Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail
A scenic 19-mile stretch of wineries offering award-winning wines, stunning bay views, and picturesque vineyards.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Stunning foliage, fewer crowds
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail
Best Time
Stunning foliage, fewer crowds

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A scenic 19-mile stretch of wineries offering award-winning wines, stunning bay views, and picturesque vineyards.
"Simply beautiful. Granted our weather was perfect. We enjoyed beautiful sunsets and lovely sunny weather with just enough cloud cover."
🚗 Book a Shuttle Service
Don't drink and drive! Many shuttle services like Magic Shuttle Bus offer tours, ensuring a safe and fun wine tasting experience.
🍂 Visit in the Fall
Experience breathtaking fall colors and a perfect wine tasting atmosphere. The peninsula truly shines during this season.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vineyard Views & Wine Tasting
Various Wineries
Sip award-winning wines amidst picturesque vineyards and stunning Grand Traverse Bay vistas. A must-do for any wine enthusiast.

Mission Point Lighthouse
Northern tip of the peninsula
Iconic lighthouse offering panoramic views of Lake Michigan and the bay. A perfect spot for photos and a touch of history.

Farm Stands & Local Produce
Along M37
Discover fresh cherries, seasonal produce, and local treats at charming farm stands dotting the peninsula.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Best Time to Visit for Wine Lovers
Navigating the Trail
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Book a Shuttle Service
Don't drink and drive! Many shuttle services like Magic Shuttle Bus offer tours, ensuring a safe and fun wine tasting experience.
🍂 Visit in the Fall
Experience breathtaking fall colors and a perfect wine tasting atmosphere. The peninsula truly shines during this season.
🗺️ Plan Your Winery Stops
With 10 wineries, research your favorites beforehand. Consider wineries like Chateau Chantal, Two Lads, and Brys Estate.
🍎 Sample Local Flavors
Beyond wine, enjoy local cherries and produce from farm stands along the peninsula.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Book a Shuttle Service
Don't drink and drive! Many shuttle services like Magic Shuttle Bus offer tours, ensuring a safe and fun wine tasting experience.
🍂 Visit in the Fall
Experience breathtaking fall colors and a perfect wine tasting atmosphere. The peninsula truly shines during this season.
🗺️ Plan Your Winery Stops
With 10 wineries, research your favorites beforehand. Consider wineries like Chateau Chantal, Two Lads, and Brys Estate.
🍎 Sample Local Flavors
Beyond wine, enjoy local cherries and produce from farm stands along the peninsula.
🐶 Dog-Friendly Wineries
Some wineries, like Bowers Harbor Vineyards, welcome furry friends, making it a great outing for dog lovers.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail for its breathtaking natural beauty, especially during the fall foliage season. The quality of the wines and the variety of wineries are frequently highlighted, alongside the friendly atmosphere and stunning views of Grand Traverse Bay. Some visitors note that weekday visits are preferable to avoid crowds.
"Simply beautiful. Granted our weather was perfect. We enjoyed beautiful sunsets and lovely sunny weather with just enough cloud cover."
MARK G. KANTZLER D.O.
"So peaceful road. Visited this place in late April so expected for cherry blossoms but none found sadly. Many wine tasting are available in M37, must try Cerise."
Sai Harshitha
"beautiful views, lots of wineries!"
Jerrilynn Sanders-Hartway
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail is located north of Traverse City, Michigan. You can drive your own vehicle or book a shuttle service. The trail is primarily along M37, a scenic road that runs the length of the peninsula.
The roads are generally well-maintained, but can be winding. Many visitors opt for organized tours or shuttle services to fully enjoy the wine tasting without driving concerns.
For a safe and enjoyable experience, consider booking a wine tour shuttle. Companies like Magic Shuttle Bus offer convenient transportation between wineries.
While possible, biking the entire trail can be challenging due to the distance and some hilly sections. It's best suited for experienced cyclists who plan their route carefully.
Public transportation directly to the wineries is limited. It's recommended to arrange private transportation, join a tour, or use ride-sharing services if available.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Most wineries do not require advance tickets for general entry. However, some may have special events or tasting experiences that require reservations or fees. It's always a good idea to check individual winery websites.
