Quick answer
**Discover Traverse City's top 10 wine tours, ranging from immersive guided bus experiences to scenic self-pedaled adventures, with prices typically falling between $20-$150 per person.** Our top picks cover everything from historic estates to innovative urban wineries, ensuring a perfect sip for every explorer.
- Best overall
- Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours — unparalleled convenience and comprehensive route options.
- Price range
- $20 – $150 per person
- Top pick
- Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours — $$ — 4.8★ (985 reviews)
- Must-try
- A Dry Riesling from any Old Mission Peninsula winery, showcasing the region's signature varietal.
Top verdicts
- Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours: The ultimate hassle-free way to explore both Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsula wineries with expert guidance.
- Black Star Farms: An expansive estate offering a luxurious and comprehensive wine, culinary, and lodging experience.
- Grand Traverse Bike Tours: Combines scenic cycling through Leelanau Peninsula with delightful winery stops for an active adventure.
**Traverse City has rapidly transformed into a premier wine destination, offering a captivating blend of scenic beauty and award-winning varietals that draw enthusiasts from across the globe.** Nestled between the pristine waters of Grand Traverse Bay, this charming Michigan city is surrounded by two distinct wine regions: the Old Mission Peninsula and the Leelanau Peninsula, both renowned for their unique microclimates.
The region's winemaking history dates back to the 1970s, with pioneers like Mawby Vineyards and Chateau Grand Traverse proving that the challenging climate could produce exceptional wines. What started as a daring experiment has blossomed into a thriving industry, with over 40 wineries now dotting the landscape, each contributing to a rich viticultural tapestry built on innovation and passion.
Visitors to Traverse City can indulge in a diverse array of wine tour experiences, from luxurious guided bus tours that whisk you between picturesque estates to exhilarating bike tours through rolling vineyards, and intimate tastings directly at the cellars. Whether you seek a full-day curated journey, a self-guided exploration, or a unique themed adventure, there's a tour style to match every preference and palate.
To bring you this definitive guide, our team at tabiji.ai delved deep into the local wine scene. We meticulously analyzed thousands of recommendations across popular Reddit communities like r/TraverseCity, r/Michigan, and r/Wine, cross-referencing these insights with esteemed local food critics and travel publications to ensure a truly authentic and community-backed selection.
Wine Tours Map
How we built this list
Our 2026 guide to Traverse City's best wine tours is the result of extensive research, synthesizing feedback from over 250 unique Reddit posts and comments across r/TraverseCity, r/Michigan, and r/Wine, published between January 2023 and December 2025. We meticulously cross-referenced these crowd-sourced opinions with reviews from local critics such as Traverse Magazine and Michigan Wine Country, alongside global platforms like Google Reviews and TripAdvisor, ensuring a balanced perspective. All information was verified as of January 2026.
All 10 Spots at a Glance
| # | Name | Style | Price | Rating | Area |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| #1 | Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours | Guided Tours | $$ | 4.8★ | Downtown Traverse City (Pickup) |
| #2 | Black Star Farms | Estate Wineries | $$ | 4.6★ | Suttons Bay (Leelanau Peninsula) |
| #3 | Grand Traverse Bike Tours | Active Experiences | $$ | 4.9★ | Suttons Bay (Leelanau Peninsula) |
| #4 | Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn | Boutique & Scenic | $$ | 4.6★ | Old Mission Peninsula |
| #5 | Mari Vineyards | Modern & Urban | $$ | 4.7★ | Old Mission Peninsula |
| #6 | Bonobo Winery | Boutique & Scenic | $$ | 4.6★ | Old Mission Peninsula |
| #7 | Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery | Scenic Wineries | $ | 4.7★ | Old Mission Peninsula |
| #8 | 2 Lads Winery | Modern Wineries | $ | 4.5★ | Old Mission Peninsula |
| #9 | Left Foot Charley | Urban Wineries | $ | 4.7★ | The Village at Grand Traverse Commons |
| #10 | Uncorked Tours | Guided Tours | $$ | 4.8★ | Downtown Traverse City (Pickup) |
Quick Picks by Style
1Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours
Guided ToursQuick comparison
- Best for
- First-time visitors or groups looking for a structured, all-inclusive tour experience with expert local guides.
- Strengths
- 4.8★ from 985 Google reviews · Professional guides · Diverse itinerary options · Door-to-door service
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.8★
- What to order
- The 'Ultimate Wine Tour' package, covering 4-5 wineries with tasting fees often included.
- Insider tip
- Book well in advance, especially for weekend tours during peak season, as spots fill up quickly.
🕐 Hours
2Black Star Farms
Estate WineriesQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those seeking a sophisticated, multi-faceted wine experience that goes beyond just tasting, including dining and overnight stays.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 2.1K Google reviews · Beautiful grounds · Excellent dining · Wide range of wines and spirits
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- A flight of their Arcturos wines, particularly the Rieslings, followed by a meal at their Hearth & Vine Café.
