NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour

If you’re dreaming of exploring Michigan’s craft beverage scene without the crowds or the usual party bus chaos, the NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour might be just what you need. This VIP experience offers a polished, intimate way to taste some of the region’s finest drinks, all while traveling in style. We’re here to give you a detailed look at what makes this tour stand out — or what to consider before booking.

Two things we love about this experience are the luxury transportation and the personalized guidance from expert connoisseurs. Instead of squeaking onto a noisy bus with a dozen strangers, you get to relax in a plush GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, feeling like a celebrity. Plus, the guides are knowledgeable, passionate about Michigan’s craft scene, and eager to share their favorite spots and drinks.

One possible drawback is the price point of $199 per person, which is on the higher side for a four and a half-hour tour. That dollars-and-cents consideration might matter more if you’re on a tighter budget. However, the level of comfort, expert guidance, and quality of the drinks often justify the cost — especially if you’re celebrating a special occasion or want a more curated, stress-free experience.

This tour is best suited for drink enthusiasts who appreciate high-quality beer, cider, and wine, but also value comfort, flexibility, and a touch of luxury. Whether you’re celebrating a birthday, a bachelor/bachelorette party, or simply want to enjoy Traverse City’s beverage scene without the hassle, this VIP tour aims to elevate the experience.

Key Points

• Luxury Transport: Travel in a GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, not a noisy party bus.
• Expert Guides: Local connoisseurs lead the tour, offering personalized recommendations.
• Flexible Scheduling: Tours depart at various times and can be customized.
• Exclusive Visits: Visit four iconic breweries known for their outstanding drinks.
• Focused Experience: No rushing, just plenty of time to savor drinks and enjoy the scenery.
• Ideal for Special Occasions: Perfect for celebrations or a relaxed day out with friends.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

Starting Off in Style: The VIP Pickup

The tour kicks off with a luxury pickup at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in Downtown Traverse City, right next to Middlecoast Brewery. Unlike typical tours that rely on old, rundown buses, this experience begins with a high-end vehicle — a GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade — that feels more like a ride in a private club than a crowded bus. The pickup location is conveniently close to hotels and downtown hotspots, saving you from long walks or drives after a day of tasting.

Guests have praised the professional, friendly drivers and the ease of the process. As one reviewer noted, “Getting picked up in a luxury SUV made me feel special — a real movie star moment.” With the vehicle air-conditioned and comfortable, there’s no sense of chaos or overcrowding. Just a relaxed start to what promises to be an enjoyable day.

The Itinerary: Four Iconic Breweries and Cider Houses

The core of the tour involves visiting four select breweries renowned for their craft drinks. The lineup can include establishments like Loco Boys, Workshop Brewing Company, Earthen Ales, Silver Spruce, among others, with some flexibility based on guest preferences or special requests. These spots are chosen not just for their drinks but also for their ambiance and scenic locations.

What you’ll experience at each stop varies, but generally, you’ll enjoy tastings of their signature ciders, beers, or wines. The ciders are crafted with the same care as wine or beer, made “with love,” as the tour emphasizes. Unlike mass-produced ciders with high fructose corn syrup, these are real ciders with genuine ingredients, making each sip more authentic and flavorful.

Guides are passionate and knowledgeable — sharing stories about each brewery’s history, their brewing process, and what makes their drinks special. One guest mentioned, “The guides knew their stuff, but also made it fun, like hanging out with friends who happen to know a lot about drinks.”

The Experience: Relaxed, Personalized, and Authentic

What sets this tour apart is its curated, flexible approach. Unlike standard bus tours that often rush through locations, this VIP experience allows for a relaxed pace. You can linger, ask questions, and truly enjoy each location. If you’re celebrating a special occasion, the guides are happy to tailor the experience — just ask.

The tour is semi-private, typically consisting of groups of 6-7 people, providing an intimate atmosphere. Larger private groups are also available. This small-group setting fosters conversation and connection, making the day more engaging.

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The Drinks: Quality Over Quantity

Samples are included, but the tour notes that flights, bottles, and food are extra. This means you can decide whether to indulge in additional tastings or enjoy some snacks and meals on your own. Many guests find the included samples sufficient to get a good taste of each brewery’s offerings.

Reviews highlight that the ciders and beers are far from typical mass-market drinks. One guest remarked, “The quality of the drinks was impressive — you could tell these are made with care and craftsmanship.”

The End of the Tour: Downtown Drop-off

After the four stops, the tour typically concludes back in downtown Traverse City. The guides often offer to drop guests off at local hotels or motels, making it convenient to continue exploring the city or head straight to dinner. If you’ve bought a box of wine or bottles, there’s no problem bringing them along; you’ll have time to enjoy downtown and pick up your purchases later.

How This Tour Delivers Value

Compared to standard pub crawls or party bus tours, this VIP experience emphasizes quality, comfort, and local expertise. The $199 price tag might seem steep, but when you consider:

• Luxury transportation that eliminates the hassle of driving
• Expert guides offering insights and personalized recommendations
• Small-group intimacy
• High-quality, craft beverages

many find it a worthwhile investment, especially for a special occasion or a first-time visit to Traverse City’s beverage scene.

Authenticity and Expertise

Guests repeatedly praise the knowledgeable guides, who are often local university grads, and the quality of the drinks. This isn’t a generic tour aimed at mass-market consumption — it’s about experiencing Traverse City’s craft culture with authenticity and genuine enthusiasm.

Flexibility and Convenience

With flexible departure times and convenient pickup/drop-off points, the tour fits easily into most travel plans. No long walks, no worrying about transportation after a few drinks — just pure relaxation and enjoyment.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience appeals most to drink lovers who value quality and comfort. It’s ideal for those celebrating a special event, wanting a private and relaxed outing, or simply seeking an upscale way to explore Traverse City’s breweries and cideries. If you prefer a lively party atmosphere with loud music and crowds, this might not be your best fit. But if you appreciate expert insights, personalized service, and traveling in style, this tour delivers.

Final Thoughts

The NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour offers a carefully curated way to enjoy Michigan’s craft beverage scene. It combines luxury transportation, knowledgeable guides, and intimate visits to some of the best breweries and cideries in the region. The experience is as much about the journey and atmosphere as it is about the drinks, making it a memorable outing.

For those seeking a high-end, relaxed, and authentic way to experience Traverse City, this tour is a compelling choice. It’s especially well-suited for special occasions or travelers who want to avoid the typical party bus chaos while still enjoying a fun and flavorful day.

FAQs

What is included in the tour price?
The tour price of $199 covers luxury transportation in a GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, expert guides, and tastings at four breweries. Flights, bottles, and food are extra.

How long does the tour last?
The typical duration is 4.5 hours, giving ample time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Where does the tour pick up from?
Pickup is at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City, near Middlecoast Brewery, or at other local locations upon request. The vehicle is a high-end SUV, not a party bus.

Can I customize the tour?
Yes, the tour offers flexible scheduling and can be tailored to private groups. Feel free to ask guides for specific locations or experiences.

Is the tour suitable for groups?
Absolutely. Most groups are 6-7 people, fostering an intimate environment. Private options are also available.

Are drinks included in the tour?
Samples are included, but if you want additional tastings or bottles, those are available at extra cost.

Is this tour good for special occasions?
Yes, it’s perfect for birthdays, anniversaries, bachelor/bachelorette parties, or just a relaxing day with friends.

What should I bring?
Bring a hat for sun protection. No smoking or drinks in the vehicle are allowed.

This VIP tour in Traverse City offers more than just a tasting — it provides a luxurious, personalized experience that highlights the region’s best breweries and cider houses. If you’re looking for a comfortable, authentic, and fun way to explore Michigan’s craft beverage scene, this tour is a fine choice. Whether celebrating a special day or simply indulging your love of good drinks, you’re likely to leave with new favorites and lasting memories. Just be prepared to enjoy yourself in style.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby