Traverse City: 2Day Old Mission Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour

Traverse City: 2Day Old Mission Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour offers an elevated way to explore one of Michigan’s most celebrated wine regions. For $299 per person, you’ll spend two days cruising in luxury SUVs—think GMC Yukons and Chevy Suburbans—and visiting some of the area’s top wineries. Guided by passionate wine experts, this tour combines personal attention, authentic tasting experiences, and stunning scenery.

What we really like about this tour is the focus on personalized service—no crowded party bus here—and the chance to get real wine recommendations from guides like Magic Mike who know their stuff. Plus, the itinerary is flexible enough to tailor your experience, making each visit feel special. We also appreciate the luxury transportation, which adds comfort and style to what can otherwise be a busy day of wine tasting.

A possible consideration is that this is a more premium experience, so it’s best suited for those willing to invest a bit more for comfort and quality. The tour schedule runs from 10:30 AM to around 3:30 PM each day, giving plenty of time at each winery without feeling rushed. It’s ideal for wine enthusiasts who value a relaxed, upscale atmosphere and want to avoid the typical crowded bus scene.

This tour is perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone looking for a more intimate, luxurious way to explore Traverse City’s wine country. It’s especially suited for travelers who appreciate knowledgeable guides and personalized service, and for those eager to discover the best wines in the region without the hassle of planning every stop themselves.

Key Points

Luxury Transportation: Travel in style in a GMC Yukon, Chevrolet Suburban, or soon a Cadillac Escalade, with semi-private groups.
Authentic Wine Experience: Guided by passionate wine enthusiasts who offer real recommendations.
Flexible Itinerary: Customizable stops on both days to suit your preferences.
Quality over Quantity: Only visiting top wineries like Blackstar Farms and Chateau Chantal, with plenty of tasting time.
VIP Treatment: Small groups of 6-7 people, plus a complimentary bottle of wine for groups over 6.
Stunning Views: Beautiful scenery on both peninsulas adds to the overall experience.

You can check availability for your dates here:

An In-Depth Look at the Tour Experience

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The Setting: Traverse City’s Wine Country

Traverse City’s Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas are known for their scenic beauty and world-class wineries. The tour captures this perfectly, taking you away from the crowds and into a more personalized, luxurious environment. Expect to see rolling vineyards, picturesque lakesides, and charming winery buildings that make for a memorable backdrop.

The Comfort of Luxury SUVs

One of the standout features is the luxury transportation. Instead of cramped bus seats and loud chatter, you’ll travel in plush GMC Yukons or Chevy Suburbans—almost like a mobile lounge. The upcoming Cadillac Escalade will elevate this further. The air-conditioned vehicles ensure you stay comfortable, whether it’s a sunny summer day or a cool fall afternoon.

The Guides: True Wine Experts

Your guides are more than just drivers—they’re wine aficionados who genuinely love sharing their knowledge. They’ll provide real recommendations, adjusting the stops based on your preferences and questions. For example, if you’re into dry reds or sweet whites, expect tailored suggestions rather than a canned tour. One reviewer appreciated the guide’s genuine passion, mentioning that the guide “knew exactly what we liked and pointed us to hidden gems.”

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Itinerary Breakdown: Day 1 – Old Mission Peninsula

Your first day begins at 10:30 AM, starting on Old Mission Peninsula. Four wineries are on the docket, including Hawthorne Vineyards, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, and Brys Estates. Each stop offers different vibes—some with breathtaking lake views, others with cozy tasting rooms.

Hawthorne Vineyards: Known for its approachable wines and beautiful outdoor patios, perfect for a relaxed start.
Bowers Harbor Vineyards: Offers a wide variety of wines and a lovely setting overlooking Bowers Harbor, with guides often sharing local stories.
Chateau Chantal: Perhaps the most iconic, perched above the lake with panoramic views and a variety of tasting options.
Brys Estates: Known for its innovative wines and welcoming atmosphere, a highlight for those wanting to try something unique.

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Day 2 – Leelanau Peninsula’s Charm

The second day explores Leelanau with visits to Blackstar Farms, Ciccone Farms, and Rove Winery among others. This region is celebrated for its boutique wineries and scenic beauty.

Blackstar Farms: A top-tier stop famous for its sparkling wines and farm-to-table offerings.
Ciccone Farms: Smaller but renowned for its handcrafted wines and welcoming vibe.
Rove Winery: Known for its modern approaches and excellent reds, a favorite among critics.

Tasting & Purchase Options

At each winery, you’ll sample splashes of wine, with options to buy flights, by-the-glass pours, or bottles. Prices are extra, but the small group size and expert guidance mean you’ll get honest advice and personalized recommendations. If you’re keen on bringing home a favorite, consider the complimentary bottle offered to groups over six—an added perk that feels like a cherry on top.

What Makes This Tour Stand Out?

We loved the personalized service and VIP feel. The group size, often just 6-7 people, offers a relaxed experience where you can ask questions, savor wines, and enjoy the scenery without feeling rushed. The flexibility of the itinerary means guides can tailor the stops based on your preferences, which is a big plus over cookie-cutter tours.

Another highlight is the quality of the wineries visited. Unlike some tours that may stop at less memorable spots, this one features well-regarded vineyards, each with its unique story and wine style.

Possible Drawbacks

Given the premium nature and relatively higher price point, this tour may not be ideal for budget travelers. Plus, it’s not designed for children or pregnant women, and those with pre-existing medical conditions should consider their comfort during the day. Also, since the tour runs in the daytime from 10:30 AM to about 3:30 PM, it might not be suitable for late risers or those seeking evening activities.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

Wine lovers who want a luxurious, intimate experience will find this tour appealing. It’s perfect if you value guidance from knowledgeable experts, enjoy scenic drives, and want to avoid the hustle of large bus tours. Couples celebrating a special occasion or small groups of friends looking for a memorable day will also appreciate the VIP treatment and flexible itinerary.

The Sum Up

This 2-day Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsula wine tour offers a rare opportunity to explore Michigan’s premier wine regions in comfort and style. The luxury SUVs, expert guides, and carefully curated wineries create an experience that’s both relaxing and deeply informative. It’s ideal for travelers who prioritize quality, personalized service, and scenic beauty—those who want to skip the crowds and dive into the region’s best wines.

While it’s a bit pricier than typical tours, the premium experience and attention to detail make it a worthwhile investment for anyone eager to enjoy Traverse City’s wine country in a relaxed, upscale environment. Whether celebrating a special occasion or simply seeking a unique way to taste some of Michigan’s finest wines, this tour provides a memorable, authentic experience that will leave you with plenty of stories and perhaps a few bottles to take home.

FAQ

How long is the tour each day?
The tour runs from about 10:30 AM to 3:30 PM each day, offering plenty of time at each winery without feeling rushed.

What kind of transportation is used?
You’ll travel in luxury SUVs such as GMC Yukons, Chevrolet Suburbans, and soon Cadillac Escalades, providing a comfortable and upscale ride.

Are the groups private?
Most groups are around 6-7 people, which offers a semi-private, personalized experience. Larger groups over 6 receive a complimentary bottle of wine.

What is included in the tour?
The tour includes expert guides, luxury transportation, and wine samples (splashes). Food, additional wine flights, or bottles are extra.

Can I customize the stops?
Yes, the tour offers a flexible itinerary allowing guides to tailor winery visits based on your preferences.

Is the tour suitable for children or pregnant women?
No, the tour is not suitable for children under 18 or pregnant women due to alcohol consumption and other safety considerations.

What if I need to cancel?
You can cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund, providing flexibility for changing plans.

How do I find the meeting point?
Meet on the east side of the Hardy Street Parking Structure near the State Street entrance, next to Middlecoast Brewery, where you’ll find the GMC Yukons and Suburbans.

Is this tour good for wine beginners?
Absolutely. Guides are passionate about sharing knowledge and can accommodate all levels of wine familiarity, making it a friendly environment for newcomers and connoisseurs alike.

This 2-day luxury wine tour in Traverse City offers a well-balanced blend of scenic beauty, expert guidance, and upscale comfort—perfect for those seeking an authentic, personalized way to taste Michigan’s finest wines.