5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 4 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula

Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula is a picturesque wine region that beckons oenophiles and casual sippers alike. The 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour provides an engaging way to discover four renowned local wineries, each with its unique offerings. With limo-style transportation, knowledgeable guides, and tastings ranging from $5 to $10, this tour promises a delightful and relaxing experience. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or simply seeking to expand your palate, this tour delivers a compelling glimpse into the region’s vibrant wine culture.

Key Points

• A 5-hour wine tour that visits 4 wineries on Old Mission Peninsula near Traverse City, operating daily at 12 PM and Saturdays at 11 AM.
• The tour provides round-trip transportation in an air-conditioned limo-style bus, with a local guide to enhance the wine-tasting experience.
• Winery tasting prices range from $5 to $13 per glass, with options for flights and other wine-based beverages.
• The tour accommodates a maximum of 20 travelers, with parking available on a first-come, first-served basis.
• The tour has received a 4.9 out of 5 stars rating from nearly 2,000 reviews, with guests highlighting the knowledgeable guides and the overall enjoyable experience.

Tour Overview and Details

The Traverse City Wine Tour is a 5-hour excursion that takes visitors to four wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula.

A 5-hour tour that whisks visitors to four wineries on the scenic Old Mission Peninsula near Traverse City.

It operates daily at 12 PM, except Saturdays which start at 11 AM. With a maximum of 20 travelers, the public tour offers round-trip transportation from Traverse City in an air-conditioned premium limo-style bus.

A local tour guide is provided, and a Yeti-style cooler is available for customer use. Gratuity of 15-20% for the driver is recommended.

Reservations at wineries may be required, and customers are encouraged to pack their own lunch as most wineries offer only small snacks.

Participating Wineries and Tasting Pricing

On the Traverse City Wine Tour, visitors have the opportunity to sample wines at four distinct wineries. The tasting prices range from $5 to $10 per tasting.

For example, at Chateau Chantal, a $10 tasting includes 3 wines or a glass. Bowers Harbor offers $8-$10 per glass and $22-$28 for flights.

Brys Estate charges $9-$11 per glass, $10 for Frose, and $9 for a snack box.

Bonobo’s tastings are $9-$13 per glass, including a souvenir glass.

Hawthorne and Mari Vineyards charge $10 and $8-$15 per glass, respectively.

Transportation and Guide Services

As part of the Traverse City Wine Tour, transportation is provided in the form of an air-conditioned premium limo-style bus.

A local tour guide is also included, ensuring a knowledgeable and informative experience. Customers can utilize a Yeti-style cooler provided for their convenience.

The tour operator recommends a gratuity of 15-20% for the driver. Parking is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with about 10-15 spots available.

With these amenities, the Traverse City Wine Tour offers a comfortable and seamless way to explore the region’s wineries.

Parking and Accessibility

Parking at the Traverse City Wine Tour is available on a first-come, first-served basis, with approximately 10-15 spots provided.

The parking area is located near the tour’s starting point, making it convenient for guests to access the premium limo-style bus.

While the parking is free, it’s recommended to arrive early to secure a spot, as the tour’s popularity can lead to the lot filling up quickly.

For those with mobility concerns, the tour provider ensures the bus is equipped with amenities to accommodate all guests comfortably during the wine tasting experience.

Covid-19 Adjustments and Policies

While the Traverse City Wine Tour is a popular experience, the COVID-19 pandemic has led to some adjustments to ensure the safety and comfort of guests.

Wineries visited may change based on availability, and tasting formats could vary. Customers are encouraged to pack their own lunch, as most wineries now offer only small snacks.

Reservations at wineries are recommended but don’t guarantee no wait times. Plus, some wineries only accept card payments, so guests should come prepared.

Despite these changes, the tour give you an enjoyable and memorable wine-tasting adventure in Traverse City.

Packing and Dining Recommendations

Customers are encouraged to pack a lunch or light snacks for the Traverse City Wine Tour, as most wineries now offer only small bites.

While some wineries may provide complimentary snacks, it’s best to come prepared with your own sustenance. This allows you to fully enjoy the wine tastings without feeling rushed or hungry.

Plus, with the Covid-19 adjustments, reservations at wineries may be required, so packing your own lunch ensures you have something to eat during the tour.

Customer Ratings and Feedback

The Traverse City Wine Tour has consistently received high praise from travelers, earning an impressive 4.9 out of 5 stars based on nearly 2,000 reviews.

Guests highlight the knowledgeable and friendly tour guides, the beautiful views, and the relaxing atmosphere. The tour is praised for its organization and the enjoyable social interactions with fellow travelers.

Reviewers appreciate:

1. The well-curated winery selection showcasing the region’s finest.
2. The comfortable transportation allowing them to fully immerse in the experience.
3. The opportunity to sample a variety of wines at an affordable price point.
4. The overall value and memorable day spent discovering Traverse City’s vibrant wine culture.

Reservations and Booking Information

To book the Traverse City Wine Tour, visitors can easily reserve their spots online through the tour operator’s website.

The tour runs daily at 12 PM, except on Saturdays when it departs at 11 AM. Reservations are recommended, as the tour has a maximum of 20 travelers.

While wine tastings aren’t included in the tour price, the wineries visited charge between $5 to $10 per tasting. Visitors are encouraged to make any necessary winery reservations in advance, as this doesn’t guarantee avoiding wait times.

Wine tastings at the visited wineries range from $5 to $10 per tasting. Visitors should make winery reservations in advance to minimize wait times.

The tour provides round-trip transportation and a local guide.

Frequently Asked Questions

How Much Alcohol Can I Consume on the Tour?

The amount of alcohol one can consume on the tour is not specified. However, participants should drink responsibly and be mindful of local laws and their own limits to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.

Can I Request a Specific Tour Guide or Bus Driver?

While customers cannot request specific tour guides or bus drivers, the company give you knowledgeable and friendly staff on each tour. Guests can expect a welcoming experience from the assigned personnel.

Are Photos Allowed at the Wineries?

Yes, photos are generally allowed at the wineries on the tour. Guests are encouraged to capture the scenic views and their wine tasting experiences, but should be mindful of any posted policies or restrictions at each winery.

What Happens if the Bus Is Late or Doesn’t Show Up?

If the bus is late or doesn’t show up, the tour company will provide an alternate transportation option or refund the customer’s purchase. They aim to ensure customers have an enjoyable and hassle-free experience despite any unexpected delays.

Is the Tour Suitable for Children or Minors?

The tour is not suitable for children or minors, as it focuses on wine tastings at multiple wineries. The experience is geared towards adult travelers aged 21 and over due to the alcoholic nature of the activities.

The Sum Up

The 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour offers an exceptional opportunity to explore the picturesque Old Mission Peninsula. With four renowned wineries, knowledgeable guides, and comfortable transportation, this tour promises an unforgettable wine-tasting experience. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or seeking a relaxing day, this tour provides a perfect blend of stunning views, delectable tastings, and a hassle-free adventure.