On Old Mission Peninsula, Wine Tasting is Just the Beginning
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Discover Old Mission Peninsula’s Best Things to Do
Think Old Mission Peninsula, that long finger of land reaching out from Traverse City and into Grand Traverse Bay, is just for wine lovers? Think again!
Don’t get me wrong – it definitely is that! But the OMP has more to offer than just vineyards. Yes, you need to go for the wine tasting!
Along the way, you also might find yourself flower picking, taking a dip in the oh-so-refreshing waters, climbing a lighthouse, walking a hemlock trail, browsing the general store, or just enjoying the beautiful drives and sunsets – and sunrises!
What it boils down to is this: Everyone should visit Old Mission Peninsula at some point.
Here are some top activities we think you’ll want to know about.
Top Old Mission Activities
Make Your Own Old Mission Wine Tasting Tour
Yes, Old Mission Peninsula is renowned for its world-class wineries.
You can’t beat the combo of gorgeous views and tasty wines. It’s really a wine lover’s dream come true.
You don’t even need to book a tour to enjoy a fun day of wine tasting at Old Mission’s wineries (but it’s fun if you do!)
Here’s a game plan you can follow, starting in the south and working your way north, that will get you the full experience, including sweeping views of rolling vineyards – even if this is your first time dipping your toes into wine tasting.
Start your tour at Mari Vineyards, known for its Italian-inspired atmosphere and impressive views of the vineyard and bay. I hear the underground barrel aging tours are interesting, too.
Next, head over to Peninsula Cellars, set in an old schoolhouse. Be sure to get in trouble and get “Detention” while you’re here.
Then make your way to Bonobo Winery, which is dog-friendly and also co-owned by HGTV star Carter Oosterhouse.
Next up: Chateau Grand Traverse. They arguably have the best view around, with a convenient pull-off on the road for spectacular sights, even if you don’t visit the winery itself.
Moving along to Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery, this is where you sip estate-grown wines on their welcoming patio while overlooking East Bay. The vibe is classy yet laid-back. Oh, and they have a Secret Garden.
Family-friendly, pup-friendly Bowers Harbor Vineyards is your next stop. You want to get a wine flight on the lawn.
Top it all of with a visit – and maybe an overnight stay – at Chateau Chantal.
Wander Through Lavender Fields or Pick Cherries
Old Mission grows lavender and other fruits, too. When the lavender fields are popping, they’re purpley perfect! Here are three great lavender fields to check out:
- Secret Garden at Brys Estate: Hidden on the grounds of Brys Estate Vineyard & Winery. With over 6,000 lavender plants, a perennial flower and herb garden, picnic areas, and cornhole lawn games, you are welcome to enjoy lavender lemonade or Moomers Lavender Lemon White Chocolate Chip ice cream.
- Lightwell Lavender: A small farm set in rolling hills, offering both culinary and English lavender varieties. You can snip your own lavender during their You-Pick season.
- Harbor View Lavender Farm: A larger farm with 18 lavender fields, cherry trees, grapes, and raspberries. They also have a lavender drying barn and a greenhouse with various plants for sale.
Go Cherry Picking: If you’re visiting during cherry season, make sure to stop by local orchards for a pick-your-own experience. It’s a fun activity nothing tastes as good as freshly-washed Michigan cherries right off the tree .
Visit Farm Stands and Markets
Pull over for one of the many farm stands to shop fresh produce, local jams, honey, and other products.
You can even get lavender ice cream!
Ride to the 45th Parallel
If you’re happy to discover a scenic drive, M-37 is your go-to route. Driving over the hills, through the orchards and vineyards set against the blues of the Grand Traverse Bay is simply breathtaking.
Driving along the 19-mile-long Old Mission Peninsula, you’ll see some stunning million-dollar homes perched on the hills.
Truly, the scenic drive along Center Road is out of a storybook, with orchards, vineyards, and views that just won’t quit.
Just north of Bonobo Winery, on M-37, is the Center Road Scenic Overlook. Sunset or sunrise, the view is spectacular in every direction.
Make it all the way to the end of M-37 and you’re almost at the 45th parallel, halfway between the Equator and the North Pole. Your reward: a lovely lighthouse that you can go inside of, a beach, and hiking trails too.
If you’re feeling more active, rent bikes in Traverse City and explore the peninsula on two wheels.
The fresh air and beautiful landscapes might just make it easier to pedal up the rolling hills! Either way, the pathways along the bay drives are delightful.
Enjoy the Beaches
Old Mission Peninsula has some lovely beaches.
