NON BUS Traverse City: Champagne-Style Bubbly & Wine Tour

Traveling to Traverse City and craving a sophisticated wine adventure? This NON BUS Champagne-Style Bubbly & Wine Tour offers a stylish, hassle-free way to sample premium sparkling wines and local favorites while enjoying the area’s breathtaking scenery. Unlike typical bus tours, this experience features luxury SUVs, expert guides, and a focus on intimacy and comfort, making it perfect for those who want quality over quantity — and a dash of Hollywood glamour.

What makes this tour stand out? For starters, the personalized experience with a private guide, the luxury ride in a GMC Yukon or Suburban, and the expert guidance from knowledgeable wine connoisseurs like Magic Mike. Plus, you get to visit iconic wineries known for their sparkling wines, all while avoiding the crowds and long lines common with bus tours. The stunning views of Old Mission Peninsula are the cherry on top, offering perfect photo opportunities and a serene backdrop for tastings.

One possible downside? The tour is pricey at $89 per person, but considering the private transport, expert guidance, and carefully curated wineries, many find it offers excellent value — especially when celebrating special occasions. This experience suits wine lovers, couples, small groups, or anyone seeking a luxurious, intimate tasting day in Traverse City.

Good To Know

• Luxury Private Transport: Travel in style in a GMC Yukon or Suburban with a private driver, avoiding crowded buses.
• Expert Guides: Led by wine enthusiasts like Magic Mike who provide tailored recommendations and insights.
• Iconic Wineries: Visit four top wineries known for sparkling wines, with some optional additions like a distillery visit on sunset tours.
• Stunning Views: Enjoy breathtaking scenery of Old Mission Peninsula, adding visual beauty to your tasting experience.
• Flexibility & Customization: Tours are designed to beat the crowds, with various pickup times and options for preferences.
• Inclusive & Thoughtful: Groups of six or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine, and the tour is friendly to law enforcement, first responders, and military personnel.

You can check if your dates are available here:

A Detailed Look at the Experience

The Ride: No Old-Style Buses Here

The first thing you’ll notice about this tour is the luxury vehicle. No cramped bus or rickety van — instead, you’ll be riding in a luxury GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, with a Cadillac Escalade coming soon. This means space, comfort, and style, which, after all, is part of the experience. The private driver ensures you’re not rushing from one stop to the next, and you can relax while soaking in the views of rolling vineyards and lush landscapes.

The Guide: A Wine Enthusiast with Style

Your guide, Magic Mike, is more than just a driver; he’s a wine connoisseur who offers personalized recommendations based on your tastes. Multiple reviews mention how he balances friendliness with expertise, making the experience both fun and educational without feeling stuffy. Guests note that “Magic Mike’s guidance made the tastings more meaningful,” and he often tailors the experience to what guests want to explore, whether it’s more sparkling wines or a focus on certain wineries.

Wineries: Top Picks for Sparkling & More

The tour visits four iconic wineries, each known for their sparkling wines or crisp varietals:

• Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for their elegant Soiree’ sparkling wine, a crisp, refined bubbly that’s perfect for celebrating. Reviewers mention the “elegance of their bubbly and the lovely setting.”
• Bowers Harbor Vineyards: Home to the Pinot Secco, a lively and refreshing option. Guests often appreciate the crispness and balance, with some calling it “a perfect summer sipper.”
• Chateau Chantal: Here, you’ll savor the Tonight Bubbly, a delightful sparkling wine that pairs beautifully with the scenic vineyard views.
• Brys Estate & Bonobo Winery: Famous for their Brys Bubbly, Brut Cuvee, Blanc de Blancs, and Rosé. The reviews highlight the famous bubbly and the quality that rivals bigger champagne houses but with a local touch.

Guests love that winery selection depends on availability, weather, and guest preferences, giving the tour a flexible, personalized feel. The inclusion of optional stops like a distillery on sunset tours adds variety without overloading the schedule.

More Great Thing To Do Nearby

Tasting Experience & Atmosphere

The tastings are guided by wine experts, who’ll help you understand the nuances of each sparkling wine. Flight tastings are included, allowing you to compare different styles side by side, while bottles and food are available for purchase if you’d like to extend the experience. Many reviewers describe the tastings as “premium” and “relaxed,” with time to chat and savor each glass without the rush typical of larger tours.

Views & Setting

The true highlight of this experience is the stunning scenery of Old Mission Peninsula. Expect panoramic vistas of vineyards, lakes, and rolling hills, which create an idyllic backdrop for your tastings. It’s a scenic drive that complements the refined wines perfectly, making for memorable photos and a peaceful atmosphere.

Tour Timing & Flexibility

Tours are designed to beat the crowds, with morning and sunset options to suit your schedule. The sunset tours often include an optional distillery visit, adding a layer of variety. Pickup is from the Hardy Street Parking Structure, close to downtown Traverse City, making accessibility easy and avoiding long walks or public transportation hassles.

Price and Value

At $89 per person, this tour offers a premium experience that many see as worthwhile due to the private vehicle, expert guidance, and exclusive winery visits. Considering you won’t be sharing a bus with strangers or rushing through tastings, the value increases, especially if you’re celebrating or want a relaxing, intimate day.

Additional Thoughts from Review Insights

Guests appreciate the personalized nature of the experience, with many noting how the guide’s recommendations helped them discover wines they wouldn’t have tried otherwise. The relaxed pace and beautiful views are consistently praised. A few reviews mention the “fancy wine drinking hats”, which add a humorous, Instagram-worthy touch, although they’re not necessary.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for wine enthusiasts seeking a refined, private tasting day. It’s perfect for celebrations like birthdays or anniversaries, small groups or couples wanting intimacy, and those who value comfort and personalized service over mass-market tours. If you’re not a fan of large buses or crowded wineries, this luxury, non-bus approach hits the mark. It’s also suited for those wanting stunning scenery and expert guidance to elevate their wine experience.

Final Thoughts: Why Choose This Tour?

What makes this tour stand out is its emphasis on luxury and personalized service. You’re not just another face in a crowded group but a guest enjoying a tailored experience with expert insights. The stunning views of Old Mission Peninsula combined with quality sparkling wines create a memorable day that feels both indulgent and authentic. While the $89 price tag might seem steep, the private transport and carefully curated wineries justify it for those looking for a special, stress-free day.

This tour is a great choice for romantic getaways, celebrating milestones, or simply indulging in Traverse City’s finest sparkling wines without the inconvenience of crowds or bus rides. If you’re after a relaxed, upscale experience with a touch of Hollywood glamour, this is a fantastic way to toast your trip.

FAQ

Is transportation included? Yes, you’ll travel in a private luxury SUV (GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban), with a private driver, avoiding old buses or shared rides.

Can I customize the wineries I visit? You can let your guide know if you have a favorite winery on your wish list. The selection is based on availability, weather, and guest preferences.

What’s the duration of the tour? The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, with flexible start times, including options for morning or sunset departures.

Are food and additional drinks included? No, tastings are included, but food and bottles are extra and available for purchase at each winery.

Is this tour suitable for large groups? Tours are semi-private, most likely with groups of 6-7, and groups of 6 or more receive a free bottle of wine.

What should I wear? Dress comfortably for the weather; winery visits often involve walking on uneven terrain, and “fancy wine drinking hats” are encouraged for fun.

Are there any restrictions? Smoking and smoking indoors or in the vehicle are not permitted. The experience is not suitable for pregnant women or those with pre-existing medical conditions.

Where do I meet the tour? Pickup is at Hardy Street Parking Structure (near Middlecoast Brewery), with other downtown hotel pickups available.

Can I cancel if my plans change? Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, giving you flexibility to adjust your plans.

To sum it up

The NON BUS Traverse City Champagne-Style Bubbly & Wine Tour offers a refined, intimate way to enjoy some of Michigan’s best sparkling wines amid stunning scenery. The combination of luxury transport, expert guides, and carefully selected wineries makes it a standout choice for those wanting a relaxing, high-quality wine adventure. It’s especially well-suited for celebrations, couples, or small groups who value comfort and personalized service over large crowds or generic tours.

While it carries a higher price point, the added comfort and exclusivity make it a worthwhile investment in your Traverse City experience. If you’re looking to toast your trip with style, this tour could very well become one of your most memorable moments in Michigan.

You can check if your dates are available here: