Michigan Coast: Art and Wine Itinerary

Day 1: Arrival at Inn at Black Star Farms

Inn at Black Star Farms

• Afternoon: Check-In at Inn at Black Star Farms in Suttons Bay, MI. Relax and explore the scenic estate grounds.


• Activity: Walking Tour of the Estate. Enjoy a guided tour of the vineyards, stables, and beautiful farm scenery. Learn about the history and wine-making process.
• Dinner: The Hearth & Vine Café (Located at Black Star Farms). Experience farm-to-table dining with a menu inspired by local ingredients, paired with Black Star Farms wines.

Day 2: Exploring the Art and Wine Scene

• Morning: Sailing Package with Black Star Farms. Enjoy a morning sail on Lake Michigan with breathtaking views of the coastline.
• ALT Morning Activity: Outdoor Adventure Package with BSF.
• Lunch: Martha’s Leelanau Table in Suttons Bay. A cozy European-style bistro offering fresh, locally-sourced dishes and daily specials paired with local wines.
• Afternoon:Wine and Cheese Tasting. Return to Black Star Farms for a curated wine and cheese tasting session, sampling a variety of wines paired with artisanal cheeses.
• Visit Leelanau Creamery. Sample handcrafted cheeses made from local milk and take a tour of their facilities.
• ALTERNATE Afternoon: Take a winery tour on the Brew Bus.
• Dinner: The Cooks’ House in Traverse City, MI. Enjoy sustainable and local cuisine with creative dishes that highlight the flavors of Northern Michigan.

Day 3: Outdoor Adventure and Cherry Republic Visit

• Morning: Visit Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. Explore the breathtaking dunes, hike scenic trails, relax on the beach, or take in panoramic views of Lake Michigan.
• Lunch: Trattoria Stella in Traverse City, MI. Enjoy Italian cuisine in the historic Grand Traverse Commons with a seasonal menu and extensive wine list.
• Afternoon: Visit Cherry Republic in Traverse City. Sample cherry-themed products, including jams, jellies, chocolates, and beverages, and enjoy the unique atmosphere.
• Dinner: Aerie Restaurant & Lounge in Traverse City. Dine on the 16th floor of the Grand Traverse Resort and Spa with stunning views of the bay and a menu featuring fresh local ingredients.

Day 4: Travel to Saugatuck and Glassblowing Experience

• Check-Out: Inn at Black Star Farms.
• Drive: Travel to Saugatuck (approximately 2.5 hours).
• Afternoon: Glassblowing Experience at Water Street Glassworks in Benton Harbor (approximately 45 minutes from Saugatuck). Participate in a hands-on glassblowing workshop and create your own glass piece with professional guidance.
• Check-In: Hotel Saugatuck.
• Dinner: Bowdies Chophouse in Saugatuck. Enjoy an upscale menu featuring steaks, seafood, and a curated wine list.

Day 5: Art and Wine in Saugatuck

• Morning: Visit Saugatuck Center for the Arts. Explore exhibitions featuring local and national artists, and participate in a workshop or guided tour.
• Lunch: Uncommon Coffee Roasters in Saugatuck. A charming café offering light meals, pastries, and exceptional coffee.
• Afternoon: Gallery Hopping. Visit local galleries such as Water Street Gallery, LaFontsee Galleries, and Armstrong-DeGraaf International Fine Art. Enjoy a ride on the Saugatuck chain ferry.
• Evening: Finish with a glass of wine at J Petter Gallery. Enjoy art and wine tastings in a serene setting with a view of the river.
• Dinner: Everyday People Café in Douglas, MI. An eclectic spot known for fresh, locally-sourced ingredients and a relaxed atmosphere.

Day 6: Departure

• Morning: Relax and enjoy breakfast at Hotel Saugatuck, followed by a leisurely stroll around Saugatuck's charming downtown.

Hotel Saugatuck