Planning a day trip from the hustle and bustle of Manhattan to explore some of Long Island’s best vineyards? This guided Long Island Winery Tour from Manhattan is a popular choice, averaging bookings 31 days in advance and earning a solid 4.5-star rating from over 70 reviews. For $149 per person, you’ll enjoy about 10 hours filled with wine tastings, scenic views, and a delicious picnic — all with the ease of round-trip transportation and a friendly guide.
What makes this tour stand out? First, the visits to three carefully selected vineyards ensure you get a good variety of wines and vineyard atmospheres. Second, the included gourmet picnic lunch offers a hearty, satisfying break during your day of tasting. It’s a fantastic way to leave the city behind and indulge in some of New York’s most acclaimed wine regions, without the stress of driving or planning logistics.
That said, there are a few things to consider. Some reviews mention that the first vineyard can be underwhelming in terms of wine quality or engagement, and weather can impact the experience—especially at smaller wineries with limited cover. Still, if you’re after a relaxed, informative day with good company and beautiful scenery, this tour tends to shine. It’s especially well-suited for anyone who appreciates knowledgeable guides and a friendly, social atmosphere, whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious beginner.
Key Points
- Comfortable transportation from Manhattan makes the day hassle-free.
- Visit three vineyards for a diverse tasting experience.
- Includes a gourmet picnic lunch, with vegetarian options available.
- Guided experience with knowledgeable hosts who answer all your questions.
- Great for social travelers seeking a relaxed, scenic escape from the city.
- Weather considerations can influence the experience, especially at smaller wineries.
A Thorough Look at the Long Island Winery Tour
If you’re craving a day outside New York City that combines scenic beauty, excellent wines, and easy logistics, this tour ticks many boxes. Here’s a detailed breakdown of what you can expect based on the tour description and reviews.
Departure and Transportation
The tour begins bright and early at 41 Union Square West in Manhattan at 9:00 am. The coach bus, usually clean and comfortable, takes you on a roughly 2-hour ride out to the North Fork of Long Island, with scenic views and informative commentary from your guide along the way. The group size is capped at 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and friendly. The round-trip arrangement means you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking — just relax and enjoy the ride.
Many reviewers praise the smooth, on-time transportation and friendly drivers—some mention the bus driver as being excellent. The ride itself offers a chance to get oriented to the regions you’ll visit and chat with fellow travelers, often forming new friendships.
Vineyard Visits and Tastings
You’ll visit three different vineyards during the day, spending approximately 1.5 hours at each stop. The selected vineyards vary in atmosphere and offerings, providing a well-rounded experience of Long Island wines. Visitors often comment on how each vineyard has its own vibe—some more elegant and quiet, others lively with music and bustling crowds.
One of the highlights, especially noted in reviews, is the quality and variety of wines. Many appreciate the informative tastings, where guides or vineyard staff explain the wines’ backgrounds and characteristics. For example, reviewers mention that guides like Raven, Colin, or Kelly are personable, knowledgeable, and eager to answer questions, which elevates the experience.
The Lunch Break
The gourmet picnic lunch is served during the second vineyard stop. It typically includes options like salads, sandwiches, and chips, with vegetarian choices available upon request. Reviewers often find the lunch to be more than just a quick snack, providing enough sustenance for the long day. Some mention that the lunch is served substantially, making it a real meal rather than just a light bite.
However, a few reviews note some communication issues regarding the lunch order or dietary preferences, such as vegetarian options not being initially clear. To avoid surprises, it’s wise to fill out any required forms promptly and confirm dietary needs before the tour.
The Scenic and Relaxed Atmosphere
We loved the way the tour combines scenic vineyard views with a relaxed pace. Expect to see beautiful grounds, flower-filled landscapes, and, depending on the weather, plenty of photo opportunities. Several reviews mention the stunning grounds and engaging wine tasting environments.
At some wineries, live music and friendly staff enhance the convivial vibe. Travelers appreciated the freedom to wander, take photos, and enjoy the scenery between tastings. For those who enjoy a social atmosphere, this tour fosters meeting diverse fellow travelers, as noted in reviews describing the experience as “fun,” “laid back,” and “a great way to get out of the city.”
