Black Star Farms: Spend The Night In Michigan’s Wine Country!

Ready to immerse yourself in northern Michigan’s wine country? Book a stay at The Inn At Black Star Farms, a winery that also offers luxury accommodations. This lovely estate is located just fourteen miles from Traverse City, which is known as the “Cherry Capital of the World.” The region has perfect conditions for fruit orchards, and therefore the area is famous for the production of excellent wines.

Black Star Farms is known for its vineyards and high quality wines. In addition to a winery production facility and tasting room, there are excellent dining options and beautiful surroundings both inside and outside of The Inn. Plus it’s the perfect place to launch a Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail adventure for those who’d like to tour several wineries.

We have enjoyed many special events at Black Star Farms over the years. For our first overnight stay, we opted to book during the winter, when the property is less crowded and prices are lower. While we live just a short distance away, our weekend get-away was just what we needed to break up our typical midwinter routine. It was a great opportunity for us to splurge on upscale accommodations: something we aren’t often able to do while traveling. In this post, we’ll share everything there is to love about Black Star Farms.

The Inn At Black Star Farms

The family owned Black Star Farms estate is close to sandy beaches, charming coastal towns, and outdoor adventures. And of course: it’s located in the heart of northern Michigan’s wine country!

Black Star Farms is the perfect destination for a couples getaway. Guests will enter their room to find a bottle of house wine waiting for them. All stays also come with a hospitality hour with wine a small bites, complimentary wine tasting in the tasting room, a gourmet breakfast and access to the recreational trails in and around the vineyards.

Overnight guests can also arrange for add-on activities such as fat-tire biking, yoga instruction, and private dinners with wine pairings.

We instantly feel a sense of tranquility as we head down the long driveway winding through hillside vineyards. As we park our car in front of the picturesque red Inn, we take a few minutes to gaze at the  idyllic scene of horses grazing in the pastures. (Guests at the Inn can board their horses at the equestrian facility if there is room)

The first time that we walked into the main entrance of the Inn, we noticed the black stylized star in the center of the marble floor. This is where the name Black Star Farms originated. Many of the rooms and wines on the property are also named for stars and constellations.

The foyer doors open up to the Arcturos Room, which is used for conferences, weddings and special events. The white marble fireplace and built-in bar make this room the perfect venue for wine-pairing dinners that are held throughout the year.

The Pegasus Lounge also sits just off of the lobby, with a library where guests can relax and play board games. Overnight guests are treated to a hospitality hour with small plates and complimentary wine tasting here at the Pegasus Bar. Shortly after we checked in, we enjoyed prosciutto-wrapped asparagus and homemade samosas, accompanied by a glass of Chardonnay.

A winding staircase leads up to the second floor balcony, where most of the guest rooms are located.

Rooms at The Inn At Black Star Farms

The Inn has ten guest rooms, including three suites, all named after stars. All of the rooms have private bathrooms, some with spa tubs.

You can book a luxurious first floor suite with a private entrance, full kitchen and a fireplace. Or select the hugely popular honeymoon suite, which showcases a white marble fireplace and wrought iron bed. Perhaps a cozy room tucked under the eaves on the second floor is just what you’re looking for.

The Castor and Pollux suite at the end of the second floor is large enough for two couples or a family with older children. Be aware that The Inn At Black Star Farms considers itself an adult destination, and has an 13-years and over rule. Call and ask if an exception can be made if you have children under the age of 13.

We stayed in the Capella room during our winter getaway, located at the top of the grand staircase. The best part about our accommodation was the magnificent, 4-post king bed! There was also a spacious walk-in closet. The bathroom contains a walk-in glass shower and a pedestal sink. I was pleased to find it stocked with high end Aveda products. And of course, we thoroughly enjoyed the bottle of house red wine that came with our stay.

Insider tip: The Inn does not have an elevator. Consider the Mira Suite or Polaris room on the main floor if you aren’t interested in navigating the curved staircase leading to the second floor.

Dining At Black Star Farms

In addition to being known for it’s lovely accommodations and stellar wines, Black Star Farms has built a reputation for being a top foodie destination. The menus are created from fresh local ingredients grown right on the property, or sourced from nearby area farms.

All overnight stays include a gourmet breakfast served in the downstairs dining room. During our visit, we were treated to a poached egg over yummy sweet potato hash, a side of bacon, a fruit cup, home baked bread and fresh orange juice.

