Traverse City Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
Experience the Best of Michigan Wine Country
Discover the stunning beauty of the Old Mission Peninsula on this signature Traverse City wine tour. Voted as one of the top 20 wine tours in the country, this experience takes you along the gentle, rolling slopes and winding country roads of Northern Michigan. With breathtaking views of the Grand Traverse Bay that rival European coastlines, you will enjoy a curated journey to four distinct local wineries.
What Travelers Loved
Guests consistently rave about the legendary drivers, often referred to as the 'shizzle.' Whether it's Scott or the rest of the professional team, travelers love the personalized anecdotes, historical facts about the peninsula, and the infectious energy that turns a bus full of strangers into a group of friends by the end of the day. It is widely considered a highlight of any trip to Michigan.
Itinerary Highlights
Chateau Chantal: A European-style estate sitting at the highest point of the peninsula with panoramic bay views.
Bowers Harbor Vineyards: Relax in a stunning vineyard atmosphere with over 27 years of winemaking expertise.
Brys Estate: Enjoy 91 acres of rolling vines and world-class varietals in a beautiful setting.
Bonobo Vineyards: Experience premium quality wines with a focus on sustainable and local traditions.
Practical Information
The tour includes air-conditioned transportation, a knowledgeable guide, and a convenient Yeti-style cooler for your use. Please note that wine tasting fees are not included and are payable directly at each vineyard. We recommend bringing a light snack as full meals are limited at the stops. Remember that a 20% gratuity for your hard-working driver is strongly encouraged.
Who Should Take This Tour?
This tour is perfect for groups of friends, birthday celebrations, or couples looking for a hassle-free, social day in the vineyards. It is a fantastic option for wine novices and enthusiasts alike who want to explore the region safely and comfortably.
Honest Notes
Wineries are subject to change based on availability and scheduling. While the bus is comfortable, some guests note that the tinted windows can occasionally obscure the scenery during transit. Additionally, prepare for varying wait times at popular venues and be sure to wear layers, as many tastings occur outdoors in the beautiful Michigan air.
This experience is provided by our trusted partner, Viator. You will be redirected to their secure booking platform.
What's Included
- Yeti Style Cooler for Customer Use
- Premium Limo Style Bus
- Local Tour Guide
- In-vehicle air conditioning
What's Not Included
- Wine tastings are not included and are purchased individually at each vineyard. The price for each tasting ranges from $5 to $10 per tasting.
- Gratuity (20% for the driver is strongly recommended)
- Chateau Chantal Winery: Wine flights: $15, Glass pours: $9–$14
- Bowers Harbor Vineyards: Wine by the Glass- $8-$10/Flights (5 pours or 2.5 glasses of wine)- $22-$28
- Brys Estate Winery: Wine by the Glass- $9-$11/Frose'-$10/Wine Country Snack Box- $9
- Bonobo Vineyards: Wine by the Glass- $9-$13 (Souvenir wine glass included)
- Hawthorne Vineyards: Wine By The Glass -$10
- Mari Vineyards: Wine By The Glass- $8-$15
Tour Itinerary
Stop 1
Chateau Chantal is a winery located on the Old Mission Peninsula, only a few miles north of Traverse City, in Grand Traverse County, Michigan. The chateau sits atop one of the highest points on the Old Mission Peninsula and has views of both East and West arms of Grand Traverse Bay. The winery is a European style chateau on a 64-acre (26 ha) estate. The Chateau has a tasting room, an eleven-room bed and breakfast, and a hospitality room where cooking classes and Jazz at Sunset are hosted.
Stop 2
The Beautiful Bowers Harbor was initially a horse farm and in 1991, began its transition to the stunning vineyard it is today. They have over 27 years of wine-making experience and boasts 20 acres of vines. Wine selections are numerous and include Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, Pinot Grigio, Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Cabernet Sauvignon, hard ciders and more! *Tasting flights are about $5 for 5 wines. Small snacks, dips and locally crafted cheeses & spreads are also available for purchase.
Stop 3
In 2004 with only 10,000 grape vines, Brys Estate yielded its first successful harvest. Now, the 91-acre estate is home to over 40,000 vines their varietals include: Merlot, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Franc, Chardonnay, Pinot Gris, Riesling, Pinot Blanc, and Gewürztraminer. Soak in beautiful East Bay views while enjoying world-class wines. *Tasting flights are about $8 for 5 wines and a souvenir glass. A 5-Item Cheese & Charcuterie Board is also available for purchase at the winery.
Stop 4
Bonobo offers world-class wines, breathtaking views, and a business model that keeps with traditions of the region. Their 19 acres give rise to the following varietals: Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, Riesling, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc, Sauvignon Blanc and Cabernet Franc. Even with a limited selection, Bonobo wines (and ciders) are sure to shine in overall quality. *Tasting flights are about $10 for 6 wines. They also offer the largest selection of snacks for purchase.
Important Information
Cancellation Policy
For a full refund, cancel at least 24 hours before the scheduled departure time.
Additional Logistics
- Service animals allowed
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Infants are required to sit on an adult’s lap
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- **PLEASE REFERENCE THE PARKING MAP IN THE IMAGES ON THIS LISTING FOR THE PICK UP & DROP OFF LOCATION**
- *DISCLAIMER: Wineries are subject to change based on availability.
- Mari Vineyards will be on a first come first serve basis, if booked, we will switch out with Chateau Chantal Winery, and vise versa
- There is a total of 10-15 parking spots that are allotted for Magic Shuttle Bus customers. These are offered on a first come, first serve basis.
- Bry's Estate Winery is a first come, first serve basis at their lawn bar outside
- *GRATUITY of 15%-20% for the driver is strongly recommended
- Customers are welcome to pack a lunch for the day, most wineries only offer small appetizers and snacks, no full meals
- *DISCLAIMER: Magic Shuttle Bus will contact wineries if appointments do need to be made, keep in mind, these are not reservations and only allow us to come in at the desired time, but does not eradicate wait times.
- Since Covid, most wineries are not offering tastings, but rather flights and wine by the glass, and samples
- Most wineries have outdoor seating only, please dress accordingly to stay warm on colder days
- Some wineries do not accept cash, they require payment to be on a card
- We strongly recommend that you use an Uber/Lyft/Taxi to get to the pick up location, and for your return trip home.
- This is a public tour, not a private tour
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