NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour

Discover the Non-Bus Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour

Imagine leaving behind the noisy, crowded party buses and stepping into a luxury SUV to explore Michigan’s premier cider and wine spots. This Non-Bus Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour promises an upscale, personalized experience that focuses on quality, scenery, and expert guidance. It’s a refreshing break from typical group tours, crafted for those craving a more intimate and authentic tasting journey.

What makes this tour particularly appealing? First, it’s hosted in a luxury GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, ensuring comfort and style. Second, the guides are real connoisseurs, passionate about cider and wine, able to offer insightful recommendations. Third, the tour takes you through iconic wineries with stunning views—think rolling vineyards and waterfront vistas—rather than just the usual tourist stops. One possible consideration is the price point at $199 per person, which offers a higher-end experience but may be steep for budget travelers.

This experience is ideal if you’re a hard cider or wine lover who values quality over quantity, appreciates knowledgeable guides, and prefers a relaxed, semi-private atmosphere. It’s perfect for celebrating special occasions, romantic getaways, or simply exploring Traverse City in a way that’s both fun and sophisticated.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Luxury Transportation: Ride in style in high-end SUVs rather than conventional party buses.
• Expert Guides: Connoisseurs lead the tour, offering tips and personalized recommendations.
• Authentic Tasting: Sample hard ciders and wines made with love, not high fructose corn syrup.
• Scenic Views: Visit wineries known for their breathtaking scenery and waterfront locations.
• Flexible Scheduling: Choose from day and sunset/afternoon tours with varying winery stops.
• Special Perks: Groups of six or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine, plus the option to add food and snacks.

Why Choose This Tour?

This tour stands out because it combines luxury, expertise, and scenery into a seamless 4.5-hour journey. The fact that it’s not a typical party bus makes it appealing for those who want a more refined experience—think relaxed conversation, high-quality tastings, and plenty of space to enjoy the day.

The tour’s guides, like “Magic Mike,” are enthusiastic and knowledgeable, making the experience both educational and fun. They’re also proud to be Law Enforcement/First Responder/Military friendly, which adds a layer of trust and professionalism.

The itinerary is flexible, with departures from downtown Traverse City and options for different schedules—day tours to four wineries or shorter sunset tours to three wineries plus a distillery. This flexibility caters well to different preferences and schedules.

The Itinerary Breakdown: What to Expect

Pickup & Transportation

Guests are picked up at the Hardy Street Parking Structure near Middlecoast Brewery, right across from the Park Place Hotel. No need to worry about long walks or old buses—your ride is in a luxury SUV that’s climate-controlled, comfortable, and stylish. The small group size (most likely 6-7 guests per vehicle) keeps the atmosphere intimate and relaxed.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Wineries & Tastings

Hawthorne Vineyards kicks things off with samples of Raspberry and Cherry Ciders alongside award-winning wines. Reviewers note that Hawthorne’s cherry cider is particularly notable, with one mentioning, “It’s not your typical cider—made like wine, with a lot of love in every sip.”

Next, Bowers Harbor Vineyards offers a cider flight featuring seasonal options like Cherry, Blueberry, Peach, and Blackberry, along with wine. Many appreciate the diverse choices, saying, “The variety at Bowers Harbor kept us interested, and the guides were great at explaining each flavor profile.”

Chateau Chantal provides a broad selection—ciders, wines, brandy, vodka, and beer—giving guests a chance to explore different spirits. Guests often comment on the scenic setting, noting that the views of Lake Michigan are breathtaking.

Finally, Brys Estate & Bonobo Winery is known for their Lavender Cider, which is described as “famous” and a must-try. The guides are happy to tailor tastings based on availability, adding a personalized touch.

Additional Perks

Group of 6 or more enjoy a free bottle of Gamay or Secco, depending on availability, which makes it a fantastic value for groups celebrating special occasions.

Post-Tour & Downtown Experience

After the tour, guests can easily explore downtown Traverse City. The tour company emphasizes that guests won’t need to drive or walk miles—perfect after a few tastings. Some guides mention that they can even arrange to drop guests off at local hotels or motels, encouraging you to soak in the nightlife or enjoy a leisurely dinner.

