NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour

Discover Traverse City’s Finest Hard Cider, Beer, and Wine in Style

The NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour, offered at $199 per person, promises a luxury 4.5-hour experience exploring the region’s best breweries and cider houses. Departing from downtown, this tour stands out by replacing traditional party buses with luxury SUVs like GMC Yukons or Cadillac Escalades, providing a VIP feel and avoiding the usual crowded, noisy group transport.

This tour is ideal for those seeking a relaxed pace and personalized guidance, especially if celebrating a special occasion or simply wanting to enjoy Traverse City’s beverage scene without the hassle of driving. With expert connoisseurs at the helm, the experience emphasizes quality, comfort, and a curated selection of local drinks, making it a premium choice for lovers of craft beverages.

You can check availability for your dates here:

Key Points

• Luxury transportation in GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade, not a party bus
• Visit four iconic breweries known for exceptional ciders, beers, and spirits
• Led by knowledgeable guides offering personalized recommendations
• Flexible scheduling with departures from downtown Traverse City
• Inclusive of samples and flights, with options to purchase bottles or food at additional costs
• Designed for private groups and special celebrations

Luxury Transportation in Downtown Traverse City: The Movie Star Experience

This tour departs from Hardy Street Parking Structure, located across from the Park Place Hotel, with pickup in luxury GMC Yukon or Cadillac Escalade vehicles. Unlike typical tours that use old, converted buses, this one emphasizes style and comfort, making travelers feel like celebrities for the day.

The air-conditioned SUVs are used exclusively for small groups, usually 6-7 people, ensuring a semi-private experience. This setup allows for more personalized attention from guides, who are local experts and wine enthusiasts. The tour’s flexible scheduling means you can choose a departure time that fits your plans, making it easy to incorporate into your visit to Traverse City.

Visiting Iconic Breweries and Cider Houses in Downtown Traverse City

Guests will visit four renowned breweries and cider spots, including Loco Boys, Work Shop Brewing Company, Earthen Ales, and Silver Spruce. Each location is selected for its exceptional drinks and unique atmospheres.

The stops focus on hard ciders made with love, crafted similarly to beers and wines, not the high-fructose syrups often associated with mass-market ciders. Visitors can expect to sample flights, bottles, or pints, with snacks and food available at additional costs. The tour emphasizes local, high-quality beverages that showcase Traverse City’s vibrant craft scene.

Expert Guides with Personalized Recommendations

Led by guides who are local connoisseurs and university graduates, including the owner with a background from the University of Michigan, the tour offers deep insights into the beverages, breweries, and the city itself. These guides are passionate and knowledgeable, making the experience engaging and informative.

They provide expert recommendations based on preferences, ensuring each guest gets a tailored experience. This personal touch sets the tour apart from more generic brewery visits, giving visitors a more meaningful connection to Traverse City’s brewing and cider-making communities.

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The VIP Experience: No Crowds, No Rush

One of the most appreciated aspects of this tour is its non-party bus approach. Guests enjoy a relaxed pace, with no rushing from stop to stop. The semi-private vehicles allow for a more intimate group experience, often with just a few people per vehicle.

This setup eliminates the noise and crowds typical of larger tours, allowing for better conversations, more comfortable tasting sessions, and greater flexibility. The curated nature of the tour means visits are more personalized, and guests can request specific stops or experiences.

Flexibility and Ease of Planning

The tour offers flexible departure times, with various options to align with your schedule. The pickup location in downtown Traverse City means no long walks or transport hassles to meet your guide.

Guests can book now and pay later, providing peace of mind and flexibility. The tour also offers private group options, making it suitable for celebrations like bachelor/bachelorette parties, birthdays, or anniversaries.

What’s Included and What’s Not

The included elements are mainly transport in luxury SUVs, guides, and samples or flights during the stops. The tour is law enforcement, first responder, and military friendly, owned and operated by former law enforcement personnel.

Food and additional drinks, such as bottles or snacks, are not included but can be purchased at the stops. Beverages and food outside the tasting sessions are not allowed in the vehicle, and smoking is prohibited throughout.

Comfort and Accessibility Considerations

Tour guests don’t have to walk miles or use old, unreliable buses. The pickup and drop-off are conveniently located in downtown Traverse City, making it easy for hotel or motel guests to join. The luxury SUVs are climate-controlled, ensuring comfort regardless of the weather.

While the tour is not explicitly described as wheelchair accessible, the emphasis on luxury vehicles and flexible scheduling suggests a high degree of convenience for most travelers.

Focus on Craft, Not Commercialism

This tour emphasizes quality over quantity, with hard ciders made with love, crafted like beer and wine. The stops are not mass-market but instead focus on iconic local breweries known for their exceptional drinks and scenery.

The guides are passionate about the local drinking scene, offering insights into the craftsmanship and history behind each beverage. This makes the tour appealing to craft beverage enthusiasts and curious newcomers alike.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour Most?

This tour suits adults seeking a relaxed, upscale experience in Traverse City. It is ideal for celebrations, special outings, or wine and beer aficionados who appreciate personalized service and quality drinks. The small group setting ensures a more intimate and comfortable experience, perfect for those who dislike large, crowded tours.

Because of the flexible schedule and private group options, it can also be tailored for family celebrations or corporate outings. However, it’s best for those who prioritize comfort and personalized guidance over a fast-paced or party-style atmosphere.

The Sum Up: A Top-Tier Beverage Tour in Traverse City

The NON BUS Traverse City Hard Cider & Beer Lovers Tour delivers a luxurious and personalized way to explore the city’s craft scene. With VIP transportation, expert guides, and carefully selected stops, this tour offers a relaxed, engaging experience that highlights local craftsmanship and scenic charm.

While it may be more costly than traditional tours, the upscale vehicles and tailored approach make it worthwhile for visitors seeking a comfortable, high-quality outing. This tour is especially suited for groups celebrating special occasions or those wanting an intimate look at Traverse City’s beverage culture.

Overall, it stands out by offering more than just drinks — it provides a memorable, stylish experience that captures the essence of Traverse City’s thriving craft scene.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the price of this tour?
The tour costs $199 per person.

How long does the tour last?
It lasts 4.5 hours, offering plenty of time to relax and enjoy each stop.

Where does the tour start?
It departs from the Hardy Street Parking Structure in downtown Traverse City, with pickup in luxury SUVs.

Are food and drinks included?
Samples, flights, and bottles are available during the stops, but food and additional drinks are extra.

Can I book a private group?
Yes, private group options are available, making it suitable for celebrations or special outings.

Is this tour accessible for all?
While not explicitly detailed, the luxury transportation and downtown pickup suggest a high level of convenience for most travelers.

You can check availability for your dates here: More Great Tours Nearby