Small Town Big Deal Season 2 Episode 24 Frankenmuth, Mich.
- December 19, 2013
- 20 min
In season 2 episode 24 of Small Town Big Deal, the show takes viewers to Frankenmuth, Michigan, a charming little town known as "Michigan's Little Bavaria." Hosts Rodney Miller and Jann Carl explore the unique and picturesque qualities of this small town and its rich cultural heritage.
The episode begins with a quick history lesson on how Frankenmuth came to be, as well as the town's deep German roots, including the many architectural influences found throughout the town. The hosts then take a stroll through the bustling streets, pointing out various landmarks and businesses, ranging from quaint shops and eateries to giant outdoor water parks.
Next, viewers are taken to the ever-popular Bavarian Inn Lodge, a sprawling resort that features 360+ guest rooms, multiple restaurants, and a massive indoor water park. We get a behind-the-scenes look at how the indoor water park stays up and running year-round, including the incredible amount of water that flows through the park each day.
After that, the episode takes on a more cultural tone as Rodney and Jann sit down with a few locals to learn about the roots of traditional German cuisine. They visit the beloved Zehnder's of Frankenmuth, a famous family-style restaurant that's been serving up classic German fare for over 160 years, and chat with their head chef about how the restaurant has stayed relevant all these years.
In another scene, we get to witness the town's reverence for the Christmas season as the hosts visit Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, the largest Christmas store in the world. We follow along as the store's staff prepare for the holiday season, setting up elaborate holiday displays and decorations. It's clear from the enthusiasm of everyone involved that Christmas is taken very seriously in Frankenmuth.
Finally, the episode wraps up on a touching note as Rodney and Jann visit a hospice in the area and speak with some of the patients and workers there. They get a firsthand look at the positive impact that the town's culture of hospitality and compassion has on the community as a whole, and it's clear that the town's reputation as a friendly and welcoming place is well-founded.
Overall, season 2 episode 24 of Small Town Big Deal offers a fascinating look at a unique community that has managed to retain its cultural identity while also embracing modernity and progress. From the bustling tourist attractions to the small-business owners who work tirelessly to keep the town thriving, Frankenmuth, Michigan is a true American treasure.