Tasting fees vary by winery, typically ranging from $5 to $15 per person for a flight of wines. Some wineries may waive tasting fees with the purchase of a bottle.
While there isn't a single 'pass' for the entire trail, some wineries might offer joint promotions or events. It's best to check with individual wineries or local tourism sites for current offers.
Hours vary by winery and season. Most are open daily during peak season (summer/fall) from late morning to early evening. Winter hours may be reduced. Always check the specific winery's hours before visiting.
Yes, many wineries welcome visitors to enjoy the ambiance, purchase wine by the glass or bottle, and explore the grounds even if you're not doing a formal tasting.
🎫 📍 Onsite Experience
There are approximately 10 wineries located along the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail, offering a diverse range of wine experiences.
The region is known for its cool-climate wines, including Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Cabernet Franc. Many wineries also produce unique blends and fruit wines.
Some wineries offer light snacks, cheese boards, or even full dining experiences. Many also participate in events like the Mac & Cheese Bake Off, pairing food with their wines.
Expect stunning panoramic views of Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan. Many wineries feature beautiful vineyards, outdoor patios, and scenic overlooks.
Yes, you can visit Mission Point Lighthouse, explore local farm stands for fresh produce, and enjoy the natural beauty of the area.
📸 📸 Photography Tips
Mission Point Lighthouse offers iconic shots. Vineyards during fall foliage, especially at sunset, are incredibly photogenic. Many wineries have beautiful architecture and scenic overlooks.
Golden hour, both sunrise and sunset, provides beautiful lighting for vineyard and landscape photography. Midday can be harsh, but offers clear views.
Drone usage is subject to local regulations and private property rules. Always check with individual wineries or local authorities before flying a drone.
A versatile lens (like a 24-70mm) is great for landscapes and winery details. A wide-angle lens can capture expansive vineyard views. Don't forget a polarizing filter for enhancing sky and water.
Generally, yes, but be respectful of other guests and staff. Some wineries might have specific areas where photography is encouraged or restricted.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
🚗 Budget Travelers
🐶 Pet-Friendly Explorers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring the Wineries
When planning your visit, consider the 45th parallel, a unique geographical marker that influences the region's cool-climate viticulture. This latitude is ideal for growing specific grape varietals, leading to award-winning wines. Many wineries offer food pairings, from cheese boards to more elaborate meals, enhancing the overall experience. Some even host special events throughout the year, like the Mac & Cheese Bake Off, showcasing local culinary talent alongside their wines.
For those looking for a more curated experience, consider booking a private tour. Companies like Movie Stars Wine Tours offer personalized itineraries, ensuring you hit your must-visit spots and learn more about the local wine scene. Remember to check the operating hours for each winery, as they can vary, especially during the off-season.
The Magic of Fall on Old Mission Peninsula
Many wineries embrace the fall season with special events and offerings. You might find seasonal food pairings, harvest-themed tastings, or even opportunities to enjoy the vineyard views from cozy indoor spaces. The cooler weather also makes it more comfortable to spend extended time outdoors, exploring the grounds and enjoying the panoramic vistas of Grand Traverse Bay. It's a perfect time to capture stunning photos, with the vibrant foliage providing a dramatic contrast to the deep hues of the wine.
While fall is a peak season, visiting on a weekday can help you avoid larger crowds and enjoy a more intimate experience. This allows you to savor the wines, chat with winery staff, and truly immerse yourself in the serene beauty of Northern Michigan during its most colorful time of year.
Beyond Wine: Other Peninsula Delights
The peninsula is also dotted with charming farm stands that offer a taste of local agriculture. During the growing season, you can find an abundance of fresh cherries, berries, and other seasonal produce. These stands are a delightful way to experience the agricultural richness of the region and pick up some delicious souvenirs.
For those interested in a unique winter experience, the Snowshoe Wine & Brew event offers a chance to explore the peninsula's trails and visit select wineries and distilleries. This event combines outdoor activity with tasting, providing a different perspective on the peninsula's offerings during the colder months.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit