Traverse City’s reputation as a top destination for wine, beer, and cider lovers isn’t accidental. Its scenic vineyards, innovative breweries, and cideries make it a prime spot for drinking tours that combine local flavor with a relaxed, fun atmosphere. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just want a laid-back day with friends, Traverse City offers a variety of options.
We particularly like the Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour because of its personalized approach and the chance to visit four top-rated stops without any worries about driving. The non-bus VIP tours also stand out if you want a more exclusive, guided experience in a luxury vehicle.
From intimate private tours to VIP experiences in luxury SUVs, Traverse City’s drinking tours cater to different tastes and budgets. Our favorites include options that combine local expertise, flexible itineraries, and the chance to explore the region’s best drink spots in style. Ready to sample some of Michigan’s finest? Let’s look at each in detail.
- 1. Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour
- 2. NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour
- 3. NON BUS Traverse City Beer/Lager and Distillery Wine Tour
- 4. NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour
- 5. NON BUS Traverse City IPA, Beer, Distillery and Wine Tour
- 6. NON BUS Traverse City VIP Brewery Distillery Wine Tour
- 7. Traverse City Wine and Beer Tour
- How to Choose Your Perfect Drinking Tour
- Final Thoughts
1. Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour
At number one, the Private Traverse City Winery or Brewery Tour offers a personalized half-day experience. For $699.99 per group (up to 14 people), you get four stops at top-rated wineries or breweries, all tailored to your preferences.
The tour leaves the logistics to your guide, who transports you comfortably in a private air-conditioned vehicle, making it ideal for celebrations like birthdays or corporate outings.
What makes this tour stand out is its flexibility. When you book, you choose your start time and your stops—either at famous Old Mission wineries like Bowers Harbor or Brys Estate, or at Leelanau’s Aurora Cellars or Green Bird. The guide’s local knowledge ensures you visit the spots that suit your taste, and you’ll have time to purchase drinks (own expense) and soak in the scenery at each location.
Guests consistently praise the attentive service—“Carol was a great communicator and flexible,” reports one reviewer. With four stops in roughly four hours, this tour balances sightseeing, tasting, and relaxation. The private nature makes it perfect for groups wanting a tailored, hassle-free experience.
Bottom line: Perfect for groups seeking a custom, private experience with the comfort of a dedicated guide and vehicle.
2. NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour
At number two, the NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour is a sleek, small-group experience that skips the party bus and instead offers personalized VIP service. For $68 per person, you’ll spend about four to five hours exploring three iconic breweries and a distillery—like Silver Spruce Brewing and Earthen Ales—each renowned for exceptional drinks.
The tour begins in downtown Traverse City, where your guides—beer and distillery connoisseurs—share insider knowledge. Silver Spruce is especially memorable, with its award-winning lagers and Pilsners, and Earthen Ales pushes the experimental envelope with small-batch brews.
Guests love the relaxed pace—the tour is not rushed—and the chance to buy glasses, growlers, or bottles directly from the breweries.
Reviews highlight the personable guides and the exclusive VIP treatment—“Tracey was amazing! We had so much fun,” one guest recounts. This tour suits those who want a boutique, intimate experience with high-quality drinks and expert insight.
Bottom line: An excellent choice for small groups who value quality, personalized attention, and a leisurely exploration of Traverse City’s best breweries and distilleries.
3. NON BUS Traverse City Beer/Lager and Distillery Wine Tour
Next, the NON BUS Traverse City Beer/Lager and Distillery Wine Tour offers a comprehensive tasting day in a luxury SUV, for about $199 per person. This 4.5-hour experience is tailored for those who want variety—sampling beers, lagers, and wines—at four carefully selected spots.
Your guides are true local experts, giving personalized recommendations at each stop. The tour visits popular breweries like Green Bird Cellars and Chateau Fontaine, along with a distillery, providing a well-rounded taste of Traverse City’s drink scene. Guests appreciate the flexible, semi-private format, allowing for a more intimate and relaxed atmosphere compared to larger tours.
With reviews mentioning “great recommendations and an easy, luxurious ride,” this tour is suited for those who want a mix of drinks and to avoid the crowds while enjoying the region’s best.
Bottom line: A versatile, guided luxury tour perfect for travelers who want variety and expert insights without the hassle of self-driving.
4. NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour
The NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour is designed for those who love cider as much as beer. For $199, you’ll spend about 4.5 hours visiting four top spots, including cideries and breweries, in a luxury vehicle like a Cadillac Escalade.
This tour emphasizes the region’s craft cider scene, which is growing rapidly. It’s ideal for cider enthusiasts who also enjoy beer and want a curated, VIP experience. The guides are knowledgeable about each drink’s story and production, adding depth to the tasting experience. The tour’s relaxed pace and exclusive setting make it a hit with connoisseurs.
One reviewer notes, “Traveling in style with personalized recommendations made this a memorable day.” It’s perfect for those who want a focused cider experience with the option to taste great beers.
Bottom line: Best suited for visitors eager to explore Traverse City’s cider scene in a comfortable, VIP setting.
5. NON BUS Traverse City IPA, Beer, Distillery and Wine Tour
Next, the NON BUS Traverse City IPA, Beer, Distillery and Wine Tour offers a full spectrum of drink samples in a luxury SUV for about $199. In 4.5 hours, you’ll visit four spots, including some of the best breweries like Green Bird Cellars and Chateau Fontaine, plus distilleries and wineries.
The tour’s strength is its variety—covering IPAs, lagers, wines, and spirits—all with real expert guidance. Guests appreciate the flexibility and the VIP feel, with recommendations tailored to their preferences. The tour is ideal for travelers wanting to sample a broad selection without feeling rushed.
Reviews commend the “luxury transportation and personalized service,” making it suitable for couples or groups seeking a luxurious day out.
Bottom line: Offers a diverse, VIP-style tasting experience for those who want to explore multiple drink categories in style.
6. NON BUS Traverse City VIP Brewery Distillery Wine Tour
The NON BUS Traverse City VIP Brewery Distillery Wine Tour is similar to the previous but emphasizes small-group customization and in-depth tasting. It costs $199 per person for about 4.5 hours, taking you to four premier spots with personal guidance.
This tour’s focus on VIP treatment and flexible scheduling makes it ideal for travelers who want an intimate experience. The guides, who are local experts, help select the best spots based on your preferences, making each visit tailored and special.
Many reviews highlight the small-group feel and the personalized recommendations—“Magic Mike and the staff really know their stuff,” says one traveler. It’s especially suited for those wanting a relaxed, customized day with high-end service.
Bottom line: For travelers seeking a semi-private, personalized tasting day with expert guidance and luxury transport.
7. Traverse City Wine and Beer Tour
Finally, the Traverse City Wine and Beer Tour is a balanced option, visiting two wineries and two breweries in about 4.5 hours. For $199, you’ll be picked up in downtown Traverse City and driven in a luxury SUV, sampling drinks at each stop.
This tour is ideal for those who want a bit of both worlds—wine and beer—without committing to a full day of tasting. The itinerary offers a practical mix, and the knowledgeable guides ensure you get good recommendations along the way. Visitors value the convenience of downtown pickup and the opportunity to purchase merchandise from each location.
Guests say it’s a laid-back yet informative way to experience Traverse City’s drink scene, perfect for those new to the area or short on time.
Bottom line: A good, well-rounded choice if you want a mix of wine and beer in a casual, guided setting.
How to Choose Your Perfect Drinking Tour
When selecting a drinking tour in Traverse City, consider your budget, interests, and the type of experience you desire. If you prefer a private, tailored experience, the Private Winery or Brewery Tour offers excellent value. For those seeking exclusivity and luxury, the VIP tours provide personalized service and flexible itineraries.
If you’re a cider lover, the hard cider & beer VIP tour is perfect. Meanwhile, the mixed wine and beer tour offers a balanced sample of Traverse City’s drink scene in a relaxed setting.
Booking early is recommended, especially during peak seasons like summer and fall, when the region’s popularity surges. Think about your preferred pace—do you want a quick taste or an in-depth exploration? Each tour offers something unique, so pick one that aligns with your style.
Final Thoughts
Traverse City’s variety of drinking tours makes it easy to find an experience that fits your tastes and style. If you want a fully private, personalized day, the Private Winery or Brewery Tour is hard to beat. For those craving luxury and expert guidance, the VIP brewery and distillery tours deliver premium service.
Travelers on a tighter schedule or seeking a wide-ranging tasting experience should consider the mixed wine and beer tour. Whichever you choose, early booking and clear expectations about your tastes will ensure you get the most out of your Traverse City drink adventure. Cheers to discovering Michigan’s finest beverages!