tours in traverse city area

THE 10 BEST Traverse City Tours & Excursions

• Traverse City Tours
• Wine Tours & Tastings
• Private Tours
• Sightseeing Tours
• Historical & Heritage Tours
• Beer Tastings & Tours
• Cultural Tours
• Ghost & Vampire Tours
• Walking Tours
• Ports of Call Tours
• Self-Guided Tours & Rentals
• Photography Tours
• Up to 1 hour
• 1 to 4 hours
• 4 hours to 1 day
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 2.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Likely to Sell Out
• The ranking of tours, activities, and experiences available on Tripadvisor is determined by several factors including the revenue generated by Tripadvisor from these bookings, the frequency of user clicks, and the volume and quality of customer reviews. Occasionally, newly listed offerings may be prioritized and appear higher in the list. The specific placement of these new listings may vary.

1. 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

2. 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

3. 5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula

4. Day Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine, & Cocktails

5. Daily Tours to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

6. Sunset Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine & Cocktails

7. 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula

8. Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour

9. Historical Ghost Lantern Tour Downtown Traverse City +Magnant

10. Thrilling Traverse City Scavenger Hunt

11. Private Sunset Sightseeing Cruise in Lake Leelanau

12. Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour

13. 6 Hour Tour in Lake Leelanau

14. Designated Driver TC - We Drive Your Car For Wine Tours

15. Hi-5 Rickshaw Tour Traverse City - First Thing You MUST Do in TC!

16. Michigan Lakeshore, M-22: Audio Driving Tour

17. 5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Leelanau Peninsula

18. Lake Leelanau 4 Hour Tour

19. Flying Dress Photo Shoot in Traverse City

20. Half-Day Private Fishing Charter Experience in Traverse City

21. Proposal and Engagement Sunset Wine Tour in Traverse City

22. Private 4 Hour Choose Your Lake Discovery Tour in Traverse City

23. Private Fall Color Tour of Lake Leelanau with Licensed Guide

What travelers are saying.

• Sydney B 4 contributions 0 5.0 of 5 bubbles Bachelorette Trip - Late April Mike was the best tour guide and had great wine recommendations for each winery for each of us in our group. He knew people at each winery we went to and made sure our experience was fun, we never felt rushed, and had great wine recommendations. This was truly a 10/10 experience I could not recommend him enough. Read more Review of: 5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula Written May 1, 2024 This review is the subjective opinion of a Tripadvisor member and not of Tripadvisor LLC. Tripadvisor performs checks on reviews.

• 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
• 5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula
• 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
• Historical Ghost Lantern Tour Downtown Traverse City +Magnant
• 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula
• The Magic Shuttle Bus
• Traverse Bay Tours
• Traverse City Wine And Beer Tours
• Wind Dancer Traverse City Tours
• Two Brothers Sailing Adventures
• Sailing Yacht Scout - Day Tours
• Nauti-Cat Cruises
• Tall Ship Manitou - Day Tours
• Discovery Cruises
• Grand Traverse Tours
• Blue Lakes By the Bay Transportation
• Wind Sailing
• Daydreamer Fishing Charters
• Mt. Holiday Ski Resort
• TC Helicopter Tours
• The River Outfitters
• Storm Hawk Sport Fishing Charters
• Mega-Bite Fishing Charters

TRAVERSE CITY WINE GIRL

Covid-19 policy.

• Your vehicle will be thoroughly cleaned and sanitized prior to picking up your tasting team.
• Your chauffeur will be wearing a mask while driving.
• Masks are required for everyone riding.
• Hand sanitizer and sanitized wipes will be available inside the vehicle.

TERMS & CONDITIONS

• Client shall be liable for all damages to the vehicle caused by the client or members of his/her party, sustained during Client’s trip; to include but not limited to all spills, burns, rips, tears or any other damage to the vehicle.
• Client understands that there is no smoking or vaping allowed in the vehicle at any time. Consumption of alcohol in the vehicle is also prohibited.
• If a tour runs over the scheduled end time, Client agrees to pay additional charges. Additional charges are based on 1/2 hour increments (minimum).
• Your vehicle may be scheduled for another tour at the end of yours, thus making your vehicle unavailable for any additional time for your party.
• Client agrees that if anyone in the party is found using any illegal drugs, fighting, or any other forms of misconduct considered inappropriate by the driver, the driver may immediately cancel the tour and no refund shall be issued. All parties will be responsible for their own form of return transportation.
• Client agrees that Traverse City Wine Girl shall not be responsible for any items left in the vehicle or for the safekeeping of items in the vehicle.
• Client agrees to the cancellation policy: Client will be refunded in full (minus processing fees) up to one week prior to their scheduled tour.
• Client agrees that Traverse City Wine Girl shall not be held liable for any damages arising out of the company’s inability to perform services due to inclement weather, mechanical or electrical difficulties, delays due to traffic conditions, or any unforeseen events beyond the reasonable control of Traverse City Wine Girl.

TC Wine Girl Zero-Tolerance Drug & Alcohol Policy

Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. provides a work environment which aims to ensure the health, safety, respect and productivity of all employees and customers. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. acknowledges that the use of drugs and alcohol may impair an individual’s capacity to perform their job safely, efficiently and with respect for work colleagues and customers. The use of such substances may result in the risk of injury or a threat to the wellbeing of the impaired employee, other employees, and customers as well as members of the public. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. has an obligation under work health and safety legislation to provide a safe work environment. The purpose of this policy is to maintain a work environment that is free from the negative effects of drug and alcohol use. Employees must not be under the influence of alcohol or drugs when performing any work duties for the Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C., at the workplace or while driving a company vehicle. Employees must not commence work or return to work whilst under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Breaching this policy will result in the immediate termination of employment. Company vehicles are not to be driven by anyone who is under the influence of alcohol or drugs. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. will not accept liability for any damage to a company vehicle, injury to any person, or damage or injury to any third party, incurred while the driver of the company vehicle is in breach of this policy or of the law. All liabilities shall rest with the person operating the company vehicle. If you take prescription drugs, please check with your doctor to establish if the use of the drug will impact on your work performance and particularly your ability to drive vehicles. If it will, please obtain this advice in writing from your doctor and provide it to your manager or supervisor before undertaking any work that may be impacted by you taking prescription drugs. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. also observes a no-smoking policy in all premises, including in company vehicles, as well as on company property. Please report all violations of this policy to [email protected] .

TC Wine Girl Non-Discrimination Policy

Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. will not and shall not discriminate against existing, future, or potential passengers, on the basis of race, color, religion (creed), gender, gender expression, age, national origin (ancestry), disability, marital status, sexual orientation, or military status, in any of its activities or operations. We are committed to providing a welcoming environment for all of our passengers, clients, and vendors. Traverse City Wine Girl, L.L.C. is an equal opportunity employer. We will not discriminate and will take affirmative action measures to ensure against discrimination in employment, recruitment, advertisements for employment, compensation, termination, upgrading, promotions, and other conditions of employment against any employee, contracted drivers or job applicant on the bases of race, color, gender, national origin, age, religion, creed, disability, veteran’s status, sexual orientation, gender identity or gender expression. Please report all violations of this policy to [email protected] .