Bistro Polaris

Bistro Polaris takes its name from the North Star, famous for remaining steady as the night sky revolves around it. This cozy bistro is located just across the driveway from the Inn. Reservations are encouraged, especially on Saturday nights when there is live music.

The Bistro serves up Mediterranean style food, including appetizers, pizzas, soups, sandwiches and desserts.

We enjoyed our complimentary wine tasting in the tasting room, and then strolled over to the Bistro for dinner. We chose a seat near the wood-fired oven so we could watch our Margherita pizza being baked to perfection. (There is also outdoor patio seating in warmer weather)

I don’t typically order wine with pizza, but on this evening the Pinot Noir Rosé proved to be the perfect pairing. I’d highly recommend starting out with focaccia bites for a bit of garlicky goodness!

Dine-In Raclette Dinner

Still on our to-do list: the traditional Raclette dinner that is periodically offered to the public throughout the year. Alternatively, guests who stay overnight at the Inn arrange to have a Raclette dinner for two. Raclette is a slightly sweet melting cheese that originated in Switzerland. Black Star Farms partners with the nearby Leelanau Cheese shop to create a wonderful experience for diners.

Electric tabletop grills have built in pans in order to melt the Raclette. The grill on top warms up different meats, vegetables, potatoes and bread for dipping in the cheese.

Sunday Brunch On The Farm

Bistro Polaris is famous for its Sunday Brunch. Patrons can order dishes ala cart, or opt for the three-course brunch. This includes a choice of appetizer, entrée and dessert. Options range from creamy burrata or beet salad, smoked salmon or a frittata, and tiramisu or a warm fruit crumble.

And even more fun: on Sundays you can opt for a Bloody Mary or a Mimosa flight!

The Award Winning Wines at Black Star Farms

And of course, Black Star Farms is renowned for its winery. More than 45 different wines and spirits are produced right on the property, including whites, reds, rosé and dessert wines. There are also a few fruit brandies available. (My favorite is the cherry brandy)

The wonderful wines from Black Star Farms have received awards in state, national, and international wine competitions.

Riesling and Pinot Noir grapes are plentiful in the vineyards, and are featured in many Black Star wines. The Arcturos line of wines tend to be my favorites. The Arcturos Dry Riesling was dubbed “best Riesling in the world” at an International wine competition in 2018.

I’m more of a red wine drinker. The Arcturos Pinot Noir Rosé is the perfect fit when I’m in the mood for something light. While the highly acclaimed Arcturos Pinot Noir is a best seller, it’s usually a bottle of the Arcturous Pinot Merlot that finds its way home with me.

All stays on the property include a complimentary wine tasting. During the summer, you can enjoy your wine outside. The covered Terrace Patio has its own tasting bar and comfortable café tables. Or you can head down to the lower lawn and relax on Adirondack chairs.

Wedding Venue

Black Star Farms is also a highly sought-after wedding destination. Indoor weddings can be hosted in the intimate Arcturos Room, while the larger Aquarius Room can host larger gatherings.

The Pegasus Barn is perfect for both wedding ceremonies and receptions. This Centennial barn was originally built in 1897, and features high ceilings, original barn wood walls and and rustic wood floors. There’s also an attached covered patio.

For outdoor weddings, the scenic Hilltop Vineyard offers spectacular views of the vineyards and Grand Traverse Bay.

All of these spaces are available for other special occasions as well.

Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail

One of the top reasons people like to stay at Black Star Farms is because it is one of the wineries located on the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail. Over twenty different wineries are in close proximity. Taking a wine tour is a great way to spend an afternoon, tasting wines, meeting wine makers, and soaking in some beautiful scenery.

The Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail is split up into three different routes. Black Star Farms is a part of Grand Traverse Bay Loop, which also includes 2K Farms, Shady Lane Cellars, Ciccone Vineyards and Rove Estate.

Consider using a transportation company to take you and and your group from one winery to another. You can relax and enjoy yourself while leaving the driving to experts.

Things To Do At Black Star Farms Spring Through Fall

Outdoor Adventure Package

Overnight guests who love biking and paddling can sign up for the Outdoor Adventure package. Bikes are brought in right to the property. A three mile ride along the paved Leelanau Tart Trail takes riders into the charming village of Suttons Bay, where they can check out the shops and galleries that line Saint Joseph Street.

The package includes a picnic lunch waiting in town to be enjoyed on picnic tables in the park near Grand Traverse Bay. Then it’s off to the water for kayaking or paddle boarding.