Haserot Beach (article featured image) is a favorite for swimming, picnicking, and just soaking up the sun. The clear, shallow waters and playground make it a perfect spot for a day by the water.
Public Shoreline Beach at State Forest Matrix Point is another great spot, known for its stunning blue waters.
Kelley Park is also home to a pretty shoreline that is a favorite among boaters.
Explore the Historic Old Mission Lighthouse & Old Mission State Park
Mission Point Lighthouse sits at the end of M-37 on the 45th parallel.
Walking around here feels like stepping back in time. Get a glimpse of what life was like for lighthouse keepers in the old days by checking out the exhibits in the small museum.
Self-guided tours of the lighthouse are available for a small fee, and the park is open daily until 10 PM.
For nature lovers, climb to the top of the lighthouse for stunning panoramas and then explore the nearby trails and beach.
The lighthouse is surrounded by five acres of wooded township land and hundreds of acres of state land with paths to explore.
Trail maps are posted in the park, so you can easily find your way around.
Old Mission General Store
Speaking of old stuff, a visit to the Old Mission General Store is another step back in time. This charming store is filled with old cash registers, radios, telephones, signs, and barrels of merchandise.
It’s a fun place to stop for a sandwich or a sweet treat. This place is full of nostalgia and unique finds, making it a must-see spot on your peninsula adventure.
Keep an Eye Out for Barn Quilts
Another nod to days gone by are the Barn Quilts painted on some of the Old Mission Peninsula Barns.
If barn quilts are new to you, let’s get you caught up: its where historic barns are decorated with large, unique quilt squares.
Map of 10 Old Mission Peninsula Barn Quilt stops.
Take a Hike
Explore Pelizzari Natural Area, is on the south end of Old Mission Peninsula, just north of Traverse City. This area is protected by the Grand Traverse Land Conservancy.
With over three miles of easy trails through meadows, orchards, forests, and cool lowlands with giant hemlock trees, this this is a family-friendly spot.
Popular things to do here: hiking, bird watching, and snowshoeing.
Dining Options on Old Mission Peninsula
Dining options are pretty sparse out on the Peninsula, so if you head out, you may want to pack a picnic.
Or, you might decide to treat yourself to some delicious local fare. In that case, try the Jolly Pumpkin for some pretty perfect pizza and beer.
| Restaurant | Vibe | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|---|
| Old Mission General Store | Casual | Historic store offering deli-style options like fresh sandwiches, hot pizza, and ice cream. Perfect for a quick bite and picking up picnic supplies. Dine in or take out. | 18250 Mission Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
| Jolly Pumpkin Brewery & Restaurant | Casual | Friendly tavern vibe. Artisan pizzas, sandwiches, salads, and craft beers. Large patio. Great fireplace. Overlooks West Bay. | 13512 Peninsula Dr, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
| The Boathouse Restaurant | Fancy | Fine dining with oooh-wow water views on the shores of Bowers Harbor. Features fresh seafood, steaks, and locally sourced dishes in a casual cottage atmosphere. | 14039 Peninsula Drive, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
| Peninsula Grill | Casual | Located in the heart of Old Mission Peninsula in Mapleton. Steak, fresh seafood, pasta, and pizza. Drinks. | 14091 Center Road, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
| Bad Dog Deli | Casual | Next to Peninsula Grill in Mapleton, this deli offers fresh sandwiches, homemade pizza, and a variety of deli provisions. Dine in or takeout. | 14091 Center Road, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
Pack Your Pajamas and Make it a B&B Getaway
And, if you’re on a romantic getaway, a B&B stay might just be the icing on the cake.
| Bed & Breakfast | Description | Address |
|---|---|---|
| Grey Hare Inn Vineyard & B&B | French countryside vibe with vineyard and sunrise views. Close to the wineries. | 1994 Carroll Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
| Overlook B&B | Hosts Bethany and Chuck offer hot breakfast and spectacular views of their farmland and the bay. Hike to the top of their hill for amazing views. | 1875 Gray Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
| Neahtawanta Inn | Cozy rooms, peaceful vibe, gorgeous lakeside setting. | 1308 Neahtawanta Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
| Old Mission Inn | As Michigan’s oldest hotel, it’s rich in history with old relics and pictures. Be sure to watch the sun rise over the bay. Adults only. | 18599 Mission Rd, Traverse City, MI 49686 |
That’s It, Folks. Old Mission Peninsula at a Glance.
I can’t think of many places that beat Old Mission Peninsula for a romantic getaway. I’d plan a bachelorette party, here, too.
This is where my chill friends want to hang out. It’s where you go when you want to escape the hustle and bustle and remind yourself that this world has beautiful things. What’s your take on OMP?
