
Black Star Farms
A picturesque winery, inn, and farm offering award-winning wines, delicious cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Black Star Farms
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more relaxed

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A picturesque winery, inn, and farm offering award-winning wines, delicious cocktails, and a welcoming atmosphere for all.
"Outstanding wine selection and great service! Do not skip the cocktails!"

🎯 Book Tastings in Advance
Secure your spot for wine tastings, especially on weekends, to avoid disappointment.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Wineries
Bring your furry friends! Black Star Farms is a great dog-friendly option in Traverse City.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

The Inn at Black Star Farms
Suttons Bay
A charming inn offering a peaceful retreat amidst vineyards and farm animals. Perfect for a relaxing getaway.

Award-Winning Wines
Tasting Room
Explore a diverse selection of wines, including acclaimed whites and unique cherry or pear wines.

Bistro Polaris
Main Building
Enjoy delicious cocktails and brunch in a beautiful setting, perfect for a leisurely meal.

Farm Animals
Farm Grounds
Meet friendly farm animals like goats and horses, adding a delightful touch to your visit.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Tastings & Stays
Plan for Food Options
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Book Tastings in Advance
Secure your spot for wine tastings, especially on weekends, to avoid disappointment.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Wineries
Bring your furry friends! Black Star Farms is a great dog-friendly option in Traverse City.
🍸 Don't Skip Cocktails
Beyond wine, their cocktails are highly praised and worth trying.
🚗 Consider a Wine Tour
Explore multiple wineries easily with a tour bus, including Black Star Farms.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Book Tastings in Advance
Secure your spot for wine tastings, especially on weekends, to avoid disappointment.
🐾 Dog-Friendly Wineries
Bring your furry friends! Black Star Farms is a great dog-friendly option in Traverse City.
🍸 Don't Skip Cocktails
Beyond wine, their cocktails are highly praised and worth trying.
🚗 Consider a Wine Tour
Explore multiple wineries easily with a tour bus, including Black Star Farms.
♿ Autism Certified
The Inn and winery are Certified Autism Centers, ensuring a welcoming experience for all.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Black Star Farms for its outstanding wine selection, particularly its white wines, and the friendly, knowledgeable staff. The beautiful setting and unique offerings like farm animals and cocktails are also highlights. However, some guests have noted that food options can be limited to snacks, and the tasting room can become uncomfortably busy at peak times, leading to a lack of customer service.
"Outstanding wine selection and great service! Nicklas was fun. Do not skip the cocktails! The bar is beautiful, but seating is uncomfortable. If you're hungry, there is only crackers and cheese here, plan accordingly!"
Lottie Ferguson
"My husband and I have been going to TC for our anniversary every year x 11 years. Black Star Winery by far has the best white wines available. Tom befriended us the first time we came to Black Star and we come back every year just to say hello and catch up. Good friends, good wine, it doesn’t get much better than that!"
Andrea Bakos
"Went here yesterday had had a fantastic time, we skipped wine sampling and went straight for the amazing cocktails 🍸
I believe Julia helped us (I think that was her name, it was 2/14 am shift). She made excellent drinks and was so fun to chat with. Thanks!"
Elisabeth Gross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Black Star Farms is located in Suttons Bay, a short drive from Traverse City. You can drive yourself, take a taxi or rideshare, or join a guided wine tour that often includes Black Star Farms as a stop.
Public transport options are limited in the Traverse City wine region. Joining a dedicated wine tour bus is often the most convenient way to visit multiple wineries, including Black Star Farms, without needing to drive.
Many visitors opt for organized wine tours or hire a private driver. This allows you to enjoy the wine tasting experience without worrying about navigation or designated driving.
Yes, Black Star Farms provides parking for visitors. It's generally ample, but can get busy during peak times.
Black Star Farms is situated in a more rural setting. While beautiful, it's not typically within walking distance of other major attractions, making transportation essential.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
While walk-ins are sometimes accommodated, it's highly recommended to book wine tastings in advance, especially for weekends or larger groups, to guarantee your spot.
Operating hours can vary seasonally. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date information on tasting room and inn hours.
Tasting fees can vary depending on the type of tasting or flight you choose. It's advisable to check their website for current pricing or inquire when booking.
Yes, you can visit the grounds and the tasting room to purchase wine or enjoy a glass. However, a tasting is the best way to sample their diverse offerings.
