If you’re dreaming of a relaxing, upscale way to sample some of Michigan’s best hard ciders and wines, this NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour might just be what you’re looking for. Instead of the usual noisy party bus, this experience offers a more refined, personal approach—riding in luxury SUVs with knowledgeable guides who genuinely love what they do.

What really makes this tour stand out are two things: first, the luxury transportation that keeps the vibe relaxed rather than chaotic, and second, the expert-led tastings that help you understand and truly appreciate what you’re drinking.

A potential consideration is that this tour is priced at $199 per person, which might seem steep for some, but you’re paying for quality, comfort, and expert insights—plus, a more private, less crowded experience. It’s perfect for those who want to enjoy a curated day of sipping, scenery, and conversation without the party bus noise.

This experience is ideal for couples, small groups, or anyone who values a laid-back, elegant tasting adventure with a personal touch. If you’re a wine or cider enthusiast looking to explore Old Mission Peninsula with style, this could be your perfect day out.

Key Points

Luxurious transportation in GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades, avoiding the typical party bus scene.
Expert guides who are passionate connoisseurs of wine and cider, offering personalized insights.
Visit 4 iconic wineries and a distillery, sampling a variety of exceptional ciders, wines, spirits, and even vodka and brandy.
Flexible scheduling with options for day tours and sunset tours, catering to different preferences.
Group size usually limited to 6-7 guests per vehicle for an intimate, semi-private experience.
Special touches like complimentary bottles of wine for groups of 6 or more and fun accessories such as fancy drinking hats.

You can check availability for your dates here:

The Experience in Detail

For broader city exploration in Traverse City, we've covered these other tours

The Journey Begins: Luxury in Traverse City

One of the first things we loved about this tour is the luxury transportation. Instead of squeezing into a cramped bus, you’re picked up in a sleek GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade. The vehicles are air-conditioned, comfortable, and give you a feeling of being spoiled from the start. Plus, the pickup point is conveniently located in downtown Traverse City at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, right next to Middlecoast Brewery—no long walks or parking hassles.

This setup is a real plus for travelers who want to start their day relaxed, not frazzled. As one reviewer noted, “Guests don’t have to walk miles to a far-away park to get on some old run-down bus,” which is pretty common with other tours. Getting picked up and dropped off in the heart of downtown makes this tour feel special from the get-go.

The Guides: Passionate and Knowledgeable

The guides are more than just drivers—they’re hard cider and wine enthusiasts, often with backgrounds in universities like UofM and MSU. Their passion really shines through when they talk about each winery’s offerings. You’re not just tasting blindly; guides provide context, stories, and recommendations tailored to your preferences.

Multiple reviews mention how knowledgeable and friendly the guides are, making the experience both educational and fun. For example, guests appreciated when guides offered personalized suggestions, and one review even called the guides “expert connoisseurs” who elevated the whole experience.

The Wineries and Tasting Stops

The tour visits four iconic wineries and one distillery, each known for their unique ciders, wines, and spirits. Here’s what you might expect at each stop:

Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for their Raspberry and Cherry Ciders, they also craft award-winning wines. Sampling their signature ciders along with fine wines makes for a delightful start. Guests often comment that these ciders are made “like the wines—made with love,” highlighting the craftsmanship involved.
Bowers Harbor Vineyards: This winery offers a flight of ciders—including Cherry, Blueberry, Peach, Blackberry, and seasonal choices—plus wine options. Reviewers find the variety impressive, and the quality “stands out from mass-produced ciders.”
Chateau Chantal: This spot offers a wider range—ciders, wines, brandy, vodka, and beer. It’s a good place to explore different spirits and see the full scope of what Michigan’s Old Mission Peninsula has to offer.
Brys Estate & Bonobo Winery: Known for their Lavender Cider, this stop adds a fragrant, fun twist to your tasting. Guests often rave about the unique flavor profiles and the beautiful setting.

In a nutshell, each winery provides a different flavor profile, making the tour both diverse and satisfying. When combined with the expert guidance, you’ll walk away with a true understanding of what makes Michigan ciders and wines special.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Distillery and Additional Tastings

Depending on the tour type—day or sunset—there’s also a visit to a distillery. Guests often find this a fun surprise, with options like vodka, brandy, or spirits to taste. It’s a laid-back way to round out the day, especially if you’re interested in spirits as well as wine and cider.

While you're exploring Traverse City, here are other experiences we've looked into

The Flexibility and Customization

One of the things we appreciated is the flexible schedule. Tours depart at various times, and you can choose between visiting four wineries or three wineries plus a distillery if you prefer a shorter experience. This makes it easier to fit into your travel plans or to schedule around other activities.

Cost and Value

At $199 per person, this tour isn’t the cheapest option out there, but it’s important to think about what you’re getting: personalized, guided tastings, luxury transportation, and intimate group sizes. The experience is curated to be both educational and relaxed, providing more personal attention than a typical party bus tour. For wine and cider lovers wanting a more refined experience, the price is quite reasonable.

A special perk is that groups of 6 or more get a free bottle of wine—a nice bonus that adds to the value. Plus, the fact that the guides are owners and local enthusiasts adds an extra layer of authenticity and care.

Food and Extra Costs

While the tour includes tastings and snacks, additional food and drinks are available for purchase at each stop. If you’re hungry or want to sample more, be prepared for extra costs, but the tasting flights and bottles are often worth it.

The Experience Atmosphere

Guests consistently mention the relaxed, friendly atmosphere. This isn’t a raucous party; it’s a leisurely exploration of Michigan’s craft beverages. The small group size and private vehicle make conversations easy, and the scenery along Old Mission Peninsula adds to the overall charm.

Who Should Consider This Tour?

If you’re someone who values comfort and personalization over a crowded, noisy experience, this tour is perfect. It’s especially suitable for couples celebrating an anniversary, a small friend group, or anyone eager to learn more about Michigan’s cider and wine scene.

It’s ideal for travelers who want to avoid the chaos of party buses but still enjoy a lively, interactive tasting adventure. If you’re looking for a family-friendly activity or a tour geared toward kids, this probably isn’t the best fit, as it’s geared more toward adult beverage enthusiasts.

The Sum Up

The NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour offers a refined, personal way to enjoy Michigan’s renowned craft beverages. With expert guides, luxurious SUVs, and carefully curated stops, it elevates the typical wine tour to a more comfortable and engaging experience. It’s a fantastic choice if you’re looking for a relaxed day filled with delicious tastings, stunning scenery, and insightful stories—without the loud bus or rushed schedule.

While the price might seem high, many guests feel it’s justified by the quality of the guides, the level of comfort, and the intimate atmosphere. This tour is best suited for those who want a more tailored, enjoyable way to explore Old Mission Peninsula’s wineries and spirits, especially if you appreciate good company and high-quality drinks.

If you’re a cider or wine lover seeking an elegant, well-managed experience, this might be your new favorite way to spend a day in Traverse City.

✨ Book This Experience

NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour

FAQ

Is this tour suitable for small groups?
Yes, the tour typically accommodates groups of 6-7 guests per vehicle, making it intimate and personalized.

Can I customize the number of wineries visited?
Depending on your chosen schedule, you can opt for a 4-winery day or a 3-winery plus distillery tour. Flexibility is offered.

Are the vehicles air-conditioned?
Absolutely, the GMC Yukons and Cadillac Escalades used for transportation are air-conditioned, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

What is included in the tour price?
The price covers transportation, expert guides, tastings at each stop, and a complimentary bottle of wine for groups of 6 or more. Food and additional drinks are extra.

Are the guides knowledgeable about the beverages?
Yes, guides are passionate enthusiasts who can provide detailed insights into each wine, cider, and spirit, enhancing your tasting experience.

Is there a pickup point?
Yes, pickup is available at Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City, with multiple departure times. Additional pickup locations may be arranged.

Is this experience family-friendly?
No, this tour is designed for adults 21 and over due to alcohol tastings.

How long does the tour last?
The experience runs for approximately 4.5 hours, which includes all tastings and travel time.

Can I bring my own wine or cider home?
You can pick up bottles at the wineries, and the tour can drop you off in downtown Traverse City for further exploration.

Is the tour suitable for celebrating special occasions?
Definitely. Many guests use it for birthdays, anniversaries, or just a fun day out with friends, thanks to its relaxed and celebratory atmosphere.

If you’re craving a more intimate, guided exploration of Michigan’s cider and wine scene, this tour delivers. It’s all about comfort, expertise, and enjoying the scenery—perfect for a relaxing, memorable day in Traverse City.