NON BUS VIP Traverse City Brewery And Distillery Tour

Discover a VIP Brewery and Distillery Tour in Traverse City for $68

This Traverse City Brewery and Distillery Tour offers a luxurious, personalized experience without the noise and crowds of typical party buses. Priced at $68 per person, it lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours and includes pickup, air-conditioned luxury SUVs, and guides who are beer and distillery connoisseurs. The tour is offered at two start times, 11:45 AM and 4:30 PM, with pricing tiered based on group size, making it flexible for various parties.

What makes this tour stand out is its semi-private nature—it combines small groups of couples or groups of 6-7 guests into one vehicle, most likely a GMC Yukon or Chevrolet Suburban. This setup offers more comfort, personalized attention, and meaningful recommendations, setting it apart from standard bus-based tours. The customer reviews highlight the knowledge, warmth, and enthusiasm of the guides, making the experience both informative and fun.

Key Points

• Luxury VIP experience in a non-party bus setting with semi-private group sizes
• Expert guides who are beer and distillery enthusiasts
• Four stops at iconic Traverse City breweries and distilleries
• Sampling opportunities at each location, with additional food and drink available for purchase
• Flexible start times and pickup included for convenience
• Rated 5/5 based on 2 reviews, emphasizing personalized service and excellent guide interactions

Starting the Tour in Downtown Traverse City

The tour begins in downtown Traverse City at 303 E State St, a lively area known for its local charm and vibrant scene. From this central meeting point, the guide leads guests on a scenic drive around the city’s most attractive spots, setting the tone for a relaxed, enjoyably leisurely day.

The luxury SUV ensures a comfortable ride as the guide shares insights on Traverse City’s brewing history and local flavors. The air-conditioned vehicle makes for a pleasant experience, especially during warmer days, and adds to the VIP feel of the tour.

Exploring Silver Spruce Brewing Company’s Unique Lagers

The first stop is Silver Spruce Brewing Company, opened in 2018, which has quickly become a highlight of the tour. Here, visitors can purchase glasses, sample platters, and growlers of beer. Known for some of the best lagers near Lake Michigan, Silver Spruce features a diverse lineup, including Lagers, Pilsners, Dunkels, IPAs, and Stouts.

Beyond beer, there is wine available, with Pinot Grigio and Malbec options. The atmosphere at Silver Spruce is described as feeling like Movie Star glamour, with drinks that are both memorable and brag-worthy. With about 50 minutes at this stop, guests have plenty of time to savor the drinks and explore the space.

Sampling Innovative Brews at Earthen Ales

Next, the tour visits Earthen Ales, a small-batch brewery operating since 2016. What sets Earthen Ales apart is its commitment to experimental brewing—they tap a new small batch every Sunday, offering something fresh and unique each week.

Guests can try beers, ciders, and even beer slushies, making this stop a fun and adventurous experience. Bring your own food or grab a snack at the bar to enjoy alongside your tastings. The approximately 50-minute stop allows for enough time to sample and appreciate the creativity behind each brew.

The Workshop Brewing Company’s Diverse Offerings

The final stop is The Workshop Brewing Company, which emphasizes honest, traditional beers crafted with a focus on local and organic ingredients. This brewery also serves wines and ciders, creating a well-rounded experience.

Guests can try a full line of beers, whiskey, vodka, gin, and mixed drinks, along with ciders and wines. The atmosphere at The Workshop is lively, often featuring live entertainment six nights a week, making it a lively and welcoming spot. The 50-minute visit provides ample opportunity to sample a variety of drinks and enjoy some great food options.

What’s Included in the Tour

This VIP experience includes:
– Expert guides who are local drink enthusiasts and tour specialists
– A luxury SUV for a comfortable, air-conditioned ride
– Semi-private group arrangements, with most groups of 6-7 guests
– Samples and tasters available at each stop

The tour does not include food, growlers, bottles, or glasses, which are available for purchase at each location. The guides are knowledgeable and friendly, adding an educational touch to the experience.

Logistics: Meeting Point and Group Size

The tour departs from 303 E State St, Traverse City, and ends back at the same location. The group size is capped at 20 travelers, maintaining an intimate and personalized atmosphere. The pickup is included, simplifying logistics and ensuring a smooth start to the day.

The tour is suitable for most travelers; it is not physically demanding, and the air-conditioned vehicle keeps comfort high throughout. The timings are flexible with two start options, catering to different schedules.

Comparing to Typical Tour Options

Unlike standard party bus tours, this experience avoids loud music and overcrowding, focusing instead on quality, education, and comfort. The semi-private SUV arrangement allows for more personal interactions with guides, who are local experts with a deep knowledge of Traverse City’s brewing scene.

The tiered pricing based on group size offers flexibility, and the high customer ratings underscore the value and quality of service. The tour is especially well-suited for those who prefer a relaxed, VIP vibe and appreciate expert guidance.

The Experience Guides and Customer Service

Reviews highlight the warmth and enthusiasm of the guides, with Tracey specifically praised for her amazing personality and knowledgeable commentary. The guides are former law enforcement, which adds an element of trustworthiness and professionalism to the experience.

Their local knowledge ensures that guests receive personalized drink recommendations and insights into the breweries and distilleries visited. The customer service consistently receives high marks, making the entire journey enjoyable and educational.

Pricing, Cancellation, and Booking Details

The cost of $68 per person makes this tour an affordable luxury experience. Advance booking is recommended, usually 10 days in advance, to secure a spot with tiered pricing based on group size. The tour offers free cancellation when canceled at least 24 hours in advance, providing peace of mind for planning.

Who Will Enjoy This Tour?

This Traverse City brewery and distillery tour is ideal for adults seeking a relaxed, informative experience without the chaos of party buses. It suits beer and wine enthusiasts, those interested in local craft beverages, and anyone wanting a comfortable, VIP treatment in a scenic setting.

The small group sizes and luxury SUV transportation make it perfect for couples, small groups, or anyone wanting personalized attention. It’s especially appealing for visitors craving authentic local flavors and professional guidance.

This non-bus, semi-private tour offers a refreshing alternative to typical party tours. It combines luxury, expert knowledge, and top-notch local beverages in a relaxed atmosphere. The stops at Silver Spruce, Earthen Ales, and The Workshop showcase some of Traverse City’s best breweries and distilleries.

With reviews highlighting the guides’ friendliness and expertise, along with excellent drink recommendations, this tour delivers both fun and education. The $68 price point, flexible scheduling, and free cancellation policies make it accessible and low-risk for anyone visiting Traverse City.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the duration of the tour?
The tour lasts approximately 4 to 5 hours.

What is included in the tour price?
Expert guides, luxury SUV transportation, and samples at each stop are included. Food and additional drinks are extra.

Are the stops suitable for wine lovers?
Yes, wine options such as Pinot Grigio and Malbec are available, especially at Silver Spruce and The Workshop.

Can I book for small groups?
Yes, most groups of 6-7 guests have their own vehicle, and the tour can accommodate up to 20 travelers.

Is transportation comfortable?
Yes, the air-conditioned luxury SUVs provide a comfortable ride throughout the day.

Do I need to prepare anything in advance?
Booking 10 days in advance is advised, especially for securing preferred start times.

Are there any age restrictions?
While not explicitly stated, this is a beverage-focused tour, suitable for adults of legal drinking age.

What is the cancellation policy?
Full refunds are available if canceled at least 24 hours before the tour.

How do I book this tour?
Through the Viator platform, with details provided on the official listing.

What makes this tour different from others?
It features a VIP, semi-private experience, guided by local experts, with luxury SUVs and a focus on personalized recommendations—not just transportation.

This Traverse City Brewery and Distillery VIP Tour provides a relaxed, high-quality alternative to crowded party buses, perfect for fans of craft beverages and personalized service. The combination of carefully curated stops, knowledgeable guides, and luxury transport makes it a memorable way to explore Traverse City’s drink scene.