NON BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour

Introduction

If you’re looking to blend the vibrant colors of Michigan’s fall with world-class wine tasting, the NON-BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour might just be your perfect outing. While we haven’t personally done this tour, the buzz around it suggests a truly exclusive experience that skips the typical bus crowd for a more luxurious ride and intimate atmosphere.

What we love about this experience? First, the luxury SUV transportation—no crowded party buses here—and the promise of stunning fall scenery along with some of Michigan’s top wineries. Second, the personalized, VIP treatment with knowledgeable guides who are real wine connoisseurs. It’s designed for those who want more than just a quick tasting—it’s about savoring the moment with style and comfort.

One thing to consider: this tour is priced at $69 per person, which is quite reasonable for a high-end, guided wine experience, but extras like food, bottles, or flights are additional. So, budget accordingly if you’re planning to indulge.

This tour suits travelers who appreciate luxury, enjoy beautiful scenic drives, and want a personalized experience without the chaos of large bus tours. It’s especially good for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone celebrating a special occasion amid the fall colors.

Key Points

• Luxury Vehicles: Travel in style with SUVs instead of standard buses, offering comfort and exclusivity.
• Expert Guides: Guides are local, knowledgeable, and passionate about wine, enhancing your tasting experience.
• Stunning Scenery: The tour highlights Michigan’s fall foliage along with panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay.
• Flexible Itinerary: Includes visits to 4 wineries and 1 distillery, with plenty of time to sip, enjoy, and learn.
• All-Inclusive Pickup: Convenient pickup and drop-off in downtown Traverse City makes access easy.
• Additional Costs: Flights, bottles, and food are extra, so plan for some additional spending if you want a full experience.

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Overview and Value

At $69 per person, this tour delivers a premium experience at a reasonable price. It’s clear that the focus is on quality—not just in the wines tasted but also in the transportation and service. The inclusion of luxury SUVs like a cherry red Chevrolet Tahoe RST, Cadillac Escalade, or Tahoes sets this apart from standard wine tours. The vehicle’s air conditioning and spaciousness make for a comfortable ride, especially on a crisp fall day.

The tour is approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a perfect half-day outing. It includes pickup and drop-off from downtown Traverse City, adding to the overall convenience. The group size is limited to 24 travelers, ensuring a more intimate and personalized experience.

The Itinerary: Wineries and Scenic Stops

The tour features visits to eight key stops:
– Old Mission: The starting point, where the group gets a chance to soak in the scenery and understand the region’s wine potential.
– Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for some of the best reds and whites in Traverse City, this spot is also a romantic setting—perfect for popping the question or celebrating a special occasion.
– Bonobo Winery: Guests can purchase wines, join a wine club, or simply savor the wines that make this winery unique. Many reviews highlight Bonobo’s wines as “wines you can’t wait to brag about and share.”
– Grand Traverse Bay: A breathtaking view of the bay, separated from the rest of Lake Michigan by the Leelanau Peninsula, provides excellent photo opportunities and a chance to appreciate the area’s natural beauty.

Additional stops include Mari Vineyards, Bowers Harbor, Chateau Chantal, Chateau Grand Traverse, Brys Estates, 2 Lads, and Old Mission Distillery. Each offers a different taste of Michigan’s wine scene, from reds to whites, with some wineries offering tastings, glasses, or bottles for purchase.

What You’ll Experience at Each Stop

At each winery, you’ll find ample tasting time—about 55 minutes per stop, allowing you to relax and savor the wines at your own pace. The guides are more than just drivers; they’re wine enthusiasts who can provide recommendations and background on each winery’s specialties.

At Hawthorne Vineyards, for example, you can sip and savor some of the best wines on the peninsula, with many guests noting it as a “location to pop the question.” Bonobo Winery stands out for its wines that “wines you cannot wait to brag about,” and the opportunity to buy flights, glasses, or bottles enhances the experience.

The scenic Grand Traverse Bay stop is particularly valued by travelers, who love the stunning views and appreciate the chance to take photos or simply enjoy the fresh air and natural beauty.

Professional Guides and VIP Treatment

The guides are described as local experts, U of Michigan grads, and former law enforcement, which adds a layer of professionalism and local knowledge. They’re committed to making the experience special, from providing a complimentary bottle of bubbly at the start to ensuring everyone feels comfortable and informed throughout.

Many reviews mention the stellar customer service as a highlight, describing the guides as friendly, attentive, and enthusiastic about sharing their love of wine and the region. This personalized approach makes the tour feel truly VIP, rather than just another group activity.

Transportation and Comfort

The SUVs are a major selling point. Unlike the usual party bus, these vehicles offer a quiet, comfortable, and private setting for your group. They are air-conditioned, spacious, and stylish—perfect for enjoying the fall scenery during the short drives between wineries.

The group size of up to 24 travelers keeps things lively but manageable, and the non-party bus format means you won’t be squeezed into a crowded, noisy vehicle. This makes it ideal for those who prefer a more relaxed, intimate experience.

Cost, Extras, and Overall Value

While the core tour costs $69 per person, extras like wine flights, bottles, or food are additional. Prices for flights range from $12 to $50, which is quite reasonable considering the quality of the wines and the overall VIP experience. Because all reservations are handled for you, it saves the hassle of planning, and the included pickup and drop-off add to the value.

It’s worth noting that, based on reviews, some guests feel the tour offers great value for the experience—especially when you consider the luxury transportation, expert guides, and scenic stops. The fact that you’re avoiding the crowds typical of bus tours makes this a more personalized, memorable outing.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This tour is ideal for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting a touch of luxury during Michigan’s beautiful fall season. If you value personalized service, scenic drives, and top wineries, this tour hits all those marks. It’s also a great choice if you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want a relaxed, hassle-free day exploring the region’s wine and fall foliage.

Because it’s not a large bus tour, it’s less suitable for travelers who prefer a super budget-friendly, quick tasting experience, or those on a tight schedule for a more extensive wine tour. However, if you want to combine comfort, scenic beauty, and exclusive access, this is a fine pick.

The Sum Up

In all, the NON-BUS FALL COLORS Traverse City Old Mission Wine Tour offers a relaxing, luxurious way to enjoy Michigan’s stunning fall colors and wine country. With stylish SUVs, expert guides, and a carefully curated itinerary, it delivers a personal and scenic experience that’s perfect for celebrating the season.

The tour’s focus on quality over quantity, combined with breathtaking views and top-notch customer service, makes it stand out among regional wine tours. It’s best suited for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting to elevate their fall trip with a touch of elegance and authentic local flavor.

While extras like food and wine are additional costs, the overall value—considering comfort, scenery, and expert guidance—makes it a worthwhile splurge. Whether you’re visiting Traverse City for the scenery or the wine, this tour promises a memorable day that combines Michigan’s natural beauty with its acclaimed wines.

FAQs

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the tour includes pickup and drop-off in downtown Traverse City and is conducted using a luxury SUV, not a bus.

What is the group size?
The tour accommodates up to 24 travelers, ensuring a more personalized experience.

Are food and wine bottles included?
No, tastings and wine purchases are extra. Flights range from $12 to $50, and food is available at additional cost.

How long does the tour last?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, cancellations are accepted up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
You must be 21 or older to purchase alcohol in Michigan, so this is primarily for adult travelers.

This guided wine tour in luxury SUVs promises a relaxed, scenic, and wine-filled day amid Michigan’s colorful fall landscape. Perfect for those seeking a high-end, authentic experience that combines natural beauty with exceptional wine tasting.