NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour

Discover Traverse City’s Top Breweries and Distilleries in Style

If you’re seeking a sophisticated yet relaxed way to experience Traverse City’s vibrant craft beverage scene, the NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour is an excellent choice. For $68 per person, you’ll spend about 4 to 5 hours touring four of the city’s most iconic spots — all without the chaos of a party bus or crowded group settings. Instead, you’ll enjoy a luxury SUV, guided by knowledgeable local experts who are true connoisseurs of beer, spirits, and wine.

What we really appreciate about this tour is how it balances authenticity and comfort. You’ll get personalized recommendations at each stop, along with engaging stories about the region and its brewers, making it more than just a drink-hopping trip. Two key aspects stand out: the small-group, semi-private vibe that fosters genuine interactions, and the expert guides who serve as your local insiders.

On the flip side, one thing to consider is that food, bottles, and growlers are extra, so it’s best to come prepared if you want a full meal or souvenirs. Also, since the tour is tiered by group size, booking in advance (usually about 10 days ahead) ensures you secure your preferred start time — either 11:45 AM or 4:30 PM.

This tour is perfect for beer enthusiasts, craft spirits lovers, and curious travelers who want a deeper dive into Traverse City’s beverage culture with a touch of luxury and expert guidance. If you enjoy tasting local flavors while savoring a relaxed, semi-private setting, this is a great pick.

Key Points

• VIP Experience: Small groups and luxury SUVs provide an intimate and comfortable setting.
• Expert Guides: Guides are knowledgeable, passionate, and local, enhancing your understanding and enjoyment.
• Diverse Stops: Four stops showcase a variety of breweries and a distillery, with options for beer, wine, and spirits.
• Flexible Timing: Two daily start times cater to different schedules.
• Additional Costs: Food, growlers, and bottles are extra; plan accordingly.
• Cultural & Authentic: You’ll get genuine insights into Traverse City’s craft beverage scene, not just a quick drive-by.

An In-Depth Look at the Traverse City Brewery and Distillery Tour

The Perfect Alternative to Party Buses

If the idea of a loud, crowded party bus makes your head spin, this tour hits the right note. It offers a relaxed, VIP-style experience that emphasizes quality over quantity. Instead of squeezing into a bus with strangers, you’ll travel in a luxury GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban, with air conditioning and plenty of space. This means less noise, more conversation, and a feeling of being treated like a friend visiting local breweries rather than just a tourist.

The Itinerary: A Well-Curated Journey

The tour begins in downtown Traverse City, an area known for its charming streets, boutique shops, and lively food scene. Your guides typically pick you up at the centrally located 303 E State St, setting the tone for a personalized experience.

Stop 1: Silver Spruce Brewing Company
This is the first taste of Traverse City’s craft scene. Open since 2018, Silver Spruce has earned a reputation for outstanding lagers, pilsners, and IPAs. The atmosphere is relaxed, and here you can buy glasses, sample platters, or even growlers of your favorite brews to enjoy later. Guests rave about the expert-level beers—something that makes this brewery memorable—and the chance to brag about the drinks with friends.

Stop 2: Earthen Ales
A true gem, Earthen Ales is known for its experimental, small-batch beers, updated regularly every Sunday. Here, you might sample beer, ciders, or even beer slushies — a fun, refreshing twist. The owners are adventurous, and the fact that guests can try new, innovative brews adds a layer of excitement to your experience. Plus, you’re welcome to bring your own food or grab a snack at the bar, making it a very laid-back stop.

Stop 3: The Workshop Brewing Company
This spot is a community hub with a mission: sustainability, local ingredients, and honest craftsmanship. The wide variety of offerings—from beers and ciders to wine and spirits—means everyone in your group can find something they like. The environment is warm and welcoming, with live entertainment most nights, creating a lively, authentic scene. Guests often mention how much they loved trying the full lineup of beers, whiskey, vodka, and gin.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

The knowledgeable guides are a major highlight. They’re not just drivers — they’re craft beverage enthusiasts who share insights, background stories, and pairing suggestions. One reviewer specifically praised Tracey, calling her “amazing” and highlighting how much fun she made the tour.

The small-group format means you get tailored attention and a more genuine experience. For most groups of 6-7 people, you’ll likely have your own vehicle, which fosters camaraderie and conversations that are impossible on large bus tours. This semi-private approach offers a personalized, intimate atmosphere without the hefty price tag of a private tour.

Pricing & Value

At $68 per person, the tour offers excellent value considering the level of personalization, the quality of the stops, and the expert guidance. Many tours of this caliber, especially in larger groups or on party buses, cost significantly more but lack the personalized touch here. While food, growlers, and bottles are extra, the experience is rich enough that many guests find it well worth the additional spend.

Practical Tips for Travelers

• Book early, as the tour is popular and often booked about 10 days in advance.
• Arrive prepared: food and souvenirs are extra, so bring cash or cards if you want to purchase these.
• Choose your start time wisely: the 11:45 AM or 4:30 PM options fit different schedules — mornings might be more energetic, while afternoons could be more relaxed.
• Bring your thirst and curiosity: expect to taste a variety of beverages and learn about their craft.
• Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, especially if you plan to linger at the stops.

Who Is This Tour Best For?

This experience is ideal for beer lovers, spirit enthusiasts, and those wanting to explore Traverse City’s local scene without the hassle of large groups or noisy buses. It’s perfect if you’re seeking authentic, expert-guided tastings in a relaxed setting. The semi-private vehicle and knowledgeable guides make it especially attractive for couples, small groups, or friends who value quality over quantity.

If you’re someone who appreciates hearing stories behind the brands and prefers a more personalized, less commercialized experience, this tour will meet your expectations. It’s also suited for those who want a taste of local culture, combined with a bit of luxury and fun.

FAQ: Your Questions Answered

Is this tour suitable for all ages?
While the tour involves alcohol tastings, many venues are family-friendly, but you should check with the provider regarding age restrictions.

How many stops are included?
There are three main stops, each showcasing different breweries and a distillery, giving a good variety of drinks and experiences.

Are meals included?
No, meals are not included, but you can bring your own food or purchase snacks at some stops.

Can I customize the tour if I book a private group?
The tour is semi-private, and the itinerary is fixed. However, larger groups might have some flexibility depending on your arrangements.

What is the maximum group size?
Up to 20 travelers, but most groups are smaller, especially if you book for 6-7 people.

Is transportation provided?
Yes, the luxury SUV is part of the package, providing comfortable, air-conditioned transport.

How much walking is involved?
The stops involve some walking, but it’s generally minimal, just enough to explore the breweries and distilleries.

Are tips included?
Tips are not included but are appreciated if you enjoyed the guides’ expertise and service.

What if I want to cancel?
You can cancel free of charge up to 24 hours before the tour for a full refund.

Is this tour suitable for a group of friends or couples?
Absolutely, the semi-private format is perfect for small groups, making it a fun, intimate experience.

To sum it up, this VIP brewery and distillery tour in Traverse City offers a unique blend of expert guidance, authentic local flavors, and luxurious comfort. It’s a fantastic way for lovers of craft drinks to learn, taste, and enjoy the city’s best without the chaos of larger tours. Whether you’re a serious connoisseur or simply curious, you’ll find this experience well worth the investment. It’s perfect for those wanting a relaxed, genuine, and memorable exploration of Traverse City’s vibrant beverage scene.