s play village and Willy’s Kingdom indoor mini-golf course. Guests can also enjoy live, nightly entertainment year-round and test their own musical skills during weekend family karaoke shows. In over 30 years of business, the Bavarian Inn Lodge has been an important destination for travelers, evidenced by the 1.25 million room-nights that have been booked there since its opening, along with its top rating on TripAdvisor®.

Learn more at www.bavarianinn.com.

Bavarian Inn Lodge online press room: https://bavarianinnlodge.logos-communications.com