Frankenmuth, Michigan, nestled within what's affectionately known as 'Little Bavaria', is gearing up to offer a new level of luxury with the upcoming opening of The Mill at Zehnder Park. Anchored by its history as the site of a former flour mill, the boutique hotel is on track to debut its exclusive accommodations and atmospheric Landmark Lounge in early 2026. WNEM reported that the development is aimed to vastly appeal to both visitors and locals.
The 1,680 square foot Landmark Lounge will be dynamically set beneath the luxury hotel and is designed to seat around 50 guests. It promises to offer an array of crafted cocktails and curated small bites, infused with local flavors courtesy of a partnership with Iron Fish Distillery. Al Zehnder, CEO of Zehnder's of Frankenmuth, expressed intentions to "bring the community together in a truly unique setting" and make the lounge "an extension of the experience we're creating at The Mill," as obtained by WNEM. The Mill's aesthetic will feature elements reflecting themes of pine, moss, water, wheat, and rust, with four individually styled suites that provide guests with a comfortable, residential atmosphere complete with fireplaces and kitchenettes.
Highlighting the hotel's historical roots, artifacts and photographs from the mill's operational days will adorn the space, contributing to an ambiance steeped in Frankenmuth's agricultural legacy. Moreover, guests can even look forward to the installation of the original water wheel, dating back to 1984, repurposed to lend an authentic touch to the site's exterior. Lauren Zehnder, a member of The Mill planning committee, outlined the nuanced decor and design plans that include themes suggestive of the hotel’s natural environment.
The Landmark Lounge's vision, shared on The Mill at Zehnder Park's Facebook page, is to exist as a "moody, upscale, food and beverage concept" where guests can indulge in decadent pastries alongside a sophisticated drink menu. Inside, the lounge aspires to reflect the building's rich heritage, simultaneously projecting contemporary elegance. While information on the opening hours remains forthcoming, it's clear the establishment aims to intricately blend the nostalgia of the past with the luxuries of modern hospitality.
Spanning generations, Zehnder’s leadership under Al Zehnder has successfully continued their evolution in the hospitality sector, anticipating to make The Mill at Zehnder Park and its Landmark Lounge hotspots in Frankenmuth. The promise of a 'wow' experience is underscored by both Zehnder's vision and the meticulous approach to blending the historic with the present. "I think our guests are going to want to come and hate to leave," Zehnder declared on MLive, reflecting a confidence in the new project that aims to elevate the standards of luxurious accommodations and entertainment in the region.
