The NON BUS Traverse City: First Responder & Military Wine Tour offers a unique way to explore Michigan’s renowned wine region without the crowds and noise of traditional party buses. For $89 per person and a duration of 4.5 hours, this tour provides a luxury, semi-private experience designed specifically for First Responders, Military personnel, teachers, and their families. Departing from the Hardy Street Parking Structure, the tour uses air-conditioned GMC Yukons or Cadillac Escalades to visit 4 celebrated wineries—including Hawthorne Vineyards, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, and Brys Estates—offering a relaxed, VIP style exploration of Traverse City’s wine scene.

This tour stands out for its personalized approach in contrast to typical large bus tours. Guests enjoy expert guidance from Magic Mike and his team, who are former law enforcement officers, adding a layer of familiarity and safety. The flexible itinerary allows for guest input on preferred wineries, and groups of 6-7 often get their own private SUV, making this experience both intimate and tailored. The inclusion of a complimentary bottle of wine for larger groups over six enhances the value, while wines, flights, and food are available at additional costs.

Key Points

Luxury SUV transportation replaces traditional buses for a more comfortable experience
Designed for First Responders, Military, teachers, and their families, with a focus on VIP treatment
Includes stops at four iconic wineries on the Old Mission Peninsula
Expert guidance from former law enforcement officers, offering insights into local wines
Tour duration of 4.5 hours with flexible itinerary options based on guest preferences and weather
Complimentary bottle of wine offered for groups over six, with additional tastings and food available at extra cost

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Traverse City’s VIP Wine Experience in Luxury SUVs

This tour begins at the Hardy Street Parking Structure, located near the State Street entrance and next to Middlecoast Brewery. Departing at 10:30 AM for the day tour, guests arrive at the first winery by 11 AM, allowing them to beat the bus crowds. An afternoon pickup at 3:30 PM is also available, offering a flexible schedule for visitors.

The air-conditioned luxury SUVs ensure a comfortable ride throughout the day, with GMC Yukons or Cadillac Escalades providing a sleek and quiet environment. The semi-private nature of the tour means most groups of 6-7 have their own vehicle, promoting a personalized experience. Larger groups will share a semi-private tour, still benefiting from the expert guidance and VIP treatment.

This setup avoids the typical loud, crowded party buses and offers a relaxed, upscale atmosphere perfect for those seeking a more refined wine tour option.

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Visiting Four Iconic Wineries Along the Old Mission Peninsula

During the 4.5 hours, the tour visits four carefully chosen wineries, including Hawthorne Vineyards, Bowers Harbor Vineyards, Chateau Chantal, and Brys Estates. Guests sample wines during the visit—these tastings are splashes, with options to purchase flights, bottles, or food at additional costs.

Each winery offers its own distinctive charm: Hawthorne Vineyards is known for its scenic setting, Bowers Harbor for its approachable wines, Chateau Chantal for its panoramic views, and Brys Estates for its elegant offerings. The winery selection can vary based on availability, guest preferences, weather, and season. Guests are encouraged to communicate their wineries of choice if they have favorites.

The stops are designed to provide not just tastings but also the chance to learn about Traverse City’s wine culture. The expert guides—including Magic Mike—offer insights into local wines and the region’s viticulture, making each stop both educational and enjoyable.

The Expert Guides and Their Personal Touch

The tour is led by Magic Mike and his team, all of whom are former law enforcement officers with extensive knowledge of local wines. Their background adds a layer of trust and familiarity, especially for First Responders and military participants.

Guests will find the guides friendly, approachable, and well-informed, eager to share wine recommendations and stories. The guides explain the nuances of each wine, helping guests appreciate what they’re drinking. This personalized guidance transforms the tour from a simple tasting into an engaging learning experience.

The flexibility of the tour allows guests to customize the winery stops based on their preferences, making each experience unique.

The Comfort and Convenience of the Tour Experience

One of the main advantages of this tour is the comfort and ease it offers. Guests are picked up and dropped off at convenient locations in downtown Traverse City, avoiding long walks or the hassle of parking. The luxury SUVs provide air conditioning, ample space, and a smooth ride—a stark contrast to traditional bus tours.

