5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

Introduction

If you’re considering a trip to Traverse City and love the idea of exploring Michigan’s burgeoning wine scene, this 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour might be just what you’re looking for. It’s designed to take the hassle out of winery hopping by handling transportation, so you can relax and truly enjoy the scenery and wine.

What we really like about this experience is how it combines convenience with variety—covering four different wineries on Old Mission Peninsula and including some beautiful views along the way. Plus, the tour is praised for its knowledgeable guides and friendly atmosphere, making it ideal whether you’re a wine newbie or a seasoned enthusiast.

That said, one thing to keep in mind is that tastings are not included in the price—so you’ll want to budget for that if you plan to sample wines at each stop. It’s also worth noting that the wineries may change based on availability, which can be a bit unpredictable but also keeps the experience fresh.

This tour suits travelers who want a relaxed, well-organized way to discover Michigan wines without the stress of driving—perfect for groups, couples, or even solo explorers who enjoy a social atmosphere and scenic views.

Key Points

• All-in-one transportation means no worries about driving after wine tasting.
• Visiting four wineries provides a diverse experience of Old Mission Peninsula’s wine offerings.
• Guided experience adds local insights and friendly service.
• Cost of tastings is separate, so budget accordingly.
• Scenic views and outdoor seating are highlights, especially in nice weather.
• Tour duration is around 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.
• Group size is limited to 20 travelers, keeping it intimate and friendly.
• Review scores are consistently high, with an overall 4.9 based on over 2,000 reviews.

A Closer Look at the Tour

Let’s walk through what you can expect from this well-reviewed experience. We’ll start with the itinerary, because knowing what’s waiting at each stop can really help you decide if it fits your tastes.

Pickup and Transportation

The tour begins at the Civic Center in Traverse City, with round-trip transportation in a luxurious, air-conditioned bus. The vehicle is described as premium, limo style, which elevates the experience from a standard bus ride. The guide drives, so you can just sit back and enjoy the scenery, which is especially nice given the stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay you’ll see en route.

Group size is capped at 20, which generally means a more relaxed vibe compared to larger tours. Plus, with a Yeti-style cooler available, you can even pack your own snacks or drinks for the ride, adding to the laid-back feel.

First Stop: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room

Only a few miles north of Traverse City, Chateau Chantal is a highlight for many visitors. Perched atop one of the highest points on the Old Mission Peninsula, it offers fantastic views of both East and West arms of Grand Traverse Bay.

The winery’s European-style chateau sits on a 64-acre estate, giving you a real sense of European charm. The tasting room, along with an eleven-room bed and breakfast, makes this place feel like a mini-getaway. You’ll love the scenic vistas and the chance to sip wines with a view.

According to reviews, the staff is knowledgeable, and the setting is impressive. While tastings aren’t included in the tour price, you can opt for a flight of three wines for $10 or enjoy a glass if you reserve ahead. Many also appreciate the chance to explore the estate and enjoy the relaxing atmosphere.

Second Stop: Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Next, the group heads to Bowers Harbor, a vineyard that started as a horse farm and transitioned into a well-established winery in 1991. With over 27 years of experience and 20 acres of vines, this vineyard offers a broad selection of wines: Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and even hard ciders.

It’s a place that impresses with its diversity of options. Tastings are about $5 for five wines, and small snacks like cheeses and spreads are available for purchase. Reviewers love the friendly atmosphere and the beautiful outdoor seating, making it an ideal spot to unwind and soak in the views.

Third Stop: Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

Brys Estate is another favorite, with a 91-acre estate hosting over 40,000 vines. They produce a variety of wines, including Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, and Chardonnay, among others. Visitors often commend the spectacular East Bay views, which perfectly complement the high-quality wines.

Tastings here are around $8 for five wines, and they also have a cheese and charcuterie board for purchase, adding a nice touch if you want to indulge a bit more. The reviews highlight the relaxed yet refined atmosphere and the knowledgeable staff.

Final Stop: Bonobo Winery

The last winery, Bonobo, offers a more curated experience with world-class wines and equally breathtaking views. Their varietals include Pinot Gris, Riesling, Chardonnay, and Sauvignon Blanc. Though their selection is limited, the quality is praised in reviews.

For about $10, you can get a tasting flight of six wines, and they also offer the largest selection of snacks for purchase, making it a good spot to linger and enjoy the final moments of your tour.

Why This Tour Is a Great Choice

Most reviewers consistently mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, often going above and beyond to make sure everyone has a good time. One reviewer said, “Our bus driver went out of his way to make sure our experience was fun and safe,” which speaks volumes about the level of service.

The scenery plays a big role here—many praise the stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay and the outdoor seating options, especially during good weather. The flexibility at each winery, where you can choose tastings or enjoy the outdoor space, adds to the relaxed vibe.

Price-wise, at $79.99 per person, the tour offers good value considering transportation, guide service, and the variety of wineries visited. Remember, tastings are paid separately, typically ranging from $5 to $10 per flight, so budget accordingly.

Most reviews highlight how smooth and stress-free it is—not having to worry about driving means you can truly focus on the experience, chat with fellow travelers, and enjoy the scenery. For those who appreciate a social, guided outing with a good mix of education and fun, this tour hits the mark.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This experience is perfect for wine lovers looking for a hassle-free way to explore Old Mission Peninsula. It’s also a good fit for couples, friends, or small groups who want to enjoy the scenery without the stress of navigating themselves.

If you’re someone who values comfort, knowledgeable guides, and scenic views, you’ll likely find this tour enjoyable. It’s also well-suited for those who want a relaxed, half-day activity that combines sightseeing with wine tasting.

However, if you’re on a tight budget or prefer a more personalized or private experience, this might not be the best fit. Keep in mind that tastings are paid separately, so be prepared for that additional expense.

FAQ

Are tastings included in the tour price?
No, tastings are purchased separately at each winery, usually between $5 and $10 per flight.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, round-trip transportation is included in the tour, in a luxury limo-style bus.

How long does the tour last?
It’s approximately 5 hours, making it a manageable half-day activity.

Can I bring my own snacks or drinks?
Yes, a Yeti-style cooler is provided for you to pack snacks or drinks for the ride.

Is this tour suitable for children or families?
The tour is designed for adults, and wineries typically do not offer full meals, so it’s best suited for those 21 and over.

How big are the groups?
The maximum group size is 20 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and friendly.

What’s the dress code?
Casual, but consider outdoor seating and weather—dress accordingly especially for cooler days.

Do I need to make reservations at the wineries?
Your driver will request that you make a reservation at Chateau Chantal if desired, but it isn’t mandatory.

What happens if some wineries are unavailable?
Wineries are subject to change based on availability, and the tour will alternate between certain wineries like Brys Estate and Hawthorne Vineyards if needed.

Final Thoughts

If you’re after a laid-back, scenic, and well-organized way to sample Michigan wines, this 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour offers a lot of value. The combination of beautiful views, friendly guides, and four diverse wineries makes it stand out among wine-touring options.

While tastings are paid separately, the overall experience is praised for its relaxed vibe and logistical ease—perfect if you want to focus on enjoying the wines and the scenery without the hassle of driving. It’s especially suited for groups who appreciate good company and a bit of sightseeing along the way.

For anyone wanting a straightforward, enjoyable snapshot of Old Mission Peninsula’s wine scene, this tour is a solid choice. Just remember to plan for the extra costs of tastings and dress for outdoor weather.

Happy sipping!