• Rates do not include driver gratuity or winery fees.
• All tours include picking up and dropping off in the downtown area/hotel strip of Traverse City. Picking up and dropping off outside this area may incur an additional fee.
• Refunds: should you need to cancel, you will be refunded in full (minus processing fees) up to one week prior to your scheduled tour.
• We will handle all necessary reservations for you - no need to do any work except to reply to an email you'll get from us 4-5 weeks prior to your tour.
• Want to know what to expect? Head over to my More Info page .

If you try to book a vehicle and it shows as not available for the day and time you want, please email us and we'll do our best to try and accommodate you!

SUNDAYS - TUESDAYS

All tours include picking up and dropping off anywhere in Traverse City. Option 1: Four-hour tours, typically 3-4 wineries. Option 2: Five-hour tours, typically 4-5 wineries. Option 3: Six-hour tours, typically 5-6 wineries.

WEDNESDAYS - SATURDAYS

All tours include picking up and dropping off anywhere in Traverse City. Four-hour tours, typically 3-4 wineries.

"THE EARLY BIRD" TOUR Mondays - Saturdays: 10:30am - 2:30pm Sundays: 10-30am - 1:30pm

Enjoy the wineries before they're saturated with other tours and visitors, so more time TASTING and less time WASTING! Great way to start your day! Would recommend a strong, mid-day nap after this tour before heading out into the Traverse City night-life. :)

"THE AFTERNOON DELIGHT" TOUR Mondays - Saturdays: 3:00pm - 7:00pm Sundays: 2:00pm - 5:00pm

A perfect tour to do after a late lunch! Would recommend you let me pick you up from wherever you ate lunch and whisk you away to wine country!

TOUR: "THE NIGHTCAP" - 6:00pm to 9:00pm (3 hours)

Hit those wineries that stay open later on Old Mission Peninsula. End the tour with a cocktail outside near the beach and marina at The Boathouse while watching the sun go down. Would recommend eating dinner before heading out on this tour. Available May - October.

FOR CUSTOM TOURS THAT YOU ARE UNABLE TO BOOK ONLINE, PLEASE EMAIL TC WINE GIRL

The Process

• After you book your tour date , you'll receive a confirmation email.
• I'll contact you via email prior to your tour to gather more information from you: # of guests, where you're staying in Traverse City, what types of wine you like, etc.
• We can design the perfect tour together, or you can let me do all of the work. Wineries are constantly changing their reservation systems, policies, and hours, so it's best if I handle the reservations. Although if you already have reservations, keep them! They fill up fast these days.
• On the day of your tour, I will send you a text letting you know I'm on the way.
• I'll pick you up wherever you are near the downtown area/hotel strip of Traverse City. Outside this area may incur an additional charge.
• While on the road, enjoy snacks and bottled water in the vehicle while enjoying the scenery.
• Note: wine-tasting fees are not covered - expect them to be between $5 to $15 per person.
• When we are finished, I'll drop you back off anywhere near the downtown area/hotel strip of Traverse City. Outside this area may incur an additional charge.
• If my schedule allows it, extra time is easy to purchase if necessary. Cash or credit cards accepted.

THESE TOURS ARE DESIGNED FOR COUPLES/SMALL GROUPS THAT WANT TO RELAX, ENJOY WINE, AND TAKE IN THE BEAUTIFUL VIEWS OF THE TRAVERSE CITY WINE COUNTRY

Old Mission Peninsula Wineries

Leelanau Peninsula Wineries

Amoritas Vineyards Aurora Cellars Baia Estate Bel Lago Vineyard & Winery Black Star Farms Blustone Vineyards Boathouse Vineyards Brengman Brothers Chateau Fontaine Cherry Republic Winery Ciccone Vineyard & Winery Dune Bird Winery 45 North Vineyard & Winery French Valley Vineyards Good Harbor Vineyards Green Bird Organic Cellars and Farms Hawkins Farm Cellars Laurentide Winery Leelanau Wine Cellars Mawby / bigLITTLE Nathaniel Rose Wine Rove Estate Shady Lane Cellars Silver Leaf Vineyard & Winery Soul Squeeze Cellars Tandem Ciders Two K Farms Verterra Winery Willow Vineyard OLD MISSION PENINSULA

About TC Wine Girl

Hi, my name is Karen and I love wine tasting! It never gets old to me and I would be honored to take you and your companion around the picturesque Traverse City wine country. I fell in love with both the Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula winery scenes on my third wedding anniversary back around the turn of the century. Touring Old Mission or Leelanau Peninsula is always fun, but it's even better when you aren't DRIVING!! My husband and I have been wine tasting here for years and continue to go regularly. We always see tour buses, limos and shuttles carrying several people, but hardly anything when it comes to transportation for just two people like us. Uber and Lyft are both an option, however they take a longggggggggg time arriving up on the peninsula. I believe it's best to spend more time wine tasting and less time worrying about transportation. I started this company so couples or small groups can make the most of their wine-tasting adventure time plus enjoy it in style!

Contact TC Wine Girl

This is bold and this is strong . This is italic and this is emphasized . This is superscript text and this is subscript text. This is underlined and this is code: for (;;) { ... } . Finally, this is a link .

Heading Level 2

Heading level 3, heading level 4, heading level 5, heading level 6.

Fringilla nisl. Donec accumsan interdum nisi, quis tincidunt felis sagittis eget tempus euismod. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus vestibulum. Blandit adipiscing eu felis iaculis volutpat ac adipiscing accumsan faucibus. Vestibulum ante ipsum primis in faucibus lorem ipsum dolor sit amet nullam adipiscing eu felis.

Preformatted

• Dolor pulvinar etiam.
• Sagittis adipiscing.
• Felis enim feugiat.
• Etiam vel felis viverra.
• Etiam vel felis lorem.
• Felis enim et feugiat.

• Traverse City, MI
• (231) 620-8687
• [email protected]

• Brewery Tours

TRAVERSE CITY’S BEST WINE & BEER TOUR COMPANY!

OLD MISSION PENINSULA & LEELANAU COUNTY

Contact us at (231) 620-8687 to book your tour direct.

Experience the wineries and vineyards throughout Old Mission Peninsula, Leelanau County and Traverse City.

Traverse City’s micro-brewery scene boasts award-winning beer and a myriad of unique atmospheres.

TripAdvisor’s #1 Ranked Traverse City Tour!

Traverse city tours.

We are passionate about our tours for you and your guests. Once you arrive here in Northern Michigan you will become transported to another world. It is unbelievable here in Traverse City. Lake Michigan shorelines with unforgettable views. The wineries and breweries are outstanding. The fun times and memories will last forever. Traverse City Tours takes photos with our cameras and emails the photographs to your group leader within 2 days. What a nice touch for your trip to Northern Michigan.

OUR VEHICLES

2020 chevrolet traverse.

Private Tours up to four guests starting at $150

contact information

Write us or contact us on our social media, book online today.

Anti-Discrimination Policy Traverse City Tours

Title VI of the Civil Rights Act of 1964 prohibits discrimination on the basis of race, color, or national origin.

Traverse City Tours LLC is committed to ensuring that no person is excluded from participation in, or denied the benefits of its transit services on the basis of race, color or national origin.

Traverse City Tours LLC has a zero tolerance for use of alcohol and/or of the influence of any drugs for any employee performing services!

If you have any questions, need more information or feel you are being denied participation in or being denied transportation please feel free to contact:

Traverse City Tours (231) 620-8687 or [email protected]

Wonderland Tours and Transportation

Wonderland tours: traverse city's top rated wine tour experience, top rated traverse city wine tours.

With over eight years of experience guiding tours in Northern Michigan, we know how hard you work all year, and this is your time to sit back and relax. That is why Wonderland Tours is dedicated to designing your trip for you and taking away the stress ...

Focus On Traveling, Focus On Fun

Spring fever, old mission peninsula wine tour, leelanau wine tour, hidden gems, downtown tour, airport shuttle service, google reviews, areas covered.

• Merchant Policies
• Legal Notice

You are using an outdated browser. Please upgrade your browser to use our website.

• Grand Traverse Bay
• Leelanau Peninsula
• Old Mission Peninsula
• Tour Photos

Testimonials

• Reservations

Call for Reservations (231) 633-WINE (9463)

Traverse City Wine Tours

Our Traverse City wine tours are a great way to explore and enjoy Northern Michigan. We can customize a tour to meet your specific desires, or you can join in on a tour that is already set. With Champagne Shuttle Tours you will not only get the change to explore some of the many great wineries in the Northern Michigan area, but you will also have the opportunity to enjoy other aspects of this wonderful community. 

Along with wine-tasting tours throughout the Grand Traverse region, we can  provide you, your friends, family members, business associates, and clients with safe and reliable transportation to and from any number of activities. We have competitive rates for tours up to 5 hours long!

Call us today and let us help you arrange transportation for your next social event!

Book a Tour

There are many wonderful wineries, we can create a custom tour for the region that you are interested in visiting.

Visit Old Mission Peninsula

If you enjoy craft beer, we can put together a brewery tour or we can create a tour with various types of libations.

Explore Leelanau County

Distilleries

There are a handful of distilleries throughout Northern Michigan. It is a nice addition to any tour.

Discover Traverse City

Special thank Champagne Shuttle & Tours for making our winery trip wonderful! We were able to fully relax while we visited all of the wineries on Old Mission! Highly Recommend! Harmony K. July 16, 2015

Anita was so personable! She shuttled us to 4 wineries and was awesome throughout our tour! She even got us a private room at one of them, what a sweetheart! Would recommend Champagne Shuttle and we will definitely use her again! Toni P July 16, 2015

We had a wonderful experience with champagne shuttles and tours. Anita was so accommodating and made our trip truly memorable. Thank you for a wonderful day! Erin O. Traverse City, Mi July 16, 2015

Thank you Anita and Jerry!!! You did a wonderful job planing our wine tour Lisa Marie P. July 16, 2015

Champagne Shuttle & Tours

© 2024 Champagne Shuttle Tours - All Rights Reserved |  Site Map  |  WebMail Login

Website Design and Development by: Pro Web Marketing

Champagne Shuttle Tours is committed to making this website's content accessible and user friendly to everyone. If you need assistance using our website, we are happy to help you at the points of contact listed on this page! We take your feedback seriously and will consider it as we evaluate ways to accommodate all our customers and our overall accessibility policies. Additionally, while we do not control such vendors, we strongly encourage vendors of third-party digital content to provide content that is accessible and user friendly.

Public & Private Tours in the Greater Traverse City Area.

Explore Traverse City Michigan and the Sleeping Bear Dunes

Downtown Traverse City Shopping Center

Explore the wilderness of Northern Michigan and get ready for stunning fall colors

Explore Traverse City!

Traverse City is a small town that started as a sawmill town, grew into a leading agricultural area, and now thrives with enthusiastic visitors that benefit from all the fun things to do and explore in the area. 

Want to know more about the History of Traverse City?  CLICK HERE!

Plan Your Visit...

Welcome to Traverse the City Tours! Here is a locals guide's tip and tricks to plan your vacation to Traverse City Michigan and the surrounding towns!

Let us plan your visit for you!

Traverse the City Tours is your one stop for planning a once-in-a-lifetime vacation to the area.  These private tours are designed around your interests. And the best part is that you get the experience of a local tour guide that knows all the best spots!

Most Popular Tours in Traverse City

Things To Do in Traverse City

5 Out-of-the-Way Things to Do Near Traverse City Michigan

5 Must Do Traverse City Tours

Subscribe & get newsletters sent right to your inbox!

Join our email list and get access to specials deals exclusive to our subscribers.

Thanks for submitting!

Let's Connect

Questions? Please reach out to me here! 

Leave me your name and contact information.

[email protected]

Wine and Beer Tours uses cookies to give you the best possible service. If you continue browsing, you agree to our use of cookies. More details can be found in our terms and conditions .

• [email protected]
• 231-499-2656 Call or Text
• Open Facebook account in a new tab.
• Open Instagram account in a new tab.
• Open Twitter account in a new tab.
• Open Tripadvisor account in a new tab.

Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours

Tours and transportation services in Traverse City, Michigan, including limousine and wedding transportation!

6 Reasons To Book With Traverse City Wine and Beer Tours

Custom Itinerary

Pickup at your locations

Custom drink-ware

Free Vehicle Upgrades

Trip insurance available

Airport and shuttle services available

For More Details, Check Out Our FAQ Page

Our Services

Transportation services, wine & beer tours.

We are passionate about providing memorable experiences for you and your guests. That goal is aided by the unbelievable wineries, breweries, and people here in Traverse City. You won’t find another place in the world with miles of freshwater beaches, a myriad of restaurants to choose from, and a pace of life that reflects how the locals live.

Have Questions?

Traverse City   Travel Guide

Courtesy of gabes1976 | Getty Images

13 Best Things To Do in Traverse City

Updated January 13, 2023

Traverse City's greatest assets are all compliments of Mother Nature. While here, soak up Lake Michigan in every way you can, whether that's on the shores of Clinch Park , on a boat tour or atop the sky-high dunes of Sleeping Bear Dunes

• All Things To Do

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore is one of the few places in the world that visitors can see perched dunes. The lakeshore's towering dunes, which stretch 35 miles long Michigan 's eastern coast, were formed by glaciers. The slopes left behind by the glaciers turned into dunes as a result of Lake Michigan's tide pushing sand up onto the shore overtime. It's this unique phenomenon that garnered the park National Lakeshore status in 1970. 

Today, Sleeping Bear Dunes is enjoyed by more than a million visitors per year, who flock to the park to experience the dunes and enjoy an eyeful of the lakeshore's vibrantly colored waters, forested hiking trails, beaches and bevy of outdoors activities. First-time visitors won't go wrong starting their journey with the Pierce Stocking Scenic Drive, a 7 1/2-mile drive that takes travelers through forested landscapes and along sand dunes to various overlook points. For hiking, you're spoiled with more than 100 miles of trails. For an easy trek, check out the Empire Bluff trail, a 1 1/2-mile round-trip hike that takes visitors directly to the edge of the dunes. The Pyramid Point trail is a more moderate, hilly option, while the 9-mile Alligator Hill trail takes hikers away from the dunes and higher up to provide sweeping views of the lake and the forests that flank it. If you're looking to do more than just hike, know that you can also bike, kayak, canoe and even scuba dive here. During the winter, the park is open to visitors for snowshoeing, cross-country skiing, sledding and more. 

Traverse City Wineries Traverse City Wineries

Wine lovers rejoice because Traverse City sits right next to two American Viticultural Areas: Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula. Together, these areas boast more than 40 wineries where visitors can enjoy a taste of local Michigan vino . Considering Michigan's location, it may surprise some that the state has its own wine country. The reason wine production is successful here has to do with its close proximity to the lake. The climate of Lake Michigan protects the vines from harshly cool temperatures on land (all of Michigan's vineyards are within 25 miles of the lake). That, in combination with the region's glacial soil and extra hours of sun it receives during growing season, results in productive wine growing regions. 

Michigan is known for producing a handful of varietals, including pinot blanc, pinot grigio and riesling. While here, make sure to sample something made with Niagara grapes (the state produces the most in the country) as well as ice wine. Michigan is one of the few places in the world where you can enjoy ice wine. The process of making ice wine is incredibly precise: Producers have to pick grapes when temperatures are between 17 and 19 degrees Fahrenheit, meaning that production often happens in the middle of the night in the dead of winter. The frozen grapes are then used to create a unique wine that resembles a honey-like nectar. 

Traverse City Boat Tours Traverse City Boat Tours

There's no better way to experience Lake Michigan than directly on the water, and Traverse City has several options for travelers to be able to do just that. Highly-rated boat tour operators in the area include Nauti-Cat and Traverse Tall Ship Company . 

The main difference between these two companies is that Nauti-Cat is a catamaran and the Traverse Tall Ship Company is an old-fashioned schooner. Nauti-Cat offers a handful of cruises, ranging from sunset sails to afternoon outings. Meanwhile, Traverse Tall Ship Company offers sailing excursions to nearby Manitou Island. Both companies also offer private charters. 

Popular Tours

5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

(1485 reviews)

from $ 89.10

Sunset Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine & Cocktails

(138 reviews)

from $ 199.00

4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

(79 reviews)

from $ 80.10

Dennos Museum Center Dennos Museum Center

One of Traverse City's premier cultural institutions is the Dennos Museum Center. An extension of Northwestern Michigan College, it houses more than 3,000 works of art from the 19th to 21st centuries. What makes the Dennos Museum Center standout is its extensive collection of Inuit art. Inuit are indigenous people from northern Alaska and arctic areas of Canada and Greenland. The Dennos Museum Center  houses the largest and most historically complete collection in the country, with more than 1,600 works. The museum's Inuit collection is primarily made of up of sculptures and prints and features works from 21st-century Inuit artists. Other permanent collections include works from Canadian Woodland artists and Jozsef Domjan, a renowned American artist who is known for his intricate woodcut art. The museum also hosts concerts and performances and screens films from regional to international filmmakers and organizations.

Recent visitors were impressed with the museum's collections, especially considering its location in the small town of Traverse City. Many found the exhibits, both the permanent and temporary, to be excellent and loved viewing the art on display as well as learning about the cultures presented. Others enjoyed the natural light that floods the museum and appreciated other offerings, including a space for kids, a gift shop and the performance space.

Clinch Park Clinch Park free

You can't visit any of the Great Lakes without heading to the beach. Traverse City's location right along the waters of Lake Michigan gives visitors that opportunity. If you don't feel like making the trek to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore , consider an afternoon at Clinch Park. Clinch Park is Traverse City's most popular beach. And for good reason. Not only is the beach park located smack dab in the middle of the city, but it also offers a lengthy stretch of shore with beautiful views of the nearby peninsulas. The park is also equipped with convenient amenities, such as restrooms, a snack bar, bike racks, picnic tables, a grassy park and during the summer, lifeguards. It's the perfect place to take a dip or simply gaze upon the beauty of Lake Michigan. 

Recent visitors enjoyed their time at Clinch Park, complimenting the beautiful lake views, the available amenities and close proximity to downtown Traverse City. Travelers were also pleased with the park's clean beaches and publicly shared spaces. Families noted that this park is perfect for the kiddos thanks to the calm waters and abundant amenities. 

Downtown Traverse City Downtown Traverse City free

The beating heart of Traverse City is its downtown and Front Street is where it all happens. You can find just about everything along Front Street or adjacent, including plenty of hotels and local shops, restaurants and entertainment options. A handful of the city's hottest beer spots can be found along this thoroughfare too. Plus, you are just blocks away from the lake as well as city beaches, including Clinch Park and Volleyball Beach. Many of the best Traverse City wine tours also depart from here.

The area is home to a variety of boutiques selling everything from fudge and cheese to custom jewelry and dog treats. Dining options are just as diverse with everything from independent coffee shops to seafood spots, burger joints and international cuisine. Don't skip the Grand Traverse Pie Company, where you can sample pie made from locally grown cherries. For entertainment, there are two movie theaters, an opera house and the Old Town Playhouse, which features shows by local performers. If fun and games are more your speed, hit up The Coin Slot arcade bar and end your night at the 123 Speakeasy.   

Traverse City Brewery Tours Traverse City Brewery Tours

In addition to its wineries , Traverse City is also known for its many breweries. The city's collection of microbreweries, brewpubs and tap rooms have garnered the city a reputation for producing some top-notch beer. While visiting, you'll have your choice between more than 20 beer spots. If you are unsure of where to start, you can also hop on one of the city's many beer tours or follow the TC Ale Trail.

Some of the city's top-rated beer spots include Rare Bird Brewpub , Right Brain Brewery , Brewery Terra Firma and North Peak Brewing Company , to name a few. If you'd prefer to sample some brews with the help of a local beer enthusiast, consider a tour with Kayak, Bike & Brew  or River Outfitters , both of which offer a hybrid tour that combines outdoor recreation with beer tastings. There's also the TC Cycle Pub , which takes visitors on a beer crawl via a six- or fourteen-passenger bikes. For a tour without a workout, you can book a private bus charter with the TC Brew Bus or Grand Traverse Tours . And if you happen to be visiting in November, you can attend the city's annual event dedicated to beer, Traverse City Beer Week.

Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART) Traverse Area Recreation Trail (TART) free

One of the best ways to see Traverse City is via the Traverse Area Recreation Trail, otherwise known as TART. TART is a network of connected, multiuse trails that cover ground in both Grand Traverse County, the nearby Leelanau Peninsula and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Seashore . These trails, which are primarily used for biking, pass through the center of town (Tart in Town trail), along the water and to natural attractions, including Clinch Park and Traverse City State Park (TART). You could also use the TART system to ride through the beautiful wooded areas that can be found along the Boardman Lake Trail, the Boardman River Trail and the Leelanau Trail, the latter of which ends at Suttons Bay, another small, charming lakefront town. Plus, Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore also has its own TART trail that covers 20 miles of terrain. 

Recent visitors who utilized the TART system had great things to say about this Traverse City asset. People were pleased with how well-maintained and well-marked the trails were. Others remarked that it's important to study up on your chosen trail before you take it on – some travelers were surprised that some trails had very steep inclines while others were disappointed that certain trails weren't scenic enough. Some visitors also noted that trails can get crowded, so be sure to time your ride or hike outside of peak hours. TART doesn't have any set hours and there is no admission fee required to ride along its pathways. For more information on Traverse Area Recreation Trail, visit the official website .

5-hour 4-winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula

(27 reviews)

from $ 79.00

Day Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine, & Cocktails

(91 reviews)

from $ 169.00

5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula

(243 reviews)

Mission Point Lighthouse Mission Point Lighthouse

Visit this 19th-century lighthouse for a taste of history and a little bit of rest and relaxation. The Mission Point Lighthouse enjoys a scenic location on the tip of Old Mission Peninsula, sitting at the water's edge and backed by rows of lush trees. The lighthouse was originally built in the late 1800s after a ship crashed into a coral reef and sank before it could reach the shore. Its good looks and scenic location have been a draw for years, even when keepers still lived there, and the site has been outfitted to accommodate visitor foot traffic with a fence separating the beach from the lighthouse and a pathway to access the water. Today, the site is listed on the National and State Historic Register and visitors can enjoy a self-guided tour and climb to the top for spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay. Steps away, visitors can also access a small beach with calm waters, as well as hiking trails that lead to woodlands and additional views of the lake. 

Recent visitors described the Mission Point Lighthouse as "cute" and the surrounding scenery – including the beach and corresponding views of the lake – as "absolutely beautiful." Others remarked that the drive to get there is pretty spectacular too; on your way up, you'll pass by wineries, estates and more. Travelers did note that the small area can get pretty crowded and that if the tide is high, there isn't much room on the beach for anything other than dipping your toes in the water. Those who ventured inside the lighthouse were fascinated with the information about its history and did note that if you want to climb to the top, you'll have to pay a modest fee. 

The Village at Grand Traverse Commons The Village at Grand Traverse Commons

Traverse City knows how to repurpose history. The Village at Grand Traverse Commons – originally built in the late 1800s to serve as an asylum – is now a complex that houses local boutiques, restaurants, exercise studios, beauty salons and offices for local businesses. What's more, the Grand Traverse Commons Natural Area is easily accessible from The Village and offers visitors 140 acres of trails to traverse.

What visitors will notice pretty quickly about The Village is its striking architecture. The Victorian-Italianate complex served as a resource for healing for its patients. The founding medical superintendent strongly believed that a beautiful environment would help his patients mentally and physically. In addition to beautiful interiors, patients were served meals on china, fresh flowers were placed in common areas and artwork, some featuring inspirational quotes, were hung throughout the former asylum. Plus, each patient's room had a window that allowed plenty of natural light as well as views of the lush grounds. 

Leelanau Peninsula Leelanau Peninsula free

Read More »

Bryant Park Bryant Park free

Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum Grand Traverse Lighthouse Museum

Designated Driver TC - We Drive Your Car For Wine Tours

(159 reviews)

from $ 184.50

Historical Ghost Lantern Tour Downtown Traverse City + Magnant

(72 reviews)

from $ 38.00

Daily Tours to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

(77 reviews)

from $ 165.00

Explore More of Traverse City

Best Hotels

When To Visit

If you make a purchase from our site, we may earn a commission. This does not affect the quality or independence of our editorial content.

Recommended

The 18 Best Napa Valley Wineries to Visit in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Sharael Kolberg April 23, 2024

The 25 Best Beaches on the East Coast for 2024

Timothy J. Forster|Sharael Kolberg April 19, 2024

The 50 Best Hotels in the USA 2024

Christina Maggitas February 6, 2024

The 32 Most Famous Landmarks in the World

Gwen Pratesi|Timothy J. Forster February 1, 2024

9 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in Florida for 2024

Gwen Pratesi|Amanda Norcross January 5, 2024

24 Top All-Inclusive Resorts in the U.S. for 2024

Erin Evans January 4, 2024

26 Top Adults-Only All-Inclusive Resorts for 2024

Zach Watson December 28, 2023

Solo Vacations: The 36 Best Places to Travel Alone in 2024

Lyn Mettler|Erin Vasta December 22, 2023

26 Cheap Beach Vacations for Travelers on a Budget

Kyle McCarthy|Sharael Kolberg December 4, 2023

The 50 Most Beautiful White Sand Beaches in the World

Holly Johnson December 1, 2023

Plan Your Getaway

All year round, the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail invites guests to enjoy wine tasting on our idyllic, unrivaled wine trail, in one of the most charming and scenic areas in the world. Round out your day on the 19-mile peninsula by visiting Old Mission beaches, restaurants, and retailers, or stay overnight right on the peninsula at one of a number of accommodations

Download Trail Guide

Old Mission Peninsula

• Traverse City Area

Group Guidelines

How to take a tour, how to taste wine, tasting room etiquette, shuttle buses.

They say that grapes like to grow where people like to live, and that’s no exception on Old Mission Peninsula. With 19 miles of rolling hills and amazing bay views at every turn, Old Mission is the perfect to place for a daylong wine tasting tour with friends or an extended weekend retreat. The accessible nature of the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail gives visitors the chance to visit one or all ten incomparable wineries in a short period of time. Take your pick of dining options ranging from come-as-you-are eateries to more upscale establishments. Plan on spending the night, with your choice of B&Bs and inns offering well-appointed accommodations and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Traverse City

Traverse City is the hub of northwest Michigan and offers a wide variety of accommodations, dining options, and activities. Choose from familiar national lodging, boutique hotels, or quaint B&Bs. Traverse City is a “foodie mecca” that has gained national attention for its local fare from an array of popular eateries that each take full advantage of the area’s incredible bounty. Traverse City bustles year round with a variety of festivals, events, cultural attractions, and more. 

TRAVERSE CITY LODGING >

TRAVERSE CITY DINING >

AREA EVENTS CALENDAR >

There’s no better way to enjoy a day on the Old Mission Wine Trail than with the company of good friends. While all wineries do their best to accommodate groups of all sizes, it’s best to call ahead for larger groups.  

