Northern Michigan’s wine country delivers some of the best touring experiences in the Midwest. Centered in Traverse City, most tours run 4-5 hours and cover both Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas, where the region’s top wineries thrive thanks to Lake Michigan’s moderating effects on the climate.
I’m especially fond of the small-group tours that combine wine tasting with local history – they give you the best bang for your buck. The guided experiences, complete with door-to-door transportation, let you focus on sampling while learning about the area’s unique terroir and winemaking traditions.
Several standout operators offer varied options, from intimate sunset tours to lively group excursions. The best companies provide knowledgeable local guides and customize stops based on your interests.
Let’s explore the top wine tours worth your time and money in Traverse City.
Key Points
- Traverse City offers diverse wine tours on Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula, with tours typically lasting 4-5 hours.
- Old Mission Peninsula tours visit notable wineries like Chateau Chantal and Bonobo Vineyards, while Leelanau Peninsula tours offer immersive tasting experiences at four wineries.
- Bachelorette groups can enjoy an exclusive, personalized tour featuring visits to four top wineries and private tastings.
- Designated Driver TC provides personalized transportation service for wine tours, ensuring safe handling of purchases and flexibility for additional stops.
- Traverse City wine tours offer scenic locations, expert guidance, flexible itineraries, and diverse offerings, earning high ratings and traveler recommendations.
5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
The 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour takes guests to four wineries located on the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula.
With 1,908 reviews and a 98% traveler recommendation, the tour provides a focus on wine and scenery without the hassle of driving. Visitors can expect an air-conditioned vehicle, a local tour guide, and a Yeti-style cooler for their use.
Tasting costs range from $5 to $10 per winery, and guests can enjoy a variety of wines, including flights and glasses.
The tour departs from the Grand Traverse County Civic Center, with parking available on a first-come, first-served basis. Customers recommend packing a lunch, as most wineries offer only small snacks.
Read our full review: 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula Review
Book now: Check availability
Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
Traversing the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula, the Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour offers an immersive experience for wine enthusiasts.
Priced at $99 per person, the 4-hour tour includes visits to three wineries and an optional distillery, along with wine tasting, sightseeing, and local snacks.
Guests are transported in luxury vehicles and guided by experts with extensive wine knowledge.
The semi-private tours accommodate groups of 6-7 in their own vehicles, and groups of 6 or more receive a free bottle of wine.
With stunning views and a focus on quality, this tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Traverse City’s premier wine region.
Read our full review: Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Sunset Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine & Cocktails
Offering a unique and captivating way to experience Traverse City’s picturesque waterfront, the Sunset Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine & Cocktails tour provides guests with an unforgettable 2.5-hour journey on the Great Lakes.
Recommended by 94% of travelers, this tour accommodates a maximum of 18 guests and departs from downtown Traverse City. Passengers can savor a selection of local wine, beer, cider, and signature cocktails, as well as a delightful dinner spread featuring Traverse City favorites.
The crew provides insightful commentary on the area’s history and sailing, and safety measures are in place to ensure a comfortable experience.
With overwhelmingly positive reviews, this sunset sail offers a unique and memorable way to explore the beauty of Traverse City.
Read our full review: Sunset Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine & Cocktails Review
Book now: Check availability
4 Winery Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
For those seeking an immersive wine experience in Traverse City, the Winery Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour offers a captivating 4-hour journey through the region’s renowned vineyards.
Priced at $99 per person, the tour transports guests in luxury SUVs to four iconic wineries, where they’ll enjoy expert-guided wine tastings.
The tour’s local guides, graduates of the University of Michigan and Michigan State University, share extensive knowledge, and groups of 6 or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine.
Travelers praise the tour’s professionalism, cleanliness, and fun atmosphere, with an overall 5/5 rating based on 14 reviews.
Whether seeking an afternoon or sunset excursion, this tour provides an exceptional, customized wine tasting experience.
Read our full review: 4 Winery Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Designated Driver TC – We Drive Your Car For Wine Tours
Designated Driver TC’s personalized driving service allows Traverse City visitors to fully enjoy the region’s renowned wine, brewery, and distillery scene without the hassle of transportation.
Offered at $55 per person, the service features a designated driver for 5 hours, with pickup locations within 10 miles of downtown Traverse City provided for free. Guests can customize their itinerary, enjoy the flexibility to make additional stops, and leave their purchases safely in the trunk.
With a 4.8 overall rating from 171 reviews, this service is highly recommended, providing a convenient and enjoyable wine tour experience for travelers.
Read our full review: Designated Driver TC – We Drive Your Car For Wine Tours Review
Book now: Check availability
Designated Driver For Wine Tours – Traverse City
Traverse City’s Designated Driver For Wine Tours service provides a hassle-free way for visitors to experience the region’s renowned winery, brewery, and distillery scene.
For $349 per group of up to 6 people, the 5-hour tour includes pickup within 10 miles of downtown Traverse City. Guests use their own vehicles, while the local, licensed drivers handle all the driving and offer tailored itineraries.
Structured routes can be adjusted on-the-fly, and the coordinator assists with reservations. While tasting fees aren’t included, the service ensures a safe, enjoyable experience.
Smoking and alcohol in the vehicle are prohibited, and the service isn’t suitable for those under 18.
Read our full review: Designated Driver For Wine Tours – Traverse City Review
Book now: Check availability
5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula
Departing from the Grand Traverse County Civic Center, this 5-hour Traverse City wine tour transports visitors to four acclaimed wineries along Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.
With a 97% recommendation rate and a Badge of Excellence, this tour provides an immersive wine tasting experience. Guests visit the wineries via air-conditioned vehicle, with tastings ranging from $5 to $15 per winery.
While snacks aren’t provided, guests are welcome to bring their own. Though not wheelchair accessible, the tour welcomes service animals.
Reviewers praise the tour’s comfortable transportation, knowledgeable guides, and stunning winery settings, though some suggest improved bus audio for better communication.
Read our full review: 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula Review
Book now: Check availability
Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour
Andies VIP Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour offers an immersive exploration of the region’s acclaimed wineries. This 4.5-hour tour transports guests in luxury SUVs to four premier vineyards, where they’ll sip and savor the area’s best reds and whites with expert wine guides.
The experience includes a VIP stop at Rove Winery at the Gallagher Estate, the tour’s main attraction. Groups of 6 or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine. While wine samples are included, flights, bottles, and food are available at an extra cost.
With a small group size and flexible itinerary, this tour provides an exclusive and customizable wine adventure on the Leelanau Peninsula.
Read our full review: Traverse City Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Day Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine, & Cocktails
Passengers embark on a captivating day sail from Traverse City, seeing the region’s renowned food, wine, and cocktail culture.
With a maximum of 18 travelers, the tour offers hands-on sailing experience alongside knowledgeable crew and breathtaking lakeside views.
The inclusive menu features local fare, including Leelanau raclette cheese, Archies Social House wraps, and Murdicks fudge, with vegetarian and gluten-free options available.
Complementing the culinary delights are carefully selected alcoholic beverages, such as beer, spirits, and wine.
Attracting a 98% traveler recommendation based on 128 reviews, this immersive experience showcases the best of Traverse City’s culinary and scenic offerings.
Read our full review: Day Sail From Traverse City With Food, Wine, & Cocktails Review
Book now: Check availability
Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour
As the sun dips below the horizon, the Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour invites visitors to embark on a captivating journey through the region’s renowned wine country.
Priced at $599 for a private group of up to 7 guests, this 4-hour tour showcases 4 local wineries, offering a semi-private luxury SUV experience. Guests can savor wine samples, enjoy scenic views, and receive expert guidance from knowledgeable guides.
The tour features flexible itineraries, no party buses, and amenities like air conditioning and local snacks. With a focus on personalized service, this sunset wine tour promises an unforgettable exploration of Traverse City’s vibrant winery scene.
Read our full review: Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
Travelers on the 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour can expect to visit three renowned wineries along the scenic Old Mission Peninsula.
With a maximum of 20 guests, the tour provides an intimate experience led by a local guide. Participants will enjoy an air-conditioned limo-style bus, a Yeti-style cooler for their convenience, and the opportunity to sample wines at Chateau Chantal, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, and Bonobo Vineyards.
While wine tastings aren’t included, guests can purchase flights or glasses of wine at each stop. The tour departs from the Grand Traverse County Civic Center and returns to the same location, making it easy for guests to arrange their own transportation to and from the event.
Read our full review: 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula Review
Book now: Check availability
Old Mission Peninsula Traverse City Bachelorette Wine Tour
This exclusive Traverse City Old Mission Bachelorette Wine Tour offers a premier wine tasting experience tailored for groups of up to 12 guests.
Priced at $999 for the entire group, the 4-hour tour includes transportation in a luxury SUV, expert guides, and visits to four top-notch wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula.
Highlights include a private Champagne and whiskey tasting at Bonobo Winery and the option to pick up from local hotels.
With a flexible itinerary and the ability to add more wineries, this tour provides a personalized and celebratory outing perfect for bachelorette parties or other special events in Traverse City.
Read our full review: Old Mission Peninsula Traverse City Bachelorette Wine Tour Review
Book now: Check availability
Frequently Asked Questions
What Is the Dress Code for the Wine Tours?
The dress code for wine tours is generally casual and comfortable. Participants should wear clothes and shoes that allow them to move around wineries and vineyards easily. Most tours don’t have a strict dress code, but it’s best to avoid overly formal attire.
Are Children Allowed on the Wine Tours?
Most wine tour companies have policies regarding children. Some allow children on the tours, while others restrict participation to adults only. It’s best to check with the specific tour operator to understand their child policy before booking.
Can We Bring Our Own Food or Snacks?
Most wine tour companies allow visitors to bring their own food and snacks. However, it’s best to check with the specific tour operator beforehand to confirm their policies on outside food and beverages.
Are the Wineries Handicap Accessible?
Most wineries in the Traverse City area are handicap accessible, with ramps, elevators, and wide doorways to accommodate visitors with disabilities. However, it’s best to check with each winery in advance to ensure they can accommodate your specific needs.
Do the Tours Offer Transportation to and From Hotels?
Many wine tours in the area provide transportation to and from hotels, making it convenient for visitors. Some companies offer shuttle services or private car service to take guests to and from the wineries.
The Sum Up
Traverse City offers a variety of wine tours showcasing the region’s scenic Old Mission Peninsula. Tourists can choose from half-day to sunset tours, visiting up to four wineries. Some tours even include additional activities like sailing and cocktails. With designated driver services available, visitors can fully enjoy the Traverse City wine experience.