NON BUS VIP GMC YUKON Old Mission Traverse City Wine Tour

If you’re looking to explore Michigan’s famed wine region without the usual school-bus crowd and loud party antics, the NON BUS VIP GMC Yukon Old Mission Traverse City Wine Tour offers a perfect alternative. For just $89 per person, you get approximately four and a half hours of scenic drives, top-notch winery experiences, and the comfort of a luxury vehicle—most often a GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or soon, a Cadillac Escalade. Led by knowledgeable guides like Magic Mike, this tour is tailored for those who want a more refined, personalized tasting adventure.

What makes this experience stand out? First, the luxury transportation ensures you won’t feel cramped or rushed—something we definitely appreciated. Second, the expert guidance from guides trained in wine appreciation adds depth to your tastings, making each stop more than just sipping wine; it becomes an educational moment. The only potential downside? The tours are semi-private, so if you’re traveling alone or in a small group, you might be sharing the vehicle with others, which could impact the feeling of exclusivity.

This experience suits couples, small groups, or anyone eager for a relaxed, scenic, and upscale wine tour. If you value comfort, expert advice, and avoiding the chaos of typical party buses, this tour hits the mark.

Key Points

Luxury Transport: Travel in style with private or semi-private GMC Yukons, avoiding the chaos of traditional party buses.
Expert Guides: Guides like Magic Mike offer real wine knowledge and tailored recommendations.
Flexible Pickup: Convenient downtown Traverse City pickup and drop-off make it easy to join and return without hassle.
Scenic & Tasty: Visit four hand-selected wineries on Old Mission Peninsula, with tastings included, plus opportunities to purchase food and additional wines.
Exclusive Perks: Groups of six or more receive a complimentary bottle of wine—perfect for celebrating or sharing.
Authentic Experience: Small group sizes and personalized service mean you’ll get a genuine taste of Michigan wine culture.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Closer Look at the Experience

If wine interests you, we've examined these other wine experiences in Traverse City

An Upmarket Alternative to the Party Bus

Most wine tours seem to default to loud, crowded buses or vans that make the experience feel more like a pub crawl than a refined visit to vineyards. Not so here. The Movie Stars Wine Tours team takes pride in providing a luxurious, private feel, even when sharing with others. The vehicle is air-conditioned, comfortable, and designed for your relaxation, making the journey as enjoyable as the tastings.

The Itinerary – What You’ll Visit

The tour features four carefully selected wineries, each chosen for their quality and scenic appeal. While the specific wineries can vary depending on availability, weather, and guest preferences, every stop is a highlight. The guides, like Magic Mike, bring insights into each winery’s unique story, style, and wine production—turning tastings into enjoyable lessons rather than mere sip sessions.

The Wineries & Tastings

Guests have raved about the quality and variety of wines on offer. The included samples are generous, and if you’re in a group of six or more, a complimentary bottle of Gamay or Secco adds a special touch. Tasting fees and food are extra, allowing you to customize your experience—whether you prefer a light snack or a full meal to complement your wines.

More Great Tours Nearby

The Scenic Drive & Views

Traveling in a luxury GMC Yukon or upcoming Cadillac Escalade, you’ll enjoy the stunning scenery of Traverse City’s Old Mission Peninsula. Expect sweeping vineyard vistas, rolling hills, and perhaps a glimpse of Lake Michigan in the distance. This isn’t just a wine tour; it’s a chance to absorb the beauty of Michigan’s premier wine country in comfort.

For broader city exploration in Traverse City, we've covered these other tours

The Guide & Personal Touch

Many reviews mention Magic Mike and other guides’ deep wine knowledge and friendly demeanor. One reviewer called him “a very kind and knowledgeable driver,” which made the entire day more enjoyable. Having a guide who can recommend wines based on your taste makes all the difference. They’re also happy to accommodate specific wineries if you have favorites or want to include particular stops.

