Practical and well-organized tours make Traverse City easy to explore. Most tours run 2-3 hours and offer good value for your money. The Ghost Lantern Tour stands out for its fascinating mix of local history and spooky stories, while the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour expertly connects visitors with the region’s best wineries. For those seeking something different, the Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour offers an intimate city experience with flexible stops. The real gem is the Sleeping Bear Dunes Tour, which perfectly captures Michigan’s natural beauty with expert commentary and prime photo spots. Below are our favorite Traverse City tours, ranked by value and experience.
Key Points
- Traverse City offers a range of engaging historical and cultural tours, including a Ghost Lantern Tour exploring the city’s haunted past.
- Wine enthusiasts can enjoy guided tours of the Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula, showcasing the region’s renowned wineries.
- Unique experiences like the Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour and Sleeping Bear Dunes Tour provide personalized and scenic exploration of Traverse City and its surroundings.
- The tours cater to a diverse audience, including individuals, families, and groups, catering to history buffs, culture enthusiasts, and first-time visitors.
- Customer feedback highlights the high quality of the tours, with praise for knowledgeable guides and the opportunity to experience Traverse City’s vibrant local culture.
Historical Ghost Lantern Tour Downtown Traverse City +Magnant
The Historical Ghost Lantern Tour Downtown Traverse City takes guests on an eerie exploration of the city’s haunted past.
The 100% outdoor walking tour visits sites like the Whiting Hotel, Traverse City Opera House, Perry Hannah House, and Hannah Park, blending local history with ghost stories.
Using real ghost-hunting equipment, small groups of up to 18 travelers get personalized attention from the knowledgeable guide.
The tour starts at the Higher Self Bookstore and ends at the Perry Hannah Plaza and Statue.
While some guests felt the tour lacked excitement, most praised the guide’s storytelling and the informative mix of history and the paranormal, making this a unique Traverse City experience.
Read our full review: Historical Ghost Lantern Tour Downtown Traverse City +Magnant Review
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Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour offers an immersive journey through the region’s renowned vineyards and distilleries. Priced at €93.67 per person, the 4-hour tour includes visits to three wineries and an optional distillery, with wine tastings and local snacks.
Guests will enjoy stunning views of the Old Mission Peninsula while being transported in luxury GMC Yukons or Chevrolet Suburbans. The tour is led by expert wine guides and is open to couples and small groups.
Visitors must be 21 or older and able to walk. Though food isn’t included, alcoholic beverages and snacks are available for an additional cost.
This highly-rated tour provides an excellent opportunity to explore Traverse City’s vibrant wine scene.
Read our full review: Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour Review
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Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour Traverse City – First Thing You MUST Do in TC!
Explore Traverse City’s vibrant heart on the Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour, a private pedicab experience that showcases the city’s must-see highlights. Covering five key areas, including the lively Downtown Front Street, the tour provides an immersive introduction to Traverse City’s rich history and culture.
Recommended by 93% of travelers, the tour boasts a 4.5-star rating based on 69 reviews. Knowledgeable guides lead the way, sharing their insights in a fun and accessible manner.
At $159 per group of up to two, the tour is a speedy and personalized way to explore the city. While not wheelchair accessible, the experience is suitable for most travelers, with free cancellation and rescheduling options available.
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4 Winery Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
Set out on a delightful journey through the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula on this 4-hour Traverse City wine tour.
Priced at $99 per person, this semi-private excursion transports you in luxury SUVs to four local wineries, where you’ll enjoy wine samples, tastings, and the option to purchase bottles and food.
Groups of 6 or more receive a complimentary bottle.
Led by expert guides, the tour offers stunning views and a celebrity-style service, minus the party bus experience.
With a 5/5 rating based on 14 reviews, this tour is praised for its professionalism, courtesy, and wine knowledge.
Accessible and flexible options are available, making it a must-do for oenophiles visiting Traverse City.
Read our full review: 4 Winery Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour Review
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Designated Driver For Wine Tours – Traverse City
Considering the picturesque scenery and abundance of wineries throughout Traverse City, it’s no surprise that a designated driver service has become a popular option for oenophiles visiting the area.
The service offers a 5-hour experience starting from $349 for groups of up to 6 participants, with pickup included within 10 miles of downtown. Drivers are local experts who assist with itinerary planning and reservations, ensuring a tailored experience.