Ultimate Experience Package

The Ultimate Experience Package is designed for those looking for a two-night, wine country getaway. In addition to the nightly hospitality hour and gourmet breakfast that is a part of every stay, this package also includes a guided winemaking tour and more comprehensive wine tasting, a cooking demo, and a three-course, wine-paired dinner.  It’s the perfect package for those who want to hunker down and never have to leave the property!

Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail Small Plate Event

One of my favorite times to drop in at Black Star Farms is during the Leelanau Peninsula Wine Trail Small Plate event. This typically takes place twice per year, often in the months of April and August.

Think “progressive dinner with wine pairings.” Ten or so wineries offer a gourmet tapas dish paired with one of their finest wines. Tickets are $25 per seating, and you can purchase a seating at up to three different wineries.

In 2023, we attended the Small Plate event in August. The chefs at Black Star Farms created a delicious dish of crispy chicken on paella-style rice, along with roasted vegetables drizzled with smoky Romesco sauce. I really enjoyed the unique peach and tomato salad. The peaches were grilled in bacon drippings, and garnished with a bit of crispy chicken skin. It was paired to perfection with their award winning Arcturos dry Riesling.

The Small Plate event is wildly popular, and tickets sell out quickly once the event is posted online.

Summer Sailing on Grand Traverse Bay

Those who love the water can sign up for a morning sail aboard a Catalina 34-foot sailboat. The two hour private cruise includes charcuterie and a bottle of sparkling wine for two.

Estate And Wine Tours

Guided walking tours around the property are available on Mondays and Fridays at 11 am during the summer and fall months. Participants will check out the wine cave, the Centennial Barn and the surrounding vineyards. They also learn about the wine making process, and wrap it all up with a wine and spirits tasting.

Winter Fun At Black Star Farms

A visit to Black Star Farms is every bit as delightful during the winter as it is in summer!

Winter Outdoor Adventure Package

The Outdoor Adventure package available to guest transitions to winter activities. Think fat tire bikes and snowshoes!

Transportation shuttles participants to Suttons Bay. They then ride fat tire bikes along the Tart Trail back to Black Star Farms, where a hot lunch awaits. The rest of the day can be spent exploring nearby trails and vineyards on the bikes or on snowshoes.

Winter Ultimate Experience Package

The Ultimate Experience Package remains available during the winter months. The two-day package includes a guided trail hike or snowshoe, a vineyard and winery tour, wine tasting, a cooking class, and a private three-course dinner.

Snowshoes, Wines and Vines

Snowshoes, Wines and Vines is a wildly popular event that takes place on Saturdays throughout the winter. Outdoor enthusiasts snowshoe on trails around the grounds and through the vineyards, and then head to the tasting room to warm up with mulled wine and home made soup or chili.

Weekend Dinners At The Inn

During the off-season each year, Black Star Farms hosts several Weekend Dinners At The Inn. The culinary team creates an elegant three-course prix fixe menu. Seating is limited to 20 guests, so that everyone has the opportunity to sit at the bar with a glass of wine while watching their meal being prepared.

The Weekend Dinner menu in April 2024 started with a salad of burrata and roasted beets paired with Arcturos Pinot Noir Rosé. Two choices were available for the main entrée: a medley of roasted duck breast, duck thigh confit and braised duck leg, or a Ratatouille tart of roasted vegetables in puff pasty. Both entreés were accompanied by a glass of Arcturos Gamay Noir.

This wonderful meal concluded with a Red Wine Poached Pear atop a warm Dark Chocolate Fondant Cake.

The quote on the Black Star Farms website says it all: ” The ambiance is relaxed, but your dining experience will be extraordinary.”

Nearby Things To Do In Winter

Northern Michigan is a popular winter destination, as there are so many opportunities for outdoor recreation and special events. From snowy sleigh rides, soaking in a Finnish sauna or a winter rafting trip, check out our post on things to do in winter near Traverse City for ideas!

Special Events Throughout The Year

From hands-on cooking classes to Yoga In The Vines, Trivia Nights to a 5K Wine Run around the property, there is always something special going on at Black Star Farms.

Annual highlights include a festive New Year’s Eve gala, and a special Mother’s Day brunch.

Nearby Attractions

There are plenty of things to do right on the Black Star Farms estate. For those who want to venture out, there are all sort of options around the region in every season of the year. Here are just a few:

Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore

At the top of the list of things to do in Northwest Michigan is an excursion to Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore. This gem of a park was voted the Most Beautiful Place in America in Good Morning America’s contest on ABC.

