NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour

Exploring the NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery and Distillery Tour

Taking a brewery and distillery tour in Traverse City doesn’t have to mean hopping onto a loud, crowded party bus. This VIP experience offers a relaxed, personalized approach in luxury SUVs, guided by passionate beer and spirits connoisseurs. Whether you’re a craft beer aficionado, a wine lover, or just looking for a unique way to explore downtown Traverse City, this tour promises genuine expertise, stellar drinks, and a touch of star-quality service.

What really stands out is the knowledgeable guides, who are not just drivers but true enthusiasts eager to share their love of local brewing and distilling scenes. Plus, the semi-private group setting ensures a more intimate, relaxed vibe compared to typical large-group tours. One thing to consider: the tiered pricing depends on your group size, so it’s great for couples or small groups. If you prefer to skip the party bus chaos and enjoy a more tailored experience, this tour might be just what you need.

This tour is perfect for those who appreciate authenticity, expert guidance, and a bit of luxury, making it a fantastic choice for celebrating special occasions or simply discovering Traverse City’s craft beverage scene in style. Now, let’s take a deep dive into what makes this tour such a standout.

Key Points

• Luxury SUV transport provides a comfortable, stress-free way to visit multiple breweries and distilleries.
• Guides are passionate, knowledgeable, and eager to share insider tips on local drinks.
• The tour covers diverse venues, from innovative small-batch breweries to a full-amenity spot with food and entertainment.
• Sample quality includes beers, wines, spirits, and even unique options like beer slushies—something for every taste.
• Tours are semi-private, mixing groups to foster a friendly, social atmosphere without the chaos of large buses.
• The tiered pricing makes it accessible for small groups, with most bookings made around 10 days in advance for optimal scheduling.

An In-Depth Look at the Traverse City Brewery & Distillery Tour

An Introduction to Traverse City’s Beer and Spirits Scene

This VIP tour offers an engaging way to explore Traverse City’s vibrant craft beverage landscape. Starting downtown, the experience kicks off with a scenic drive through the beautiful streets of Traverse City, where your guides provide context about the local scene and what makes these venues special. It’s clear from the outset that this isn’t just about transportation; it’s about experiencing the city’s beverage culture with experts.

The Comfort and Style of Luxury Transportation

Say goodbye to the usual party bus. Instead, you’ll be traveling in a luxury GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, which ensures plenty of space, comfort, and climate control. The SUV approach allows for a semi-private, relaxed atmosphere, perfect for conversations and enjoying the scenery. The guides emphasize that this isn’t a rushed, noisy party—it’s a curated experience, with a focus on quality and personal interaction.

The Stops: What Makes Them Special

Silver Spruce Brewing Company

The first stop sets the tone for the day. Silver Spruce, which opened in 2018, has built a reputation for some of the best lagers in the area. Guests are invited to buy glasses, enjoy sample platters, or even take home growlers. The guide and guests alike rave about the beer quality here, especially the lagers, pilsners, and IPAs. Interestingly, there’s also a select offering of wines like Pinot Grigio and Malbec, adding a bit of variety for wine enthusiasts.

One of the tour’s highlights, according to reviews, is the “feeling like Movie Stars,” thanks to the lively yet relaxed atmosphere. The 50-minute stay here offers enough time to sample multiple beers without feeling rushed.

Earthen Ales

Next, the focus shifts to innovation. Since 2016, Earthen Ales has been experimenting with small batches, introducing new beers every Sunday, making each visit a novel experience. Guests can sample a wide variety of styles, including beer, ciders, and even beer slushies—definitely a fun twist to the usual tasting. Visitors enjoy the experimental nature, feeling welcome to try whatever catches their eye or palate, with the freedom to bring their own food or pick up snacks at the bar.

The unpredictable, creative approach here makes Earthen Ales a memorable stop. As one reviewer notes, “they let our guests try the experimental beers,” which adds an element of participation and discovery.

The Workshop Brewing Company

The final stop is a crowd favorite: The Workshop Brewing Company. Beyond its impressive beer menu—including options like whiskey, vodka, gin, and ciders—the venue offers a warm, community-focused vibe. They serve food with organic and local ingredients, and with live entertainment six nights a week, it’s a lively spot to unwind.

Guests love trying a full line of drinks here, from traditional beers to spirits and wines, making it a versatile conclusion to the tour. The welcoming atmosphere, alongside the variety, leaves a lasting impression.

What’s Included and What to Expect

This tour provides expert guides—many of whom are local grads from Michigan universities—who are passionate about craft beverages. Their recommendations add genuine value, guiding you toward the best drinks at each location. You’ll enjoy a luxury SUV ride, avoiding the chaos of a party bus, and instead experiencing a semi-private, comfortable journey.

Samples, in the form of glasses, bottles, or growlers, are included, but food and additional drinks are extra (which is typical for tasting tours). The air-conditioned vehicle means you’re comfortable regardless of the weather, and the tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, making it a substantial yet relaxed experience.

Price and Value

At $68 per person, this tour offers excellent value, especially when considering the quality of guides, the luxury transportation, and the variety of venues visited. The tiered pricing system makes it accessible for small groups, and booking around 10 days in advance helps secure your preferred times. For travelers seeking an authentic, personalized experience without the crowd, the cost is more than justified.

The Reviews Speak Volumes

The feedback from past guests underscores the quality of the guides and the overall experience. One reviewer, Danielle, called the tour “amazing” and highlighted the “fun” she had with guide Tracey. She also appreciated the “new brew and distillery experience” and expressed excitement to return, which speaks to the tour’s ability to keep guests engaged and eager to revisit.

Another noteworthy comment mentions the “stunning views” and the feeling of being treated like a movie star, which encapsulates the VIP vibe and hospitality focus.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for small groups, couples, or anyone wanting a more intimate, expert-led tour. It’s particularly well-suited for those craving a relaxed, luxurious atmosphere, without the noise and rush of traditional party buses. Beer lovers, wine connoisseurs, and spirits enthusiasts will appreciate the diversity of options and the knowledgeable guides. It’s also a fantastic choice for celebrating special occasions or just a fun, stylish way to explore Traverse City’s beverage scene.

Final Thoughts

This NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery and Distillery Tour offers a refreshing take on craft beverage tours. It balances luxury, expertise, and authenticity, giving you a chance to discover local gems in comfort and style. The guides’ knowledge and passion elevate the experience, turning what could be a simple tasting into a memorable adventure filled with insider tips and genuine hospitality.

While it’s priced higher than typical tours, the focus on personalized service, high-quality venues, and comfortable transport make it feel like excellent value—especially for small groups or special occasions. Whether you’re a dedicated craft beer lover or just looking for a fun way to see Traverse City, this tour delivers a well-rounded, enjoyable outing.

FAQ

How far in advance should I book?
Most bookings are made around 10 days in advance, which helps secure your preferred start time and group size.

What is the maximum group size?
The tour is limited to a maximum of 20 travelers, ensuring a semi-private, personalized experience.

Are the guides knowledgeable?
Yes, guides are beer and spirits enthusiasts with local expertise, offering personalized recommendations and insights at each stop.

Is transportation comfortable?
Absolutely. The tour uses air-conditioned luxury SUVs, providing ample space and comfort during the drive.

Can I customize the experience?
While the tour is structured, the guides’ expertise and the flexible stops allow for some personalized recommendations.

Are drinks included?
Samples are included, with glasses, bottles, and growlers offered. Food and additional drinks are extra.

Is this tour family-friendly?
It’s designed for adults, mainly those interested in craft beverages. It’s not suited for children or minors.

What’s the cancellation policy?
Free cancellation is available up to 24 hours before the tour, allowing flexibility if your plans change.

To sum it up, if you’re seeking a relaxed, expert-guided, and luxury transport experience to explore Traverse City’s craft scene, this tour delivers on all fronts. It’s perfect for those who want quality over quantity, genuine insights, and a touch of celebrity-level service—all in a fun, friendly setting.