What Sets This Tour Apart?

Authentic, high-quality products are at the core. Unlike many cider tours that rely on high fructose syrups, these ciders are crafted similarly to fine wines, often made with love and attention to detail. This focus on quality elevates the tasting experience and makes each sip more meaningful.

Expert guidance adds significant value. Guides aren’t just drivers—they’re enthusiasts and connoisseurs who can explain the nuances of each cider and wine, helping you discover new favorites and deepen your appreciation.

Luxurious transport enhances the experience. Traveling in a GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade makes the journey part of the fun, and the smaller group size ensures you get personalized attention and a more relaxed atmosphere.

Scenic winery visits are a major highlight. The locations are chosen for their views, whether waterfront vistas or rolling vineyards, making this tour a feast for the eyes as well as the palate.

Flexibility and customization mean you can select the schedule that suits your plans—whether a daytime outing or a sunset experience. Plus, the possibility of private groups allows for even more tailored experiences.

The Pricing and Value

At $199 per person, this tour is priced for those seeking a premium experience. Considering the inclusion of expert guides, luxury transportation, visits to four iconic wineries, and the intimate group setting, the value is solid—especially if you enjoy high-quality tastings and scenic locations.

Additional costs like food, additional bottles, or spirits are extra, but the tour’s focus on quality and authenticity makes it easy to justify the expense. Plus, the complimentary bottle for larger groups adds an extra layer of value.

Who Would Love This Experience?

This tour is perfect for hard cider and wine enthusiasts wanting more than a quick tasting. It appeals greatly to those seeking a luxurious, relaxed, environment with knowledgeable guides. Celebrating a special occasion like a birthday, anniversary, or bachelorette party? This is an ideal choice.

It’s also suited for travelers who want to explore Old Mission Peninsula without the hassle of driving or crowded buses, and who value scenic settings and personalized attention. If you enjoy quality over quantity and appreciate a touch of elegance, this is your tour.

The Sum Up

The NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Hard Cider Lovers Tour offers a fresh, high-end approach to tasting Michigan’s cider and wine. With luxury transportation, guided by trained connoisseurs, and scenic winery stops, it’s designed for those who want a relaxed yet sophisticated day out. The small group size means more personal attention, and the flexible schedule makes it easy to fit into various plans.

While the price might be a consideration, the combination of quality drinks, expert guidance, and an upscale experience makes it worthwhile for those looking to enjoy Traverse City’s best in comfort and style. Whether celebrating something special or simply indulging your love of cider and wine, this tour delivers memorable moments and plenty of photo-worthy scenery.

If you’re after a premium, personalized, scenic tasting experience, this tour is a great pick. Just remember to bring your favorite cider/wine drinking hat—fancy or not, you’ll want to look the part!

FAQ

How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with flexible start times depending on your chosen schedule.

What type of vehicle is used?
Guests are transported in a luxury GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, ensuring comfort and style.

How many wineries do we visit?
Day tours typically include visits to four wineries, while sunset/afternoon tours go to three wineries plus a distillery.

Are tastings included?
Yes, sample-sized wine and hard cider tastings are included, but additional food, bottles, or spirits are extra.

Is this tour private or shared?
Small groups of 6-7 guests most likely share a vehicle, creating an intimate experience. Private groups are also available.

What’s the meeting point?
Meet at the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City near Middlecoast Brewery. Pickup at other downtown locations is possible upon request.

Is there an age restriction?
Yes, guests must be 21 or older to participate in tastings.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund. Rescheduling options are available, maintaining flexibility.

Is this experience family-friendly?
No, since it involves alcohol tastings, it’s suitable only for adults 21 and above.

What should I bring?
Comfortable clothing, perhaps a hat for sun protection, and an open mind. Fancy drinking hats are also highly recommended!

Whether you’re craving scenic views, expert-guided tastings, or simply a luxurious way to explore Michigan’s cider and wine scene, this tour offers a memorable and refined experience. Perfect for those who want just a little more elegance in their tasting adventures.

You can check if your dates are available here: