🍁 Fall Magic: A Taste of Michigan’s Oktoberfest

Michelle Laudermilk
Jul 17
3 min read

You don’t have to travel far to feel transported.

Photo by <a href="https://unsplash.com/@nipez?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Nick Perez</a> on <a href="https://unsplash.com/photos/an-aerial-view-of-a-tennis-court-surrounded-by-trees-fhKpft_avJ0?utm_content=creditCopyText&utm_medium=referral&utm_source=unsplash">Unsplash</a> — Golden autumn leaves embrace the shoreline of tranquil Lake Michigan, capturing the serene beauty of fall's vibrant tapestry.

Sometimes, it only takes crisp fall air, golden leaves underfoot, and a warm cup of cider shared with kindred spirits. That’s the magic of autumn in Michigan — and why it’s the perfect setting for a small group journey built around connection, culture, and cozy celebration.

🍻 Michigan's Little Bavaria - A Different Kind of Oktoberfest

When most people hear “Oktoberfest,” they picture overflowing beer steins and crowded tents. But in the heart of Michigan, the town of Frankenmuth offers something more intimate — and far more soulful.

Men in traditional Bavarian attire dance on a stage outdoors in Frankenmuth, MI. A person in the crowd raises a beer mug. Festive atmosphere with building backdrop. — Dancers in traditional Bavarian attire perform energetically during Frankenmuth's official Oktoberfest celebration, embodying the spirit of "Michigan’s Little Bavaria."

Known as “Michigan’s Little Bavaria,” Frankenmuth hosts the only officially sanctioned Oktoberfest outside of Germany. With its half-timbered architecture, walkable streets, and warm hospitality, the festival here feels like stepping into another world — one where tradition is honored and shared joy comes in the form of brass bands, homemade pastries, and local brews.

Even better? Many of the breweries, restaurants, and cultural experiences are women-led — from female brewmasters to fourth-generation chefs keeping family recipes alive.

🍇 More Than Beer — A Taste of Place

The Taste of Michigan tour isn’t just about beer. It’s about tasting the land, the season, and the stories.

In addition to Michigan's Oktoberfest, our journey takes you through vineyard-covered hills near Traverse City, to cozy farm-to-table cafes, and through cideries and harvest markets that reflect the best of Michigan’s bounty. You’ll meet women who grow, make, and serve from the heart — and share experiences that nourish far more than your appetite.

Two women sit on wooden chairs in a vineyard, toasting with drinks. Sunny day with blue sky and lush greenery. Relaxed atmosphere. — Savoring the tranquility of Traverse City, two friends toast under the bright sky, surrounded by lush vineyards, embodying the perfect end to a day of storytelling and relaxation.

Imagine ending your day with a storytelling circle, glass of wine in hand, journaling beneath golden trees or stargazing over Lake Michigan. These are the kinds of moments that linger.

🧡 Why It Resonates for Women 50+

At this stage of life, many of us crave more than a checklist of sights. We want meaning. We want room to reflect. And we want the chance to travel with people who get it — who are curious, compassionate, and ready to savor instead of rush.

That’s what Founder’s Circle tours are designed to offer.

With just 6–10 travelers per group, every conversation matters. Every shared story becomes part of the experience. And every location is chosen not just for beauty, but for the feeling it gives you — one of warmth, connection, and joy.

🗺️ A Taste of What’s to Come

Our upcoming Taste of Michigan tour (Fall 2026) is currently in development — but here’s a sneak peek:

Kick things off in Detroit, where cultural revival meets soulful storytelling.
Celebrate Oktoberfest in Frankenmuth, complete with pretzels, polka, and a festive toast.
Wind your way through wine country to Traverse City, where fall color meets farm-fresh cuisine.
Reflect, relax, and connect in a small group of women who want more than a sightseeing trip.

This is your invitation to co-create something meaningful — not just a tour, but a community of curious, courageous travelers who want to experience the season (and life) more fully.