MSAE25 Pre-Conference Excursions
Know Before You Go!
Thank you for registering for one of MSAE25’s pre-conference excursions,
compliments of Traverse City Tourism!
- Excursion space is limited so you must have pre-registered to participate.
- All attendees must check-in at the MSAE25 Conference Registration Desk (located at the Tower Registration Desk) and pick up name badge before departing.
- All tours depart at 1:00 PM on Monday, December 8, 2025, from the Gallery of Shops Entrance of Grand Traverse Resort & Spa.
Below you will find details and preparation tips for each activity, along with your on-site Traverse City Tourism contact should you have questions during your experience. Click the button for your excursion for details.
Village at Grand Traverse Commons Tour Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
Whiskey Blending Class at Mammoth Distilling Curling at the Traverse City Curling Club
Community Give Back: Project Feed the Kids
Village at Grand Traverse Commons Tour + Wine & Cider Tasting at Left Foot Charley
What to Expect:
Enjoy a guided historical tour of the Village at Grand Traverse Commons, followed by a short walk to Left Foot Charley Winery for a tasting of local wines and ciders.
What to Bring:
-
A jacket; hat and gloves optional
-
Comfortable walking shoes (portions of the tour take place outdoors)
On-Site Contact:
Tracy Russold, Traverse City Tourism
Old Mission Peninsula Wine Tour
What to Expect:
Relax and take in the scenic beauty of Old Mission Peninsula as you visit three distinctive vineyards. Most of the experience will occur indoors or on the bus.
What to Bring:
-
Comfortable clothing suitable for indoor and bus travel
On-Site Contact:
Aimee Zionskowski, Traverse City Tourism
Whiskey Blending Class at Mammoth Distilling
What to Expect:
Discover the craft of whiskey making with a guided blending class at Mammoth Distilling.
What to Bring:
-
Comfortable attire for travel and indoor activities
On-Site Contact:
Brett Bowman, Traverse City Tourism
Curling Experience at the Traverse City Curling Club
What to Expect:
Learn the sport—and spirit—of curling with hands-on instruction at the Traverse City Curling Club. Equipment is provided, and food and beverages will be available before and after the session.
What to Bring:
-
Warm, flexible clothing
-
Clean, dry sneakers
-
A sense of fun!
On-Site Contact:
Sarah Barnard, Traverse City Tourism
Community Give Back: Project Feed the Kids (Volunteer Experience)
What to Expect:
Join fellow attendees for a meaningful volunteer activity in partnership with Project Feed the Kids. Time will be spent indoors or on the bus.
What to Bring:
-
Comfortable clothing suitable for indoor and bus travel
On-Site Contact:
Marlene Smith, Traverse City Tourism