NON BUS Traverse City Left Foot Charley Leelanau Wine Tour

Planning a trip to Michigan’s famed Leelanau Peninsula and craving an authentic, upscale wine experience? This non-bus, VIP wine tour promises to whisk you away in luxury SUVs, sampling some of the best wines the region has to offer—all without the raucous party bus scene. From stunning vineyard views to insider knowledge from real wine experts, this tour aims to blend comfort, authenticity, and education into a memorable half-day adventure.

What we love about this experience is the personal touch it offers. You’re not just another passenger on a noisy group tour; you’re treated to a semi-private setting, often with your own vehicle, with guides who are genuine wine enthusiasts. Plus, the opportunity to enjoy top-tier wines, beautiful scenery, and relaxed pacing makes it stand out from typical wine tours. The only potential consideration is that tastings, wines, and food are extra—so it’s good to budget accordingly if you’re planning to indulge fully.

This tour is perfect for travelers who appreciate quality over quantity, want an insider’s view of Leelanau wines, and prefer a more refined, private atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply craving a laid-back yet knowledgeable wine adventure, this experience can fit the bill.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• VIP, semi-private experience with groups of 6-7 most likely having their own SUV
• Guided by real wine experts who provide in-depth knowledge and personalized recommendations
• Includes wine samples at four top wineries, with options to purchase additional wines and food
• Stunning scenic views of the Leelanau Peninsula complement the wine tastings
• Luxury transportation in SUVs like GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, and soon Cadillac Escalade
• Affordable luxury at $199 per person for an immersive, full 4.5-hour experience

If you’re dreaming of exploring Michigan’s Leelanau Peninsula, this tour offers a thoughtful way to enjoy the region’s famed wineries without the chaos of a party bus. As seasoned travelers, we appreciate how this experience combines comfort, education, and authentic local flavor. It’s designed for those who want to savor wine, soak in beautiful scenery, and avoid the often overwhelming noise and crowds associated with larger, less personalized tours.

Why choose this tour?

The biggest draw is clearly the luxury SUV transportation. Instead of being part of a massive group on a loud bus, you’ll most likely be in a smaller, semi-private vehicle. This setup naturally fosters a more relaxed, intimate environment where guides can tailor their insights to your interests. We loved how the guides—who are real wine enthusiasts—share their knowledge with enthusiasm, making each tasting more meaningful.

Another standout is the wine sampling experience. With four top wineries included in the tour, you get to compare a variety of styles and flavors, from crisp whites to bold reds. The included samples are generous enough to give you a good sense of each winery’s signature wines, and many reviews mention the excellent wine selection as a highlight.

Finally, the scenic backdrop of the Leelanau Peninsula cannot be overstated. The views of vineyards, rolling hills, and Lake Michigan’s distant shimmer serve as a perfect setting for relaxing, tasting, and photographing. This is a tour where the environment enhances the experience rather than being an afterthought.

Possible drawbacks to consider

While the experience is largely positive, it’s worth noting that the wines and food are extra. If you’re planning to do a lot of tasting and pairing, your expenses could add up, so plan accordingly. Also, since the tour groups are semi-private, the overall schedule might be less flexible than larger tours, and you’ll want to be mindful of timing at each winery.

Who will love this?

This tour is ideal for wine lovers who value quality over quantity and prefer a more private, educational experience. It’s perfect for couples, small groups of friends, or anyone celebrating a special occasion. If you appreciate scenic drives and insider knowledge from passionate guides, this tour hits the mark.

The tour typically lasts about 4.5 hours—a comfortable window to explore without feeling rushed. It usually runs in the morning, allowing you plenty of time to enjoy the rest of your day in Traverse City or nearby.

Meeting Point: You’ll find your guides in the parking lot next to the winery, ready to greet you and start the adventure. The vehicles are air-conditioned luxury SUVs—GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, with a Cadillac Escalade coming soon—ensuring comfort even on warmer days.

First Stop: The tour often kicks off at Left Foot Charley, a well-respected winery known for its small-batch wines and creative approach. Here, you’ll sample a flight of wines, often paired with small bites, and get an introduction to the region’s terroir. The guides’ insider tips help you understand what makes Leelanau wines unique.

Second and Third Stops: The itinerary continues with visits to other top wineries—though specific names may vary, you can expect a mix of established favorites and hidden gems. Each stop offers a chance to taste signature wines, explore the vineyards, and learn about the winemaking process straight from the experts.

Final Stop: The last winery typically leaves you with a memorable impression—whether it’s a bold red or a delicate white. Some groups mention that they appreciated the delicious food and tapas available at certain stops, which complemented the wines beautifully.

Throughout the tour, guides share stories about the region’s history, grape varieties, and local culture—adding depth to your tasting experience. The scenic drives between wineries are just as enjoyable, with panoramic views of the grapevines against the backdrop of Lake Michigan.

We loved the way guides like Tony, Andie, and Kyle blend their expertise with genuine enthusiasm. One reviewer mentioned, “They know their wines and are eager to share their passion without talking down to us.” This kind of approachable knowledge makes the tour accessible and engaging for both casual drinkers and seasoned connoisseurs.

Many guests have commented on the stunning views that accompany each winery visit. The rolling vineyards and lakeside vistas turn a simple tasting into a feast for the senses. Several reviews mention how relaxed and unhurried the pace is, allowing you to truly savor each sip and take in the scenery.

The small-group setting (most groups of 6-7) fosters lively conversation and a more personal vibe. The fact that most groups have their own vehicle means fewer strangers and more opportunity for tailored experiences—whether that’s focusing on particular wine styles or asking detailed questions about the region.

At $199 per person, this tour sits at a reasonable price point for a luxury, guided experience with four winery visits. When you factor in the personalized service, expert guides, scenic transportation, and included wine samples, it offers good value—especially compared to larger, less personal tours that might run higher or include fewer tastings.

Remember, additional wines, food, and tastings are extra, but this allows you to control your experience and spend according to your preferences. Many reviewers found the overall experience well worth the price, especially since they could enjoy learning in a relaxed, upscale setting.

This non-bus Leelanau Peninsula wine tour crafted by Movie Stars Wine Tours offers a refined, intimate way to explore Michigan’s top wineries. Its combination of luxury transportation, knowledgeable guides, and stunning scenery makes it stand out from more generic wine tours.

For those who value personalized service, quality wine, and scenic beauty, this experience delivers. It’s a perfect choice for small groups, celebrating special occasions, or anyone seeking a more relaxed, authentic wine adventure without sacrificing comfort or education.

While the extra costs for wines and food might require a bit of planning, they also allow you to customize your tasting experience. The flexible booking options, including free cancellation and pay-later reservations, add a welcome layer of convenience.

In all, if you’re after a high-quality, well-paced, and scenic tour that emphasizes genuine expertise and a personal touch, this Leelanau wine experience could very well be the highlight of your Michigan trip.

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
Since wine tastings are involved, this tour is best suited for adults. Pregnant women or those with health restrictions related to wine should consider other options.

How many wineries are visited during the tour?
You will visit four top wineries in the Leelanau Peninsula, tasting wines at each stop.

Are the vehicles air-conditioned?
Yes, the luxury SUVs used for the tour are air-conditioned, making for a comfortable ride regardless of the weather.

Can I purchase additional wines or food during the tour?
Absolutely. Tastings, wines, and food are available for extra purchase at each winery, allowing you to extend your experience if desired.

What’s included in the tour price?
Your fee covers transportation in a luxury SUV, expert guides, and wine samples. Wineries, tastings, food, and additional wines are extra.

What should I bring?
Bring comfortable shoes for walking, a camera, sunscreen, and water. Note that smoking and drinks in the vehicle are not permitted.

Is the tour private?
Most groups of 6-7 will have their own vehicle, creating a semi-private experience. The guides may combine small groups for efficiency, but overall, it feels personalized.

This tour offers a thoughtful way to enjoy Michigan’s wine country—combining scenic drives, expert guidance, and premium wines in a relaxed, upscale setting. Perfect for those seeking quality, comfort, and authenticity during their trip to Traverse City.

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