No smoking or drinks in the vehicle are allowed, maintaining a clean and safe environment. The tour also includes a complimentary bottle of wine for groups of over six, adding to the special VIP feel.

This setup ensures that wine tasting remains the main focus, without the typical distractions or discomforts of larger group tours. Guests can enjoy the scenery, conversations, and tastings in a relaxed, upscale setting.

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The Flexibility of the Tour Schedule and Wineries

The tour schedule is designed to suit different preferences, with morning (day) and afternoon (sunset or afternoon) options. The day tour includes visits to 4 wineries, while the sunset/afternoon tour visits 3 wineries plus an optional distillery.

Guests can communicate their wishes for winery choices ahead of time or discuss on-site preferences with guides. The touring route is influenced by factors like availability, weather, and guest requests, ensuring a personalized experience each time.

This customizable approach allows for a more relaxed pace and the opportunity to focus on wineries of particular interest.

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Wine Samples, Additional Purchases, and Food Options

During each stop, wine samples (splashes) are included in the tour price, giving guests a taste of each winery’s offerings. Guests have the option to purchase flights, bottles, or food, which are billed extra.

While no food or additional wines are included in the base price, the opportunity to buy bottles or enjoy a meal at the wineries provides flexibility for a fuller tasting experience. This setup caters to those who prefer a focused sampling without feeling pressured to buy.

Guests should plan to budget extra if they wish to purchase wines or enjoy meals during the stops.

Who Should Consider This Tour

This VIP-style wine tour is ideal for First Responders, Military personnel, teachers, and their families seeking a personalized, comfortable experience. It’s suited for those who prefer luxury and quiet over the boisterous atmosphere of party buses.

The tour is not suitable for children under 12, pregnant women, or people with back problems, due to the nature of wine tastings and vehicle comfort considerations.

Guests seeking a relaxed, upscale, and semi-private experience will find this tour offers excellent value for money and a chance to explore Traverse City’s wineries in style.

Final Thoughts on the First Responder & Military Wine Tour

This $89, 4.5-hour experience delivers a tailored, VIP tour of Traverse City’s top wineries in luxury SUVs. The focus on safety, comfort, and personalization makes it stand out in a market often dominated by larger, less intimate tours.

The expert guidance from former law enforcement guides and the flexibility to customize stops provide a rare combination of professionalism and personal touch. The scenic winery visits and quality tastings ensure a memorable outing, especially for those who value quiet elegance over crowds.

While the additional costs for food and wines are not included, the complementary bottle of wine and the carefully curated stops make this a worthwhile choice for those seeking a relaxed, upscale experience. Suitable for groups of friends, families, or colleagues who appreciate luxury and personalized service.

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NON BUS Traverse City: First Responder & Military Wine Tour

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this tour suitable for children?
No, this tour is not suitable for children under 12, as it involves wine tastings and vehicle restrictions.

Can I choose my winery stops?
Yes, the tour guides are flexible and can accommodate guest preferences when possible, depending on winery availability and weather.

What should I bring?
Guests should bring comfortable clothing, possibly a hat or sunscreen, and money for extra wine purchases or food.

Are meals included during the tour?
No, meals are not included. Food and additional wines can be purchased at the wineries at extra cost.

How many wineries will I visit?
The standard tour visits four wineries during the day, with fewer stops on the sunset/afternoon options.

What vehicle is used for transportation?
The tour uses air-conditioned GMC Yukons or Cadillac Escalades, offering a luxurious and quiet ride.

Is there a group size limit?
Most groups of 6-7 guests enjoy their own private SUV, while larger groups share a semi-private tour.

Can I cancel if my plans change?
Yes, full refunds are available if canceled up to 24 hours in advance.

What is included in the price?
The tour price includes luxury transportation, expert guides, and wine samples. Wineries, flights, bottles, and food are extra.

How do I book the tour?
Reservations are flexible, with the option to reserve now and pay later to keep plans adaptable.

This First Responder & Military Wine Tour in Traverse City offers a distinctive blend of comfort, personalization, and expert guidance, making it a compelling choice for those seeking a relaxed yet upscale wine tasting adventure.