NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour

Discover the NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour

If you’re considering a visit to Traverse City and want a way to enjoy the area’s celebrated wine and spirits without the hustle of large tour buses, this NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour might be just what you’re looking for. Designed specifically for singles, it offers a relaxed, intimate experience with top wineries, a distillery, and plenty of stunning views—without the feeling of being herded around in a crowd.

What sets this tour apart? We love the semi-private SUV transport, giving it a more personal, comfortable feel, and the opportunity to meet other singles in a casual, social environment. The expert guides add a layer of credibility and knowledge to the experience, making it more than just a wine tasting. However, a potential consideration is that food, tastings, and bottles are extra, so the initial $99 might rise depending on what you choose to indulge in. This tour appeals most to singles looking for a fun, low-pressure way to explore Traverse City’s wine country while making new connections.

Key Points

• Personalized Experience: No big buses—more comfort and space in luxury SUVs.
• Great for Singles: Designed to be social and fun, with group mixing.
• Stunning Scenery: Beautiful views of Grand Traverse Bay and surrounding vineyards.
• Expert Guides: Knowledgeable locals who make the experience engaging.
• Multiple Stops: Visit 3-4 wineries/distilleries with diverse offerings.
• Flexible and Casual: Approx. 4-5 hours, with optional tastings and food at extra cost.

An Honest Look at the Traverse City Sunset Wine and Distillery Tour

When you start thinking about exploring Traverse City’s wine country, there are plenty of options—some with large busloads, others with more personalized touches. This tour strikes a nice balance, especially for singles who want to avoid the typical party bus scene and instead enjoy a laid-back, VIP-style outing. Priced at $99 per person, it’s a reasonable entry point into a full afternoon of tastings, scenery, and socializing.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Start Point & Timing
The tour kicks off at 3:30 pm from 303 E State St, a location right in the heart of Traverse City. From there, you’ll hop into a luxury SUV—most likely a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban—soon to be a Cadillac Escalade, which means you won’t feel cramped or overwhelmed like on larger buses. The duration is around 4 to 5 hours, giving enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards
Hawthorne Vineyards is often considered one of the area’s best. It’s perched on a high bluff with panoramic views of both East and West Grand Traverse Bays—trust us, the scenery here is top-notch. This winery is relatively new but already making waves with wines like Merlot/Cab Franc blends and whites such as Auxerrois and Dry Riesling. Visitors can purchase wines by the glass, bottle, or even join the wine club if they’re tempted.

Guests love the secluded location and the chance to sample some of the best reds and whites on the peninsula. One reviewer calls it a “great starting point,” appreciating the peaceful setting and the ability to snack on popcorn flights or charcuterie boards. It’s an excellent way to kick off the tasting journey with stunning views and quality wines.

Stop 2: Bonobo Winery
Next, the group heads to Bonobo Winery, founded by local brothers Todd and Carter Oosterhouse. This stop is often described as feeling like movie star treatment—thanks to the stunning views, excellent wines, and friendly service. You can sample expert-level reds like their BDX and Pinot Noir or cool whites such as Chardonnays and a Fume Blanc. Interestingly, Bonobo is the only stop where you can also sample whiskey, adding a little variety to the tasting experience.

Guests frequently mention the knowledgeable guides who make the visit engaging, and the relaxed atmosphere makes it easy to chat and meet new people. The winery’s top-notch customer service shines through in reviews, with many saying they felt like VIPs during this visit.

Stop 3: Old Mission Distilling
Moving on, the tour visits Old Mission Distilling, a more recent addition to the local scene but quickly gaining a reputation. Here, visitors can sample a range of spirits made from local ingredients, including spirits sourced directly from nearby farms and orchards. Tasting a mixed drink or a glass of wine is common, and the staff is eager to share their process, emphasizing the local sourcing and the art of spirit-making.

The distillery’s location in the heart of Old Mission Peninsula offers a beautiful setting that fits seamlessly into the scenic route. It’s a nice contrast to the wineries, allowing guests to appreciate the diversity of local beverages.

Optional Stop: Bowers Harbor Vineyards
Depending on the season and scheduling, the tour may include a visit to Bowers Harbor Vineyards, one of the original wineries in the area, established in 1991. Known for its friendly atmosphere and dog-friendly vibe, this stop offers a chance to taste Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, and Pinot Noir.