Timing & Group Size

Most tours last about 4.5 hours, with flexible pickup options in downtown Traverse City. Larger groups—typically 6 or 7—usually enjoy private vehicles, which enhances the feeling of exclusivity. Smaller groups of 2-5 might be combined, but guides do their best to keep your experience intimate.

Value and Practicality

At $89, the tour offers excellent value—especially considering the upscale transportation, expert guide, and multiple winery visits. The tour is a wise choice for anyone who appreciates quality over quantity, wine education, and a relaxed pace. Since tastings and food are extra, you can budget accordingly, but the core experience of scenic, guided tastings at four top wineries makes it worth every dollar.

Why This Tour Works

Guests consistently cite the knowledgeable guides and stunning views as the main highlights. One reviewer mentioned that Mike’s expertise made each winery visit “great,” and the unique touches like “fancy drinking hats” add a playful, memorable element. The luxury vehicle means you’re not just riding around; you’re traveling in style, which elevates what could be an ordinary day into a memorable experience.

The Flexibility & Convenience

The pickup location at Hardy Street Parking Structure is central, across from the Park Place Hotel, which means you won’t need to hike miles to start your adventure. The tour provider is also accommodating with pickups at other downtown locations. Post-tour, you can easily head back to your hotel or explore downtown Traverse City, making this experience very practical for travelers staying nearby.

Authenticity & Local Flavor

With guides like U of M and MSU grads, you get local insights along with wine expertise. The tours are operated by a team with law enforcement backgrounds, emphasizing safety and professionalism. The semi-private setup ensures a balance between social interaction and personalized service.

Final Thoughts

This VIP wine tour offers a refreshing alternative to the crowded bus scene—favoring comfort, knowledge, and scenic beauty over loud music and chaos. It’s a well-rounded experience that combines the best of Michigan’s wine offerings with a high level of service and style. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion, seeking a relaxed day with friends, or simply want to enjoy the region’s wines without the hassle, this tour is a smart choice.

If you’re a wine enthusiast who appreciates fine scenery and expert guidance, or someone who prefers comfort over chaos, you’ll find this tour rewarding. The ability to customize stops, along with the generous tasting and exclusive perks, makes it a standout option in Traverse City.

FAQ

Is the tour suitable for small groups or couples?
Yes, the tour is flexible. Small groups of 2-5 may share the vehicle with others, but groups of 6 or more usually enjoy private use of the vehicle. It’s perfect for couples, friends, or small families.

What is included in the price?
The tour price covers four winery visits, tastings, and the luxury vehicle. Food, additional wines, and bottles are extra. Groups of six or more also receive a complimentary bottle of wine.

Can I customize the wineries I visit?
While winery choices depend on availability and weather, guides are happy to accommodate guest requests if possible.

Where does the tour pick up and drop off?
The main pickup is at Hardy Street Parking Structure, near Middlecoast Brewery, in downtown Traverse City. Pickup at other locations may be available depending on logistics.

How long is the tour?
The experience lasts approximately 4.5 hours, including travel time between wineries.

Is this a semi-private or private tour?
Most groups of 6 or more have private vehicles; smaller groups may share with others but still enjoy personalized guidance.

What is the target audience for this tour?
It suits travelers seeking a relaxed, upscale experience with expert guidance, ideal for couples, small groups, and those who dislike loud party buses.

Is the tour family-friendly?
No, due to wine tastings, it’s not suitable for children or pregnant women.

Are food and wine flights included?
No, tastings and food are extra—this allows flexibility in your tasting experience.

How do I pay or cancel?
You can reserve now and pay later, with free cancellation available up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund.

To sum it up, the NON BUS VIP GMC Yukon Old Mission Traverse City Wine Tour is a top-notch choice for travelers wanting a comfortable, knowledgeable, and scenic exploration of Michigan’s wine country. It’s perfect for those who value quality, personalized service, and stunning views, making it a memorable highlight of any trip to Traverse City.