Imagine skipping the usual loud, crowded bus scene and stepping into a luxury SUV with a small, eager group of fellow enthusiasts. That’s exactly what the NON BUS Traverse City VIP Brewery, Distillery & Wine Tour offers. For $199 per person, you get about 4.5 hours of personalized tasting at four handpicked stops around Traverse City, led by local guides who genuinely know their drinks—and their city.
What makes this experience stand out? First, the semi-private nature of the tour means you won’t be lost in a herd of strangers. Second, the luxury vehicle adds comfort and a touch of VIP style. We love how the guides, like Tracy, Kyle, and Andie, bring their passion and expertise to every stop, elevating what could be just another tasting to a genuinely memorable experience.
One consideration? Since drink tastings are included but food and additional drinks are extra, you might want to budget some extra cash if you plan to indulge at each stop. Still, the relaxed pace and personalized attention make this tour ideal for those who prefer quality over quantity and enjoy authentic, insider experiences. This tour suits couples, small groups of friends, or even solo travelers looking for a comfortable, engaging way to savor Traverse City’s vibrant beverage scene.
Key Points
- Personalized VIP Experience: Small group size and luxury SUV provide a comfortable, exclusive feel.
- Expert Guides: Local guides with deep knowledge share insights about each stop, enhancing your tasting experience.
- Flexible Itinerary: Tour times at 11:45 AM or 4:30 PM make it easy to fit into your day.
- Multiple Stops: Four carefully chosen breweries, distilleries, and even some wineries offer diverse tasting options.
- No Party Bus: This isn’t a boisterous, noisy ride, but a relaxed, more intimate journey.
- Purchasing Options: You can buy bottles, growlers, and merchandise directly from the stops, adding to the souvenirs of your trip.
An In-Depth Look at the Non-Bus VIP Tour
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The Experience: How It Feels to Tour in Style
From the moment we were greeted on the east side of Hardy Street Parking Structure, it was clear this tour is about class and comfort. The luxury GMC Yukon (or soon, a Cadillac Escalade) felt spacious, clean, and well-maintained. The guides, clearly passionate about Traverse City’s beverage scene, welcomed us with friendly smiles and a wealth of knowledge.
Unlike many group tours that pack in as many stops as possible, this experience prioritizes quality and relaxed pacing. The small group size, generally 6-7 guests, meant we could ask questions freely and enjoy a more intimate atmosphere. The flexibility of the itinerary meant we could spend more time at places we liked best, or explore new options if available.
The Stops: A Flavorful Journey
Each venue offers something unique, and the tour guides are adept at customizing the experience based on your interests.
First stop: A brewery renowned for its innovative craft beers. We sampled a flight of beers, and our guide, Kyle, eagerly explained the brewing process and the story behind each brew. We loved the way he pointed out subtle flavor differences and recommended pairings.
Second stop: A distillery specializing in spirits crafted from local ingredients. Here, we learned about the distilling process from Andie, who’s clearly passionate about spirits. Sampling their signature whiskey and flavored vodkas was a highlight, especially with her personalized tasting notes.
Third stop: An hotel offering both craft wines and beers. Tracy’s extensive knowledge made the wine tasting particularly enlightening—even for those of us more accustomed to beer. You can purchase glasses or bottles here, which makes it easy to take a souvenir home.
Fourth stop: A final venue that might feature a mix of drinks, with some locations offering wine menus. We appreciated the chance to relax and reflect on the day while sampling the last drinks of our trip.
What We Loved
- Knowledgeable Guides: Tracy, Kyle, and Andie truly brought the stops to life with their stories, insights, and enthusiasm. As one guest said, “The guides made all the difference—they knew their stuff and made it fun.”
- Luxury Transportation: Traveling in a private SUV meant no noise, no chaos, just comfort. It was a big step up from typical bus tours and made the whole experience feel special.
What Could Be Better
While the tour’s relaxed pace is a plus, those who prefer a more intense tasting schedule with multiple stops might find this a bit light. Also, since drinks and food are extra, it’s wise to budget accordingly if you plan to indulge at each venue.
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Who Should Book This Tour?
This VIP experience is perfect for small groups of friends or couples who value comfort and authenticity. It’s also great for those who want insider knowledge and a less commercialized tasting experience. If you enjoy learning about what you’re drinking and prefer a laid-back, stylish atmosphere, this tour hits the mark.
Why This Tour Offers Real Value
Compared to larger, more generic tours, the personalized attention and expert guidance make a notable difference. The price of $199 includes four stops with tastings, but the real value lies in the quality of the experience: the small group setting, luxury transportation, and local guides’ expertise.
Most reviews highlight how guides like Kyle and Tracy go beyond basic descriptions, sharing stories, answering questions, and helping guests navigate their preferences. Many guests also appreciated the opportunity to purchase bottles and merchandise directly at each stop, making it more than just a tasting but a shopping experience too.
The Overall Experience
You’ll love the relaxing pace and the chance to really savor each drink rather than rushing from one place to the next. The stops are thoughtfully chosen to showcase Traverse City’s diverse beverage scene—from breweries and distilleries to some wine options—giving you a broad taste of the region’s craftsmanship.
The small group size fosters genuine conversations, often leading to recommendations for local restaurants or hidden gems in Traverse City. The luxury SUV makes for a comfortable ride, and the guides’ local knowledge ensures you’ll get more than just a tasting; you’ll get a taste of Traverse City’s vibrant drink culture.
FAQs
How long is the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4.5 hours, with scheduled start times at 11:45 AM or 4:30 PM, depending on your chosen slot.
Where does the tour begin?
Meet on the east side of Hardy Street Parking Structure, near the State Street entrance, next to Middlecoast Brewery. They also offer pickup at some downtown locations—just check in advance.
Are drinks included?
Yes, samples and flights are included at each stop, but additional drinks, food, and merchandise are extra and can be purchased at each venue.
Can I bring my own drinks?
No, drinks are not allowed in the vehicle during the tour, and it’s best to enjoy the samples provided at each stop.
Is this tour suitable for children?
No, the tour is designed for adults, especially since alcoholic tastings are involved and it’s not suitable for pregnant women or those with mobility impairments.
Can I book a private group?
Yes, private tours are available, and larger groups of 6 or more receive a free bottle of wine—either Gamay or Secco, depending on availability.
What about transportation?
Travel is in a luxury, air-conditioned SUV (GMC Yukon now, with a Cadillac Escalade coming soon), providing a comfortable, intimate environment.
Is cancellation flexible?
Yes, you can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, making it easy to plan without worries.
Final Thoughts
This NON BUS Traverse City VIP Brewery, Distillery & Wine Tour is a standout choice for travelers who want a comfortable, personalized, and knowledge-rich experience without the chaos or crowds of larger bus tours. It’s perfect for those who appreciate local insights, small-group intimacy, and luxury transportation.
While it doesn’t include food or extras in the price, the quality of the stops, guides, and overall vibe more than make up for it. It offers a balanced mix of relaxation and discovery, making it ideal for anyone who wants to explore Traverse City’s beverage scene in style and comfort.
If you’re after a tasteful, engaging, and authentic experience that respects your pace and curiosity, this tour is a fantastic way to enjoy Traverse City’s drinks and local flavor.
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