NON BUS Traverse City VIP Brewery Distillery Wine Tour

Explore Traverse City in Style with the Non-Bus VIP Brewery, Distillery, and Wine Tour

If you’re looking to enjoy Traverse City’s vibrant local beverage scene without the chaos of a typical party bus, this VIP tour in a luxury SUV might be just what you need. Instead of loud music and crowded buses, this experience offers a refined, personal approach to tasting some of Michigan’s most acclaimed breweries, distilleries, and wineries. It’s perfect for those who prefer a relaxed, insider’s perspective on the region’s drinks, combined with comfort and flexibility.

What we love about this tour is its small group size, which ensures a more intimate experience, and the presence of real local beverage experts guiding the way. The flexible itinerary allows you to enjoy each stop at your own pace, plus the luxury transportation means no worries about drinking and driving. A possible consideration? It’s not a full-day experience, so if you’re craving a more extensive tasting adventure, you might want to look for longer tours; but for a 4.5-hour exploration, it hits a sweet spot. This tour works best for food and beverage enthusiasts, couples, or small groups wanting a touch of luxury and local insight on their visit to Traverse City.

You can check if your dates are available here:

Good To Know

• Luxury Transportation: Travel in a spacious GMC Yukon (or upcoming Cadillac Escalade) for comfort and style.
• Small Group Experience: Most groups feature 6-7 guests, ensuring personalized attention from guides.
• Expert Guides: Guides like Tracy, Kyle, and Andie are passionate about sharing their knowledge of local drinks.
• Flexible Schedule: Choose between the Nooner at 11:45 AM or the Evening Tour at 4:30 PM, with some days offering a 2:30 PM option.
• Includes Samples: Enjoy tastings at four stops, with the chance to purchase bottles, glasses, and merchandise.
• Locally Owned & Sensitive to First Responders & Military: The tour is operated by former law enforcement, emphasizing community and respect.

An In-Depth Look at the Traverse City VIP Tour

How it Works

This tour is designed to provide a relaxed, VIP experience that departs from the typical loud, crowded bus scene. Instead, you’ll hop into a luxury SUV, most likely a GMC Yukon, with a small group, making the experience feel more like a private outing. The guides—truly passionate and knowledgeable about the local beverage scene—are U of M and MSU grads, adding a layer of regional pride and expertise.

The Meeting Point & Pickup

Meeting is straightforward and convenient, outside the Hardy Street Parking Structure near Middlecoast Brewery. The tour company offers the bonus of hotel pickups in downtown Traverse City, meaning there’s no long walk or worrying about parking. After the tour, you’ll be dropped back at your hotel or a central location, making it easy to continue exploring or head back to your accommodation.

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The Stops: What to Expect

The main appeal of this tour is the carefully curated stops—four in total—each offering a different taste of the local scene. While the exact locations vary, the focus is on breweries, distilleries, and some wineries, where the staff are eager to share their expertise.

• First Stop: Usually a brewery or distillery where guides like Tracy or Kyle help you understand the brewing or distilling process. Expect to sample a variety of drinks, possibly including craft beers or spirits, with knowledgeable recommendations on what to try next.
• Second & Third Stops: These often showcase a mix of breweries or a distillery with unique offerings, such as seasonal brews or small-batch spirits. Guides will often share behind-the-scenes insights, making the experience more engaging than just sipping.
• Final Stop: Sometimes a winery or a location with a wine menu. You’ll get a taste of what Traverse City’s wine scene has to offer, with guides sharing their favorite picks.

The Quality of the Tours & Guides

Guests consistently highlight the deep knowledge of the guides, emphasizing guides like Tracy, Kyle, and Andie as extremely passionate about Traverse City’s beverage scene. Their local expertise means recommendations aren’t just generic; they’re tailored to your preferences, and they’re eager to share their insider tips.

Many reviews mention the guides’ ability to make the experience feel personalized, often going above and beyond to answer questions or suggest new spots. For example, one reviewer noted that “the guides are true experts, and their recommendations really made the difference.” This level of engagement elevates the experience from a simple tasting to a genuine educational adventure.

The Experience & Atmosphere

Traveling in a luxury SUV adds a touch of class and comfort that travelers appreciate. The vehicle is air-conditioned, ensuring a pleasant ride even during warmer months. The semi-private nature of the tour means you’re not stuck in a noisy bus with strangers, which makes conversations more natural and enjoyable.

Guests report that the pace is relaxed—there’s plenty of time to savor each sample without feeling rushed. The small group size fosters a convivial vibe, but not overcrowded, enhancing the feeling of exclusivity.

Price & Value

At $199 per person, this tour offers solid value, especially considering the luxury transportation, expert guides, and multiple tastings included. While additional drinks and food are not included, the opportunity to purchase bottles or merchandise at each stop lets you take home a little piece of Traverse City’s beverage scene.

Compared to larger bus tours, which can feel impersonal and often have strict schedules, this VIP offering adapts to your preferences—this is a major plus worth considering if you value quality over quantity.

Who This Tour Is Best For

This experience suits beverage lovers, couples seeking a relaxed yet upscale outing, or small groups wanting an authentic, insider’s perspective on Traverse City’s drinks. It’s especially appealing if you appreciate guided expertise and comfortable transportation without the chaos of larger tours.

Final Thoughts

In essence, this NON BUS Traverse City VIP Brewery, Distillery, and Wine Tour combines comfort, exclusivity, and local insights into one enjoyable package. Its small-group format and knowledgeable guides make it stand out in a city known for its vibrant beverage scene. Whether you’re a craft beer enthusiast, a spirits connoisseur, or a wine lover, you’ll find this tour well worth the price.

While it may not cover every single beverage producer in Traverse City, what it offers is a focused, high-quality experience that gives you a real taste of the region’s best. The luxury SUV and personable guides ensure you’ll feel pampered and informed, making your visit to Traverse City even more memorable.

If you’re after a relaxed, educational, and upscale way to explore the local drinks scene—without the stress of driving or noisy crowds—this VIP tour hits the mark. It’s especially ideal for those who want to savor the moment and come away with more than just a few souvenirs, but a true appreciation for Traverse City’s craft beverage culture.

FAQ

How long does the tour last?
The tour runs for approximately 4.5 hours, making it a perfect half-day activity that fits well into your schedule.

What are the available tour times?
You can choose between the Nooner at 11:45 AM or the Evening Tour at 4:30 PM, with some days offering a 2:30 PM option—giving you flexibility based on your plans.

Is transportation included?
Yes, guests travel in a luxury GMC Yukon or upcoming Cadillac Escalade, ensuring a comfortable and stylish ride.

Are the tastings included?
Yes, you’ll enjoy samples at all four stops—additional drinks and food are available for purchase, but tastings are included in the tour price.

Can I purchase souvenirs or bottles?
Absolutely, you’ll have the opportunity to buy glasses, growlers, bottles, and merchandise from each location.

Is the tour suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility issues?
No, the tour is not suitable for pregnant women or individuals with mobility impairments due to the nature of the stops and vehicle access.

This VIP experience offers a thoughtful, personalized way to explore Traverse City’s beverage scene, blending comfort, expertise, and a true local touch. Whether you’re new to craft drinks or a seasoned connoisseur, it’s a way to enjoy the city’s best without the typical bus chaos.

You can check if your dates are available here: