NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour

Review of the NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour

Traveling alone in a beautiful wine region like Traverse City? This Singles Mingle Sunset Wine and Distillery Tour offers a relaxed, intimate way to enjoy the area’s best wines, stunning views, and a chance to meet other singles. This isn’t your typical tour experience filled with big buses and rushed schedules; it’s a thoughtfully curated experience that emphasizes comfort, quality, and authentic connections.

What we love about this tour? First, the non-bus transportation means you’re not packed in like sardines — you’ll travel in a luxury SUV, which feels more personalized and relaxed. Second, the calm, sunset timing lets you savor not only the wines but also the gorgeous scenery of Grand Traverse Bay and Old Mission Peninsula.

The main consideration? The tour is public and group-based, so it’s best suited for those comfortable with sharing the experience with others rather than seeking exclusivity.

This tour is especially perfect for singles, wine lovers, and travelers craving a social experience without the chaos of big party buses or crowded bar scenes. If you want a mix of scenic beauty, excellent wines, and a chance to meet like-minded people, this could be a memorable evening.

• Relaxed, non-bus transportation offers a more intimate and comfortable experience.
• Expert guides provide knowledgeable insights into local wines and distilling.
• Stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay enhance the tasting experience.
• Visit five diverse stops: top wineries, distillery, and scenic outlooks.
• Flexible options for purchasing wines and food at each stop.
• Great for singles and social travelers seeking a relaxed, authentic vibe.

Travelers who enjoy wine, scenic views, and the company of fellow singles will find this tour a refreshing change from bustling bus tours. The $99 per person price is reasonable considering the 4 to 5 hours of curated stops and the inclusion of a luxury SUV for comfortable, semi-private travel. Let’s walk through what makes this experience stand out, what you can expect at each stop, and how it fits into your Traverse City itinerary.

Transportation: More Than Just a Ride

Unlike many wine tours that rely on large buses, this experience switches gears with luxury SUVs — specifically GMC Yukons, Chevrolet Suburbans, and coming soon, Cadillac Escalades. This setup means you’re traveling in a more personalized, comfortable environment, with air conditioning and space to relax. For those wary of big, noisy buses, this makes a huge difference, allowing for easy conversation and a less hurried pace.

The group size of around 6-7 people per vehicle ensures a semi-private feel, and the guides are seasoned locals who know the region well. Plus, since it’s not a party bus, there’s no loud music or chaos — just relaxed, friendly exploration.

Starting Point and Schedule

The tour kicks off at 3:30 pm from 303 E State St, Traverse City. This timing is ideal as it allows you to enjoy the sunset and the cooler evening temperatures. The tour ends back at the starting point, giving you time to explore more of Traverse City or grab dinner afterward.

The Itinerary: A Perfect Mix of Wine, Spirit, and Scenery

Hawthorne Vineyards

Your first stop is Hawthorne Vineyards, up on a high bluff with panoramic views of both East and West Grand Traverse Bays. This is a top-rated winery with a reputation for quality reds and whites, including a Merlot/Cab Franc blend and a Dry Riesling. The tasting room’s secluded location offers a peaceful atmosphere—perfect for savoring your first glass and soaking in the vistas. You can even purchase wine, join the wine club, or enjoy some snacks like a charcuterie board or popcorn flight.

Guests often note that this spot offers a quieter, more intimate tasting experience compared to busier wineries. One reviewer mentioned it as “arguably the most secluded site,” and the views are described as “stunning,” making it an ideal first stop to set a relaxed tone.

Bonobo Winery

Next, the tour visits Bonobo Winery, founded by local brothers Todd and Carter Oosterhouse. What makes Bonobo special? The stellar wines and top-notch customer service. Here, you can sample expert-level reds like BDX and Pinot Noir, as well as whites such as Blanc de Blancs, Chardonnay, and even a Fume Blanc. If you’re a whiskey fan, you’ll be pleased to know they are the only winery on the peninsula where you can sample a glass of whiskey, adding a unique twist to your tasting experience.

Guests consistently praise the stunning views and the feeling of being treated like a movie star at Bonobo, making it a highlight for many. The guides often note that this winery offers some of the best wines around and provides an experience that’s both refined and welcoming.

Old Mission Distilling

From wine to spirits, the third stop is Old Mission Distilling. Located in the heart of Old Mission Peninsula, this spot emphasizes local ingredients and craft. You might find that the distillery’s approach to sourcing ingredients from nearby farms and orchards reflects a genuine commitment to quality.

Guests are encouraged to try mixed drinks and purchase spirits or wines. It’s a lively stop with knowledgeable staff, and the focus on local ingredients offers a bit of a different flavor profile compared to wines. This stop is perfect if you’re interested in spirits alongside your wines or just enjoy seeing how local flavors are distilled into unique spirits.

