Traverse City is a place where craftsmanship and scenic beauty go hand in hand. Whether you’re a wine lover seeking award-winning vintages, a boat enthusiast eager to watch the sunset from the water, or a history buff curious about ghost stories, Traverse City offers a diverse array of city tours that cater to different interests. We’ve picked the top options, from relaxing wine tours on the Leelanau and Old Mission Peninsulas to lively sailing adventures and intriguing ghost walks. These experiences are thoughtfully curated, making it easy to find exactly what fits your mood, schedule, and budget. For instance, if you’re after a hassle-free wine experience with round-trip transportation, the 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour is a top choice. Alternatively, if breathtaking water views are your thing, the Sunset Sail from Traverse City will leave you mesmerized.
Quick Overview
Traverse City is famous for its wine country and scenic lakeside vistas, but the city also offers unique water-based adventures, historical ghost tours, and private excursions. Whether you prefer guided wine tastings, a romantic sunset cruise, or an interactive ghost hunt, you’ll find options tailored to your interests. Read on for a detailed look at each of the top 16 city tours.
1. 5-Hour Traverse City Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Leelanau Peninsula
Starting with one of the most popular activities, this 5-hour wine tour visits three renowned wineries on the Leelanau Peninsula. With a full round-trip and winery reservations sorted for you, it’s perfect for those wanting to avoid the hassle of logistics. The tour includes visits to Black Star Farms, where you can explore 50+ wines and spirits, and Shady Lane Cellars, known for its picturesque surroundings. The bus is comfortable, and you can bring snacks to enjoy along the way. Many reviewers mention how informative and friendly the guides are, making it a relaxed, enjoyable experience.
Key highlights include scenic vineyard views, wine tastings, and a leisurely pace that leaves you time for dinner afterward (own expense). At just $79.99, it offers excellent value, especially considering the company takes care of transportation and reservations. The tour is suited for those who want a structured, educational, and fun wine day in Michigan.
Bottom Line: Ideal for first-timers or groups wanting an all-inclusive tasting day without planning. Expect scenic views and over 50 wines sampled.
2. Sunset Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine & Cocktails
Number 2 offers a 2.5-hour sunset cruise aboard the classic schooner Wind Dancer. For $199 per person, this experience combines spectacular water views with local food and drinks, including wine, beer, and cocktails. As the captain and crew share stories about the schooner, you’ll enjoy a relaxing ride over Traverse City’s sparkling bay. The highlight is watching the sunset from the water, with ample photo opportunities.
Reviews speak highly of the attentive staff and memorable atmosphere. The cruise is perfect for couples or small groups looking for a romantic, scenic evening. The included snacks—raclett cheese, crackers, fudge—add a local touch, making this cruise feel both luxurious and authentic.
Bottom Line: This cruise is best for those seeking a romantic, waterside experience with drinks, views, and a laid-back vibe. Book early—these trips fill up quickly.
3. NON BUS 4 Winery Traverse City Wine Tour on Old Mission Peninsula
At number 3, this luxury wine tour departs in high-end GMC Yukons instead of buses, with expert guides and a focus on VIP treatment. The 4 winery itinerary includes Hawthorne Vineyards, famous for its reds and whites, and Bowers Harbor Vineyards, with 20 acres of vines and panoramic bay views. The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, offering a relaxed pace with plenty of time for tastings and socializing.
What sets this tour apart is the personalized service—you can buy wine, eat charcuterie, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. Reviewers consistently praise the knowledgeable guides and top-notch customer care. For $68 per person, it provides a luxury experience that’s perfect for wine enthusiasts seeking comfort and exclusivity.
Bottom Line: Best suited for travelers who want a high-end, personalized wine tour with flexible tasting options and beautiful scenery.
4. Day Sail from Traverse City with Food, Wine, & Cocktails
Number 4 features a 2.5-hour daytime sailing aboard a 60-foot schooner in Grand Traverse Bay. For $169, you and your companions can help hoist the sails, learn about the region, and sample local foods during the cruise. Perfect for families or adventurers who want more than just sightseeing—this is an interactive experience.
The crew are praised for their professionalism and knowledgeable commentary, making the time on the water both fun and educational. The boat is small, with an intimate atmosphere that encourages conversation, and there’s time for photos, relaxing, or helping with sailing.
Bottom line: Suited for those wanting a hands-on sailing experience with excellent food and water views. It’s a flexible, family-friendly option that offers more than just a typical cruise.
5. 4-Hour Traverse City Sunset Wine Tour: 3 Wineries on Old Mission Peninsula
At number 5, this sunset wine tour takes you to three top-rated wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula, with a luxury limo-style bus. For around $75, you’ll visit Bowers Harbor, Chateau Chantal, and Bonobo Winery—each offering panoramic views and tasting flights of Michigan wines.
What makes this tour special is the combination of wine, scenic drives, and a sunset backdrop, creating a romantic atmosphere. The guide recommends wines on-site, and you can purchase bottles to keep cool in the bus. Reviewers note the friendly guides and memorable sunset views.
Bottom line: Perfect for couples or romantic groups wanting a picture-perfect sunset with wine. It’s a more intimate, stylish experience.
6. NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Sunset Wine & Distillery Tour
Number 6 offers a luxury, no-bus tour of three wineries and an optional distillery in Old Mission. Guided by Magic Mike, this VIP experience is all about quality over quantity. The tour lasts about 4 to 5 hours, with stops at Hawthorne Vineyards, Bonobo Winery, and Brys Estates.
Reviewers highlight the personalized, friendly service and the ability to sample wines at each location without feeling rushed. For $68, this tour combines relaxing scenic views with real wine expertise—a hit for serious wine fans.
Bottom line: Ideal for those wanting a luxurious, small-group wine experience without the bus crowd.
7. Historical Ghost Lantern Tour Downtown Traverse City +Magnant
If you prefer your city tours with a twist of the mysterious, this ghost tour offers an hour and a half of haunted tales from Traverse City’s past. Starting at the Perry Hannah Circle and exploring sites like the Traverse City Opera House and Hannah House, it uses real ghost-hunting equipment to add fun.
The guide’s storytelling is engaging, and the combination of history and paranormal activity makes it a unique experience. The small, private group format enhances the personal touch, and reviews mention how entertaining and informative it is.
Bottom line: Perfect for those interested in history, local lore, and a spooky twist. It’s a memorable way to learn about Traverse City’s darker side.
8. Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour
Number 8 is a fully customizable private tour of up to four wineries or breweries. Starting in Traverse City, you select your preferred stops, and a private guide drives you in a luxury vehicle. It’s ideal for special occasions like birthdays or groups seeking a bespoke experience.
Reviewers appreciate the flexibility and personal attention, with guides like Carol and Aaron praised for their knowledge. Prices are $699.99 per group, making it a worthwhile option for groups who want total control over the itinerary.
Bottom line: Best for groups who want a tailored, private experience with the flexibility to choose their favorite wineries or breweries.
9. NON BUS Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula 4 Winery Tour
At number 9, this luxury SUV tour offers a flexible schedule for visiting four top wineries including Hawthorne and Mari Vineyards. Guided by real wine connoisseurs, this tour provides a more relaxed and personalized experience compared to larger bus tours.
Guests love the hotel pickup and drop-off, making it very convenient. The tour lasts about 4.5 hours, focusing on quality tasting and scenic stops. The reviews cite friendly guides and high-quality wines, with a good balance of sightseeing and tasting.
Bottom line: Perfect for travelers wanting a luxury, flexible, and private wine experience.
How to Choose Your Perfect Tour
Choosing the right tour depends on your budget, schedule, and interests. Want a full-day wine adventure? The 5-hour Leelanau Peninsula tour offers great value. For a romantic sunset, consider the Sunset Wine & Sunset Cruise. Those seeking more personalized and luxury experiences might prefer the VIP Cadillac Escalade tour. For water lovers, the sailing adventures provide a memorable scenic experience, and ghost tour enthusiasts should not miss the Ghost Lantern Tour.
Practical tips include booking early for popular cruises and sunset tours, especially during peak season, and considering your fitness level—some tours involve physical activity, like helping with sails or walking during ghost hunts.
Final Thoughts
Traverse City offers a wide variety of city tours suited to different tastes and budgets. For a relaxing day, the wine tours provide ample tastings and beautiful scenery. If you’re after an adventure on the water, the sailing trips and water-based cruises are hard to beat. And if you enjoy history with a spooky twist, the ghost lantern tour is a fun, memorable option.
Whether you prefer luxury, adventure, or storytelling, these tours promise an authentic look at Traverse City’s charm—so don’t wait too long to book your favorite experience. Early booking ensures you won’t miss out on these popular options.