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

If you’re considering a wine adventure around Traverse City, this 5-hour tour of four wineries on Old Mission Peninsula offers a balanced blend of scenic views, quality wines, and stress-free logistics. We’ve looked into what makes this experience stand out and what you should consider before booking.

Two things we really appreciate are how smoothly everything runs — thanks to the transportation and guided structure — and the opportunity to taste wines from a variety of well-regarded local wineries without the hassle of driving yourself. On the flip side, a potential snag might be that tasting fees are separate from the tour price, so your budget needs to account for that. This tour is perfect for those who want to explore the area comfortably, learn about the wines, and enjoy the scenery without the worry of navigating or designated driving.

Key Points

• A well-organized, guided experience that handles all logistics
• Visit four different wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, each with its own charm
• Tasting fees are separate, so budget accordingly
• Enjoy scenic views of Grand Traverse Bay from vineyard locations
• Ideal for travelers who want an easy, educational, and relaxing wine day
• Group size is limited for a more personalized feel

An Overview of This Traverse City Wine Tour

This 5-hour tour is designed for those who want to taste and learn about Michigan wines without fuss. For $79.99 per person, you get round-trip transportation from Traverse City on a comfortable, air-conditioned, limo-style bus. The tour is guided by a local expert who shares insights into the region’s wine scene, adding a layer of context you might not get if you visited independently.

The tour is quite popular, typically booked about a month in advance, which suggests travelers find real value in the experience. With glowing reviews — a perfect 5.0 rating from over 2,000 reviewers — it’s clear that most participants think it’s worth every penny.

Why Choose This Tour?

One of the big draws is that you don’t have to worry about driving. Everyone in your group can relax and focus on the wine, views, and conversation. The transportation is the backbone of this experience, making it accessible even for those unfamiliar with the area or those who prefer not to handle the logistics.

Another plus is the variety of wineries included. Each spot offers a different vibe and selection of wines, from elegant European-style chateau to family-owned vineyards. The stops are thoughtfully spaced out to keep things manageable and engaging.

Detailed Breakdown of the Itinerary

Stop 1: Chateau Chantal Winery & Tasting Room
Just a few miles north of Traverse City, Chateau Chantal is a scenic start to the tour. Situated atop one of the highest points on the Peninsula, it offers panoramic views of both the East and West arms of Grand Traverse Bay. This winery’s European-style chateau sits on a 64-acre estate, making it a picture-perfect spot to kick off your day.

Here, you’ll find not just wine but also an eleven-room bed and breakfast, a hospitality room that hosts cooking classes, and the famous Jazz at Sunset series. While the tour includes a free admission, if you choose to do a wine flight or glass, expect to pay around $10 with a tip. Reviewers have mentioned that this winery is a lovely first stop, with folks appreciating the scenic beauty and the chance to view the surrounding vineyard estate.

Expect about an hour here — enough time to soak in the views, sample some wines, and snap photos.

Stop 2: Bowers Harbor Vineyards
This vineyard has an interesting backstory: it started as a horse farm in 1991 and has since transformed into a thriving winery with over 20 acres of vines. Over the years, Bowers Harbor has built a reputation for high-quality wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Gris, Merlot, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc. They also produce hard ciders, diversifying their offerings.

Many reviews praise the diversity of wines and the friendly atmosphere. Tastings are modestly priced at around $5 for five wines, and small snacks like cheeses and spreads are available for purchase. This stop feels more relaxed but also offers enough variety to keep your palate entertained.

Expect about an hour — time enough to explore the outdoor patio, enjoy the vineyards, and sample some of Michigan’s best.

Stop 3: Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
Brys Estate has grown impressively since its first harvest in 2004. Now covering 91 acres, it boasts over 40,000 vines with accolades for its quality. Their varietals include Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, and Riesling. The estate offers stunning views of East Bay that perfectly complement the wines.

The tasting flight here costs around $8 for five wines, plus a souvenir glass. They also offer a cheese and charcuterie board for purchase, which many guests find enhances the experience. Visitors consistently note the friendly staff and the beautiful landscape — a true highlight for many participants.

Expect about an hour to enjoy the views, taste some award-winning wines, and chat with staff about the estate’s history and offerings.

Stop 4: Bonobo Winery
The final stop is Bonobo Winery, which offers a smaller but carefully curated selection of varietals: Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, and Sauvignon Blanc. Despite the limited variety, their wines are highly praised for their quality, with tasting flights around $10 for six wines. They also have the largest snack selection among the wineries, perfect if you’re feeling peckish.

Bonobo’s outdoor seating provides a relaxed setting to conclude the tour, with breathtaking views that let you unwind after a day of tasting. Reviewers often highlight the friendly vibe and the excellent quality of wines.

Expect about an hour — enough time to enjoy your last sips, take photos, and soak in the scenery.

The Practicalities

The tour includes round-trip transportation in a very comfortable, air-conditioned vehicle, which we think is a major plus. The group size is limited, ensuring that the experience feels personal and not rushed. The local guide is praised for their knowledge and friendly demeanor, making the journey more engaging.

While the tour price covers transportation and guide service, it’s important to remember that wine tastings are purchased separately at each winery, generally costing between $5 and $10 per tasting. Many reviews mention that these are well worth it, especially since the wines are of high quality. Be prepared for additional costs, and consider bringing some cash or a card for tasting fees and snacks.

Most wineries only offer outdoor seating, which means you should dress accordingly, especially if visiting during cooler months. Some venues only accept card payments, so carry a credit or debit card just in case. The tour is also recommended for most travelers, as it is accessible and designed to maximize enjoyment without the need for planning or driving.

What Reviewers Say

Reviews consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and the beautiful views. One reviewer said, “Todd was a great driver, friendly and very informative,” while another called the guide “excellent, very knowledgeable and friendly.” Participants also highlight the variety of wines, often mentioning the “good to great wines and ciders,” and the “stunning views” that make the day memorable.

A visitor noted, “The tour guide made the experience with his knowledge,” and others appreciated the relaxed yet engaging atmosphere. Several reviews also emphasize how this tour is a “great way to see what our state has to offer wine-wise,” making it ideal for both locals and visitors.

Final Thoughts

This Traverse City wine tour offers a solid value for those seeking a relaxed, guided exploration of Old Mission Peninsula. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to taste a variety of local wines without the hassle of driving and prefers a scenic, educational experience. The inclusion of transportation, the quality of the wineries visited, and the positive reviews about guides and views make it stand out.

If you’re someone who appreciates well-organized tours that combine great scenery, interesting wines, and knowledgeable guides, this experience will serve you well. Be mindful of the additional costs for tastings and snacks, but overall, it’s a comprehensive and enjoyable way to spend half a day.

Whether you’re a wine novice or a connoisseur, this tour delivers a taste of Michigan’s best in a comfortable, friendly setting. It’s an excellent choice for group outings, couples, or anyone who just wants a taste of Traverse City’s wine country.

FAQ

Are the wine tastings included in the tour price?
No, tastings are purchased separately at each winery, typically costing between $5 and $10 per flight.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, a comfortable air-conditioned limo-style bus rounds out the experience, making it easy to relax and enjoy the scenery.

How long is each winery stop?
Most stops are about an hour long, allowing enough time to taste, explore, and enjoy the setting.

Can I bring my own food?
Yes, you’re welcome to pack a lunch or snacks, but most wineries only offer small appetizers and snacks for purchase.

What should I wear?
Most wineries have outdoor seating, so dress comfortably and appropriately for the weather, especially if it’s chilly.

Are children allowed on the tour?
The tour is generally suited for most travelers; however, the focus on wine tasting makes it more suitable for adults.

Is this tour suitable for people with mobility issues?
While most wineries are accessible, it’s best to check with the tour provider and individual wineries beforehand.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to 20 travelers, providing a more personalized experience.

In sum, this guided Old Mission Peninsula wine tour combines scenic beauty, quality wines, and expert guidance into a package that’s hard to beat — especially if you value comfort, variety, and a well-organized outing.