NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour 3 Winery Old Mission Peninsula

If you’re dreaming of sipping your way through Michigan’s renowned wine region without the chaos of a crowded party bus, the NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula might just be your perfect match. This small-group, chauffeur-driven experience promises a relaxed, personalized day filled with stellar wines, beautiful scenery, and expert guidance.

What immediately catches our eye is the semi-private nature—most groups are limited to 6-7 people, typically riding in a luxurious GMC Yukon, which offers both comfort and intimacy. Pair that with knowledgeable guides who are passionate about wine and local sights, and you have a recipe for a memorable day. Plus, with no large buses involved, you’ll avoid the often hectic, noisy atmosphere that can sometimes come with bigger tours.

One consideration worth noting is that wine tastings, flights, and bottles are paid for separately. While the tour itself is a great value at $68 per person, you’ll want to budget for additional drinks and food if you want to indulge further at each stop. Lastly, the tour’s timing from 3:30 pm to about 7-8 pm makes it perfect for a late afternoon adventure, especially if you’re looking to enjoy a sunset vibe.

This tour is ideal for wine lovers, couples seeking a romantic experience, or small groups wanting a relaxed, authentic way to explore Traverse City’s wine scene without feeling rushed or crowded.

Good To Know

• Personalized Experience: Small-group semi-private tour offers a more intimate and relaxed vibe.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, enthusiastic, and passionate about local wines and scenery.
• Stunning Scenery: The tour includes scenic views of Grand Traverse Bay and Old Mission Peninsula.
• Flexible & Convenient: Pickup and drop-off in downtown Traverse City make it easy to join.
• Wine Sampling Included: Enjoy a variety of wine splashes and tastings, with additional options available for purchase.
• Quality Over Quantity: Focused visits to three top wineries, not a rush to fit many stops in a short time.

An Introduction to the Experience

If you’ve ever felt overwhelmed by large, noisy bus tours, this non-bus wine tour is an excellent alternative. It combines the convenience of private transportation with the camaraderie of a small group, all while giving you the chance to enjoy Traverse City’s best wineries at a relaxed pace.

What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on personalized service. The guides are not just drivers—they’re wine enthusiasts eager to share their insights and recommendations. We love the fact that the tour isn’t just about transportation but about creating a memorable wine experience—with expert guidance and genuine hospitality.

A quick glance at reviews reveals consistent praise for the guides’ knowledge and friendliness, with one guest noting they “took us to all the best spots and gave us lots of recommendations.” The scenic views of the bay from Hawthorne Vineyards and the picturesque vineyards at Bowers Harbor add visual appeal to the experience, making it as much a sightseeing tour as a wine tasting.

While the $68 price per person covers only the tour itself—excluding tastings or additional purchases—it still offers great value considering the personalized service, exclusive wineries, and scenic stops. It’s a good investment for anyone who wants to enjoy Traverse City’s wine culture without the hassle of larger, more commercial tours.

In-Depth Tour Breakdown

Stop 1: Hawthorne Vineyards

Our first stop is Hawthorne Vineyards, one of the top wineries in Traverse City. Perched on a high bluff, the tasting room offers sweeping views of East and West Grand Traverse Bays. Here, guests can buy flights, wines by the glass, or bottles, and even join the wine club.

The wines are an excellent reflection of the region’s diversity: for reds, the Merlot / Cab Franc blend is a highlight, perfect for those who prefer richer, fruit-forward wines. White drinkers will enjoy the Auxerrois or Dry Riesling, which are crisp and refreshing.

Guests often mention the seclusion of this site, which offers a peaceful, almost private atmosphere away from the busier vineyards. Plus, the option to sample popcorn flights or a charcuterie board (at additional cost) makes this stop both relaxing and indulgent.

Authentic insight: The view from Hawthorne is among the best on Old Mission Peninsula, giving you a chance to sip wine while soaking in the scenery.

Stop 2: Bonobo Winery

Next, the tour heads to Bonobo Winery, founded by long-time Traverse City natives Todd and Carter Oosterhouse. The vibe here is lively yet sophisticated. The stunning views, combined with excellent wines and top-tier customer service, make it a standout.

