Wine touring in Traverse City delivers an efficient, well-organized experience through Michigan’s premier wine country. Standard tours pack good value: 5 hours visiting 4 carefully selected wineries on either Old Mission or Leelanau Peninsula, with reasonable tasting fees ($5-15 per stop).
I particularly appreciate the sunset sailing options – they combine wine tasting with Grand Traverse Bay views, offering a distinctly northern Michigan experience. For couples, the intimate proposal tours stand out, thoughtfully arranged for those special moments.
The best operators provide designated drivers and customize stops based on wine preferences, whether you favor dry reds or sweet whites. These practical touches make the difference between a good tour and a great one.
Let’s look at our favorite Traverse City wine tours and their standout features.
Key Points
- Traverse City wine tours typically last 5 hours and visit 4 wineries on either Old Mission Peninsula or Leelanau Peninsula.
- Private tours are available for special occasions, offering personalized experiences and group preferences.
- Round-trip transportation and designated driver services are provided for wine tours, ensuring safety and flexibility.
- Unique experiences like the Sunset Sail and Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Tour offer scenic views and educational insights.
- Tours emphasize a relaxed atmosphere with high traveler satisfaction and customization options.
5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
The 5-hour Traverse City Wine Tour takes visitors on an enchanting journey through four renowned wineries nestled along the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula.
With over 1,900 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour offers wine lovers a chance to explore the region’s finest vineyards. Round-trip transportation is provided from Traverse City, ensuring a seamless and relaxing experience.
During the tour, guests will visit Chateau Chantal, Bowers Harbor, Brys Estate, and Bonobo Winery, with opportunities to taste a variety of wines ranging from $5 to $10 per tasting.
The tour includes a knowledgeable local guide, an air-conditioned premium limo-style bus, and a Yeti-style cooler for customer use. Travelers are encouraged to bring their own lunches, as the wineries offer small snacks.
With a maximum of 20 travelers per tour, this experience promises an intimate and personalized exploration of Traverse City’s wine country.
Reviewers consistently praise the tour’s friendly guides, stunning scenery, and overall enjoyable experience.
Read our full review: 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula Review
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Designated Driver For Wine Tours – Traverse City
Designated driver services in Traverse City offer a stress-free way for wine lovers to enjoy alcohol-related tours. These services provide a designated driver for groups of up to 6 people, with prices starting at $349 for a 5-hour tour.
The service includes pickup within 10 miles of downtown Traverse City, and the option to make reservations at chosen vineyards. The drivers have undergone background and license checks, and have in-depth knowledge of the local area.
They’ll tailor the experience to exceed group expectations, with the right to end the drive due to poor behavior. Guests can enjoy tastings without worrying about DUI, making it a cheaper alternative to group tours. The flexible itinerary allows for changes on the fly.
However, the service isn’t suitable for children under 18, and smoking and alcoholic drinks are prohibited in the vehicle. The driver will ensure a safe return after the tour.
Read our full review: Designated Driver For Wine Tours – Traverse City Review
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Sunset Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine & Cocktails
As the sun dips below the horizon, visitors to Traverse City can embark on a 2.5-hour sunset sail aboard the Wind Dancer. Recommended by 94% of travelers, the Sunset Sail from Traverse City offers a truly memorable experience.
Guests are encouraged to arrive 30 minutes early for a welcome briefing before setting sail.
Once aboard, passengers can indulge in a selection of local wine, beer, cider, and signature cocktails by Mammoth Distillery, as well as delectable snacks featuring Leelanau raclette cheese, Archies Social House wraps, Great Lakes Potato Chips, and Murdicks fudge.
Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.
The meeting point is at 615 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49686, with free parking available at The Delamar Resort.
The maximum capacity is 18 travelers, and the crew is described as professional, knowledgeable, and hospitable, providing onboard commentary on Great Lakes history and sailing insights.
Read our full review: Sunset Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine & Cocktails Review
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5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula
Visitors can embark on a 5-hour Traverse City wine tour exploring the picturesque Leelanau Peninsula. The tour accommodates a maximum of 14 travelers and starts at $79.99 per person. Guests will visit four popular wineries, with winery appointments made by the tour operator.
Transportation is provided via an air-conditioned vehicle, departing from the Grand Traverse County Civic Center.
The tour includes snacks allowed on the bus and individual wine tastings at the wineries, ranging from $5 to $15 each. However, gratuity, full meals, and the cost of wine tastings aren’t included.
Feedback indicates the tour offers comfortable transportation, knowledgeable drivers, and an enjoyable group atmosphere, though some guests suggest improved audio and ensuring the listed wineries are visited.
Due to COVID-19, wineries may have altered tasting formats, and the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, though service animals are allowed. Cancellation is free up to 24 hours before the experience.
Read our full review: 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula Review
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Designated Driver TC – We Drive Your Car For Wine Tours
Offering a unique service for wine enthusiasts in Traverse City, Designated Driver TC allows visitors to fully enjoy the local tasting experience without the worry of driving.
Prices start at $55 per person for half-day tours with flexible timeslots, and the service is recommended by 95% of travelers with an impressive 4.8-star rating.
Customization is a key feature, as groups can personalize their itinerary to visit wineries, breweries, and distilleries of their choice.
While tasting fees aren’t included, the service is wheelchair accessible and accommodates strollers and service animals.
Drivers provide a knowledgeable and friendly experience, often praised for their ability to adjust plans as needed.
With free pickup within 10 miles of downtown Traverse City, Designated Driver TC offers a worry-free way to explore the region’s renowned alcohol scene.
Flexible booking and cancellation policies further enhance the convenience of this unique service.
Read our full review: Designated Driver TC – We Drive Your Car For Wine Tours Review
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4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
The 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour whisks visitors through the picturesque vineyards of the Old Mission Peninsula, showcasing three of Michigan’s highest-rated wineries.
With 125 reviews and a 98% recommendation rate, this tour offers an immersive experience in the region’s wine country, featuring stunning bay views and coastal sunsets.
Guests will visit Chateau Chantal Winery, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, and Bonobo Vineyards, where they can sip on award-winning wines and savor locally crafted cheeses.
The tour includes wine tastings at each location, with prices ranging from $5 to $10 per tasting.
Departing from the Grand Traverse County Civic Center, the tour runs on Fridays at 5:30 PM and Saturdays at 4:30 PM, returning to the meeting point after the journey.
The premium limo-style bus provides ample comfort and amenities, including air conditioning and a Yeti-style cooler.
Gratuity for the driver is strongly recommended, and masks are required at the wineries due to COVID-19 precautions.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula Review
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Day Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine, & Cocktails
A day sail on the serene waters of Grand Traverse Bay offers visitors an all-inclusive experience aboard a 60-foot (18-meter) schooner. The tour provides a chance to relax and take in the bay’s stunning views, with the option to get hands-on with sailing.
Perfect for families, the sail allows guests to learn about the area’s sailing history and natural wonders.
The lunch menu features local specialties like Leelanau raclette cheese, Archies Social House wraps, and Murdicks fudge. Guests can also enjoy local beer, spirits, and wine. Vegetarian and gluten-free options are available upon request.
Conveniently located, the tour starts and ends at 615 E Front St, Traverse City, MI 49686. With over 128 reviews and a 4.9-star rating, this day sail is highly recommended by travelers for its friendly crew, delicious food, and engaging experience.
The limited group size of 18 ensures a personalized and relaxing adventure on the water.
Read our full review: Day Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine, & Cocktails Review
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Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour
For those seeking a personalized exploration of Traverse City’s vibrant wine and craft beer scene, the Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour provides a customized half-day adventure.
Recommended by 96% of travelers, this private tour allows groups to visit up to four top-rated local wineries or breweries, traveling in a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle. The tour is ideal for birthdays, celebrations, and other special occasions, with a focus on each group’s preferences.
While alcoholic beverages aren’t included, a cooler is available onboard for personal beverages, and guests can enjoy wine or beer flights and snacks at their own expense during the tastings.
The tour starts at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center, with pickup available upon request. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour is stroller accessible, and service animals are allowed.
With an overall rating of 4.9 based on reviews, the Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour promises a personalized and memorable experience exploring the region’s finest libations.
Read our full review: Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour Review
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Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour
Offering a picturesque exploration of Traverse City’s renowned Old Mission Peninsula, the Traverse City Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour immerses guests in the region’s vibrant wine and spirits scene.
Operated by Movie Stars Wine Tours, this semi-private experience accommodates up to 20 travelers in luxury SUVs, providing personalized attention and small-group camaraderie.
Led by knowledgeable, enthusiastic guides, the tour visits multiple wineries, offering wine samples and educational insights. Unique highlights include distillery visits and sweeping views of the sunset.
Guests consistently praise the tour’s friendly atmosphere, with many feeling like VIPs and returning to recommend it to others.
With a 5.0-star rating and 100% recommendation from travelers, the Traverse City Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour offers an exceptional way to discover the area’s acclaimed wines and spirits in a relaxed, memorable setting.
Read our full review: Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour Review
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Proposal and Engagement Sunset Wine Tour in Traverse City
Though perfect for any occasion, the Proposal and Engagement Sunset Wine Tour in Traverse City provides an exquisite setting to celebrate the start of a couple’s new journey together.
Operated by former law enforcement and staffed by wine enthusiasts, this private tour accommodates groups of up to six guests in luxury SUVs. The tour includes a complimentary bottle of bubbly, and participants can enjoy wine samples, flights, bottles, and food at an additional cost.
Pickup is at 10:30 AM, with the first winery visit by 11 AM, avoiding large bus crowds. The tour wraps up with an afternoon pickup at 3:30 PM, returning to the meeting point near the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City.
While not wheelchair accessible, the tour is suitable for most travelers, with a 24-hour free cancellation policy and a reserve now, pay later option.
With an exceptional 5-star rating based on a single review, this tour offers a memorable wine tasting experience.
Read our full review: Proposal and Engagement Sunset Wine Tour in Traverse City Review
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4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula
The NON BUS 4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula provides a personalized wine tasting experience for small groups and couples.
With 168 overwhelmingly positive reviews and a 99% traveler recommendation rate, this tour offers a badge of excellence. Guests are picked up in luxury SUVs, like the GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, and transported to various wineries by expert guides who are graduates of the University of Michigan and Michigan State University.
The tour includes complimentary wine samples, and guests can purchase additional flights, bottles, and food at their own expense. For groups over 6, a complimentary bottle of wine is provided.
The tour departs at or before 10:30 AM to arrive at the first winery by 11 AM, with the return to the original meeting point. While the tour isn’t wheelchair accessible, it’s suitable for most travelers without serious medical conditions.
Cancellations are free up to 24 hours before the experience, and a “reserve now, pay later” option is available. Prices start at $89 per person, with a lowest price guarantee.
Read our full review: 4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula Review
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The Sum Up
Traverse City offers a variety of wine tours to suit different preferences. From half-day excursions to private and customized experiences, there’s something for all. Whether you’re exploring the Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau Peninsula, or enjoying a sunset sail, these tours provide a great way to discover the region’s vibrant wine scene. With knowledgeable guides and designated drivers, you can sit back, relax, and savor the flavors of Traverse City’s award-winning wineries.