NON BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour

Traveling through Michigan during the fall can be an absolute delight, especially when you add in some of the region’s finest wineries and scenic views. The NON-BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour offers a unique way to experience this picturesque area — by luxury SUV, not a crowded bus. While we haven’t personally taken this tour, we’ve gathered enough details to give you a balanced picture of what to expect, what makes it special, and who it’s best suited for.

What really caught our eye are two things: first, the personalized VIP vibe with private transportation in luxury SUVs like Yukons and Cadillacs, and second, the focus on stunning fall foliage combined with stellar wines. On the flip side, potential travelers should consider that this tour is more intimate and less frenetic than a party bus, which might mean fewer social opportunities if that’s what you’re after.

This tour suits those seeking a relaxing, upscale, and scenic wine experience. It’s perfect for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or anyone wanting to enjoy Traverse City’s fall in style without the hassle of large tour buses.

Key Points

• Luxury SUV Experience: Enjoy your tour in high-end vehicles, avoiding the typical party bus scene.
• Scenic Focus: The tour emphasizes stunning fall foliage views in addition to wine tasting.
• Expert Guides: Guides are wine enthusiasts and locals, providing authentic recommendations.
• All-Inclusive Feel: Includes pick-up, drop-off, a complimentary bubbly, and all transportation.
• Limited Group Size: Up to 4 people per SUV, ensuring a more personalized and relaxed experience.
• Flexible Itinerary: Visits eight different wineries and a distillery on Old Mission Peninsula.

An Overview of the Experience

This isn’t your average wine tour. For $69 per person, the Movie Star Experience promises a VIP touch—think luxury SUVs instead of buses, with all the comforts that come with private transportation. As you glide through the scenic landscapes of old Mission Peninsula, you’ll enjoy the crisp fall air, vibrant trees, and the blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay all in one seamless package.

The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, during which you visit several wineries and a distillery. The itinerary is designed to balance wine tastings, sightseeing, and relaxed exploration, making it suitable for those who want more than just a quick sip-and-run experience.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Stop 1: Old Mission

Your journey begins on the historic Old Mission Peninsula, home to some of the region’s most renowned wineries. Here, you’ll visit Hawthorne Vineyards, Mari Vineyards, Bowers Harbor, Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, Brys Estates, Bonobo Winery, 2 Lads, and Old Mission Distillery. Expect around 55 minutes at this initial stop, giving you a chance to soak in the scenery and get a taste of the local wine scene.

This area is known for its beautiful vineyard views and the chance to see where much of Michigan’s wine magic happens. While admission is free, you’ll be encouraged to sample wines and perhaps buy a bottle or two.

Stop 2: Hawthorne Vineyards

A highlight for many is a visit to Hawthorne Vineyards, reputed as one of Traverse City’s best wineries. Their location offers a perfect spot for photos — and for wine lovers to indulge in some of the best reds and whites on the peninsula.

Guests often comment on the relaxed atmosphere and the chance to enjoy a glass of wine while taking in the views. Some even mention that the setting is ideal for a romantic question or special celebration.

Stop 3: Bonobo Winery

At Bonobo Winery, the experience turns more interactive. You can purchase flights, glasses, or bottles of wine, or even join their wine club. Guests often rave about wines you’ll find here — wines that are “wines you cannot wait to brag about and share,” as one reviewer put it. The winery’s reputation for quality and originality makes it a memorable stop.

The Scenic Drive: Grand Traverse Bay

The tour includes time to appreciate Grand Traverse Bay, a stunning arm of Lake Michigan. Expect about 15 minutes or so for a scenic view, where you can marvel at the water, the shoreline, and the fall colors reflecting on the bay’s surface.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

Personalized VIP experience is the biggest draw. Unlike larger tour buses, these luxury SUVs provide a more intimate atmosphere, with just 1 to 4 people per vehicle. This setup allows your guides — who are wine connoisseurs and locals — to give personalized recommendations and answer your questions more freely.

The no-bus approach also means you avoid the chaos often associated with larger tours, giving you more time at each stop and less rushing from one place to another. Plus, the complimentary bottle of bubbly adds a touch of celebration to your day.

Stunning views are woven into every aspect of the tour — from vineyard vistas to the shimmering bay. Travelers consistently mention how these scenic moments elevate the overall experience. It’s a chance to slow down and truly savor Michigan’s fall landscape.

Another notable aspect is the flexibility of the tour. The itinerary is set, but the small-group nature and guides’ expertise mean you can focus on what interests you most.

Practical Considerations: Value and Logistics

At $69, this tour offers a good value for a luxury, all-inclusive experience. The package includes transportation, expert guides, and a celebratory champagne, which many similar tours charge separately for. The small group size enhances the feeling of exclusivity — perfect for a romantic getaway or a small celebration.

Keep in mind, flights, bottles, or food are not included and are available at extra cost. The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, so plan accordingly — you’ll want to make sure you’re ready for a leisurely, relaxing day rather than rushing through.

The tour starts and ends at the same meeting point in downtown Traverse City, with pickup and drop-off included. This convenience simplifies logistics and makes for a hassle-free experience.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience suits travelers who:

• Value comfort, luxury, and personalized service
• Want to combine scenic fall foliage with wine tasting
• Prefer small groups over large bus tours
• Are looking for a relaxed, upscale way to enjoy Traverse City
• Want a romantic or celebration-focused activity
• Appreciate expert guidance from local wine connoisseurs

It’s less ideal for those seeking a party atmosphere or a more adventurous, fast-paced tour. Also, if your priority is visiting numerous wineries quickly, this tour’s more relaxed pace might feel slow.

The Sum Up: Is It Worth It?

This NON BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour offers a refined, scenic, and intimate way to experience Michigan’s wine country during the most beautiful season. The combination of luxury SUVs, expert guides, stunning views, and a carefully curated winery lineup makes it stand out from more generic wine tours.

If you’re after a luxury, small-group experience that emphasizes authenticity and comfort, this tour delivers plenty of value — especially at just $69. The stunning fall scenery paired with top-quality wines and friendly guides creates a memorable outing, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply enjoying Michigan’s natural beauty.

Travelers looking for a more personal, relaxed, and scenic way to explore Traverse City’s vineyards will find this tour a worthwhile investment. It’s a great choice for those who want to skip the hustle and bustle of bigger tour buses and savor the moment in style.

FAQs

Is transportation included? Yes, the tour includes pick-up and drop-off from downtown Traverse City in a luxury SUV, providing a private and comfortable ride.

How many wineries will we visit? The itinerary includes visits to eight different wineries and one distillery on Old Mission Peninsula.

What is the duration of the tour? Expect about 4 to 5 hours in total, including travel time and winery stops.

Are the wines included in the price? No, wine flights, bottles, and food are extra. You can purchase wines during the stops, and tastings are available.

Is this tour suitable for groups? Yes, but with a maximum of 4 travelers per SUV, making it ideal for small groups, couples, or intimate parties.

What’s the age requirement for alcohol? You must be at least 21 years old to purchase or taste alcohol in Michigan.

Can I cancel if I change my mind? Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

What’s the booking process? Most trips are booked 44 days in advance on average, so it’s advisable to reserve early, especially during peak fall foliage season.

Is this tour family-friendly? It’s best suited for adults, given the wine tasting component, but the scenic drive and beautiful views make it enjoyable for all who can participate legally.

In sum, this tour offers a luxurious, scenic, and intimate way to explore Michigan’s fall colors and wine scene. It’s an excellent choice for those seeking an elegant and relaxed experience that combines natural beauty with top-tier wines.