The 12 Best Wine Tours in Traverse City
Traverse City, Michigan, has become a hot spot for wine lovers thanks to its stunning lakeside views, innovative wineries, and relaxed vibe. Whether you’re into tasting crisp Rieslings, bold reds, or bubbly champagnes, this region offers something special. From upscale private tours that let you customize your experience to lively group excursions with sunset views, Traverse City truly has it all. Not to mention, some tours focus on Old Mission Peninsula’s premium wineries, while others explore the Leelanau Peninsula’s hidden gems.
In this guide, you’ll find a detailed rundown of the best wine tours available. Each one offers a unique angle—some take you to the top wineries in luxury SUVs, others deliver sunset vistas from a limo-style bus, and a few make special stops for proposals or distillery tastings. We’ll help you compare options based on what matters most: price, duration, group size, and experience. Whether you prefer a private, tailored day or a lively group adventure, this list will steer you right.
Quick Overview of Traverse City Wine Tours
The tours run the gamut from luxury private and semi-private experiences to no-rush, scenic group outings. Expect options that include 4 to 5 wineries—some focus on Old Mission Peninsula, others on Leelanau—and diverse transportation styles like luxury SUVs, van-based VIP tours, or limos. Prices range from about $68 to $699 per group, with durations from 3 hours to a full day. Many tours feature wine tastings, food pairings, and scenic views, making each one a distinct way to enjoy Michigan’s acclaimed wine country.
1. 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
The 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour offers a relaxed yet elegant way to experience Old Mission Peninsula. For $74.99, in about 4 hours, you’ll hop into a limo-style bus to visit three top-rated wineries. The highlight? Tasting flights paired with locally crafted cheeses while viewing the sunset over the bay.
This tour stands out thanks to its scenic route, wine from high-rated wineries like Bowers Harbor Vineyards, and the chance to see the beautiful vineyard estate from which you sip. According to reviews, guests love the friendly guides and the intimate atmosphere. One rave review calls it “a great experience and worth the price,” especially noting the knowledgeable guide and personalized service.
Bottom Line: Perfect for couples or small groups seeking a scenic, relaxed wine experience with stunning sunset views. The small group setting and wine pairing elevate this above standard tastings.
2. NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour
The NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour at $68 per person offers a no-rush, luxury SUV experience. Over 4 to 5 hours, you’ll visit three wineries and have the option to stop at a distillery, all with VIP treatment. No crowded buses here—just a small, intimate group enjoying the sunset and stellar wines.
Guided by wine connoisseurs, this tour emphasizes quality over quantity, with guests praising the knowledgeable guides like Mike, who is noted as “an awesome sommelier.” The flexibility and personal attention make it ideal for serious wine lovers who want a relaxed, customized experience.
Bottom Line: This is a great choice if you prefer a private, upscale experience with expert guides and no rush, especially for couples or small groups seeking elegance and comfort.
3. Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour
The Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour costs $699.99 for up to 14 people and lasts around 4 hours. This fully customizable experience takes your group around four top-rated wineries or breweries, with all transportation arranged in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
Guests love the flexibility—after booking, you’ll choose your stops, making this perfect for special occasions like birthdays or bachelor parties. The guide handles the logistics, so your group can enjoy the tastings and explore at your own pace. Reviews mention the driver Carol, who is praised for her friendliness and flexibility.
Bottom Line: Best suited for larger groups wanting a tailored, private day of wine or craft beer tasting with no worries about driving. The price is high but reflects the customized experience.
4. NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula 4 Winery Tour
This luxury SUV tour at $89 per person takes you to four esteemed wineries in about 4.5 hours. Leaving behind the party bus scene, this tour is about comfort, style, and quality. Your guide, Andie, leads the group to some of the best vineyards on the peninsula, emphasizing stellar wines and stellar service.
Guests rave about the “amazing” guide and the high-end vehicle, which makes the experience feel glamorous rather than rushed. The small group setting is perfect for those seeking a more intimate exploration with personalized wine recommendations.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine enthusiasts ready to indulge in VIP treatment with a focus on boutique wineries—all with the comfort of a luxury SUV.
5. Andie’s NON BUS 4-winery Traverse Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour
For $199 per person, this Leelanau Peninsula wine tour lasts about 4.5 hours and is led by seasoned guides Andie, Tony, and Kyle. It’s all about the VIP experience—stunning views, no buses, and top-notch wineries. You’ll sample reds like Blaufränkisch and whites like Muscat, tasting some of the best wines in the area.
Guests describe it as a “very fun day” with “great weather and great wine,” emphasizing the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops. The small group size and expert guidance make this suitable for travelers craving a deep dive into Leelanau’s wine scene.
Bottom Line: Perfect for wine aficionados interested in premium wines and VIP treatment on a relaxed, scenic tour.
6. NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour 3 Winery Old Mission Peninsula
The Sunset Wine Tour costs $68 and lasts about 3 to 4 hours. This flexible, small-group experience highlights three iconic wineries with stellar wines, while leaving out the party bus chaos. Guides are connoisseurs, offering genuine wine recommendations and a personalized experience.
