NON BUS GIRLS TRIP Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour

Exploring the Non-Bus Girls Trip Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour: A Stylish, Authentic Sip of Michigan

If you’re looking for a wine tour that skips the rattle of old buses and delivers a more refined, personal experience, this Non-Bus Girls Trip Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour might just be what you need. Offered by Movie Stars Wine Tours, this 4.5-hour journey takes you in style to four of the most celebrated wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, all in luxury SUVs like GMC Yukons or Cadillac Escalades. It’s a far cry from the crowded party buses common elsewhere—think private, semi-private groups, expert guides, and a relaxed pace designed for true wine lovers.

What immediately appeals is the focus on personalized service and quality over quantity. You’ll get to visit four iconic wineries, each renowned for its reds—such as Chateau Grand Traverse, Hawthorne Vineyards, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, and Chateau Chantal—without the rush. Plus, the tour offers flexible departure times, including a sunset option that makes this experience perfect whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a leisurely day of tasting.

However, one potential consideration is that this tour is aimed at adults 12 and over, so it’s best suited for those seeking a relaxed, adult-oriented outing. The price of $89 per person is quite reasonable given the luxury transportation and guided expertise, especially considering the included features like the complimentary bottle for groups of six or more. That said, extra costs for food, wine flights, or bottles are additional, so keep your budget in mind.

This tour is perfect for couples, small groups, or friends who value comfort and authentic experiences over large crowds. If you’re tired of noisy buses and want to savor wines in a more intimate setting, this is a particularly good choice.

Key Points

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in style with GMC Yukons or Cadillac Escalades, not old buses.
• Personalized Experience: Small group sizes ensure a relaxed, tailored tasting day.
• Expert Guides: Guides are wine enthusiasts who can offer personalized recommendations.
• Flexible Scheduling: Multiple departure times, including a sunset option, add convenience.
• Regional Focus: Four of the best wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, known for reds.
• Additional Costs: Wine, food, and bottles are extra, so plan accordingly.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

The Departure and Transportation

We loved the way this tour kicks off with a pickup at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, conveniently located across from the Park Place Hotel. No long walks or cramped buses—just luxury SUVs waiting to whisk you away. The air-conditioned vehicles are a welcome touch, especially during Michigan’s warmer months, and the small group size ensures a more private, comfortable ride.

From the outset, you’ll notice the focus on quality. Instead of the usual noisy bus chatter, you’ll have quiet, relaxed conversations with your guides and fellow travelers. The professional drivers and guides, many of whom are local university grads, add to the sense of authenticity and expertise.

Visiting the Wineries

The core of the tour is the four winery visits, each offering something unique:

• Chateau Grand Traverse: As the first winery on Old Mission Peninsula, it’s a fitting starting point. We appreciated their broad and diverse wine menu, especially the Plum Reserve, which was a highlight. The setting provides scenic views and a warm, welcoming tasting room.

• Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for its rich Cabernet Franc, Hawthorne offers a more intimate tasting experience. Their wines are bold, and the guides are happy to share tasting tips and regional insights.

• Bowers Harbor Vineyards: This stop is notable for its La Familia and 2896 blends. It’s a place where you can savor complex reds and ask plenty of questions—perfect for those who love to understand the story behind each glass.

• Chateau Chantal: The final stop, with its Naughty or Nice Red and Malbec, has an inviting atmosphere with panoramic views. It’s a great place to relax and soak in the scenery before heading back.

Each winery provides ample tastings—“wine samples and splashes,” as described—and guides are eager to recommend wines based on your preferences. You’ll enjoy the curated experience, moving at a comfortable pace, with time to savor each tasting.

The Value of the Tour

At $89 per person, this tour offers a good value for a luxury experience that includes personalized guidance, exclusive transportation, and visits to four top wineries. When you consider the cost of private tastings, transportation, and the expertise offered, it’s quite reasonable. Plus, groups of six or more get a free bottle of wine, adding an extra perk.

While food, additional wine flights, or bottles cost extra, this setup allows you to choose what fits your budget and palate—whether you want a simple tasting or a more elaborate wine purchase.

More Great Tours Nearby

Special Touches and Extras

The tour is owned and operated by former law enforcement, which adds a layer of professionalism and safety. They also offer flexible scheduling—including a sunset tour—which can help you plan your day around other activities. The optional distillery stop on sunset tours offers a chance to try spirits, extending the regional tasting experience.

Authenticity and Comfort

Throughout the tour, guides are described as wine enthusiasts who love sharing their knowledge. Multiple reviews mention knowledgable guides, which greatly enhances the experience. Their tips and recommendations make a difference, turning a simple tasting into an educational outing.

Traveling in a luxury SUV rather than a tired old bus makes a notable difference—quiet, comfortable, and stylish. This is not just transportation but part of the overall experience, providing a feeling of being a VIP.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to adults seeking a relaxed, upscale tasting journey, rather than those looking for a party vibe. It’s ideal for couples celebrating a special occasion, small groups of friends, or anyone who values quality, comfort, and personalized attention. If you’re tired of crowded buses and want to enjoy Michigan wines in a more intimate setting, this tour hits the mark.

It’s also well-suited for those with an appreciation for good service and scenic views, as the wineries are located on picturesque Old Mission Peninsula. The flexible scheduling, particularly the sunset option, makes it easy to fit into a variety of itineraries.

Final Thoughts

This Non-Bus Girls Trip Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour delivers a refined, enjoyable, and personalized tasting experience that stands out from typical group tours. The luxury transport, small group intimacy, and knowledgeable guides combine to create a memorable day that focuses on quality over quantity. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply looking to enjoy Michigan’s wine country in style, this tour offers genuine value.

It’s especially suited for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of larger buses and prefer a more relaxed, authentic approach to wine tasting. The scenic wineries, expert guidance, and comfortable vehicles make for a memorable outing—one that you’ll talk about long after the last glass.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour?
Yes, transportation is included. You’ll travel in a luxury SUV, such as a GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, with a professional driver.

Can I choose my departure time?
Yes, tours depart at multiple times, including a sunset option, providing flexibility to fit your schedule.

Are food and wine bottles included?
No, food, wine flights, glasses, and bottles are extra. You can purchase additional wine or food at the wineries.

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, it’s recommended for adults 12 and over; it’s designed as an adult wine-tasting experience.

What kind of wines will I taste?
Most wineries are known for their reds, including varieties like Cabernet Franc, Malbec, and blends such as La Familia.

Is the tour private?
Groups of six or more get a free bottle of wine, and private groups are available—perfect for celebrating special occasions.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes, a hat, sunscreen, camera, and water are recommended. Drinks are not allowed in the vehicle.

In summary, this tour balances luxury, authentic regional wines, and expert guidance in a way that’s accessible and enjoyable. It’s a great choice for those wanting a stylish, relaxed day in Michigan’s wine country—without the noise and chaos of larger tour buses.

You can check availability for your dates here: