Cherry Blossom Time Along The Travers Wine Coast

This is one of the most beautiful times of the year to see the Cherry Blossoms in full bloom in the Leelanau and Old Mission peninsulas. A perfect time to plan a drive, sort of a self guided tour the whole family can participate in to see the stunning orchards, fields and farms with all of the cherry blossoms fully on display. For the latest travel tips click here to see the cherry blossom update. Make sure you are prepared with a full tank of gas, snacks for the trip, and a plan.

MLive reports

To help visitors map out their trips, the tourism bureau put together a big handful of drive-yourself routes that run through the prettiest parts of the area now known as the Traverse Wine Coast. Below you’ll find their suggested day trips, descriptions, and links to a map showing nearby wineries and tasting rooms. Currently, many wineries are requiring reservations and have changing hours. If you plan to stop, make sure to check their websites and Facebook pages first, for the most up-to-date information.

Here are 7 suggested routes to tour courtesy of the tourism bureau:

#1 M-37 up Old Mission Peninsula: “Driving north out of Traverse City you can see rolling vineyards interspersed with orchards full of cherry blossoms, and the deep blue waters of Grand Traverse Bay as a backdrop.
Old Peninsula Wineries Map

#2 M-22 north out of Traverse City: “This route takes you right along the West Arm of Grand Traverse Bay and past the orchards and farms of the Leelanau Peninsula.
Leelanau Wineries Map

#3 County Road 633: “This is an alternative (even more scenic) north-south route between Traverse City and Suttons Bay.
Leelanau Wineries Map

#4 M-204 west of Suttons Bay: “This drive takes you across Leelanau County to Lake Leelanau
Leelanau Wineries Map

#5 County Road 645: “Wind your way south off M-204 on the west side of Lake Leelanau past Bel Lago Vineyards & Winery, Chateau Fontaine and French Valley Vineyard.”

#6 U.S. 31 east of Traverse City: “Travel along the East Arm of Grand Traverse Bay to Elk Rapids and beyond into Antrim County, where you can find Cellar 1914, Royal Farms Farm Market & Winery, Torch Lake Cellars, Vista Ridge Vineyards and WaterFire Vineyards.”

#7 Joyfield Road between M-22 and M-31: “Take this route south of Elberta and Benzonia in Benzie County home to St. Ambrose Cellars.”

Heading to the wine coast this time of year you will find celebrations for Michigan Wine Month, one event is Rosé All May which is a ticketed wine trail event offering wine and swag. If you plan on participating in the adult beverage part of the tours, a designated driver is suggested. Or you can grab a shuttle so you don’t have to drive.

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It’s another wonderful part of our great state to experience. Surrounded by the Grand Traverse Bay and Lake Michigan, Traverse City and the beautiful cherry blossoms are a sight to behold.