Day Two - Frankenmuth, MI

One of my favorite all time places to visit - Bronner's Christmas World!  On the south end of Frankenmuth, the very large spawling complex is a Christmas lover's delight!  If you need anything in decorations, lights, inflatables, statues, flags, trees, and much more for your home at Christmas, we have to make a visit to Bronner's!

You are immediately greeted by large outdoor decorations and lights.  Remember where you park, there are many entrances to the building.  Once inside, you are given a map with each section a theme, such as all Christmas trees are located in one section, all Santa ornaments can be found together, and displays of brightly colored lights will overwelm you.  If you can't find it at Bronner's, chances are it isn't made.

  While wondering around in the store, we found Santa and Mrs. Claus shopping for decorations.  Come to find out, they like to visit during their vacation!

I am a big Snow Village collector, and Bronner's always offers me a chance for a new building or two and accessory pieces.  They always have the latest and a good selection of recently retired pieces.  The display is a fantasy land with lights and animation. 

We spent almost 3 hours wondering around in the building!  I picked up ornaments for family at Christmas, some lights, and of course, a few things for my village.  How can you spend that much time?  It is easy once you see the place!

Just outside Bronner's to the south, Wally Bronner has built a replica of the Silent Night Chapel.

  This beautiful white building is a wonderful tribute to the beloved Christmas carol.  The pathway leading to the chapel has signs where the first verse of Silent Night is translated in many languages.  One can hear the song placing softly once inside.  The replica of the Oberndorf Chapel is a very quiet place to reflect on the miracle of our Savior's birth and the beloved Christmas song.  Also, inside are two plaques containing languages yet to have the first verse translated.  Outside, several nativites remind visitor's of the Christmas miracle.  Truly, an inspiring place to visit!

All too soon, it is time to head back home.  But, we stop a couple more places.  Just to the west of Frankenmuth are the Outlets at Birch Run.  A shopping mecca, there are many stores to shop.  There are eating establishments, and a trolley to move you around the complex.  We all have our favorite shops, and can't leave without something!  Our next stop was an inpromptu visit to the wind farm at Bowling Green, Ohio.