Looking for a fun and quasi educational spot in Traverse City? Look no further than Peninsula Cellars! This winery is a true gem, as it used to be the Maple Grove School house that operated from 1896 until 1956. So not only will you get to enjoy amazing drinks, but you'll also get a history lesson with each sip.
I recently visited Peninsula Cellars and tried one of their cider flights. The ciders were all delicious, but my absolute favorite was the Cinnamon Swirl cider. It tasted like I was drinking a warm slice of apple pie, minus the utensils. The staff at Peninsula Cellars were also top-notch. They were so friendly and knowledgeable about the history of the place.
The atmosphere is so nostalgic. There's something so cozy and inviting about drinking in an old schoolhouse. It's like you're transported to a simpler time where you don't have to worry about adulting or paying bills. Plus, there's a lovely outdoor seating area where you can enjoy your drinks and take in the beautiful surroundings.
I highly recommend Peninsula Cellars to anyone visiting Traverse City if you’re looking for a non-traditional winder setting. You get great drinks, a cool history lesson, and a warm and welcoming atmosphere - what more could you ask for? Just make sure to bring a designated driver because those ciders...
Read moreWe adored this place so much that we went twice on the same trip! This one-room school house turned winery played up the school theme in a lot of fun ways from the names of their wines to the decor and the outdoor “recess” patio space complete with shaded and unshaded tables, picnic tables, chalk for kids and a few yard games. We ordered a few four-wine flights and LOVED everything we drank. We bought multiple bottles between our group and spent a couple hours here while being there with 2 toddlers and a baby. This place is dog friendly and there is a ramp to get in and out with a wheelchair or stroller. The staff was very friendly and helpful too! My only suggestion would be to offer reservations or pre-paid flights or drinks if possible to make it easier for groups like ours to plan and not stress about having a space to enjoy our time here. They do have an option for large parties to make reservations on their website. The lack of reservations had me skipping this place when in Traverse a few years ago but I’m so glad we tried it this time and I...
Read moreI just ADORE this place so much!
I have an obsession with old schoolhouses and this one did not leave me disappointed. The original one-room schoolhouse charm (complete with the original blackboards) was abundant while still being the perfect place for a tasting room. My husband and I each got a flight of 4 wines to try. I am more of a sweet wine lover and there were plenty of wines for me to choose from. The girl working the counter (I wish I could remember her name) was able to circle the sweet wines on the menu and offered recommendations to assist me in my decisions. The names of some of the wines were creative and fit perfectly with the schoolhouse theme. Those names included Detention, Homework, and Pop Quiz. All 3 were on the sweeter side and were SO GOOD. We drank our wine outside on a beautiful June day (this was also due in part to some of the Covid restrictions still in place). I cannot say enough good things about Peninsula Cellars - it is a must-stop if you are in Traverse City/Old Mission Peninsula! We will be...
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