2 Day Wine Tour NON BUS Traverse City Wine Country 2 Peninsula

If you’re considering a wine adventure in Michigan’s famed Traverse City area, the 2-Day Wine Tour offered by Movie Stars Wine Tours deserves your attention. Unlike the usual crowded, party-bus style tours, this experience promises a more refined and personalized journey through the Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. It’s designed for wine lovers who want to skip the noise and focus on genuine tastings, stunning scenery, and expert guidance.

What makes this tour stand out? First, it’s not a rushed, cookie-cutter experience. You get to enjoy luxury SUVs instead of buses packed with strangers, and the guides are real wine connoisseurs, not just drivers. Second, the itinerary covers iconic wineries with breathtaking views, ensuring you’re not just tasting wine but also soaking in some of the best scenery Michigan has to offer.

One possible drawback? The tour is priced at $299 per person, which might seem steep for some, but considering the exclusivity, expert guides, and quality of wineries visited, many will find it offers excellent value. It’s best suited for travelers who appreciate finer details, want a more VIP experience, and enjoy learning about local wines in a relaxed, intimate setting. If you’re after a rushed overview or a party vibe, this might not be your best fit. But if you’re craving authentic wine country experiences, this tour could be ideal.

Key Points

• Personalized VIP service with luxury SUVs and expert guides
• Two full days exploring both Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas
• Five wineries visited, with options to buy wine flights, glasses, or bottles
• Stunning scenery with panoramic views at Chateau Chantal and Rove Winery
• Semi-private group size of about 6-7 people per vehicle for a more intimate experience
• Flexibility and customization depending on winery availability and weather

A Deep Dive Into the Experience

The Arrival and First Impressions

This tour begins at 10:30 AM each day, with pickup in a luxury SUV—most likely a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban—offering comfort and style. Unlike the typical party bus, which can get loud and crowded, this setup ensures a quiet, elegant ride with knowledgeable guides who are passionate about wine. The intention is clear: this is about savoring the experience, not rushing through it.

Day 1: Exploring Old Mission Peninsula

Your first day unfolds with stops at Hawthorne Vineyards and Bowers Harbor Vineyards—both recognized as some of the best in Traverse City. Hawthorne offers a chance to taste both reds and whites, while Bowers Harbor, an original winery established in 1991, provides a more historic flavor. It’s noteworthy that both wineries permit visitors to purchase flights, by-the-glass pours, or bottles, so you can reflect on your favorites later.

Next, the tour heads to Chateau Chantal, perched atop one of the highest points on Old Mission Peninsula. The incredible vistas of East Bay and beyond make it a highlight—perfect for photos and absorbing the scenery. You’ll have about 50 minutes here, enough to enjoy a tasting and take in the view without feeling hurried.

The afternoon includes a visit to Brys Estate, renowned as one of Michigan’s top ten wineries. Here, the star is the “Froze” drink, which has become an instant favorite among visitors. The relaxed atmosphere and the chance to try their popular wines make it a memorable stop.

Finally, a stop at Bonobo Winery rounds out Day 1. This winery aims to make guests feel like movie stars, offering wines that are as bold as the experience itself. Guests often comment on the unique wines and the friendly, welcoming vibe.

Scenic Breaks and Additional Highlights

On both days, you’ll have the chance to take short breaks at Grand Traverse Bay, which offers scenic views of Lake Michigan’s arm. The beauty of the waters and the surrounding landscapes enhance the overall experience, adding a sense of tranquility to your wine tasting adventure.

Day 2: Discovering Leelanau Peninsula

The second day begins on the Leelanau Peninsula with stops at Shady Lane Cellars and Rove Winery. Shady Lane is particularly praised as one of the best vineyards on Leelanau, offering excellent reds and whites. You’ll appreciate the knowledgeable guides’ recommendations, which often include insights on wine pairings and local specialties.

At Rove Winery, perched atop the Gallagher Estate, the panoramic views are even more spectacular. As the highest point on the peninsula, this winery offers a chance to taste wines while soaking in breathtaking vistas.

Next, the tour visits Black Star Farms Old Mission Winery, another renowned location, known for its quality wines and picturesque setting. It’s a place where many visitors comment on the quality of the tasting experience and the beauty of the estate.

The final stop at Ciccone Vineyard & Winery allows guests to taste a variety of wines; the guides often tailor the experience based on weather and availability, ensuring a flexible, personalized day.

The Value of the Guided Tour

Throughout both days, your guides are more than just drivers—they are wine enthusiasts and experts. You’ll gain insights into the wines, the region’s history, and recommendations for local restaurants or stores to purchase your favorites later. The semi-private group size means you’ll likely be with a small, convivial crowd—perfect for making new friends without the chaos of larger tours.

Transport and Comfort

The luxury SUVs used are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort after a day of tasting and exploration. The tour emphasizes safety and convenience, leaving the driving to your guides. This setup allows you to truly relax and enjoy the scenery, conversation, and wine.

How Does This Tour Compare to Others?

Many reviews highlight the knowledgeable guides and the stunning views as standout features. Unlike bus tours, this experience offers a more personalized, less rushed pace. Guests often mention that the wineries visited are carefully selected based on availability and seasonal conditions, adding a layer of flexibility and authenticity.

In terms of value, while $299 isn’t cheap, it includes two full days of tasting, expert guidance, luxury transportation, and a semi-private experience—factors that many find justify the price. Additional costs like wine flights, bottles, or food are extra, but most guests feel these are reasonable considering the quality of the experience.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This trip appeals most to serious wine lovers and those who appreciate a VIP style outing. It’s perfect for travelers who want a relaxed, informative, and luxurious way to explore Traverse City’s wine country without the hassle of large buses or rushed schedules. Couples, small groups, or even wine connoisseurs will find this a memorable way to spend two days.

If you’re traveling with friends who enjoy wine, scenic views, and a touch of sophistication, this tour offers excellent value. However, if you prefer a more party-oriented atmosphere or have a tight budget, you might want to explore other options.

Final Thoughts

The 2-Day Non-Bus Traverse City Wine Tour by Movie Stars Wine Tours presents a refined, intimate way to experience Michigan’s renowned wine regions. From the knowledgeable guides to the breathtaking scenery, every aspect is crafted to help you get the most out of your visit. Traveling in luxury SUVs and visiting iconic wineries with stunning views, guests leave with more than just bottles—they take home memories of genuine connections, beautiful landscapes, and delicious wines.

This tour is best suited for those who value quality over quantity, looking for a personalized experience, and eager to learn about wines from passionate locals. For anyone craving a dignified, relaxed exploration of Michigan’s wine country, this might just be the highlight of your trip.

What is included in the tour price?
The $299 cost covers luxury transportation, expert guides, and visits to five wineries over two days. Wine samples or flights are available for purchase but are not included in the price.

How many people are typically on the tour?
The tour operates with semi-private groups of about 6-7 people per vehicle, creating an intimate setting without the crowds of larger bus tours.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the tour uses air-conditioned luxury SUVs, offering plenty of space and comfort for the two-day journey.

Can I buy wine during the tour?
Absolutely. Each winery offers options to purchase flights, by-the-glass, or bottles. Guests often buy wines to enjoy later or take home.

What is the schedule each day?
Start time is 10:30 AM, with touring ending around 3:30 PM each day. The itinerary includes about five stops per day, with flexible durations based on winery availability and weather.

Is this tour suitable for all wine levels?
Yes. Guides are knowledgeable and will cater to different interests, whether you’re a wine novice or connoisseur. The relaxed pace makes it accessible for most travelers.

This 2-Day Traverse City wine tour offers a polished, personal, and scenic way to explore Michigan’s celebrated wine regions. Whether you’re a serious oenophile or just looking to enjoy beautiful views with good wine, it’s a memorable way to indulge in Michigan’s finest.