What is the NON BUS Hippie Theme Traverse Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour?

Imagine exploring some of Michigan’s most celebrated wineries without the usual crowded bus vibe. This $89 per person tour offers a relaxed, 4 to 5-hour journey through Traverse City’s renowned Old Mission Peninsula, led by expert guides — all in a luxury SUV rather than a tired old bus. You’ll visit 4 spectacular wineries, sample stellar wines, and enjoy stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay — all while dressed in your favorite hippie or flower child attire to match the fun, 60s/70s vibe.

What we love most about this tour is its personalized feel — no large bus crowd, just a semi-private experience where you have plenty of time to savor wines and chat with guides who really know their stuff. Plus, it’s owner-operated, with flexible stops based on your preferences — whether you want to visit specific wineries or follow the suggested route.

One minor consideration: it’s not a party bus with loud music and drunken crowds — if that’s what you’re after, this isn’t your tour. But if you prefer a relaxed, intimate environment with stellar customer service, this one’s a winner.

This experience suits wine lovers, small group travelers, and those who appreciate stunning vineyard views and authentic winery visits. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or anyone wanting a luxurious yet laid-back day among Michigan’s wine country.

Key Points

Personalized VIP Experience: Smaller groups, flexible itinerary, and expert guides make this a tailored wine tour.
Elegant Transportation: Luxury SUVs replace the usual party buses, offering comfort and style.
Iconic Wineries: Visit well-known spots like Chateau Chantal and Brys Estates, with options to purchase wines at each stop.
Stunning Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas of Grand Traverse Bay and the lush Old Mission Peninsula vineyards.
Authentic and Fun: The hippie theme and dress-up encouraged add a playful, memorable twist.
Value for Money: Includes a complimentary bottle of wine and expert guidance, making it a well-rounded experience.

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The Experience in Detail

The Unique Vibe and The Itinerary

This tour is all about blending authentic wine tasting with a fun, nostalgic theme. The organizers encourage guests to arrive dressed in hippie or flower child outfits, which adds a playful, communal spirit to the day. This isn’t a stuffy wine class — it’s a lively, relaxed journey through some of Michigan’s top wineries, with plenty of time to enjoy the scenery, sip wines, and maybe even get your photo taken in your costume.

Starting Point and Transportation

The tour begins at 303 E State St in Traverse City, a convenient downtown location. Instead of clambering onto a large, noisy bus, you’ll hop into a luxury SUV — a GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Tahoe, Cadillac Escalade, or similar — offering air conditioning and plenty of space for the group, which is typically around 6-7 guests. This semi-private setup allows for a more intimate experience and more flexibility in planning the route.

Visiting the Wineries

The tour stops at 4 wineries, with some of the most popular spots on the Old Mission Peninsula — including Hawthorne Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, Brys Estate, and Bowers Harbor Vineyards. Each offers a different vibe and wine selection, from crisp whites to bold reds.

At Hawthorne Vineyards, you can buy wine by the glass or bottle during the tour, and the staff is known for offering some of the best reds and whites in the area. Visitors have said, “This is one of the best vineyards in Traverse City,” and noted that the tasting experience is relaxed and enjoyable.

Chateau Chantal sits atop one of the highest points on the peninsula, offering spectacular panoramic views. Here, you might find yourself tempted to linger longer, soaking in the scenery while sampling fine wines. Reviewers often mention the “incredible views” and appreciate that they have the option to buy wine to take home.

Brys Estate is considered one of Michigan’s Top Ten most popular wineries, and it’s easy to see why. Their signature drink, the Froze’, is often highlighted as a must-try. Guests love the atmosphere and the wines that make this stop a highlight.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards, an original winery established in 1991 on a former horse farm, completes the circuit with authentic charm. Visitors can purchase flights or bottles, and many mention the “laid-back, friendly vibe” of the place.

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The Final Stop and Scenic Views

A significant part of the tour is the stop at Grand Traverse Bay, where you’ll get a chance to admire the vast expanse of Lake Michigan and the Leelanau Peninsula. The views are truly breathtaking, offering a perfect backdrop for photos and a moment to appreciate Michigan’s natural beauty.

The Guides and Customer Service

Guided by wine connoisseurs, the team includes former law enforcement and local guides, some of whom are university grads from UofM, EMU, CMU, GVSU, or MSU. Many reviewers praise the guides’ knowledge and enthusiasm, describing them as friendly, engaging, and well-informed.

Guests also receive a complimentary bottle of wine with their group, adding to the value of the experience. The tour’s small group size and flexibility make it feel more like a personal adventure rather than a scripted group event.

What’s Not Included

Keep in mind that there’s no party bus here — no loud music, no drunken antics. Also, food and additional wine purchases are extra, so you might want to bring some snacks or plan to buy wines at the stops.

Why Choose This Tour?

This hippie-themed experience is ideal for those who enjoy a fun, relaxed atmosphere and authentic winery visits. The luxury SUV transport ensures comfort, while the personalized approach allows for a more intimate experience than larger tours.

If you’re someone who loves stunning vineyard views, good wines, and a bit of playful dress-up, this tour will suit you perfectly. It’s especially suitable for small groups or couples looking for a laid-back yet guided exploration of Michigan’s wine country.

Final Thoughts

This tour offers a wonderful balance of luxury, fun, and authenticity. The small-group format along with expert guides makes it a standout choice for travelers who value personalized service and high-quality wine experiences. The themed dress-up adds a humorous and memorable twist, making it ideal for those who want more than just a standard wine tasting.

The stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay and the chance to visit some of the most iconic wineries make this a memorable day. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just craving a relaxed, beautiful day among vineyards, it’s a great value.

This tour isn’t for those seeking a wild party — it’s better suited for wine aficionados, small groups, and anyone looking for a tasteful, scenic, and fun experience. Its focus on quality, comfort, and genuine hospitality guarantees a day to remember in Michigan’s wine country.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is transportation included?
Yes, the tour includes luxury SUV transportation, providing comfort and style instead of a typical party bus.

How long does the tour last?
The experience lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving plenty of time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Can I visit specific wineries I like?
Absolutely. The guides are flexible and can tailor stops based on your preferences, so let them know your favorites.

What is the group size?
Most groups are around 6-7 guests, which helps keep the experience intimate and personalized.

Are wine tastings included?
Samples are included as part of the tour, but additional purchases like bottles or food are extra.

Is this tour suitable for non-drinkers?
While wine sampling is part of the experience, non-drinkers can enjoy the scenery and the company, and may purchase non-alcoholic beverages or food as desired.

What should I wear?
Dress in fun, casual, hippie-style attire if you like, as it’s encouraged for the theme. Comfortable shoes are recommended for walking around wineries.

What’s the cancellation policy?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

This Hippie-themed Traverse City wine tour promises a relaxed, stylish, and authentic journey through Michigan’s premier vineyards, perfect for small groups seeking good wine, great views, and a bit of playful fun.