Gypsy Spirits

You'd never guess that some of the best hiking around Traverse City starts right behind a winery. Lake District Wine Co. sits on gorgeous property where vineyard rows give way to wooded trails that wind through rolling hills and down to pristine shoreline. The contrast is amazing – one minute you're walking past Pinot Noir vines, the next you're on forest paths with views of Grand Traverse Bay. After working up a sweat on the trails, grab a glass of their estate wine and sit on the deck. It's hiking with a reward built right in.

Grand Traverse Distillery brings small-batch spirits to the charming village of Leland on the Leelanau Peninsula. This craft distillery produces premium vodka, gin, and whiskey using locally sourced ingredients and traditional distilling methods. The tasting room sits right in downtown Leland, just steps from the historic Fishtown district and Lake Michigan's shoreline. Visitors can sample award-winning spirits while learning about the distillation process from knowledgeable staff. The intimate setting makes it perfect for couples or small groups looking to explore Michigan's growing craft spirits scene beyond the region's famous wines.

Black Star Farms on the Leelanau Peninsula combines award-winning wines with hearty American cuisine that satisfies the whole family. Their tasting room pours estate-grown varietals while the restaurant serves up comfort food classics alongside more adventurous dishes. Kids can explore the grounds while adults sample wine flights. The working farm atmosphere keeps things relaxed and unpretentious. Located just a scenic drive from Traverse City, this winery-restaurant hybrid delivers quality food and wine without the fuss. Their wood-fired pizzas and locally-sourced steaks pair beautifully with Pinot Noir and Riesling.

Boathouse Vineyards sits right on the shoreline of the Leelanau Peninsula, where you can sip wine while waves lap just feet away. This waterfront winery combines serious winemaking with an unbeatable location - think maritime charm meets Michigan terroir. Their tasting room captures that authentic lakeside vibe without the tourist trap feel. The vineyard specializes in cool-climate varieties that thrive in this unique microclimate, shaped by Lake Michigan's influence. You'll find everything from crisp Rieslings to bold reds, all crafted with the kind of attention to detail that puts Leelanau Peninsula on the wine map.

Wine garden and tasting room in Antrim County. Stop in for wine by the glass, flights, charcuterie boards, or book a full tasting experience. Family-run vineyard that takes their farming as seriously as their wine.

Step into Leelanau Cellars and you'll discover why this family-owned winery has been crafting exceptional wines on the Leelanau Peninsula for decades. The welcoming tasting room invites you to sample everything from crisp Rieslings that capture the essence of Michigan's cool climate to robust reds that surprise even the most discerning palates. The knowledgeable staff shares stories behind each vintage while you sip and savor. Outside, rolling vineyards stretch toward Grand Traverse Bay, creating a backdrop that's quintessentially Northern Michigan. This isn't just wine tasting – it's experiencing the passion and tradition of Michigan winemaking.