Take a Horse-Drawn Carriage Ride This Christmas Season

Frankenmuth is known as the "Little Bavaria" of the Northeast. This small but quaint German town in the thumb of Michigan will transport you back in time as you see the Swiss-style architecture buildings lining up and down main street.

Frankenmuth is also considered to be one of the largest tourist attractions in the state. This little town attracts thousands of visitors each year.

If you are truly looking to get into the holiday spirit, then Frankenmuth needs to be on agenda this Christmas season. From the world renowned famous restaurants -- the Bavarian Inn and Zehnder's, to the world's largest Christmas store -- Bronner's CHRISTmas Wonderland, you can enjoy a day full of festivities to spark the holiday mood.

Christmas time is the perfect time to visit this beautiful city, the streets are lined with hand-picked greens and adorning Christmas lights. Christmas carolers in full German attire stroll the streets, singing quaint holiday songs that you know by heart.

One of the most romantic and charming treats of this bustling tourist town are the carriage rides offered downtown. This is a different and unique way to see all of the highlights Frankenmuth has to offer.

While the carriage company operates year-round (weather permitting), the holiday season is a good time to visit and take in the holiday charm. I had the pleasure a few years ago of being able to enjoy a horse-drawn carriage ride during the holiday season, and it was an unforgettable experience.

The carriage rides are boarded in downtown Frankenmuth right next to the Zehnder's restaurant parking lot. The main company that offers carriage rides is Fantasy Carriage Company Inc. The gorgeous white fairytale-style carriage can easily accommodate up to six people, but is often sought after by couples.

The cost will set you back $50.00 for a 30 minute ride, but it is worth it. Be sure to bring a blanket if you will be traveling in the winter months. A sweet tip for the gentlemen is to surprise your lady with a single red rose or bouquet of flowers -- this has been an old-style tradition for decades. If you need a last minute romance boost --the plaza where you purchase tickets sells single roses for just a few dollars.

The ride starts off by crossing the main street in town and takes you past the Bavarian Inn. The Bavarian Inn courtyard is a great place for pictures -- don't forget to check out the giant cuckoo clock on the side of the inn that plays German-themed music every 30 and 60 minutes. In November through January, the lights are spectacular at the Inn and the carriage ride is a sure bet to get the best enjoyment out of the whole experience.

Moving right along, the carriage makes its way to the famous Frankenmuth covered bridge. The 239 foot bridge is lit up at night and you will enjoy the clickety-clack of hoof prints as you are traveling across the bridge.

You will then make your way back to the park -- be sure to glance over at the small light displays and holiday- themed trees.

Next, off to the downtown area. There is nothing quite as simple and romantic as downtown Frankenmuth with snow on the ground and the holiday lights on display. The atmosphere will make you feel as if you are in a small skiing village in the Swiss Alps -- minus the alps of course.

The trip makes its way through some side streets and then back to the plaza. This carriage ride is perfect for couples or those who want to check out the town in a different way. " Auf Wiedersehen."