Summer is the perfect season to explore Michigan wineries, especially for visitors looking for scenic drives, waterfront views, vineyard experiences, and relaxing weekend getaways across the state. From the rolling vineyards of Northern Michigan to the tasting rooms near Lake Michigan in the state’s southwest, Michigan wineries continue to attract couples, food lovers, and wine enthusiasts seeking memorable summer experiences. With cool lake breezes, fertile growing conditions, and an expanding national reputation for quality wine, Michigan has become one of the Midwest’s top destinations for wine tasting.

Many tasting rooms overlook dramatic water views, while others sit among orchards, farmland, and quiet countryside roads. Out-of-state visitors are often surprised by the diversity of Michigan wine country, with each region offering its own style and wine selections ranging from crisp whites and sparkling wines to bold reds and fruit wines. Michigan has five certified American Viticultural Areas (AVAs). Fennville in Southwest Michigan was the first, established in 1981, followed shortly by the Lake Michigan Shore AVA. It’s no surprise that wine tasting is one of the best things to do in Michigan!

Whether you are planning a romantic weekend or an extended trip in the area, spending time at Michigan wineries is an easy way to enjoy the summertime! One of the best pairings to wine tasting is staying at a boutique property or one of the best Bed and Breakfasts in Michigan. There’s a lovely selection of locally owned B&Bs and small Inns ready to welcome those who enjoy the finer things in life: great wine, delicious meals, and luxurious guest rooms. These businesses are more unique than your standard hotel, and often become more than just a place to sleep for a night or two. Check out the summer availability and book your lodging today!

Check out these Favorite Michigan Wineries this Summer

Northern Michigan remains one of the most recognizable regions, particularly the Michigan wineries around Traverse City. The area has become nationally known for cool-climate winemaking, especially of Riesling, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and sparkling wines. Visitors exploring Traverse City wineries often spend entire weekends tasting wines while enjoying views of Grand Traverse Bay, beaches, and waterfront dining throughout the region.

One of the most popular areas for Michigan wineries is Old Mission Peninsula, the narrow stretch of land extending north from Traverse City between East and West Grand Traverse Bay. The scenic peninsula features vineyard after vineyard connected by winding roads and panoramic water views, creating one of the most photographed wine regions in the Midwest. During summer, tasting rooms buzz with visitors enjoying outdoor patios, vineyard tours, and seasonal wine releases while taking in the peninsula’s remarkable scenery. You can follow the Old Mission Peninsula Wine Trail as well!

Nearby, the Leelanau Peninsula offers another unforgettable experience for visitors exploring the best Michigan wineries. Known for rolling hills, coastal views, charming towns, and vineyard landscapes, the peninsula has become one of the state’s top wine destinations. Many wineries here emphasize small batch production and locally inspired hospitality. Summer visitors often combine winery stops with time in Suttons Bay, Leland, Glen Arbor, and Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore.

Beyond Northern Michigan, Southwest Michigan wineries have also gained attention for their growing wine scene and convenient location for visitors driving from Chicago and surrounding Midwest cities. The warmer climate near Lake Michigan creates excellent growing conditions for grapes, helping wineries produce a wide variety of styles and blends.

Here are some of the best Michigan wineries to visit this summer:

1. Chateau Chantal is one of the most recognizable winery destinations in Northern Michigan, located on Old Mission Peninsula just outside Traverse City. The winery sits high above Grand Traverse Bay, offering visitors panoramic water views alongside vineyards that produce a range of cool-climate wines, including Riesling, Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, and sparkling varieties.
2. If you’re looking for a winery specializing in European-style wines, head to Mari Vineyards, where they craft wines from both traditional and cold-hardy grape varieties that thrive in Northern Michigan’s climate, creating a tasting experience distinct from many other Michigan wineries. Visitors are drawn to the property for its panoramic views of East Grand Traverse Bay, elevated tasting experiences, and unique atmosphere.
3. Chateau Fontaine is a family-owned winery located on the Leelanau Peninsula in Northern Michigan, surrounded by vineyards, rolling countryside, and views of nearby Lake Michigan. Known for its cool climate wines, it produces a variety of reds, whites, fruit wines, and sparkling options that highlight the growing reputation of Northern Michigan wine country.
4. For a one-of-a-kind winery experience, head to Brys Estate Vineyard and Winery in Traverse City on the Old Mission Peninsula. There’s a beautiful Upper Deck with views of the East Grand Traverse Bay, along with vineyards, 12 acres of lavender fields, ideal for wandering after a glass of wine.
5. Aurora Cellars is a boutique winery located on the Leelanau Peninsula in Northern Michigan, known for its small batch wines, scenic vineyard setting, and relaxed tasting experience. The winery focuses heavily on estate-grown varietals, including Riesling, Pinot Gris, Chardonnay, and Pinot Noir.
6. If you’re wine tasting in Southwest Michigan, be sure to add Domaine Berrien Cellars to your list. For more than two decades, the family-run vineyard has been producing estate-grown wines from 21 varietals, including Cabernet franc, Marsanne, Sauvignon blanc, and more.

Stay at the Best Bed and Breakfasts in Michigan

There’s something special about choosing one of the best Bed and Breakfasts in Michigan as your home base for exploring the area’s wine regions. Not only will your trip be that much more memorable, but you may find a new favorite place to make your go-to vacation getaway. The members of the Midwest Association of Independent Inns often have repeat and loyal guests, who are drawn to the personalized hospitality and special touches.

Imagine your next getaway filled with wine tasting by day, and then cozy evenings by the fire, in a jetted tub, or curled up with a good book in your guest suite. Each morning will start with a delicious breakfast, made with care and locally sourced ingredients. Over coffee, chat with other like-minded travelers or knowledgeable innkeepers with fantastic recommendations for the best things to do in the area. When you choose Bed and Breakfasts in Michigan, this dreamy vacation is not far from reality. Start planning your summer wine tastings and book your lodging today!