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

When it comes to wine tasting tours, the Traverse City area offers some of the most scenic and enjoyable options in the Midwest. The 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour visiting three wineries is gaining popularity, thanks to its balanced combination of convenience, picturesque settings, and friendly guides. While we haven’t been on this exact tour ourselves, the glowing reviews and detailed itinerary suggest it’s a well-rounded day for anyone who loves good wine, beautiful scenery, and hassle-free planning.

What we really appreciate about this experience is how it takes care of the logistics—no need to worry about reservations or transportation. Plus, the chance to see some of Michigan’s best vineyards while soaking in panoramic views is an undeniable plus. On the flip side, it’s a group tour with a fixed schedule, which means less flexibility if you’re craving a more tailored experience. Best suited for wine lovers who enjoy a relaxed group atmosphere and want to maximize their sightseeing without the fuss.

This tour is ideal if you’re looking for a straightforward, fun way to sample regional wines and enjoy Leelanau’s landscape. It’s perfect for visitors who prefer not to drive, want a guide to handle the details, and appreciate a good mix of scenic beauty and wine knowledge.

Key Points

• Visit four different wineries along Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula.
• Includes transportation, so no worries about driving or reservations.
• Wine tastings are purchased separately, offering flexibility.
• You’ll enjoy stunning views, especially at Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate.
• The group is small (max 14), fostering a friendly atmosphere.
• Tours are highly rated, with many praising the knowledgeable guides and scenic stops.

A Closer Look at the 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour

This tour offers about five hours of enjoying Michigan’s wine country without the stress of planning. The price point of $79.99 per person strikes us as reasonable, especially given the convenience of transportation, guided visits, and the chance to explore multiple wineries. While wine tastings aren’t included in the price, they are available at each winery for $5 to $15, giving you control over how much you indulge.

The Itinerary Breakdown

First Stop: Black Star Farms
Our journey begins at Black Star Farms, a well-known spot celebrated for its award-winning wines and picturesque setting. Guests spend roughly 80 minutes here, which allows enough time to wander through the 160-acre estate, explore the vineyards, and enjoy the outdoor terrace. The facilities include a seasonal café and an inn, hinting at a full experience beyond wine tasting. The reviews highlight that guests appreciate the relaxed pace and the chance to see the estate’s diverse offerings, including spirits and scenic farmland.

Reviewers loved the ambiance: “The tour of the wineries was great and the people and owners working the wineries happy to receive us,” says Joseph, highlighting the friendly and welcoming atmosphere. The generous time at Black Star Farms allows visitors to soak in the beauty and perhaps snap some memorable photos.

Second Stop: Shady Lane Cellars
Next, the tour visits Shady Lane Cellars, a family-owned operation with a focus on sustainability. With 70 acres of grapes farmed sustainably, this winery embodies a harmonious blend of nature and craft. You’ll spend about 80 minutes here, exploring not just the wines but also the serene vineyard environment. The reviews praise the beautiful setting and the attentive staff, making it clear this spot is a favorite for those seeking authentic connections to the land.

As one guest put it, “The wineries we visited were beautiful,” which captures the appeal of this stop. The focus on sustainable farming adds an extra layer of appreciation for environmentally conscious travelers.

Final Stop: Rove Winery at Gallagher Estate
The grand finale is at Rove Winery, perched at a remarkable 1165-foot elevation, offering sweeping views across Leelanau County. With about 80 minutes allocated, you’ll enjoy award-winning wines and, if the timing aligns, a sunset view that makes this visit truly memorable. This family-run estate has been cultivated through generations, and the scenic vistas truly enhance the tasting experience.

Guests rave about this spot: “The last winery view was breathtaking. The wine was the best of the tour,” reports Susan, pointing to how the combination of scenery and wine can leave a lasting impression.

Transportation and Group Size

The tour uses a comfortable, air-conditioned bus, making the day pleasant regardless of the weather. Bringing snacks and drinks on the bus is allowed, which many guests find adds to the relaxed vibe. With a maximum of 14 travelers, the group size fosters camaraderie but remains intimate enough for personalized attention.