Wine options include reds like BDX and Pinot Noir, alongside whites such as Blanc de Blancs, Chardonnays, and a Fume Blanc. The mention of whiskey sampling is a rare treat and adds to the winery’s unique charm.

Guests often comment that they felt like “movie stars,” thanks to the stunning scenery and friendly staff who are eager to share their knowledge. The top-notch reds and whites are a testament to the winery’s dedication to quality.

Stop 3: Old Mission Distilling

The third stop at Old Mission Distilling introduces a different flavor to the tour. Here, guests can sample a range of local spirits and mixed drinks, with ingredients sourced from local farms and orchards.

A highlight for many is learning how ingredients are carefully chosen to craft spirits with a true sense of place. The tasting room’s ambiance is relaxed, perfect for those interested in exploring craft distilling alongside wine.

Optional Stop: Bowers Harbor Vineyards

Bowers Harbor Vineyards is a seasonal, often-visited stop, offering a classic vinifera experience. The former horse stable tasting room adds rustic charm, and the 20 acres of vineyards supply a diverse range of wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Noir.

Guests might also encounter Bowers Harbor’s “dog winery” nickname, as dogs are often seen around the property, adding a welcoming, homey touch.

Final Scenic Stop: Grand Traverse Bay

On the way back, the tour offers a scenic view of Grand Traverse Bay, separated into East and West arms by the Old Mission Peninsula. This iconic landscape is a beautiful backdrop for reflection and photos, especially at sunset.

What We Love About This Tour

• The guides’ expertise truly enhances the experience. They’re passionate about wine, knowledgeable about the local area, and eager to share tips and stories.
• The scenic views from Hawthorne Vineyards and along the bay are genuinely breathtaking, making each sip even more enjoyable.
• The small-group format makes for a relaxed, conversational atmosphere—you won’t feel like just another face in a crowd.
• Flexibility in pickup and drop-off at downtown Traverse City means convenience and ease in planning your day.

Potential Drawbacks

• The cost of tastings and additional wine purchases is separate from the tour price, so budget accordingly if you plan to indulge.
• The timing from mid-afternoon to early evening suits many, but if you’re looking for a full day experience, you may need to extend your plans.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for small groups and couples wanting a more personal and laid-back way to explore Traverse City’s wine scene. Wine enthusiasts will appreciate the knowledgeable guides and quality wineries, while scenery lovers will enjoy the impressive views at every stop. It’s also perfect for anyone looking to avoid the chaos of larger tours and seek a more intimate, VIP experience.

FAQ

Is transportation included in the tour fee?
Yes, the tour includes transportation in a luxury SUV (GMC Yukon or similar), so you won’t need to worry about driving.

Are tastings included?
Wine samples (splashes or flights) are included in the tour price. However, beverages beyond the sampling are available for purchase at each winery.

Can I join this tour if I have limited mobility?
The tour involves visiting wineries with some walking and standing; it’s best to check with the provider for specific accessibility concerns.

What is the group size?
Most groups have 6-7 people, making it semi-private and ideal for a relaxed experience.

When should I book?
Since the tour is popular, with an average booking window of 52 days in advance, it’s wise to reserve early.

What if I need to cancel?
Cancellation is free if done at least 24 hours before the start time. Refunds are given for cancellations made in this window.

Final Thoughts

The NON BUS Traverse Sunset Wine Tour offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and personalized service—all at an accessible price point. It’s perfect for those who want to explore Traverse City’s acclaimed wineries without the hassle of large groups or noisy buses, all while enjoying the region’s stunning views and top-tier wines.

Whether you’re a wine lover looking for insider tips, a couple seeking a romantic afternoon, or a small group of friends wanting a laid-back experience, this tour delivers value, comfort, and a taste of Michigan’s wine country at its best.

If authentic, intimate, and scenic wine tasting appeals to you, this experience deserves a spot on your Traverse City itinerary.