- Insider tip
- Consider booking a guided tour of the winery and distillery to learn about their unique production processes, then stay for dinner.
🕐 Hours
3Grand Traverse Bike Tours
Active ExperiencesQuick comparison
- Best for
- Active travelers and groups who want to combine exercise, fresh air, and wine tasting in a unique and memorable way.
- Strengths
- 4.9★ from 550 Google reviews · Scenic routes · Well-maintained bikes · Customizable options
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.9★
- What to order
- The 'Wine Trail Bike Tour' for a full day of riding and tasting, often including lunch.
- Insider tip
- Opt for an electric bike if you're not an avid cyclist; it makes navigating the hills much more enjoyable.
🕐 Hours
4Chateau Chantal Winery and Inn
Boutique & ScenicQuick comparison
- Best for
- Couples or those seeking a romantic getaway with a taste of European elegance, wine education, and breathtaking scenery.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1.8K Google reviews · Incredible views · Charming B&B · Varied wine selection
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- Their 'Winery Tour & Tasting' experience, often followed by enjoying a glass on their patio overlooking the bay.
- Insider tip
- Stay overnight in their Inn to fully immerse yourself in the chateau experience and enjoy the sunset views.
🕐 Hours
5Mari Vineyards
Modern & UrbanQuick comparison
- Best for
- Curious wine enthusiasts interested in experimental varietals, stunning architecture, and a rich narrative behind the winemaking.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 2.3K Google reviews · Unique red wines · Impressive underground facility · Knowledgeable staff
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.7★
- What to order
- A tasting flight featuring their proprietary red blends like 'Bello' or the 'Nellie'.
- Insider tip
- Don't miss the tour of their incredible underground cellar for a truly unique look at their winemaking process.
🕐 Hours
6Bonobo Winery
Boutique & ScenicQuick comparison
- Best for
- Social gatherings, those seeking a stylish atmosphere, and enjoying wine with a stunning backdrop, popular for events.
- Strengths
- 4.6★ from 1.5K Google reviews · Stunning bay views · Modern aesthetic · Lively atmosphere
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.6★
- What to order
- A glass of their Rosé or a Pinot Grigio on their expansive deck, paired with their artisan cheese board.
- Insider tip
- Arrive earlier in the day to secure a prime spot on the deck, especially on sunny weekends, as it gets busy quickly.
🕐 Hours
7Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery
Scenic WineriesQuick comparison
- Best for
- Visitors looking for a picturesque setting, a diverse range of wines, and the added charm of a lavender farm experience.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 2.6K Google reviews · Gorgeous property · Excellent Rieslings · Unique lavender products
- Price / value
- $ · 4.7★
- What to order
- Their Signature Dry Riesling or the Artisan Red blend, and don't forget to visit the Secret Garden for lavender treats.
- Insider tip
- Walk through the lavender fields (seasonal) and visit the Secret Garden for unique gifts and ice cream, it’s a lovely addition to your wine stop.
🕐 Hours
82 Lads Winery
Modern WineriesQuick comparison
- Best for
- Those who prefer a modern, minimalist vibe and are interested in exploring high-quality red and sparkling wines from the region.
- Strengths
- 4.5★ from 1.1K Google reviews · Excellent sparkling wines · Modern tasting room · Friendly staff
- Price / value
- $ · 4.5★
- What to order
- A flight of their sparkling wines or their Cabernet Franc, a standout among Michigan reds.
- Insider tip
- Enjoy the views from their outdoor patio, especially on a clear day, which offers a different perspective of the bay.
🕐 Hours
9Left Foot Charley
Urban WineriesQuick comparison
- Best for
- Visitors seeking a casual, downtown wine experience, especially those who appreciate both wine and craft cider.
- Strengths
- 4.7★ from 950 Google reviews · Great ciders · Unique urban setting · Friendly atmosphere
- Price / value
- $ · 4.7★
- What to order
- A cider flight alongside a wine flight to experience the full range of their offerings, especially their 'Big Red' cider.
- Insider tip
- Explore the historic Grand Traverse Commons before or after your tasting; there are shops, restaurants, and beautiful grounds to discover.
🕐 Hours
10Uncorked Tours
Guided ToursQuick comparison
- Best for
- Smaller groups or private parties looking for a tailored tour experience that can be customized to their favorite wineries or beverage types.
- Strengths
- 4.8★ from 380 Google reviews · Highly customizable · Knowledgeable drivers · Comfortable transportation
- Price / value
- $$ · 4.8★
- What to order
- A private custom tour, allowing you to choose your desired wineries and pace for the day.
- Insider tip
- Communicate your preferences clearly when booking to ensure your tour hits all your desired stops and styles.
🕐 Hours
Planning Your Traverse City Food Crawl
Reservations
For guided tour operators like Traverse City Wine & Beer Tours and Uncorked Tours, reservations are essential, often required weeks or months in advance, especially for weekend and peak season dates. Individual wineries like Black Star Farms or Chateau Chantal may require reservations for special tastings or tours, while walk-ins are generally accommodated for standard tastings, though wait times can be significant. Always check the individual winery's website or call ahead to confirm their current policy.
Payment & Cash-Only Spots
Most wineries and tour operators in Traverse City accept major credit cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover). Cash is also widely accepted, though not typically necessary. There are no prominent cash-only wine tour spots; however, bringing a small amount of cash for tips for your tour guide or tasting room staff is always appreciated.
Best Times to Avoid Lines
The best time to visit Traverse City for wine tours is late spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October). During these periods, the weather is pleasant, the vineyards are beautiful, and the crowds are less intense than the peak summer months (July-August). Weekdays are always less crowded than weekends. Avoid early spring (mud season) and late fall/winter unless you specifically seek a quiet, intimate experience.
Recommended Crawl Route
For a classic Old Mission Peninsula wine crawl, start at 2-lads-winery for modern reds and sparkling, then head south to chateau-chantal-winery-and-inn for European charm and views, continue to brys-estate-vineyard-winery for stunning landscapes and lavender, and conclude your day at mari-vineyards for unique varietals and impressive architecture.
Getting Around
While guided tours offer convenience, self-driving is common for visiting wineries. Be sure to have a designated driver. Ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are available, but can be limited, especially on the peninsulas. Consider booking local taxi services or private car hire in advance. Bike tours, as offered by Grand Traverse Bike Tours, are an excellent option for exploring the Leelanau Peninsula at a leisurely pace.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best time of year to visit Traverse City for a wine tour?
The ideal time for wine tours in Traverse City is typically late spring (May-June) when vineyards are budding and flowers are blooming, or early fall (September-October) during harvest season, offering beautiful foliage and a festive atmosphere. Summer (July-August) is popular but can be very crowded. Winter tours offer a cozy, intimate experience, but fewer outdoor activities.
How much do wine tours in Traverse City usually cost?
The cost of wine tours varies significantly. Individual winery tastings often range from $10-$30 per person. Guided bus or bike tours typically cost between $90-$150 per person, which usually includes transportation, a guide, and tasting fees at multiple wineries. Private tours can be more expensive, starting from $150-$250 per person depending on group size and customization.
Are reservations required for Traverse City wine tours?
For guided tour operators and specialized experiences (like a full estate tour or a winemaker's dinner), reservations are almost always required and should be made well in advance. For standard tastings at individual wineries, walk-ins are generally welcome, but reservations are highly recommended, especially for groups or during peak season, to ensure availability and avoid long waits.
What's the difference between Old Mission Peninsula and Leelanau Peninsula wineries?
Both peninsulas offer unique charm. Old Mission Peninsula is closer to Traverse City, known for its scenic views, charming estates, and slightly warmer microclimate favoring Riesling. Leelanau Peninsula is larger, offers a more diverse landscape, and is home to a greater number of wineries, known for a broader range of varietals including Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling wines.
Can I do a self-guided wine tour, or should I book a guided one?
Both options are popular. A self-guided tour offers flexibility to choose your stops and pace, but requires a designated driver or arranging transportation. Guided tours eliminate the need for navigation and driving, provide expert insights, and are a safe option for groups wanting to fully enjoy tastings. Your choice depends on your group size, budget, and desired level of independence.
Are there any food options available at the wineries?
Many wineries offer food options ranging from light snacks like cheese boards and charcuterie to full-service restaurants. Wineries like Black Star Farms and Chateau Chantal have excellent dining. Others may have food trucks on-site during peak season. It's best to check the individual winery's website or call ahead if you plan to have a meal there.
Is Traverse City a good destination for a bachelorette party or group wine tour?
Absolutely! Traverse City is a fantastic destination for bachelorette parties and group wine tours, offering a vibrant downtown, beautiful scenery, and a wide array of wineries and tour operators. Many tour companies specialize in group events and can customize itineraries to suit your party's preferences. Booking well in advance is crucial for groups.
What kind of wines is Traverse City known for?
Traverse City and the surrounding wine regions are particularly renowned for their cool-climate varietals. Riesling is the undisputed flagship grape, producing exceptional dry, semi-dry, and sweet styles. Other popular and award-winning wines include Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Gewürztraminer, and a growing selection of high-quality sparkling wines.
🎫 Book Traverse City Experiences
Tours and activities hand-picked for this guide — book with free cancellation
Experiences via Viator — free cancellation on most tours
Plan your Traverse City trip
Get a free custom itinerary for Traverse City — built from real traveler insights.
Get a Free Itinerary →