Bowers Harbor Vineyards (Seasonal/Alternate Stop)

Depending on the season, the tour may swap in Bowers Harbor Vineyards, one of the original wineries established in 1991. This family-run farm has a history rooted in agriculture and features 20 acres of vinifera vines. The rustic tasting room, once a horse stable, offers a cozy setting for sampling wines like Riesling, Chardonnay, Gewurztraminer, and Pinot Noir.

Guests often mention the friendly staff and the chance to see dogs at the winery, adding a warm, local touch. If available, this stop provides a more traditional vineyard experience, rounding out the wine tasting experience.

Scenic View of Grand Traverse Bay

Throughout the tour, you’ll enjoy spectacular views of Grand Traverse Bay. The bay, a large arm of Lake Michigan, is a prominent feature of the region and offers photo-worthy vistas. The tour includes a scenic drive along the bay, with opportunities to admire the waters and the unique geography dividing the East and West arms at the Old Mission Peninsula.

Guests have commented on the “stunning views” and the historical significance of the bay’s name, “la grande traverse,” adding a touch of local lore to your experience.

Food and Additional Purchases

While tastings, wines, and spirits are included in the experience, food and full bottles are extra and available for purchase at each stop. Expect to pay roughly $12-$25 for individual items. Many guests bring their own snacks or charcuterie, enhancing the tasting experience.

This setup gives you the flexibility to indulge at your own pace. If someone in your group is interested in buying a bottle to take home, all stops offer this option, adding to the value.

The Value Proposition

At $99, this tour offers a well-rounded experience. You get guided visits to five diverse locations, including wineries and a distillery, with expert guides sharing insights into wines and spirits. The luxury SUV transportation enhances comfort and privacy, and the scenic views of Grand Traverse Bay make it more than just a tasting tour — it’s a feast for the senses.

Compare this to standard bus tours with large groups, and the value increases. You’re paying for quality over quantity — quieter, more personal visits, excellent wines, and knowledgeable guides.

Who Will Love This Tour?

This experience is ideal for single travelers, couples, or groups seeking a relaxed, social evening. If you enjoy wine and spirits, appreciate scenic drives, and prefer a less hurried, more authentic experience, this is a great pick. It’s perfect for those tired of bar scenes or online dating and looking for a more organic way to meet new people.

However, if you’re expecting an exclusive, private experience, keep in mind that this is a public group tour. The group size usually caps at 20, creating a lively but manageable atmosphere.

The NON BUS Traverse City Singles Mingle Sunset Wine Distillery Tour offers a balanced mix of scenic beauty, quality wines, and relaxed social vibes. The expert guides and stunning views elevate the experience from just another wine tour to a memorable highlight of the Traverse City region. The luxury SUV transportation makes a noticeable difference, providing comfort and a sense of personal service you’d struggle to find on bigger bus tours.

This tour’s focus on authentic, local flavors and scenic vistas makes it well suited for those who want more than just wine tasting — they want an experience that combines beauty, taste, and the chance to connect. Whether you’re visiting solo or with a friend, it’s a tasteful way to spend an afternoon or early evening.

Is transportation included?
Yes, you travel in a luxury SUV with a semi-private group, avoiding the chaos of bus tours.

What is the starting time?
The tour begins at 3:30 pm, allowing you to enjoy the sunset and cooler evening.

How long does the tour last?
It runs approximately 4 to 5 hours, giving ample time at each stop without feeling rushed.

Are food and wine included?
Tastings are included, but food, flights, and bottles are extra, typically costing between $12 and $25.

Can I buy wine or spirits during the tour?
Absolutely. Each stop offers options to purchase bottles, glasses, or join wine clubs.

Are the stops seasonal?
Bowers Harbor Vineyards is a seasonal stop, and the itinerary may vary slightly based on the season or day.

Is this suitable for non-drinkers?
While focused on wine and spirits, the scenic views and social atmosphere can still appeal, but some stops involve tasting.

Is the tour family-friendly?
It’s geared toward adults, especially singles and wine enthusiasts; minors likely won’t find this experience suitable.

What should I bring?
Bring your ID, some cash or cards for additional purchases, and perhaps a light jacket for the evening.

How many people typically book?
Groups are usually around 6-7 people per SUV, with a maximum of 20 travelers overall.

To sum it up, this Singles Mingle Sunset Tour offers a unique way to enjoy Traverse City’s wine country without the hassle of large bus groups or rushing schedules. With its focus on comfort, scenic beauty, and authentic local wines, it’s a wonderful choice for adventurous singles, couples, or anyone seeking a relaxed, social evening in one of Michigan’s most beautiful regions.