Guests often mention the inviting tasting room and the chance to relax on the patio with a glass of wine while enjoying beautiful vineyard views. It’s a perfect spot to mingle and soak in the Michigan wine country vibe.

Grand Traverse Bay View
The last part of the tour offers views of Grand Traverse Bay, a stunning water body separated from Lake Michigan by the Leelanau Peninsula. During the drive from the wineries, you’ll glimpse some of the most iconic vistas in the region—a fitting end to the social, scenic journey.

What You Can Expect from the Experience

Guides and Group Size
One of the consistent praises from reviews is the knowledgeable and friendly guides who make the tour enjoyable and educational. They’re well-versed in local wines, spirits, and the region’s history, adding context to every stop. The group size is typically around 6-7 people, which keeps things intimate but lively.

Transportation & Comfort
The choice of luxury SUVs rather than buses makes a significant difference, especially when it comes to comfort and a less crowded, more relaxed atmosphere. The air-conditioned vehicles ensure that the summer heat doesn’t spoil the experience.

Pacing & Duration
Most guests agree that 4-5 hours is a good length—enough time for meaningful tastings and socializing without fatigue. The stops are approximately 55 minutes each, which allows for a leisurely experience but also keeps the momentum going.

Tastings & Food
Tastings, wine, and food are not included in the $99 price tag but are available for purchase at each stop. Guests often find that the prices are reasonable, with flights costing around $12-$25. The opportunity to buy a bottle or glass makes it easy to customize your experience throughout the tour.

Cost & Value
At $99, this tour offers a lot of value for those interested in wine, spirits, scenic views, and social interaction. The additional costs for tastings and food are typical of wine tours and allow you to choose your level of indulgence.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

This isn’t your typical wine tour, especially if you’re traveling solo. It’s geared toward singles and social travelers who want to meet others in a relaxed setting while enjoying quality wines and scenic views. The casual, VIP vibe makes it appealing for those who prefer a smaller group and a more personal experience.

It’s also a good fit for wine enthusiasts eager to sample some of the best local wines and spirits, and for anyone looking to avoid the crowded party buses typically associated with larger tours. Keep in mind, this experience is not designed for families or children, as it’s focused on socializing among adults.

The Sum Up

The NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour offers a refreshing way to explore Michigan’s wine and spirits scene with style and ease. Its luxury SUV transportation, knowledgeable guides, and beautiful scenery make it a standout choice for singles wanting a relaxed, social experience. The focus on quality wines, local spirits, and scenic views delivers real value, especially for those eager to meet others and enjoy a bit of the local flavor.

While the extra costs for tastings and food might add up, many guests find the overall experience worth it, given the intimate setting and the chance to savor some of the best this region offers. If you’re a solo traveler or someone who appreciates a more tailored, less crowded tour, this might be your perfect Michigan escape.

This tour balances scenic beauty, educational insights, and social opportunities, making it a great choice for adventurous singles looking to experience Traverse City in a laid-back, memorable way.

FAQ

Is transportation included?
Yes, transportation is provided in a luxury SUV, which is more comfortable and private than a bus.

What time does the tour start?
It begins at 3:30 pm from 303 E State St in Traverse City.

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, allowing enough time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Are tastings included in the price?
Tastings, flights, and bottles are not included in the initial price but are available for purchase at each stop.

Can I buy wine or spirits during the tour?
Yes, you can buy wines and spirits directly at each location—prices typically range from $12 to $25 per item.

Is this tour suitable for groups larger than 6?
Groups over 6 usually get a complimentary bottle of wine, but the group size is generally kept small for an intimate experience.

Is food provided?
No, food is not included but can be purchased at the wineries. Some stops offer charcuterie or popcorn flights.

Is this a family-friendly experience?
No, the tour is geared toward adults, especially singles looking to socialize.

Can I cancel?
Yes, the tour offers free cancellation up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

If you’re looking for a relaxed, social way to enjoy Traverse City’s wine scene without the crowd and in a more personal setting, this tour could be just right. It combines scenic beauty, expert guides, and a chance to meet other singles—what’s not to enjoy?