Customers can book with no upfront payment and cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. While tasting fees and gratuity aren’t included, the service allows visitors to enjoy Traverse City’s wine scene safely and flexibly.
Read our full review: Designated Driver For Wine Tours – Traverse City Review
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Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour
For visitors seeking a comprehensive wine tour experience in Traverse City, the Andies VIP Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour offers an exceptional opportunity.
Priced from $199 per person, this 4.5-hour small-group tour visits four acclaimed wineries, including Rove Winery, Black Star Farms, Ciccone Vineyard, and Shady Lane Cellars.
Led by local wine experts, the tour provides wine tastings, sightseeing, and food sampling at each destination. Guests enjoy a VIP experience in luxury SUV transportation, with complimentary wine samples and personalized recommendations.
Groups of six or more receive a free bottle of wine, subject to availability. With flexible pickup options and a focus on comfort and expertise, this tour is an ideal way to explore the Leelanau Peninsula’s renowned wine region.
Read our full review: Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour Review
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Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour
This Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour offers an exceptional opportunity for groups seeking a private and elevated wine tasting experience.
Priced at $599 for up to 7 participants, this 4-hour tour includes visits to 4 local wineries, led by expert connoisseurs.
Groups of 6 or more even receive a complimentary bottle of wine. Guests will enjoy the comfort and luxury of an SUV, with the option to add on tastings, flights, and more at an additional cost.
While not suitable for those under 21, this tour is perfect for adults looking to explore the region’s renowned vineyards in an intimate and personalized setting.
Read our full review: Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour Review
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Old Mission Peninsula Traverse City Bachelorette Wine Tour
The Old Mission Peninsula Traverse City Bachelorette Wine Tour offers a premium experience for groups celebrating a special occasion. Priced at $999 for up to 12 guests, the 4-hour tour includes luxury transportation, visits to 4 renowned wineries, and an expert guide.
Participants can enjoy wine tastings, sightseeing, and food sampling at each location. Groups of 6 or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine.
The tour is flexible, with pickup and drop-off options in downtown Traverse City. Law enforcement, first responders, and military personnel receive special consideration.
With its semi-private format and curated itinerary, this tour provides a sophisticated alternative to the traditional party bus experience.
Read our full review: Old Mission Peninsula Traverse City Bachelorette Wine Tour Review
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Traverse City: 6-Hour Tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes
Traverse City’s 6-Hour Tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes provides visitors with a comprehensive exploration of this stunning natural wonder. The tour takes participants on a 6-hour journey, covering highlights like the Empire Bluffs overlook, scenic Pierce Stocking Drive, and the historic Glen Haven.
Expert guides lead the way, sharing insightful commentary and ensuring a memorable experience. With a maximum group size of 12, the tour offers an intimate and personalized atmosphere.
Visitors can enjoy hiking, dune climbing, and a catered lunch on the shores of Lake Michigan. The tour is well-reviewed, with customers praising the knowledgeable guides, breathtaking vistas, and seamless organization.
The tour isn’t suitable for those with mobility impairments, but hikers will find it an excellent opportunity to enjoy the natural beauty of Sleeping Bear Dunes.
Read our full review: Traverse City: 6-Hour Tour of Sleeping Bear Dunes Review
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Traverse City: Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour
Moving from the expansive exploration of Sleeping Bear Dunes, visitors to Traverse City can experience the city’s sights in a unique and lively way with the Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour.
This 4-hour small group tour allows travelers to explore downtown Traverse City aboard a human-powered rickshaw. The tour includes stops at top attractions and the chance to learn about the city’s history and culture from a knowledgeable guide.
With pickup available, the Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour provides a personalized and eco-friendly way to discover Traverse City’s vibrant streets and landmarks. Priced at $99 per person, this new activity offers an engaging and memorable way to experience the city.
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The Sum Up
Traverse City offers a variety of engaging city tours to cater to different interests. From historical ghost tours and wine tasting expeditions to rickshaw sightseeing and Sleeping Bear Dunes explorations, there’s something for all. These tours provide an immersive experience, allowing visitors to explore the city’s rich history, natural beauty, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re a first-time visitor or a local, Traverse City’s diverse range of city tours ensures an unforgettable experience.