Scale the iconic dune climb, take in panoramic views from bluffs perched high above Lake Michigan, soak in the sun on a pristine beach, hike along forested trails or learn about the region’s maritime history: there is so much to do in Sleeping Bear Dunes!

Whaleback Natural Area

Head out on M-22 and you’ll discover the Whaleback Natural Area, just south of the town of Leland. It’s worth a few moments to make your way to Good Harbor Beach at the corner of C-651 and M-22. Look to the north to see the namesake Whaleback bluff, created by glaciers more than10,000 years ago. It’s to see why early sailors on Lake Michigan thought that this 300 foot tall bluff resembled a whale.

Then make your way to the trailhead for a very pleasant hike, only 3/4 of a mile long. The well-maintained trail winds through hardwood forests, meadows, and wetlands. A short uphill climb leads to a viewing platform with panoramic views of Lake Michigan.

The platform perches 300 feet above the water of Good Harbor Bay. Take in sweeping views of the Manitou Passage. To the west, you’ll spot Pyramid Point, a high sandy bluff within Sleeping Bear Dunes National Lakeshore that is a launching point for hang gliders.

The view is particularly stunning at sunset!

Fishtown In Leland

Continue on to the charming town of Leland. Shops, boutiques, galleries and museums line the main street.

Head toward the harbor to Leland’s main attraction: the historic fishing village known as Fishtown. Not just a tourist destination, Fishtown remains a working waterfront, with charter boats and commercial fishing operations active in the area.

Stroll along the weathered docks among colorful fishing shanties and smokehouses. Observe fisherman maintaining their boats, repairing nets and unloading their catches. Browse the shops for nautical-themed gifts and freshly prepared smoked fish, whitefish dip and chowders.

There are plenty of delicious options in town for lunch or dinner.

Clay Cliffs

Continue on just a few miles north of Leland to the Clay Cliffs Natural Area. A mile and a half long loop trail winds through white birch and popular trees, eventually transitioning to a hardwood forest. This hike is particularly popular in early spring, when the trillium are in bloom.

The hike culminates in a short climb to a viewing platform overlooking Lake Michigan. There are incredible views of the Leelanau shoreline. On a clear day you’ll be able to spot Pyramid Point, the Manitou Islands and the more distant Fox Islands.

Of course, you’ll take in the sheer clay buffs where bald eagles often nest. If you’re lucky you may even spot one from the Overlook.

The trail continues back down through a meadow, which was filled with wildflowers at the time of our visit. Along the way, the trail offers beautiful views of Lake Leelanau.

We did encounter poison ivy along the edge of the trail, so keep your eye out for leaves of three!

2K Farms Cidery And Winery

Grapes are not the only fruit that thrive in northern Michigan. The region is also home to abundant orchards, including cherry and apple. Once you’ve enjoyed the incredible wines at Black Star Farms, you can venture two miles down the road to 2K Farms. While 2K does offer delicious wines, it’s their amazing ciders that attract cider lovers from around the region.

The Farmhouse style tasting room is open year round. In warmer months, guest can indulge in a flight of ciders either indoors or out. We head straight to the Adirondack chairs on the outdoor deck to enjoy the beautiful view of West Grand Traverse Bay.

Popular ciders include the Leelanau Radler, which has a hint of tangy lemon. The Rosé cider is made from a blend of apples and has a lovely pink color.

My personal favorite is the semidry Macoun cider. It’s made with McIntosh apples, which is my go-to apple whenever I make applesauce or apple crisp. We make sure to drop by and grab a six pack to take home whenever we’re in the area.

Leelanau Cheese

Black Star Farms partners with Leelanau Cheese bring Raclette dinners to guests throughout the year. Did the timing not work out for you? No worries! The Leelanau Cheese shop is located just a mile down the road.

Stop in at the shop to purchase some of their divine raclette. This yummy cheese is melted over foods such as potatoes, bread or eggs. Our favorite way to indulge? We purchase a ball of pizza dough from our local pizza place, roll it thin and cover it with raclette. We add a few thin slices of tomato, and then heat it under the broiler until the cheese is golden brown and a little crisp. Simply amazing

If you happen to be there on a Tuesday, you can watch the cheese making process as the curd is separated from the whey and formed into wheels of cheese.

The Wrap-Up

So there you have it: all of the wonderful things to do in an around Black Star Farms from someone who’s been there! Book your overnight stay, sign on for a special event, or simply enjoy some of the best wine the area has to offer!