Generally, there is no admission fee to enter the grounds or tasting room. Fees typically apply only to specific wine tasting experiences or events.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
Beyond wine tasting, you can explore the beautiful grounds, visit the farm animals, enjoy a meal at Bistro Polaris, or stay overnight at The Inn at Black Star Farms.
Yes, Black Star Farms is family-friendly. Children can enjoy seeing the farm animals, and the expansive grounds offer space to explore.
Absolutely! Bistro Polaris offers a full cocktail menu, and the scenic grounds are perfect for a relaxing stroll.
While not always explicitly advertised, inquire about potential tours or educational opportunities regarding winemaking and grape growing, especially during harvest season.
Black Star Farms stands out with its combination of a winery, inn, farm, and restaurant, plus its commitment to being an Autism Certified Center.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Bistro Polaris offers a menu for brunch and other dining occasions, featuring cocktails and light fare. They also offer crackers and cheese for wine pairing.
Yes, Bistro Polaris provides a dining experience. For more extensive meal options, consider visiting nearby restaurants in Suttons Bay or Traverse City.
It's best to check the current menu at Bistro Polaris for specific dietary options. Menus can change seasonally.
Outside food is generally not permitted, especially if you are partaking in tastings or dining at the bistro. It's best to confirm their policy.
They typically offer a selection of crackers and cheese for wine pairing. The specific types may vary.
📸 📸 Photography
The vineyards, the charming inn, the farm animals, and the tasting room all offer beautiful photo opportunities. Sunrise and sunset shots are particularly stunning.
Yes, professional photoshoots are possible, and some photographers have even worked with Black Star Farms for winery-specific shoots. Inquire about their policies and any associated fees.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's essential to check with Black Star Farms directly regarding their regulations on drone photography to ensure compliance.
Visitors often capture photos of wine tastings, vineyard landscapes, the inn's architecture, and candid moments with friends and family. Wedding photography is also popular here.
Generally, personal photography is welcomed. However, be mindful of other guests' privacy and avoid intrusive photography, especially during private events or tastings.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Consider visiting during off-peak hours to allow children more freedom to roam. While food options might be limited to snacks, packing a picnic to enjoy on the grounds (if permitted) could be a good strategy for families.
🐶 Dog Lovers
Enjoy a leisurely wine tasting or a stroll through the vineyards with your dog by your side. This makes Black Star Farms a particularly appealing destination for those who don't want to leave their pets behind. Remember to keep your dog leashed and be mindful of other guests.
♿ Travelers with Autism or Sensory Sensitivities
This certification ensures a more welcoming and comfortable experience, with staff prepared to assist and accommodate individual needs. Visitors can feel more at ease knowing that the environment is designed to be supportive and enjoyable for everyone.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Black Star Farms' Wine Selection
Beyond the popular varietals, Black Star Farms also crafts wines like the Artisan Red and Red House Red, catering to a range of palates. Their commitment to showcasing the best of Northwest Michigan's agriculture is evident in every bottle. Whether you're a seasoned wine connoisseur or a curious beginner, exploring their tasting menu is a delightful journey.
When visiting, don't hesitate to ask the knowledgeable staff for recommendations. They can guide you through the nuances of each wine, helping you discover your new favorite. Many visitors find the staff to be friendly and helpful, enhancing the overall tasting experience.
The Inn at Black Star Farms: A Tranquil Escape
The Inn provides a comfortable and welcoming environment, making it an ideal base for exploring the Leelanau Peninsula and Old Mission Peninsula wine regions. It's a place where you can truly unwind and disconnect, surrounded by nature and the gentle hum of the farm.
Notably, The Inn at Black Star Farms has earned the Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) designation. This certification signifies their commitment to providing a welcoming and supportive environment for autistic and sensory-sensitive guests, with staff trained to assist and accommodate their needs.
Culinary Delights at Bistro Polaris
Visitors rave about the cocktails served at Bistro Polaris, often describing them as expertly crafted and a must-try. The menu also features offerings for Sunday brunch, making it a perfect spot for a leisurely weekend meal.
While the bistro provides a great dining experience, it's worth noting that for a full, diverse meal, you might want to explore restaurants in nearby Suttons Bay or Traverse City. However, for delicious drinks and a pleasant atmosphere, Bistro Polaris is a standout.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit