Traverse City: 5-Hour Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour

If you’re considering a wine adventure in Michigan, a 5-hour Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour might just fit the bill. While I haven’t personally hopped on this exact tour, reviews and details paint a picture of a well-organized, scenic, and engaging experience that appeals to visitors wanting to sample local wines without the hassle of navigating themselves.

What really catches our eye about this tour is how it combines beautiful scenery with expert guidance, making it ideal for those who want to indulge in wine tastings and enjoy the views without the stress of driving. Plus, the fact that the transportation is covered means you can relax and truly savor the moment. On the flip side, keep in mind that wine tastings are purchased separately, which can add up, and the tour is not suitable for children or pregnant women.

This experience suits travelers who appreciate relaxed, guided outings that include some education and scenic stops. If you’re a wine lover or just want a stress-free way to explore Traverse City’s famous vineyards, this tour could be a great choice. However, if you’re after a private or more personalized experience, you might want to explore other options.

Key Points

• All-inclusive transportation means no need to worry about driving or parking.
• Visits to four distinct wineries offer a range of tasting experiences and scenic views.
• Guide-led tour provides insights and local knowledge, making it more enriching.
• Tastings are purchased individually, so plan for additional costs.
• The duration of 5 hours strikes a nice balance between sightseeing and relaxation.
• Not suitable for children or pregnant women due to wine tasting and age restrictions.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Exploring the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour

This tour offers a nice balance between structured visits and leisurely enjoyment. Starting at the Grand Traverse County Civic Center in Traverse City, the tour kicks off with a comfortable ride in a premium limo-style bus. The air-conditioned vehicle and friendly guide set the tone for a relaxed, enjoyable day. The fact that transportation is covered is a big plus—no worries about driving or navigating, so you can really focus on the wines and the scenery.

The Wineries You’ll Visit

Chateau Chantal Winery

The first stop is the Chateau Chantal, perched atop one of the highest points on the peninsula. You’ll get sweeping views of both the east and west arms of Grand Traverse Bay—a highlight for many. This winery is known for its picturesque setting and variety of wines. A typical tasting costs about $10 for a flight of three wines or a glass of wine via reservation, which you can enjoy while soaking in the scenery. The reviews mention the views here as a standout feature, and the knowledgeable staff contribute to a welcoming experience.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Next, the tour heads to Bowers Harbor Vineyards, which has been transforming from a horse farm into a vineyard over 27 years. With 20 acres of vines, this place offers a cozy, authentic vibe. Their experience and history add depth to your tasting, which ranges from $8 to $28 depending on whether you opt for a glass, flight, or a bottle. The setting is described as stunning, and many guests enjoy the chance to learn about the vineyard’s evolution from farm to wine producer.

Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery

This stop is particularly notable if you’re into seeing how vineyards grow and develop. Started in 2004 with just 10,000 grapevines, it has expanded to over 40,000. Visitors often comment on the size and beauty of the estate, which covers 91 acres. Tasting prices hover around $9-$11 for wine by the glass, with special options like Frosé or snack boxes available for around $9-$10. The spacious grounds make for a relaxed tasting experience, and the reviews highlight how the time at each winery feels just right—not rushed.

Bonobo Winery

The final stop, Bonobo Winery, holds 19 acres of vines and is praised for its world-class wines and stunning vistas. The tasting options range from $9 to $13, typically including a souvenir wine glass—a nice keepsake to remember the day. Guests often mention the friendly staff and the quality of the wines as key highlights. The views and atmosphere here make it a fitting finale.

What’s Included and What to Expect

The tour package provides a comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle and a local guide who shares insights along the way. The cooler provided is perfect for keeping your purchases chilled. An important point: wine tastings are paid for individually at each winery, ranging from $5 to $10 per tasting. This means you should budget extra if you plan to sample generously.

Gratuity is strongly recommended, with 20% for the driver, which is typical for such tours. The reviews suggest that guides like Mr. Frizzle are both knowledgeable and personable, adding a lot to the experience. Guests have called the guides “informative and friendly,” emphasizing that the tour isn’t just about the wines but also about enjoying a friendly vibe.

Timing and Meeting Point

The tour departs from the Civic Center in Traverse City, with signs guiding you to “Tour Bus Parking.” The bus leaves at 12 pm on Sunday to Friday and at 11 am on Saturdays. The entire experience lasts about 5 hours, so plan accordingly—most tours run in the morning or early afternoon.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Cost and Value

At $90 per person, this tour offers a good value considering the transportation, guide, and multiple winery visits. Keep in mind that wine tastings cost extra, typically $5–$10 each, so if you plan to indulge at several wineries, your total expenses will rise accordingly.

Guests have praised the well-timed visits, often noting that they felt neither rushed nor bored. The views, knowledgeable guides, and quality of wineries make this a compelling option if you’re after a relaxed, informative day.

Who This Tour Suits Best

This tour is ideal for wine enthusiasts who want a guided experience, especially if you’re not familiar with the area or prefer not to drive. It’s perfect if you appreciate scenic vistas, local wines, and friendly guides. Since the tour is not suitable for children or pregnant women, it’s geared more toward adult travelers.

If you’re after a more personalized or private experience, other options like luxury SUV tours could be more fitting. But for those wanting a social group atmosphere with a reliable schedule, this tour ticks all the boxes.

Final Thoughts

For anyone looking to explore Traverse City’s renowned vineyards without the hassle of planning or driving, this tour offers a solid, enjoyable solution. The stops are carefully selected to showcase the region’s best, and the views are a bonus that makes the experience memorable. The guides’ knowledge and friendly demeanor also help elevate this outing beyond just a tasting.

The five-hour length strikes a great balance, giving you enough time at each winery to savor wines without feeling overwhelmed. Plus, the scenic drives and panoramic vistas offer a visual treat that complements the wine tasting perfectly.

While the extra costs for tastings and tips are something to keep in mind, overall, this tour delivers good value for a fun, relaxed day in Michigan’s wine country. Whether you’re a casual wine drinker or a dedicated enthusiast, you’ll likely find this experience both enjoyable and worth your while.

FAQ

Do I need to book in advance?
Yes, booking ahead is recommended to secure your spot, especially during busy seasons. You can reserve now and pay later, which offers flexibility.

What do I need to bring?
Bring a camera, sunscreen, water, and comfortable clothing. Since tastings are purchased separately, bring some extra cash or cards for additional purchases.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No, this tour isn’t suitable for children or pregnant women due to the nature of wine tastings and age restrictions.

How long is the tour?
The entire tour lasts about 5 hours, including transportation and visits to four wineries.

What’s the meeting point?
It’s at the Civic Center in Traverse City, MI. Follow signs to “Tour Bus Parking” for easy access.

Are the tastings included?
No, tastings are purchased individually at each winery, generally ranging from $5 to $10.

Is gratuity included?
No, gratuity isn’t included but is strongly recommended, with 20% for the driver being typical.

Can I buy wine to take home?
Yes, most wineries offer the option to purchase bottles, often with souvenirs like a wine glass included.

Is there a dress code?
Comfortable clothes are fine, but consider bringing layers in case of changing weather, especially if you want to enjoy the views outside.

Would this be a good experience for a romantic getaway?
Absolutely, the scenic setting and relaxed pace make it a lovely outing for couples.

You can check availability for your dates here: