NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour 3 Winery Old Mission Peninsula

A Hands-Free Wine Escape: The Non-Bus Traverse Sunset Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula

When it comes to wine tasting in Traverse City, this Non-Bus Traverse Sunset Wine Tour offers a refreshing take—skipping the typical party bus chaos for a more intimate, relaxed experience. Instead of being herded around in a large crowd, you’ll enjoy the luxury of a semi-private ride in a spacious SUV, guided by knowledgeable locals with a passion for wine and the area’s hidden gems. The tour focuses on visiting three premier wineries, combined with spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay, all wrapped up in about 3 to 4 hours of tasting, learning, and scenic indulgence.

What we love about this experience is how it balances personalized attention with the chance to sample a variety of wines in a relaxed setting. Plus, the expert guides bring extra value with their authentic knowledge and friendly approach, making each stop feel special rather than rushed. The one thing to keep in mind is that tastings, wines, and food are not included in the base price, so if you’re craving a full wine flight or a hearty charcuterie board, expect to pay extra. This tour suits those who prefer a more upscale, intimate experience over the hustle of big bus tours, especially couples, small groups, or anyone who simply loves good wine and stunning scenery.

Key Points

• Semi-private, personalized experience in a spacious SUV rather than a crowded party bus
• Expert guides with local knowledge, offering tailored wine recommendations
• Includes tastings at three top wineries with options to purchase wines or join clubs
• Beautiful scenic stops like Grand Traverse Bay and Old Mission Peninsula views
• Flexible pickup and drop-off in downtown Traverse City for convenience
• Great for small groups or couples seeking a relaxed, authentic wine adventure

Why This Tour Stands Out for Wine Lovers and Sightseers

Unlike more generic wine tours, the NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour offers a more curated, VIP experience. The vehicle — a luxury SUV (GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or upcoming Cadillac Escalade) — ensures you’ll travel in comfort, with ample space and climate control, perfect for the Michigan weather. This isn’t just about transportation; it’s about enhancing your wine experience with expert guidance. The guides, some with ties to local universities and law enforcement backgrounds, are clearly passionate and genuinely interested in sharing their knowledge, which enhances the overall experience.

The tour’s timing at 3:30 pm allows guests to enjoy the sunset views over Grand Traverse Bay and the Old Mission Peninsula, adding a picturesque backdrop to your wine tasting journey. It’s also a flexible tour—most travelers book well in advance, and the max group size of 20 ensures a semi-private atmosphere that’s both intimate and lively.

The Itinerary Breakdown

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards — A Secluded Gem

Your first stop is Hawthorne Vineyards, one of the most scenic and exclusive tasting rooms on Old Mission Peninsula. Positioned on a high bluff, it offers stunning views of East and West Grand Traverse Bays, setting the tone for your day. The winery features both reds and whites, including a popular Merlot/Cab Franc blend and crisp Auxerrois or Dry Riesling. Here, guests can buy flights, glasses, or bottles, and even join the wine club if they find a favorite.

The reviewers praise Hawthorne for its secluded location and the opportunity to enjoy quality wines in a peaceful setting. One guest noted, “We loved the way the guide recommended wines and shared insights about each one,” highlighting how the guides help enhance the tasting experience with expert suggestions.

Stop 2: Bonobo Winery — A Celebrity-Style Experience

Next, you visit Bonobo Winery, founded by Traverse City natives Todd and Carter Oosterhouse. The atmosphere has a celebrity boutique vibe, with stunning views and a focus on expertly crafted reds and whites. Notably, this is the only stop where guests can sample a glass of whiskey—a fun bonus for those interested in spirits.

Wines like the BDX and top-shelf Pinot Noir earn rave reviews for their complexity and drinkability, while the white options such as the Blanc de Blancs and Chardonnay are described as top-notch. One reviewer mentioned feeling like a “movie star” during their visit, thanks to the friendly staff and beautiful setting.

Stop 3: Old Mission Distilling — Spirits and Local Flavors

Moving on, the tour takes a turn into the distillery scene at Old Mission Distilling. Here, guests can learn about the local ingredients and small-batch process that go into the spirits. The tasting room is welcoming, and the focus is on spirits made from locally sourced ingredients like fruits and grains.

While not a wine stop, this location offers a different perspective on the local beverage scene, giving a well-rounded taste of Michigan’s craftsmanship. Reviewers highlight the informative staff and the chance to purchase mixed drinks or spirits to take home.

Optional: Bowers Harbor Vineyards — A Seasonal Delight

If timing allows, the tour may include a stop at Bowers Harbor Vineyards, one of the original wineries established in 1991. Known as the “dog winery,” it’s famous for its friendly atmosphere and extensive wine selection, including Riesling, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.

Guests have appreciated the casual, welcoming environment and the chance to see some adorable dogs while tasting wines in the converted horse stable. This stop, however, is seasonal and may be an alternate depending on the day.

Final Stop: Grand Traverse Bay — Scenic Views

The tour culminates with spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay, a highlight that truly elevates the experience. On the drive back, you’ll see the long arm of the bay, separated by the Old Mission Peninsula, offering picture-perfect vistas. This is a great time to reflect on the day’s tastings and enjoy the natural beauty that makes Traverse City unique.

What Makes This Tour a Great Value?

At $68 per person, it’s quite reasonable considering the included guided experience, scenic stops, and tastings. Notably, the price covers expert guidance and transportation, which are often the most costly parts of wine tours. The flexibility to purchase wines or join clubs adds to the value, allowing you to take home bottles or enjoy the wines at a later date.

Since tastings and food are extra, you might want to budget accordingly if you’re craving a full flight or a substantial charcuterie board at each stop. Still, the focus on quality and personalized service makes this a worthwhile investment for wine enthusiasts.

Who Is This Tour Best Suited For?

This experience is ideal for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting a more relaxed, VIP-style day without the chaos of a party bus. It suits those who appreciate authentic wine tasting, scenic drives, and expert insights. The semi-private nature allows for more engaging conversations and tailored recommendations—perfect for travelers who want to learn and truly enjoy the local wine culture.

It’s also great for first-time visitors, as the guides are eager to share their knowledge, and the stops are curated to showcase the best of the Old Mission Peninsula.

Final Thoughts

The NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour combines luxury, convenience, and authenticity. Instead of the usual crowded bus experience, you get a more intimate journey through some of Traverse City’s most renowned wineries, all while enjoying breathtaking views of Lake Michigan and learning from passionate guides.

You’ll find that the quality of wines, the personalized service, and the stunning scenery make this tour stand out. It’s a perfect choice for wine lovers who want to enjoy a well-paced, relaxed day with expert recommendations, beautiful vistas, and a touch of luxury.

Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply want to indulge in some of Michigan’s finest wines, this tour offers great value and unforgettable memories.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 3 to 4 hours, giving you enough time to enjoy each stop without feeling rushed.

Are tastings included in the price?
Yes, wine samples and splashes are included. However, wines, flights, and food are extra if you choose to purchase or indulge further at each location.

What type of vehicle is used?
A luxury SUV, such as a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, is used for transportation, providing comfort and space for small groups.

Can I be picked up from anywhere in Traverse City?
Pickup is offered at select downtown locations, making it convenient for most travelers staying in or near the city.

Is this tour suitable for larger groups?
Most groups are small, typically 6-7 guests, with larger groups sometimes sharing a private vehicle, ensuring an intimate experience.

What ages or travelers can participate?
Most travelers can participate, and the tour is geared toward adults who enjoy wine, scenic views, and relaxed outings.

In essence, this guided wine tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, expert insight, and high-quality wines—perfect for those seeking a more refined, personalized experience in Traverse City.