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS >

WINERY INFORMATION >

Come as you are. Tickets, reservations and previous experience with wine are not required. All wineries offer tastings, and many also offer wine by the glass or light bites. If you’re traveling with a large group of friends, please call ahead to make a reservation.

For all its amazing scenery, perhaps the real beauty of the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail is that you can take it at your own pace. Stop at one, several, or all of the wineries depending on your mood, schedule, or the whim of your group. The trail stretches along the Old Mission Peninsula and includes ten wineries, each offering its own distinctive discovery. Enjoy a self-guided tour to hit all of your must-sees or hire a private shuttle bus to assume driving duties and scheduling. It is possible to visit all ten wineries in one day. 

SHUTTLE BUS COMPANIES >

Feed Your Senses

Wine tasting encompasses all five senses – how people perceive the look, flavors, smells, tactile sensations, and even the sound of wine. Each of your senses enhances the tasting experience, so you should pay keen attention to the following as you ready yourself to taste that glass of wine:

LISTEN. Just as we start to salivate when we hear the chopping of veggies or bacon sizzling, listening to a wine bottle cork pop (or cap being unscrewed!) as well as the wine flowing from the bottle into the glass starts out the tasting experience on the right note. So in the tasting room, take a moment to listen to the bottle’s opening, glasses clinking, and wine pouring. It sets the stage for what’s to come.

LOOK. Want to know what you might be in for? Check out the wine’s clarity, color (and concentration of color), hue, and viscosity. They’ll provide valuable clues to what the wine may taste like or where its origins lie.

SMELL. A wine’s nose (aroma) contains many different aromatic compounds. The first we smell are the primary aromas. These come from the grapes and are “fruity” in smell. The secondary aromas are attained from the fermentation process and are more complex. As a wine matures, it develops a third set of aromas that are the most complex to identify. What you get, even after bottling, are some chemical reactions that will change the wine over time and allow it to develop more subtle and complex “smells”. As the wine ages, the fruitiness usually subsides after time (depending on the wine) and other aromatics become more noticeable. These may smell like black currants, truffles, or rich spices in some reds. A Riesling may develop a petrol (yes, petrol) scent after proper aging; this is due to the fruit aromas subsiding and chemical reactions occurring.

TASTE. Tasting essentially helps to confirm what your nose knows. To taste wine like a pro, try rolling the wine around in your mouth so that it comes in contact with all major taste areas. Sipping in a slight bit of air into the mouth will help to release more of the shifting compounds and magnify the taste. It may sound as though your wine is “gurgling”; then you know you’re doing it right.

FEEL. Tasting also involves feeling. Tasting includes the weight or body of wine. It basically translates into how the wine feels on your tongue. The fuller the body of the wine, the more lasting the taste and heavier the feel of the wine is in your mouth. Weight is distinguished through a combination of alcohol, glycerol, tannin, sugar, and all other non-water elements, known collectively as extract. After swallowing (or spitting) you can make a better judgment as to a wine’s body.

EXTRA CREDIT: As you improve your tasting skills, you will begin to notice a wine’s balance and finish. Balance refers to the overall harmony of the components of sugar, acid, tannin, and alcohol. A wine with good balance means that no one component dominates. In essence, these components are presenting themselves equally. The length of time those flavors linger in the mouth is known as the finish.

  With these steps in the back of your mind, see how your next wine tasting experience differs than your previous. Did you pick up on some new flavor notes? Notice the weight of the wine in your mouth, and how long that flavor stays with you? We encourage you to practice and share your tasting notes on our social media: Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .

Be open-minded. Try something new. Explore and discover new favorites.

Patience is a virtue. This is a very popular tourist destination for good reason. Our stunning views and world-class wines on Old Mission Peninsula are comparable to any of the other great wine regions around the globe. We can be extremely busy during the summer and fall months, but we guarantee that the experience is well worth the wait. 

Ask questions. Our friendly staff is happy to share their considerable knowledge about different wines, their origins and how they’re made. You might be surprised at how much you can learn about the wines you taste as well as our unique grape-growing region.

Summer and fall seasons are our most popular seasons. However, we’re open year round (including weekdays), so plan a trip in the winter or spring when you can enjoy a little more personal attention and wine education.

Enjoying wine is as much about the atmosphere as the wine itself. Please be considerate of other guests by not smoking, chewing gum, or wearing strong cologne or perfume, which may detract from the “nose” and taste of the wine.

Stay engaged! The wineries encourage picture taking, but also suggests setting down phones, tablets, and technology to truly let the timeless experience of wine tasting envelop you. The sights, tastes, discussion, and camaraderie will make for the best long-lasting memories.

Visitors to Traverse City enjoy convenient proximity to the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail. Just four miles from the center of downtown Traverse City, the wineries can be reached through a variety of transportation options. Though the wineries and the wine trail do not provide guest transport, Traverse City Tourism offers a list of wine tour & transportation companies that service Old Mission Peninsula – ranging from fully-hosted educational wine tours to limousine service to local cabs. Just be sure to call these companies ahead so appropriate accommodations can be made.

A few helpful questions to consider when researching the right tour or transportation company for you.

1.) Are the tasting fees included in the tour/shuttle fee?  2.) Does the company make the winery reservations for you or do you need to call the wineries yourself? 3.) Is the company licensed with the Michigan Department of Transportation?

WINE TOURS & TRANSPORTATION COMPANIES >

With 19 miles of rolling hills and amazing views everywhere you turn, Old Mission Peninsula is the perfect to place for a daylong wine tasting tour with friends or an extended weekend retreat. Visit one or all of the ten incomparable wineries. Take your pick of dining options ranging from come-as-you-are eateries to more upscale establishments. And plan on spending the night, with your choice of B&Bs and inns offering well-appointed accommodations and breathtaking views of the surrounding area.

Traverse City is the hub of northwest Michigan and offers a wide variety of accommodations, dining options, and activities. Choose from familiar national lodging, boutique hotels, or quaint B&Bs. Traverse City is a “foodie mecca” that has gained national attention for its local fare. Choose from an array of popular eateries that each take full advantage of the area’s incredible bounty. Traverse City bustles year round with a variety of festivals, events, cultural attractions, and more. Click the links below to plan your visit.

TRAVERSE CITY LODGING > TRAVERSE CITY DINING > AREA EVENTS CALENDAR >

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS > WINERY INFORMATION >

For all its amazing scenery, perhaps the real beauty of the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula trail is that you can take it at your own pace. Stop at one, several, or all of the Old Mission wineries depending on your mood, schedule, or the whim of your group. The trail stretches along the Old Mission Peninsula and includes nine wineries, each offering its own distinctive discovery. Enjoy a self-guided tour to hit all of your must-sees or hire a private shuttle bus to assume driving duties and scheduling.

Tickets and reservations are not required. All wineries offer tastings, and many also offer wine by the glass or light bites. If you’re traveling with a large group of friends, please call ahead to make a reservation.

WINERY INFORMATION > FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS >

LISTEN. Just as we start to salivate when we hear the chopping of veggies or bacon sizzling, listening to a wine bottle cork pop (or cap being unscrewed!) as well as the wine flowing from the bottle into the glass starts out the tasting experience on the right note. So in the tasting room, take a moment to listen to the bottle’s opening, glasses clinking, and wine pouring. It sets the stage for what’s to come.

SMELL. A wine’s nose (aroma) contains many different aromatic compounds. The first we smell are the primary aromas. These come from the grapes and are “fruity” in smell. The secondary aromas are attained from the fermentation process and are more complex. As a wine matures, it develops a third set of aromas that are the most complex to identify. What you get, even after bottling, are some chemical reactions that will change the wine over time and allow it to develop more subtle and complex “smells”. As the wine ages, the fruitiness usually subsides after time (depending on the wine) and other aromatics become more noticeable. These may smell like black currants, truffles, or rich spices in some reds. A Riesling may develop a petrol (yes, petrol) scent after proper aging; this is due to the fruit aromas subsiding and chemical reactions occurring.

With these steps in the back of your mind, see how your next wine tasting experience differs than your previous. Did you pick up on some new flavor notes? Notice the weight of the wine in your mouth, and how long that flavor stays with you? We encourage you to practice and share your tasting notes on our social media: Facebook , Instagram , and Twitter .

Patience is a virtue. This is a very popular tourist destination for good reason. Our stunning views and world-class wines on Old Mission Peninsula are comparable to any of the other great wine regions around the globe. We can be extremely busy during the summer and fall months, but we guarantee that the experience is well worth the wait. 

While the Wineries of Old Mission Peninsula may seem off the beaten path, they are actually very accessible and start at just four miles from the center of downtown Traverse City. The wineries gladly welcome larger groups with some advanced notice and can accommodate a variety of transportation. Though the wineries do not provide guest transport, Traverse City Tourism offers a list of wine tour & transportation companies that service Old Mission Peninsula – ranging from fully-hosted educational wine tours to limousine service to local cabs. Just be sure to call these companies ahead so appropriate accommodations can be made.

A few helpful questions to consider when researching the right tour or transportation company for you:

• Are the tasting fees included in the tour/shuttle fee? (generally $5-$10 per flight at each winery)
• Does the company make the winery reservations for you or do you need to call the wineries yourself?
• Is the company licensed with the Michigan Department of Transportation?

TC Wine Guide

Traverse City Wineries, Wine Tasting, Tours, and Reviews

Discover traverse city wineries.

Traverse City, Leelanau Peninsula, the Old Mission Peninsula, and the Grand Traverse Bay region is home to over 40 vineyards and wineries. The combination of soil, water, climate, and geography creates the perfect environment suited for growing grapes and making wine.

Be sure to take advantage of tasting along the way as you explore the Old Mission Wineries as well as the numerous Leelanau wineries. Sample a glass of wine, while you stroll through vineyards, explore wine caves and cellars. Wine flights are great to share as you discover award-winning wines from Northern Michigan.

Don't forget to schedule enough time! It’s easy to spend an entire weekend or more taking in everything that the Grand Traverse wine region has to offer.

World Class Views, World Class Wines

The Traverse City region offers breathtaking views, with the colored waters of the Grand Traverse Bay, to the rolling vineyards, the Traverse Wine Coast is amazing. Bring your camera and take plenty of photos! Lake Michigan is nearby and you might consider a side trip to the Sleeping Bear Dunes or maybe a hike at Alligator Hill. There are a few wineries nearby.

Wine from Northern Michigan rivals other famous areas like Napa and Sonoma. Traverse City wineries have won accolades by critics as well as in judged competition. Our amazing wines are world class! Which will your favorite be? Pinot Noir, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Gris, Cabernet Franc, maybe a Cherry wine?

Located on the 45th parallel, geographically the region is split roughly in two by the Old Mission and the Leelanau peninsulas . Each of these have unique microclimates and soil that influence the vines and the grapes that are grown in each area. Subtle differences in altitude and sunlight exposure on the rolling hills really can affect the grapes and how the wine tastes. Each winery is utterly unique and special.

Most Traverse City wineries also have vineyard and winery tours, host weddings and private parties, offer live music and entertainment, and of course spectacular views all year round.

The Grand Traverse Bay Area is one of Michigan's most scenic regions. The area offers visitors a variety of activities including hiking, biking, boating, fishing, and golfing. Visitors can also enjoy the many festivals held throughout the year.

Traverse City Wine Tasting

Explore your passion for wine. The region offers a variety including white, reds, rose's, fruit, and sparkling wines.

Almost every winery in the region has tasting room and offers wine tasting. Most charge a small fee, a few are even free! Typically flights of wines are around $5 - 7. Quite a bargain considering many west coast wineries charge much more. Private tastings are offered by many allowing guests a more intimate experience while they discover their favorite wines.

The best part about visiting a winery is that there is no obligation to buy anything. You can taste what you want and then decide if you'd like to purchase some bottles. If you're interested in purchasing wine, be sure to ask about discounts on bulk purchases. Many wineries offer discounts for large orders. Wine club members qualify for special discounts too!

Not just wine... Beer, Hard Cider, and Mead too!

More and more wineries are offering hard Cider and Mead . Its no surprise considering the abundant fruit orchards on the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas. And of course, Traverse City is home to some of the best craft breweries too!

Traverse City Wine Tours

Why not take a tour and see the behind the scenes process of making wine? Most wineries and vineyards offer tours of their facilities.

These tours typically include a visit to the cellar where the grapes are stored before they go through the crushing process. The crush pad is usually located near the entrance of the facility. From here the crushed grapes are transferred into tanks and barrels.

You'll often find a barrel aging rooms. Barrels come in different sizes and shapes and each type of wood imparts its own unique flavor. Some winemakers use oak barrels while others prefer stainless steel.

Guided Tours

Perhaps the best way to visit the area wineries and enjoy a day of tasting, is to take a chauffeured guided tour. The driver or guides have in-depth knowledge of each winery and can help you choose which wineries best suit your tastes and schedule. And let’s not forget that a guided tour reduces the chance of spoiling your trip with a DUI or worse.

Distillery Tours

Let your spirits soar on our distillery tours.

Whatever your taste in spirits, you’ll discover great libations during our unique tours of distilleries in the Traverse City area and on Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula.

At the craft distilleries you’ll sample traditional spirits like bourbon, gin, rum, vodka, and whiskey. But you’ll also find more unusual beverages like agave, cherry liqueur with a whiskey base, sakura, and horseradish vodka.

At some you’ll talk to the distillers themselves. They’ll explain how they craft their small-batch spirits with locally harvested grains and other ingredients. Some distilleries offer guided tours of their production facilities.

Sit back in our luxurious Mercedes-Benz Sprinter high-top and let our knowledgeable chauffeur/guides take you on a custom tour of distilleries based on your tastes and interests. You can choose from the distilleries listed below – and we’ll be happy to make recommendations!

