NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour

If you’re considering spending an afternoon in Traverse City, especially on the Old Mission Peninsula, this NON BUS Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour might be right up your alley. While I haven’t personally gone on this exact tour, I’ve looked into what makes it stand out—and it’s pretty impressive. It promises a luxury, semi-private experience with top-notch guides, stunning scenery, and delicious wines and spirits.

What I really like about this experience is its focus on personalized service and relaxing pace. No big buses or cramped groups here—just a handful of people cruising around in luxurious SUVs, savoring wines, and learning about the area. Plus, the knowledgeable guides have been praised repeatedly for their friendliness and expertise. The beautiful views of Grand Traverse Bay and the secluded vineyards add a special touch.

One thing to keep in mind is that food, wine flights, and bottles are extra—so while the tour costs $68 per person, you’ll want to budget additional for tastings and snacks. And it’s worth noting that this is aimed more at adults who want a relaxed, informative experience rather than a party scene. It’s an ideal choice for couples, small groups, or anyone serious about wine and spirits in a scenic setting.

If you’re after a personalized, relaxed, and scenic wine tour with expert guides, this trip could be perfect for you. It’s particularly suited for those who appreciate quality over quantity and want to avoid the crowds.

Key Points

• Luxury, private SUV transportation creates a comfortable, intimate atmosphere.
• Expert guides with 7+ years of experience provide personalized insights.
• The tour’s scenic views of Grand Traverse Bay and Old Mission Peninsula make it visually stunning.
• Sampling wines and spirits at four different stops offers a well-rounded tasting experience.
• The semi-private group size ensures a more personalized and relaxed day.
• Food and wine purchases are extra, so plan accordingly.

Why Consider the NON BUS Traverse City Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour?

This tour is designed for those who want more than just transportation from winery to winery. It’s a true wine experience—a chance to learn, taste, and enjoy in a comfortable, luxurious setting. The guides are passionate about wine and spirits, and they know the area intimately, which really enhances the overall experience.

Compared to typical group tours, this one offers a semi-private vibe with luxury SUVs that feel more like a night out with friends than a crowded bus. It’s clear from the reviews that Mike, the guide, is a standout—described as knowledgeable, personable, and fun. Multiple reviewers mention how he made the experience feel relaxed and personalized, which is a rare find in group tours.

The stops are carefully chosen for their scenic beauty and quality wines. Hawthorne Vineyards, for example, impresses with its secluded location on a high bluff overlooking the bays, perfect for those Insta-worthy shots. Bonobo Winery, founded by local brothers, offers top-tier reds and whites, and even whiskey for those interested. And the distillery stop provides a chance to see how spirits are crafted using locally sourced ingredients.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Hawthorne Vineyards is the first stop, and it’s a highlight for reds and whites alike. Guests can buy flights, glasses, or bottles, and the setting on a high bluff makes it one of the most secluded and scenic wineries on Old Mission Peninsula. The reviews rave about the views of both Grand Traverse Bays—a perfect backdrop for wine tasting. Guests might opt for a popcorn flight or charcuterie board, making it a relaxed and flavorful start.

Next, Bonobo Winery offers a different vibe—more lively and modern, with top-notch wines and excellent customer service. Here, you’ll get to sample reds like Pinot Noir and Fume Blanc, plus a bubbly Blanc de Blancs. If whiskey is your thing, this is also the only stop where you can sample a glass of whiskey, adding a little extra flavor to the day.

The Old Mission Distilling stop is a fun switch-up—here, guests learn about the spirit-making process and can sample locally sourced ingredients used in their liquors. It’s a relatively new spot and has quickly gained popularity among visitors.

Finally, Bowers Harbor Vineyards (seasonal stop) is one of the original wineries, with a charming atmosphere in a former horse stable. Known as the “dog winery”, it’s a relaxed spot to enjoy Riesling, Chardonnay, and other classics. Guests often mention how friendly the staff are and how much they enjoy the scenery and wines.

What Travelers Say

The reviews consistently praise the guides, especially Mike, for being knowledgeable, friendly, and attentive. One reviewer mentions, “Mike was an awesome sommelier who knew wine, the wineries, and spirits,” highlighting the depth of expertise. Others appreciate the personalized attention, noting how guides checked in frequently to ensure everyone was comfortable.

The scenery seems to be another big hit. Multiple reviews mention the breathtaking views of Grand Traverse Bay, making the experience not just about wine but about soaking in the beautiful landscape. Guests also note that the length of the tour—4 to 5 hours—feels just right, not rushed, and offers plenty of time to relax and enjoy each stop.

Pricing at $68 per person might seem modest, but considering the luxury transportation, expert guides, and multiple scenic stops, the value is clear. Remember, tastings, food, and bottles are at an additional cost, but many reviewers feel the experience is worth every penny.

The Transport and Group Size

One of the biggest perks of this tour is the luxury SUV instead of a bus, which makes the whole trip feel more intimate and special. The group size generally stays small—around 6-7 people—adding to the relaxed vibe. The pickup from downtown Traverse City is convenient, and the drop-off makes it easy to plan your evening after the tour.

The vehicle is described as clean, comfortable, and modern, which adds a layer of luxury that many travelers appreciate. The driver-guides are knowledgeable about the area, making sightseeing along the way just as enjoyable as the wineries.

Is it Worth the Price?

For $68 a person, you’re getting a well-organized, scenic, and personalized experience that’s well above standard transportation-only tours. The focus on expert guidance, beautiful views, and quality wine and spirits makes this a solid value—especially if you’re keen on learning and savoring rather than rushing from stop to stop.

Who Should Book This Tour?

This experience suits wine enthusiasts who want a more personal and educational experience. It’s also great for couples or small groups looking for a relaxed, upscale day out. If you prefer big tours with many people or a party atmosphere, this might not be your best choice. But if you seek stunning scenery, excellent guides, and a laid-back pace, this tour fits the bill.

FAQs

Is food included in the tour?
Food, as well as wine flights and bottles, are not included in the $68 price. You can purchase food like charcuterie boards or snacks at the wineries.

What’s the group size?
Most groups are likely to have around 6-7 people, providing a semi-private experience that feels relaxed and personal.

Is pickup available?
Yes, the tour offers pickup and drop-off from downtown Traverse City, making it easy to start and end your day comfortably.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving plenty of time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if I change my mind?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance, so you can plan flexibly.

Is this suitable for families?
This tour is geared toward adults interested in wine and spirits. It’s not specifically family-friendly, especially if children are involved.

Wrapping It Up

If you’re after a luxurious, personalized wine and spirits experience in Traverse City, this Old Mission Sunset Tour is a smart pick. The expert guides, stunning scenery, and carefully curated stops make it a memorable way to see the region’s best offerings without feeling rushed or crowded. The luxury SUVs and small group size ensure a comfortable and intimate vibe, perfect for celebrating a special occasion or simply indulging in a scenic, relaxed day.

This tour is especially well-suited for those who want an educational and tasting-focused experience rather than just transportation. It’s ideal for couples, wine lovers, and anyone wanting to explore the area’s wineries and distilleries in style. Just keep in mind that additional costs for tastings and food are separate, so budget accordingly.

All in all, with consistent glowing reviews and a reputation for great service and scenery, this tour deserves serious consideration if your goal is to enjoy Traverse City’s wine country in comfort and style.