NON BUS Traverse City IPA, Beer, Distillery and Wine Tour

If you’re thinking about exploring Traverse City’s thriving craft beverage scene, but want to skip the loud, crowded party buses, then the NON BUS Traverse City IPA, Beer, Distillery and Wine Tour might just be your ideal option. This tour offers a more relaxed, VIP-style experience, complete with a luxury SUV, knowledgeable guides, and carefully selected stops. It’s perfect for those who appreciate quality over chaos, want expert recommendations, and prefer a more intimate setting.

What instantly appeals about this tour are two things: first, the luxury transportation—no cramped buses or noisy crowds—and second, the guidance by true beverage connoisseurs. It’s clear that this isn’t a rushed, touristy group; instead, it’s tailored to those who enjoy genuine tastings and insider insights. A possible downside? The cost of around $199 per person might seem steep compared to standard tours, but when you factor in the quality, exclusivity, and the personalized experience, it offers good value for those seeking a refined outing. This tour suits food and drink lovers, couples, small groups, or anyone wanting a more sophisticated, less hectic way to enjoy Traverse City’s beverage scene.

Key Points

• VIP Experience: Travel in a luxury GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, avoiding the crowded party bus scene.
• Expert Guides: Guides are passionate, knowledgeable local beverage enthusiasts ready to share insights.
• Small Groups: Typically 6-7 guests, ensuring a semi-private, personalized experience.
• Flexible Schedule: Choose tour times that work with your day, with options to customize.
• Tastings Included: Sample drinks at four top stops, with additional options to purchase bottles, merchandise, and food.
• Convenient Pickup: Starts at downtown Traverse City, saving you from long walks or driving.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Tour Experience

This tour is crafted for those who want to enjoy Traverse City’s alcohol scene without the chaos typical of many group outings. It’s a semi-private experience, usually with small groups of 6-7 guests, most likely enjoying their own luxury SUV. This setup offers intimacy and flexibility that a traditional bus tour simply can’t match. Imagine being whisked around in a sleek vehicle, your guides sharing their extensive knowledge while you sit back and relax—sounds like a perfect way to indulge without the typical “party tour” vibe.

The Pickup and Starting Point

The tour begins at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, located conveniently across from the Park Place Hotel, right in downtown Traverse City. You’ll recognize the vehicles easily—luxury GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades—ready to whisk you away. The pickup process is designed for comfort: no long walks to a distant bus, no standing in the sun waiting. Instead, you’re greeted by guides eager to share their passion for local beverages.

You might find that this setup allows you to start your tasting adventure fresh, without the fatigue often associated with earlier bus pickups. Plus, if you’re staying at a nearby hotel or motel, the guides can often arrange drop-offs afterward, giving you the chance to unwind in downtown Traverse City.

The Itinerary: What Stops Are Included?

While the exact stops can vary, the tour visits some of Traverse City’s best breweries and distilleries—places renowned for their craft and innovation. Each stop is selected to showcase the local talent and unique flavors of the region. You’ll get to sample drinks at each location, with expert recommendations from your guides.

Because some stops offer wine menus as well, you may find yourself tasting a broad spectrum of beverages—beers, ciders, spirits, and even wines. This variety makes the tour appealing to a wide range of enthusiasts. Plus, at most stops, there’s the opportunity to purchase glasses, growlers, bottles, or merchandise—a nice chance to bring a piece of Traverse City home.

The Tasting Experience

Samples are included in the tour, but keep in mind that additional drinks and food are extra. That said, the focus here is on quality, not quantity. The guides are enthusiastic about helping you identify your preferences and pointing out what makes each drink special. The tasting sessions tend to be well-paced, avoiding the rush that can happen on larger, more chaotic tours.

One guest review highlights the value of the guides’ expertise: “They really know their stuff and make each stop engaging, not just a quick sip and move on.” This personal touch adds considerable value, especially for those interested in learning about the local brewing and distilling processes.

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The Stops: A Mix of Breweries, Distilleries, and Some Wine

Traverse City is famous for its craft beer scene, and this tour does justice to that reputation. Expect visits to some of the best breweries in town, known for their innovative IPAs, local ingredients, and friendly atmospheres. The distilleries visited are often praised for their spirits—be it whiskey, gin, or unique specialty liquors.

A notable feature is the wine options available at some stops, giving you a broader taste of the region’s beverage offerings. And if you’re a wine lover, you’ll appreciate the option to purchase bottles or enjoy a glass or two.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

Given its price point of $199 per person, many will want to understand what they’re getting. The key value here is the personalized experience—small group size, guided by experts, in a luxury vehicle. This isn’t a mass-market bus tour where everyone is packed in and hurried along. Instead, it offers a relaxed, intimate setting with plenty of time to savor each stop.

The transportation in a luxury SUV also means you’ll enjoy a smooth ride, climate-controlled comfort, and the chance to chat comfortably with guides and fellow guests. The local guides, with backgrounds from Michigan State and the University of Michigan, also bring a genuine passion and insider knowledge that’s hard to match.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or solo travelers who prefer quality over quantity, and want a more refined beverage tour. It suits those who are interested in learning about local breweries, distilleries, and wines from passionate experts. If you’re someone who dislikes large, loud tours and values personalized attention, this VIP experience will hit the mark.

Final Thoughts

The NON BUS Traverse City IPA, Beer, Distillery and Wine Tour offers a highly curated, upscale alternative to typical group beverage tours. Its focus on small groups, expert guides, and luxury transportation makes it a compelling choice for travelers seeking a more authentic, relaxed way to enjoy Traverse City’s thriving craft beverage scene.

While the price may initially seem high, the overall experience—marked by personalized service, expert insights, and the comfort of a luxury SUV—justifies the cost. It’s especially suited for those who want to savor their drinks, learn about the local scene, and avoid the chaos of larger tours.

If you’re looking for an elegant, educational, and memorable way to explore Traverse City’s alcohol culture, this tour provides a balanced mix of fun, flavor, and sophistication. It’s a perfect fit for anyone who values quality experiences and appreciates the company of knowledgeable guides.

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for groups of more than 6-7 people?
The standard experience is for small groups of 6-7 guests, most likely enjoying their own private SUV. Larger groups might need to inquire about private options.

Can I purchase additional drinks during the tour?
Yes, while samples are included, drinks and food at the stops are available for purchase. You can also buy glasses, growlers, bottles, or merchandise.

What is the cancellation policy?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility if your plans change.

Where does the tour start?
The pickup is at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, across from the Park Place Hotel in downtown Traverse City. Guides can often accommodate pickups at other downtown locations.

Is this tour suitable for pregnant women?
No, pregnant women are not allowed on this tour due to alcohol consumption.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, offering ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Is this a private tour?
Most groups enjoy the semi-private experience, but private group options are available if desired.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Absolutely. The guides are local beverage enthusiasts with extensive knowledge of Traverse City’s breweries, distilleries, and wines.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes. The tour features an air-conditioned luxury vehicle, ensuring a comfortable and stylish ride.

Can I enjoy the tour if I don’t drink alcohol?
While tastings are part of the experience, non-drinkers might find the tour less suited for them. It’s mainly designed as a tasting journey.

This thorough, balanced review aims to help you decide whether the NON BUS Traverse City IPA, Beer, Distillery and Wine Tour fits your travel style. If you’re after a sophisticated, fun, and educational way to sample Traverse City’s best drinks without the chaos of traditional tours, this VIP experience could be your perfect match.

You can check availability for your dates here: