NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour 3 Winery Old Mission Peninsula

If you’re eyeing a wine adventure in Traverse City but want to skip the big party-bus scene, this NON-BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour might just be your perfect fit. It’s designed for those who appreciate quality wine, scenic views, and a more relaxed, semi-private vibe. With expert guides leading the way, you get more than just rides between vineyards—you experience the wines, the stories, and the surroundings like a true connoisseur.

What we really love about this tour is how personalized and flexible it feels. The guides are knowledgeable, eager to share wine tips, and eager to teach. Plus, the stunning views of the bay and the privacy of smaller groups make it feel special. On the flip side, some might find the tour a bit limited in scope, especially if they’re hoping for a full day of tastings or food pairings included.

This experience is best suited for couples, small groups, or anyone who prefers a curated, intimate wine adventure without the chaos of a bus. It’s not a typical party scene, but rather a leisurely journey with plenty of opportunities to savor great wines and enjoy the landscape.

Key Points

• Semi-private, flexible tour with small groups for a more personal experience
• Expert guides who are passionate and knowledgeable about local wines
• Beautiful scenery with views of East and West Grand Traverse Bays
• Visit 3 (or 4) wineries, including Hawthorne Vineyards, Bonobo Winery, and Old Mission Distilling
• Includes wine samples but not full tastings or food, giving you room to explore your preferences
• No party bus—you’ll travel in a luxury SUV, offering comfort and intimacy

A Detailed Look at the Traverse Sunset Wine Tour

The Experience Starts with Convenience and Comfort

Right from the start, this tour emphasizes a stress-free, personalized experience. Instead of a loud party bus, you’ll be traveling in a luxury SUV (GMC Yukon or similar), which means more space, comfort, and a quieter setting to chat with your guides and fellow wine lovers. Pickup is available in downtown Traverse City, making it easy to join, and the entire trip lasts about 3 to 4 hours—perfect for an afternoon or early evening escape.

The guides, often locals with a love for wine and the region, are a highlight, sharing their insights and helping you discover wines you might not have tried on your own. Their knowledge elevates the experience beyond just tasting—it’s about understanding the stories behind the wines and the scenery.

The Itinerary: A Closer Look

Hawthorne Vineyards

Your first stop sets the tone. Hawthorne Vineyards is recognized as one of the top wineries on Old Mission Peninsula. Perched on a high bluff, the tasting room offers spectacular views of both East and West Grand Traverse Bays—a perfect backdrop for sipping. The wines here are notable, especially for red wine lovers who might enjoy the Merlot/Cab Franc blend, or whites such as Auxerrois and Dry Riesling.

Guests can buy flights, wine by the glass, or bottles, and some even opt for a popcorn flight or charcuterie board, which adds a touch of indulgence. The fact that it’s a more secluded spot means fewer crowds and a more private experience—ideal if you’re looking for tranquility. One reviewer raved about Hawthorne as “arguably the most secluded site,” which helps keep the experience intimate and relaxing.

Bonobo Winery

Next up is Bonobo Winery, founded by local brothers Todd and Carter Oosterhouse. This winery boasts stunning views, excellent wines—including reds like the BDX and a top-shelf Pinot Noir—and whites such as bubbly Blanc de Blancs and top-tier Chardonnays. It’s the only stop where you can sample a glass of whiskey, adding a bit of variety to the trip.

Guests often mention the top-notch customer service and how the atmosphere makes them feel like movie stars. As one reviewer put it, Bonobo is “a place where guests feel like movie stars, with wines you cannot wait to brag about.” The tasting room is designed to impress, and the wines are said to be brag-worthy, making it a highlight of the tour.

Old Mission Distilling

While wine is the focus, this tour includes a stop at Old Mission Distilling, a newer spot on the peninsula. Here, you’ll learn how locally sourced ingredients influence their spirits, and you can purchase mixed drinks or wine. The distillery’s approach emphasizes a local, ingredient-driven philosophy, adding a different dimension to your visit.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards (Seasonal/Alternate Stop)

Depending on the day, the tour may include a stop at Bowers Harbor Vineyards, one of the original wineries established in 1991. Known as the “dog winery,” it’s a friendly, approachable place where you can taste Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, and more. The building itself is a former horse stable, adding rustic charm to your tasting.

One guest fondly mentioned, “Guests might see various dogs at the winery,” giving the stop a relaxed, homey vibe. It’s a good option if you’re looking for a classic vineyard experience.

The Bay Views and Scenic Drive

A defining feature of this tour is the incredible scenery. As you drive between stops, you’ll get glimpses of Grand Traverse Bay, with its long, serene stretches and historical significance—named by French voyageurs for their “long traverse.” The views are a real highlight, providing a peaceful contrast to the tasting experiences.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The tour covers wine samples (splashes) at each stop, guided by passionate experts. It’s important to note that tastings, wines, and food are extra—so if you’re planning to indulge in full tastings or bring bottles home, you’ll need to budget accordingly. This setup gives you the flexibility to explore wines that truly catch your interest, rather than being limited by the tour’s inclusions.

The cost of $68 per person reflects good value for the personalized experience, expert guidance, and scenic stops—especially since it’s a semi-private tour. Larger groups of 6-7 typically get their own vehicle, which maintains that intimate feel.

The Experience from Reviews

One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “A great time!!!” They appreciated the guides’ recommendations, the quality of wines, and the beautiful views. Another mentioned how the guides “taught us some new things about wine & the local wineries,” which indicates the educational component that adds depth to the tour.

A key theme in feedback is the knowledge of the guides—people really appreciated the personal touch and insights. Plus, the relaxed, non-party-bus vibe makes it comfortable for those who prefer a more laid-back, upscale experience.

Price and Value Analysis

At $68, this tour offers excellent value considering the small-group setting, scenic drives, and expert guidance. You’re paying not just for transportation but for a curated experience that highlights the best of Old Mission Peninsula’s wineries with room for personal interaction. Since tasting flights and full bottles are extra, it’s smart to budget for that if you want to indulge more, but even without it, the guided knowledge and scenery are worth it.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

If you’re someone who loves wine, scenic views, and a relaxed pace—and you prefer a semi-private experience over a loud, crowded bus—this tour is a winner. It’s particularly well-suited for couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a more refined, educational outing. It’s not heavily focused on food or full tastings, so if you’re after a full-on tasting experience, you might want to supplement your day.

Also, if you’re interested in local spirits, the Old Mission Distilling stop adds a fun twist. But if you’re looking for a family-friendly or kid-focused activity, this one probably isn’t the best fit, since it’s geared toward wine tasting.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is pickup available for this tour?
Yes, pickup is offered and is usually in downtown Traverse City at select locations, making it easy to join the experience without hassle.

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 to 4 hours, which is a nice length for an afternoon or early evening trip without feeling rushed.

Are tastings included in the price?
Wine samples (splashes) are included during the tour, but full tastings, wines, and food are extra, allowing you to choose your favorites.

What vehicle is used for transportation?
A luxury SUV—either a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban—is used, ensuring a comfortable, more intimate setting compared to traditional party buses.

Can I customize the wineries I visit?
The itinerary is fairly structured but flexible enough to include the stops listed, with the possibility of a seasonal or alternate stop like Bowers Harbor Vineyards.

Is this experience suitable for large groups?
Most groups of 6-7 will have their own vehicle, which keeps the experience semi-private. The tour is typically capped at 20 travelers, fostering a more personal environment.

Wrapping Up

This NON-BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour offers a well-balanced mix of scenic beauty, expert-guided tastings, and relaxed pacing. It’s ideal for those who want a more intimate, educational experience in Traverse City’s wine country without the chaos of a party bus or large crowds. The guides’ knowledge, combined with the stunning views of the bay and the chance to try some top-notch wines, makes it a memorable outing.

If you’re craving a laid-back adventure that emphasizes quality, scenery, and a touch of local flavor, this tour will likely hit the mark. Just remember to bring some extra cash if you want to indulge in tastings or buy bottles—what’s included is just a taste, but the experience goes well beyond that.

This tour is a smart choice for wine lovers who want a personal, scenic, and guided exploration of Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula—an experience worth savoring.