Practical Details

• Meeting Point: The tour starts at the Civic Center in Traverse City, with parking limited to 10-15 spots. It’s recommended to use Uber, Lyft, or taxis to reach the starting point.
• Reservation and Confirmations: Once booked, you’ll receive confirmation, and all winery appointments are arranged by the tour operator. Keep in mind, these are appointments, not reservations, which means some variability in wait times.
• Food & Drink: You’re encouraged to bring your own snacks, since most wineries offer only small appetizers. Wine tastings are purchased at each winery, not included in the tour price.
• Weather Considerations: Many wineries have outdoor seating, so dress accordingly on colder days.
• Tips: A gratuity of 15-20% for the driver is strongly recommended, reflecting the high praise for guides like Mike or Ken, who are noted for their friendliness and knowledge.

Authenticity and Experience

What makes this tour stand out according to reviews is how well it balances scenic beauty, good company, and wine knowledge. Guests consistently mention how the guides are friendly and informative, enhancing the overall vibe. The stops are varied—from the expansive, activity-filled Black Star Farms to the peaceful, sustainability-focused Shady Lane, and finally to the breathtaking views at Gallagher Estate. It’s clear that the tour offers a taste of what makes Leelanau so special—its landscape, its family-run wineries, and its welcoming community.

Who Is This Tour For?

This experience suits travelers who want to relax and enjoy the scenery without the hassle of planning. It’s perfect for those who enjoy tasting regional wines, appreciate scenic vistas, and prefer traveling in a small, friendly group. It also works well for visitors who want a guided experience, learning about the area from knowledgeable guides, and who don’t mind purchasing tastings separately.

While not a fit for those seeking a private or fully customizable tour, it’s ideal for first-timers in Traverse City or those wanting a straightforward, enjoyable introduction to Michigan’s wine country.

Final Thoughts

This 5-hour Leelanau Peninsula wine tour offers an accessible, well-organized way to explore Michigan’s thriving wine scene. For around $80, you get transportation, visits to three distinct wineries, and plenty of opportunities to enjoy stunning scenery. The flexibility to bring your own snacks and the ability to purchase tastings separately give you control over the experience.

The consistent praise for guides, the beautiful vineyard settings, and the panoramic views at Gallagher Estate truly highlight what makes this tour special. If you’re looking for a friendly, scenic, and informative day—and don’t want to worry about reservations or driving—this trip delivers on all fronts.

This tour is best suited for:

• Visitors who want an easy, stress-free way to sample Michigan wines
• Those interested in scenic, outdoor winery environments
• People who value knowledgeable guides and small group atmospheres
• Travelers who enjoy a mix of wine tasting and sightseeing

It’s less ideal for: Travelers seeking a private or fully customizable experience, or those on a tight budget who would rather visit wineries independently.

FAQ

Do I need to make winery reservations myself?
No, the tour arrangements include appointments made by the operator, so you don’t have to worry about booking ahead.

Are wine tastings included in the tour price?
No, tastings are purchased individually at each winery, typically costing between $5 and $15.

Can I bring snacks and drinks on the bus?
Yes, guests are encouraged to bring their own snacks and drinks to enjoy during the ride.

What’s the group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 14 travelers, creating a friendly and intimate atmosphere.

Where does the tour start?
It begins at the Civic Center in Traverse City, with parking on a first-come, first-served basis; it’s recommended to use ride-sharing options.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Most travelers can participate, but since wine tastings are involved, it’s primarily geared toward adults of legal drinking age.

What should I wear?
Dress comfortably, especially if the weather is cold, as wineries often only offer outdoor seating and the scenery is best enjoyed in casual attire.

This Traverse City wine tour, with its well-planned stops and scenic vistas, promises a memorable day for those eager to experience Michigan’s wine country without the hassle. It combines the pleasure of tasting with the joy of scenery—a true win-win for lovers of good wine and great views alike.