Pricing for private group tours depends on which vehicle you choose and the length of your tour. Visit the page about our fleet for details.

Call Grand Traverse Tours today at [phone] or email us at [email protected] so we can start planning your Grand distillery tour!

Distilleries We Visit

Ethanology Distillation makes its spirts from grain, honey, and fruit sourced from local farmers. The Elk Rapids distillery produces extremely small batches of gin, vodka, whiskey, and Mel, a spirit that starts with a base of northern Michigan honey.

Grand Traverse Distillery is a family-run craft distillery that uses local ingredients whenever possible in its spirits, which include various whiskeys, bourbon, gin, rum, rye vodka, wheat vodka, and flavored vodkas.

Iron Fish Distillery has legions of fans despite being located down a dirt road at a farm in Thompsonville. The distillery is Michigan’s first farm distillery, and many ingredients are grown on the farm. Its libations include gin, vodka, rum, and bourbon, among others.

Jolly Pumpkin is a restaurant on Old Mission Peninsula that offers its own craft distilled spirits. The selection includes agave, bourbon, gin, rum, sakura, vodka, and various whiskeys.

Mammoth Distilling has a cocktail lounge in Traverse City, along with tasting rooms in Bellaire and Central Lake. It makes bourbon, gin, rum, rye, vodka, whiskey, and cherry liqueur with a whiskey base.

Northern Latitudes Distillery in Lake Leelanau on the Leelanau Peninsula offers free tastings of its bourbon, cherry vodka, gin, ginger liqueur, moonshine, rum, vodka, and other spirits. Its Horseradish Vodka has many fans.

Traverse City Whiskey Company offers whiskey and whiskey-based cocktails in its Traverse City tasting room.

To schedule your distillery tour, call Grand Traverse Tours today at 231-947-7433 or email us at [email protected] .

CHECK OUT THE FUN! #MIGrandTraverseTour

• Top Things To Do
• Art Galleries
• Historic Movie Theatres
• Interlochen Center for the Arts
• Free Things to Do
• Historical Sites
• Lighthouses
• Scavenger Hunt
• Spring Break
• Downtown Traverse City
• Farmer's Markets & U-Picks
• Grand Traverse Commons
• Malls & Shopping Centers
• Spa & Salon
• Cherry Blossom Tours
• Fall Color Tour
• Scenic Drives
• Tours & Exhibits
• Dog Beaches/Pet Friendly
• Beaches Around the Region
• Golf Courses
• Golf Packages
• State Parks
• Trails & Nature Walks
• Green For Good Challenge
• Kayak, Canoe & SUP
• Jet Skiing & Rentals
• Ice Skating Hockey
• Skiing & Snowboarding
• Cross-Country Skiing
• Snowmobiling
• Snowshoeing
• Tubing & Sledding
• Serendipitous Adventure
• Annual Events
• Traverse City Events This Weekend
• Pride Week in Traverse City
• Winter Events
• Traverse City Uncorked
• National Cherry Festival
• Traverse City Film Festival
• International Fireworks Championship
• Holiday Events
• Concerts & Live Music
• Sporting Events & Races
• Wine Events
• Add Your Event
• Places to Eat
• Outdoor Dining
• Eat Like a Local
• Farm to Fork
• Food Trucks
• Kid Friendly
• Restaurant Guide
• Waterfront Dining
• Traverse Wine Coast
• Distilleries
• Traverse City Beer Week
• Man Vs. Draft
• Taprooms & Taverns
• Bed & Breakfast
• Cabins & Cottages
• Condominiums
• Downtown Locations
• Historical Places to Stay
• Hotels & Motels
• Hotels on the Water
• Winter Accommodation Special Offers
• Traverse City Uncorked Lodging Packages
• Pet Friendly
• Vacation Rentals
• Digital Guide Request
• Enewsletter Signup
• Accessibility
• A Very Cherry Passport
• Climate & Weather
• Driving Distances
• General Information
• Benzie County
• Leelanau County
• Gift Certificates
• Ask-a-Nurse
• Virtual Urgent Care
• Local Chambers
• Local News Outlets
• Places of Worship
• Public Safety
• Relocation Information
• Traverse City Pride Week
• Dog-Friendly Activities
• Pet-Friendly Hotels
• Beer & Wine Weekend
• Grand Traverse County
• Explore the Sleeping Bear Dunes
• Outdoor Adventure
• Family Time
• Girlfriend Getaway
• Guy's Weekend
• Lighthouse Tour
• Romantic Getaway
• Personal Wine Tour
• Airport Info
• Printable Maps
• Visitor Center
• Wedding Venues & Lodging
• Wedding Resources
• Getting a License
• Request a Wedding Guide
• Economic Impact
• Hospitality Awards
• Staff Directory
• Full Service Venues
• Unique Venues
• Submit an RFP
• Meetings Resources
• Request Photos
• Meeting Planners Guide Request
• Spouse & Guest Programs
• Connecting & Team Building
• A Meeting in Vacation's Clothing
• Suggested Itineraries
• Group Tour Planner Request
• Tour Planner Assistance Form
• Tour Support & Services
• Media Photo Library
• Press Release Room
• Request Our Assistance
• Traverse City Accolades
• Sign Up for the Meetings Newsletter
• Sports Events
• Wedding Venues
• Wedding Lodging Requests
• FAM On Demand

From Buds to Blossoms

Monday, April 29, 2024 11:00 AM by Charlotte Inda

We wouldn't be the Cherry Capital of the World if our favorite time of the year didn't feature the beauty of blooming cherry blossoms. With the combination of rain and warm weather this weekend, some blossoms have started to make their debut. 

Here is what we are seeing right now:  

• Take M-37 north from Traverse City to make your way up the Old Mission Peninsula. As you are driving along, the first set of cherry blossoms you see is located right by Black Star Farms Winery  along McKinley Road. 
• County Road 633 south of Suttons Bay is a great drive to see the cherry blossoms with cherry and apple orchards lining the road.
• Just north of M72, Bugai Road has some white blossoms to view.
• While the trees along Front Street in downtown Traverse City are not cherry trees, they are still in full bloom and a great option for scrolling through the local shops. 

Keep in mind, this is only the beginning and we are still seeing plenty of cherry trees with buds on them in our region. Those buds will become blossoms in no time depending on the weather in the coming weeks.

Friendly reminder: the blossoms are on private farms; please view them respectfully from the side of the road.

Author: Charlotte Inda

Charlotte Inda is the Assistant Marketing Manager at Traverse City Tourism and a graduate of Michigan State University. New to the area, she looks forward to exploring Northern Michigan and trying new things.

Plan Your Trip

• © 2024 Traverse City Tourism
• 101 West Grandview Parkway, Traverse City, MI 49684
• T: 231-947-1120 or 1-800-872-8377 
• [email protected]
• Privacy Policy
• Members Login

Cookies are used for measurement, ads and optimization. By continuing to use our site you agree to our  privacy policy .