Possible Drawbacks
While most reviews are positive, a few travelers have expressed minor frustrations. Some mention that the first winery can feel underwhelming in terms of wine quality or engagement, which can impact initial impressions. Others point out that weather can be a factor, especially at smaller venues with limited indoor space—rainy days may limit the outdoor enjoyment and the overall experience.
Plus, some reviewers find the cost slightly high for what is offered, especially if they’re expecting an in-depth winery tour with production insights—this tour focuses more on tastings and scenery than behind-the-scenes access. Also, logistical issues like booking complications have been noted, so early reservations and clear communication are recommended.
What Makes This Tour Stand Out
One of the biggest attractions is the convenience. You get round-trip transportation from Manhattan, sparing you the hassle of driving or navigating unfamiliar roads. The guided nature of the tour ensures you get context, making the tastings more meaningful rather than just drinking wine. Plus, the variety of vineyards offers a broad taste of Long Island’s wine scene, which is often overlooked compared to California or Europe.
Many reviewers highlight their guides’ professionalism and friendliness. For example, Ruth F. raved about Raven, calling her “the BEST,” and others mentioned guides Colin, Kelly, Sophie, and Mike as being personable, knowledgeable, and attentive.
The Value for Money
At $149, the tour offers a comprehensive experience: transportation, three vineyard visits, tastings, and a substantial lunch. When you consider the cost of taxis, meals, and tastings individually, the package is attractive, especially given the relaxed pace and expert guidance. The inclusion of a gourmet lunch elevates it from a simple tasting trip to a full-day outing.
Who Should Consider This Tour?
This experience is perfect if you:
- Want a stress-free way to visit Long Island wineries from NYC
- Appreciate guided tours with friendly, knowledgeable hosts
- Enjoy scenic landscapes and social atmospheres
- Are interested in sampling a variety of wines without the fuss of planning each stop
- Are okay with a full day away from the city and moderate walking around vineyards
It might be less ideal if you’re seeking an in-depth, behind-the-scenes wine production experience or have specific dietary restrictions that require more customization.
FAQ
Is the tour suitable for wine beginners?
Absolutely. The tour is designed to be friendly for all levels, and guides are happy to answer questions and explain the wines. Tastings are typically accompanied by explanations, making it accessible whether you’re a seasoned wine lover or just starting out.
What’s included in the price?
Your fee covers round-trip transportation from Manhattan, visits to three vineyards, tastings at each stop, and a gourmet picnic lunch. Vegetarian options are available, but it’s best to confirm dietary needs ahead of time.
How long is the bus ride?
The ride from Manhattan to Long Island takes about 2 hours each way, depending on traffic. The scenic drive allows for relaxation and a chance to chat with fellow travelers or listen to guide commentary.
Are the vineyard stops indoors or outdoors?
It varies. Some wineries have lovely outdoor grounds and tasting rooms, but weather can influence whether you’re outdoors or indoors. Rain or shine, the tour proceeds, but outdoor enjoyment may be limited in bad weather.
What is the group size?
The maximum group size is 25 travelers, which helps keep the experience intimate and allows guides to give personalized attention.
Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, there’s free cancellation up to 24 hours before the tour, with a full refund. Last-minute cancellations are not refundable, so plan accordingly.
Final Thoughts
This Long Island Winery Tour from Manhattan offers a well-rounded, hassle-free way to taste some of New York’s best wines while enjoying scenic views and good company. Its biggest strengths are the convenience of transportation and the generous tastings at three diverse vineyards, making it ideal for visitors who want a relaxed, social experience without the stress of planning.
While it might not satisfy those looking for in-depth behind-the-scenes wine production or a luxury vineyard experience, it excels in providing a friendly, informative, and scenic day out. The inclusion of a hearty picnic lunch and the guide’s friendly, knowledgeable approach make it a strong value—especially for anyone new to wine touring or seeking a fun escape from the city.
If you’re looking for an enjoyable way to explore Long Island’s wine country with minimal fuss and maximum scenery, this tour is a reliable choice. Just remember to book early, confirm dietary preferences, and prepare for a day of tasting, scenery, and perhaps some new wine favorites. Cheers to a memorable day out!