Traverse City is one of Michigan’s most appealing destinations for wine lovers. The region’s Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas are famous for their stellar wineries and scenic landscapes. What makes these 2-day tours especially appealing is their combination of in-depth tasting experiences with the chance to enjoy the area’s natural beauty—without the hassle of large bus groups or crowded tours.
We especially like the VIP, no-bus options that offer personalized service and flexibility, making your wine adventure feel more like a trip with friends than a generic tour.
Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or just looking to sample some wines while enjoying beautiful views, one of these tours is sure to fit your style.
Quick Overview
This list highlights two top 2-day wine tours in Traverse City, each with distinct features. The first, a non-bus VIP tour, emphasizes personalized visits to iconic wineries with stellar customer service. The second offers a luxury SUV experience, focusing on flexibility and a VIP treatment for those who prefer a more private, tailored approach.
Both are priced around $299 per person and include visits to renowned wineries on Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsulas. For detailed descriptions, see the full reviews below.
1. 2 Day Wine Tour NON BUS Traverse City Wine Country 2 Peninsula
At number 1, this VIP wine tour skips the party bus scene and offers a more intimate experience for wine lovers who want to avoid crowds. Priced at $299 per person, the tour runs over two days, starting at 10:30 AM and ending around 3:30 PM each day. The focus is on personalized service, iconic wineries, and breathtaking views.
The itinerary includes visits to Hawthorne Vineyards, where you can buy wine and join their club; Bowers Harbor Vineyards, one of the oldest in the area, established in 1991; and Chateau Chantal, perched atop a hill with sweeping views of East and West Bay. The tour also stops at Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery for tastings and tours.
The small group size and private transport make this tour ideal for travelers who want a relaxed, high-end experience without the noise of a party bus.
The host boasts “stellar customer service,” and the itinerary is flexible, allowing guests to savor each stop at their own pace.
Bottom Line: If you value exclusivity, personalized attention, and iconic wineries, this VIP tour is a superb choice. It offers a fine balance of tasting, scenery, and comfort.
2. Traverse City: 2Day Old Mission Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour
For around $299, the 2-day Old Mission and Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour provides a luxury experience riding in SUVs rather than buses. It’s marketed as the “Official Law Enforcement/Military/First Responder Wine Tour,” but anyone can join and enjoy the VIP treatment.
This tour is perfect for those who want a more flexible itinerary and personalized recommendations from guides like “Magic Mike,” who offer authentic wine advice.
Over two days, you visit some of Traverse City’s best wineries in a small, comfortable group with expert guides. The luxury SUVs give you the freedom to explore less accessible wineries and enjoy scenic drives through the vineyards. The tour emphasizes quality over quantity, with tailored experiences and authentic wine tasting sessions.
As a VIP tour, it includes the benefit of flexible scheduling—you can spend more time at wineries you love or explore new ones.
Past reviews highlight the high level of customer care and the personalized approach that makes this stand out from typical group tours.
Bottom Line: This tour is perfect for travelers who want a luxury, personalized experience with the convenience of VIP service and flexible scheduling. It’s especially suited for those who appreciate quality and comfort.
How to Choose Your Perfect Traverse City Wine Tour
Choosing between these two great options depends on what kind of experience you’re after. If you prefer a more exclusive, no-rush experience with iconic wineries and personalized service, the 2 Day Wine Tour NON BUS (see here) is ideal. It’s a great fit for wine aficionados looking to savor each stop without the chaos.
On the other hand, if you want a flexible, VIP experience that combines luxury SUVs and expert guidance, then the Traverse City: 2Day Old Mission Leelanau Peninsula Wine Tour (more info here) offers more customized options and a more relaxed pace.
When booking, consider your budget, your interest in iconic vs. boutique wineries, and whether you prefer a small group or a more exclusive, personalized experience. Both tours are well-priced for what they offer, but the key is matching your style to the right experience.
Timing-wise, these tours run throughout the year, but spring and fall tend to be the most beautiful, with fewer crowds and perfect vineyard scenery. Book early to secure your preferred dates, especially in peak seasons.
Final Thoughts
Traverse City’s wine country offers some outstanding options for a 2-day escape. The VIP, no-bus tour is perfect if you value exclusivity and iconic wineries, while the luxury SUV experience suits those wanting flexibility and a more personalized adventure. Both deliver quality and memorable scenery, making them excellent choices for wine lovers and curious travelers alike.
Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or simply exploring Michigan’s finest wine regions, these tours will give you a taste of locally crafted wines with a side of scenic beauty. Remember to book early — these popular tours fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Cheers to a great wine adventure in Traverse City!