5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula

Exploring Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula with a Guided Wine Tour
If you’re considering a day in Traverse City and want to enjoy its renowned wine scene without the hassle of planning, this 5-hour Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour might just be your best bet. It promises visits to four popular wineries, picturesque views, and a relaxed, all-inclusive experience—perfect for those who want to savor the wine and scenery without the stress.

What we love about this tour? First, the ease of transportation allows you to focus solely on tasting and taking in the views. Second, the knowledgeable guides make the journey informative and fun, sharing insights about the wineries and area. Third, the visit to Rove Winery offers a breathtaking panoramic vista—something you’ll be raving about long after.

One thing to consider is that tasting fees are paid separately at each winery, which adds to the overall cost. If you’re a serious wine enthusiast, this might be a small price to pay for the convenience and variety you get.

This tour suits anyone wanting a relaxed day of wine tasting, especially couples, small groups, or anyone new to Traverse City’s wine scene who values comfort, guidance, and scenic stops.

Key Points

• All-in-One Transportation: No need to worry about driving or arranging rides between wineries.
• Expert Guides & Comfortable Group Size: Knowledgeable guides help enhance the experience without overwhelming.
• Scenic & Diverse Wineries: From vineyard walks to breathtaking overlooks, each stop offers something special.
• Flexibility & Convenience: Winery reservations are handled, and snacks are permitted onboard for a more relaxed vibe.
• Cost & Value: The tour costs $79.99, with tasting fees paid separately, making it a flexible and affordable way to explore.
• Timing & Flexibility: 5 hours is enough for a meaningful visit without feeling rushed, ending just in time for dinner plans.

A Complete Look at the 5-Hour Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

This guided tour from Traverse City offers a well-rounded experience, combining scenic drives, expert commentary, and visits to four distinctive wineries. With a price point of $79.99 per person, it provides notable value—especially considering the included transportation, which removes the stress of navigating between vineyards.

How the Itinerary Unfolds

1. Black Star Farms (80 minutes)
The tour kicks off at Black Star Farms, a flagship for Leelanau wines. As a well-regarded, award-winning estate, it offers a perfect first stop. You’ll explore their picturesque grounds, which spread across a 160-acre estate featuring vineyards, a charming inn, a seasonal café, and recreational trails.

Guests love the experience here, noting the opportunity to wander freely before sampling their wide selection of wines and spirits. With over 50 wines and brandies available, there’s something for all, whether you prefer dry reds, crisp whites, or European-style brandies. Reviewers highlight the friendliness of staff and the chance to learn about the craft, with one describing it as “a leisurely way to enjoy the region’s best.”

2. Shady Lane Cellars (80 minutes)
Next, the group visits Shady Lane, a winery known for its sustainable farming practices and serene setting. Covering 70 acres of grapevines, this stop emphasizes the importance of eco-conscious winemaking. Visitors find it rewarding to explore the vineyards and soak up the peaceful surroundings, with some reviewers mentioning the “meticulous care” that shows in the wines.

Shady Lane offers insights into their sustainability efforts, which adds depth for those interested in environmentally friendly practices. The tasting experience here is relaxed, with many appreciating the chance to discover wines crafted with a genuine respect for the land.

3. Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate (80 minutes)
The final stop is Rove Winery, perched at an impressive 1,165-foot elevation. From here, you’ll enjoy sweeping views across Leelanau County, especially striking during fall when the landscape is painted with vibrant colors. This winery features family roots dating back generations, and the tasting room offers award-winning wines paired with the awe-inspiring scenery.

Guests often mention the panoramic vistas as the highlight—”the last winery view was breathtaking,” as some say. The towering elevation makes it a memorable end to the tour, especially if you catch a sunset. Many reviewers comment on the friendly, family-oriented atmosphere and the quality of wines on offer.

What’s Included & What’s Not

This tour provides a modern, air-conditioned bus where you’re free to bring snacks and drinks (except for the tastings, which are paid separately), making the journey comfortable and casual. The guide takes care of scheduling appointments, but remember that these are not reservations—meaning there could be some wait times at wineries.

The price covers transportation, guide knowledge, and the winery visits, but tastings cost extra, usually between $5 and $15. Gratuity is recommended at 20% for the driver. It’s worth noting that most wineries now prefer card payments and outdoor seating, so dress accordingly—especially on colder days.

The Guide & Group Experience

Based on reviews, the guides—like Mike B. and John—are praised for their friendliness, knowledge, and ability to keep the group engaged. The bus is configured to encourage conversation, which helps you meet fellow travelers and make new friends. However, some reviewers did mention the importance of a microphone for the driver, especially on noisier buses, to ensure everyone can hear the commentary.

The tour generally hosts 10-14 travelers, striking a balance between intimacy and social interaction. Groups tend to be friendly, and many mention the tour as a highlight of their Traverse City trip, thanks to the guides’ helpful suggestions and local knowledge.

Scenic & Cultural Highlights

What makes this tour more than just wine tasting? The setting and views are truly the star. From the lush vineyards of Black Star Farms to the sweeping valley vistas at Rove Winery, you’ll see why Leelanau is considered one of Michigan’s top wine regions. The stops are spaced out enough to enjoy each without feeling rushed, and the outdoor seating options at wineries allow you to soak up the natural beauty while sipping.

Reviewers mention that the landscapes change with the seasons, making the experience worthwhile anytime. Fall is particularly noted for its vivid colors, turning the region into a postcard-worthy scene.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Arrive prepared: Bring your own snacks and enjoy them during the trip, as most wineries offer only small appetizers.
• Dress in layers: Outdoor seating is common, and weather can change quickly.
• Budget extra for tastings: Expect to pay individually at each winery.
• Tip generously: The guide and driver depend on tips, with 20% being the norm.
• Plan your dinner: The tour ends just in time to enjoy dinner in Traverse City, which is full of excellent options.
• Use ride-share apps: While the tour includes transportation, it’s recommended to use Uber or Lyft to get to and from the meeting point safely.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This wine tour is ideal for those who want a stress-free, guided experience with beautiful scenery and quality wines. It’s particularly suited to casual wine lovers, groups of friends, or couples seeking a relaxed day with minimal planning.

If you’re interested in learning about the local wine scene without the hassle of driving or reservations, this tour offers significant convenience. Conversely, if you’re after a more in-depth or educational tasting experience, you might find the tasting options somewhat limited since tastings are purchased separately.

Overall, it’s a well-organized adventure that balances scenic views, good company, and a variety of wineries, making it a wonderful way to explore Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.

Frequently Asked Questions

Are the winery reservations included in the tour price?
No, winery reservations are made by the tour provider but are not guaranteed as formal reservations. They help secure a schedule but may involve some wait times.

Can I bring snacks or drinks onboard?
Yes, you are permitted to bring your own snacks and drinks on the bus. Alcoholic beverages are not allowed on the bus, but tastings at wineries are paid for separately.

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 5 hours, including time spent at each winery and transportation. It ends back at the starting point in time for dinner plans.

How many wineries do we visit?
You will visit four wineries: Black Star Farms, Shady Lane Cellars, and Rove Winery, with the possibility of winery substitutions depending on availability.

Is this a private tour?
No, this is a public tour, typically hosting 10-14 travelers, which encourages social interaction but isn’t exclusive.

What should I wear?
Dress in layers to stay comfortable, especially since most wineries have outdoor seating options. On colder days, warmer clothes are recommended.

This 5-hour Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour offers a balanced, laid-back way to sample Michigan wines amid some of the most beautiful scenery in the region. With excellent guides, scenic landscapes, and four carefully selected wineries, it’s a fantastic day for those wanting to combine relaxation with wine tasting—minus the hassle of planning every detail. Whether you’re a casual enthusiast or just looking to enjoy a scenic day with friends, this tour provides a solid value and a memorable experience.