Guests appreciate the “wonderful trip” and the knowledgeable guide Mike, who took them to the best spots and shared insightful stories about the wineries. The focus on quality and service makes it ideal for those wanting a relaxed, scenic sunset with great wine.
Bottom Line: Suited for wine lovers looking for a laid-back, intimate tour with expert guidance and beautiful sunset views.
7. 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
This fuller experience at $79.99 for about 5 hours includes visits to four wineries. The tour handles all logistics, so you can focus on tasting wines and enjoying the scenery. The stops include Chateau Chantal, perched atop one of the highest points on the peninsula, offering panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay.
Guests love the hassle-free nature—”maximizes your time”—and the opportunity to sample local wines and snacks without worrying about driving. The reviews highlight friendly guides and picturesque settings, making it a solid choice for small groups or couples.
Bottom Line: Well-suited for those seeking a comprehensive, stress-free experience on Old Mission Peninsula with good scenery and wine.
8. The GMC Yukon Traverse City MARRIAGE PROPOSAL WINE TOUR
If you’re planning a special moment, the Proposal Wine Tour at $369 for up to 4 people is memorable. This luxury Yukon experience is designed for romantic gestures, with stops at celebrated vineyards like Hawthorne, perfect for popping the question amid scenic vineyards.
Guests praise the “star-quality” experience, especially as the guide helps craft a moment you’ll never forget. The tour includes wine tastings, a stunning setting, and personalized service. It’s best suited for couples seeking romance and a touch of Hollywood glamour.
Bottom Line: Ideal for romantic proposals—luxurious, private, and unforgettable.
This Champagne & bubbly wine tour at $68 offers a bubbly-filled 4.5 hours. Led by expert guides like Magic Mike, this tour samples sparkling wines from four premier wineries, emphasizing quality and celebration. No party buses—just luxury vehicles and a VIP experience.
Guests rave about the “attention to detail” and the guides’ expertise. Perfect for those who love sparkling wines and want an elevated, intimate experience. It’s especially popular for celebrations or just a fun day with friends.
Bottom Line: Best for bubbly enthusiasts and anyone wanting a classy, relaxed tasting of Michigan’s sparkling wines.
10. NON BUS Leelanau Winery Pairing with That’s a Pizza Food Tour
For $199 per person, this Leelanau pairing tour lasts 4 to 5 hours. It combines wine tastings at three wineries with a food pairing tour featuring local pizza. Guided by true Leelanau experts, this tour emphasizes pairing stellar wines with local cuisine.
Guests note the “scenic views” and the chance to sample both wines and delicious food. It’s excellent for those who want a more culinary experience alongside their wine tastings. The personal guides and focus on pairing elevate this above simple tastings.
Bottom Line: An engaging option for food-and-wine lovers seeking a full sensory experience.
11. NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour
The Singles Mingle Tour at $99 per person offers around 4 to 5 hours of social fun. Led by Magic Mike and team, this tour is designed for singles wanting to meet others over tastings at three wineries and an optional distillery. No buses, just a friendly, relaxed atmosphere.
Guests highlight the “great communication” and “attentive” guides, making it a popular choice for those looking to mingle in a scenic setting. It’s perfect if you want a lively, social experience with a touch of wine and spirits.
Bottom Line: Great for solo travelers or groups looking to combine wine tasting with socializing.
12. NON BUS Traverse City Wine Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
The 3-winery Old Mission Peninsula tour at $68 per person offers a 3 to 4-hour scenic experience. It emphasizes expert-guided visits to iconic wineries like Hawthorne Vineyards, with stellar wines and personalized service. The focus is on quality, not rushing through multiple stops.
Guests appreciate the “stellar wines” and the VIP treatment, making it suitable for those who want a relaxed, intimate day in scenic surroundings. The flexible pickup and drop-off add to the convenience for travelers staying in Traverse City.
Bottom Line: Ideal for wine lovers wanting a focused, high-quality experience with knowledgeable guides.
How to Choose the Right Traverse City Wine Tour
When selecting a wine tour, consider your budget and how much time you want to spend. Private tours like Tour #3 offer tailored experiences perfect for celebrating a special occasion but come at a higher price. If you love scenic sunsets, Tours #1 and #6 focus on Old Mission Peninsula’s breathtaking views.
Want to avoid busy party buses? Tours #4, #6, and #12 emphasize luxury SUVs or VIP style experiences, perfect for couples or small groups seeking comfort. For those interested in bubbles, Tour #9 delivers sparkling wines with a VIP touch. If socializing is your goal, Tours #11 and #10 combine wine tastings with a lively atmosphere or food pairings.
Book early, especially during peak season (summer and fall), to secure your preferred date and experience.
Final Thoughts
Traverse City offers a diverse lineup of wine tours suited for all kinds of wine enthusiasts. If you’re looking for a romantic sunset experience, Tours #1 and #6 deliver stunning views with high-end service. For a private, customizable adventure, Tours #3 and #5 stand out. Those seeking a lively, social outing will appreciate Tours #9 and #11, especially if bubbly or mingling are on your agenda.
Whether you want to indulge in VIP treatment, sample from iconic wineries, or just enjoy a scenic drive with friends, these tours have you covered. Remember to book early—these experiences fill up fast, especially in the fall. Cheers to discovering Michigan’s wine scene in style.