Traverse City stands out as Michigan’s premier destination for craft beverages, especially when it comes to wineries, breweries, and distilleries. Its combination of fertile farmland, nearby lakes, and a lively local scene makes for some of the most enjoyable tasting experiences in the Midwest. The city’s reputation for craft beer and boutique wineries attracts visitors eager to sample top-notch drinks in a scenic setting. These drinking tours let you indulge without worrying about driving, providing knowledgeable guides and exclusive access to the best spots around town.
Whether you want a tailored private experience or a luxury VIP outing, Traverse City offers options that suit different tastes and budgets. Here, you can savor everything from award-winning wines to innovative craft beers and distillery spirits, all in a relaxed, friendly environment. Planning your visit around these tours ensures you experience the city’s local drinking scene with comfort and style.
Quick Overview
We’ve researched Traverse City’s best drinking tours to help you find the perfect fit. You’ll find options ranging from a private, fully customizable Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour to a sleek, VIP brewery and distillery experience. Each offers unique features like personalized itineraries, small-group intimacy, or champagne-level service—all with the benefit of local guides who know the ins and outs of the area’s beverage landscape.
Below, we detail both tours so you can decide which best matches your style and expectations.
1. Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour
At number 1 on our list is the Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour. This tour stands out for its customization and exclusivity. It lasts about 4 hours, and you can choose your preferred start time, making it flexible for your schedule. The tour includes up to four stops—either top-rated wineries or craft breweries—selected based on your preferences. The guide takes care of navigation and transportation, traveling in a private, air-conditioned vehicle.
This experience is particularly appealing for special occasions like birthdays or anniversaries, as it offers a personalized itinerary tailored to your group’s interests. The tour’s highlights include visiting distinguished wineries like Chateau Chantal or breweries such as Brys Estate—all known for their quality and ambiance. Guests can order drinks at each stop (own expense) and explore at their own pace. The reviews emphasize the friendly guides, flexibility, and value for a private, intimate outing.
Bottom line: If you want an exclusive, customizable tasting experience in Traverse City that combines comfort with high-quality visits, this private tour offers the best value for around $700 per group.
2. NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour
For a more luxurious and personal experience, the NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour provides a sleek, bustle-free alternative. Priced at $68 per person and lasting about 4 to 5 hours, this tour skips the loud party buses for a VIP experience in small groups. It features two start times, at 11:45 AM and 4:30 PM, catering to different schedules.
This tour includes visits to four well-selected stops in downtown Traverse City, such as Silver Spruce Brewing—famous for its lager selection—and Earthen Ales, known for its experimental small-batch brews. Guides are connoisseurs in both beer and spirits, providing expert insights. The tour emphasizes stellar drinks, personalized service, and the chance to bring your own food or snacks at select spots.
Guests have described the experience as fun, relaxed, and informative. One reviewer mentioned, “Tracey was amazing! We had so much fun on our brewery and distillery tour,” highlighting the personalized attention and high-quality drinks.
Bottom line: This VIP tour suits visitors who want an upscale, intimate experience without the chaos of a bus, making it ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a stylish taste of Traverse City’s beverage scene.
How to Choose
When deciding between these two options, consider your budget, group size, and what kind of experience you’re after. The private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour offers a tailored, exclusive experience for a flat fee, perfect for celebrating a special event or traveling with a group that wants full control over their stops. It’s ideal if you appreciate luxury and personalization.
On the other hand, the VIP brewery and distillery tour offers a more budget-friendly but still upscale experience for smaller groups. It’s perfect if you want to sample multiple breweries and distilleries with expert guides and avoid the noise and inconvenience of larger buses.
Think about the type of drinks you prefer, whether wine, craft beer, or spirits—both tours cover these categories, but the private tour provides more flexibility in what you visit. Booking early is recommended, especially during peak season, to secure your preferred time and group size.
Final Thoughts
Traverse City offers a wonderful variety of drinking tours, whether you’re looking for a private, tailored experience or a small-group VIP outing. For those who value customization and exclusivity, the Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour is hard to beat. If you prefer a luxury, hassle-free experience with expert guides, the VIP brewery and distillery tour is a perfect choice.
Both options showcase Traverse City’s impressive beverage scene with knowledgeable guides and carefully selected stops. These tours are a fantastic way to sample local drinks and enjoy the scenery without the stress of driving. Booking early ensures you’ll secure your spot—so plan ahead and get ready to toast in one of Michigan’s most celebrated craft beverage regions.