
Brys Secret Garden
Discover a fragrant oasis of lavender and sage on Michigan's Old Mission Peninsula, offering stunning blooms and vineyard views.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peak lavender bloom

Brys Secret Garden
Best Time
Peak lavender bloom

Highlights
Must-see attractions
Discover a fragrant oasis of lavender and sage on Michigan's Old Mission Peninsula, offering stunning blooms and vineyard views.
"It's like stepping into Provence, but right here in Michigan!"

🎯 Lavender Bloom Timing
Visit mid-June to August for the most vibrant lavender fields. Check bloom reports!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Late afternoons offer magical lighting for stunning photos of the lavender fields.

Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Vast Lavender Fields
Main Garden Area
Immerse yourself in rows of fragrant lavender, creating a stunning purple landscape. A true sensory delight!
Russian Sage Blooms
Garden Perimeter
Admire the beautiful, tall silvery-green plants with delicate purple flowers, often mistaken for lavender.

Charming Gift Shop
Near Garden Entrance
Discover locally-made lavender products, souvenirs, and unique artisanal goods.

Vineyard Views & Refreshments
Patio Area
Sip wine and enjoy light bites with picturesque views of the rolling vineyards.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Timing is Everything for Lavender Bliss
Beyond the Blooms: What to Expect
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🎯 Lavender Bloom Timing
Visit mid-June to August for the most vibrant lavender fields. Check bloom reports!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Late afternoons offer magical lighting for stunning photos of the lavender fields.
🚫 Coupon Confusion
Some visitors report issues redeeming emailed coupons in the gift shop.
🌿 Sage vs. Lavender
Tall, silvery plants are Russian Sage, not lavender.
Tips
from all over the internet
🎯 Lavender Bloom Timing
Visit mid-June to August for the most vibrant lavender fields. Check bloom reports!
📸 Golden Hour Photography
Late afternoons offer magical lighting for stunning photos of the lavender fields.
🚫 Coupon Confusion
Some visitors report issues redeeming emailed coupons in the gift shop.
🌿 Sage vs. Lavender
Tall, silvery plants are Russian Sage, not lavender.
🍷 Wine & Garden Combo
Enjoy a glass of wine on the patio with vineyard views after exploring the garden.
🛍️ Unique Lavender Goods
The gift shop offers a great selection of lavender-infused soaps, oils, and more.
🚗 Easy Access from Winery
It's a short drive or visit from the main Brys Estate Winery.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Brys Secret Garden for its stunning lavender fields and serene atmosphere, often comparing it to Provence. The addition of Russian Sage and the charming gift shop enhance the experience. While the beauty is undeniable, some guests have noted issues with coupon redemption and clarity on plant identification.
"A gorgeous must see while in Traverse city! This is a great addition to the picturesque Brys winery just down the road. They have beautiful sage and lavender plants along with a wide selection of products for sale with these two plants. There is a small selection of wines and ice cream pints available in the shop. All the staff were super welcoming and friendly. There is a super cute sitting area with great views of the vineyards as well. The overall ambiance is calming and relaxing.
Definitely stop by this place while visiting Brys!"
Kayla Fuka
"Loved seeing the lavender. Got some essential oils and soaps. My friend loved the roll ons. Be aware that the staff in the store does not allow you to redeem the coupon that you get emailed to use at the farm because they don't know how to do it. My friends and I were a little disappointed. Don't even bother signing up for the emails. Also, the really tall plants are Russian Sage, not lavender."
Angela Barnes
"I recommend this lavender garden on the Brys Estate on the Old Mission Peninsula of Grand Traverse Bay. The garden is beautifully landscaped. It includes a gift shop selling plants and souveniers. Refreshments are also available to enjoy on their covered patio overlooking the garden rows of fragrant lavender."
John Karjanis
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Brys Secret Garden is located on the Old Mission Peninsula, a short drive from Traverse City. Many visitors combine a trip here with the main Brys Estate Winery. It's easily accessible by car, and some visitors opt for wine tours that include this stop.
Yes, there is parking available for visitors. It's generally convenient, especially if you're visiting the main winery as well.
While it's part of Brys Estate, you can visit the Secret Garden area independently. However, many visitors enjoy pairing the garden experience with wine tasting at the main winery.
Many visitors enjoy driving the Old Mission Peninsula to visit multiple wineries and attractions like the Secret Garden. Wine tours, like the 'Wine Wagon,' are also a popular and convenient option.
Absolutely! Brys Secret Garden is a perfect addition to a day trip in Traverse City, especially for those interested in wineries, nature, and beautiful scenery.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Entry to the garden itself is generally free, allowing you to wander among the lavender and sage. However, if you plan to participate in wine tasting or specific events, separate fees may apply.
The garden typically follows the operating hours of Brys Estate Winery. It's best to check their official website or social media for the most up-to-date hours, especially during different seasons.
Yes, events like the Lavender Harvest Festival have been held, often including activities like yoga and sound baths. Keep an eye on their announcements for future happenings.
The gift shop offers a variety of lavender-themed products, souvenirs, and local artisanal goods. Purchases can be made directly in the shop.
Some visitors mention receiving emailed coupons, but there have been reports of difficulties redeeming them in-store. It's advisable to confirm coupon validity with staff upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
The 'golden hour' just before sunset offers beautiful, soft lighting that enhances the purple hues of the lavender. Early mornings also provide lovely light with fewer people.
Drone usage policies can vary. It's always best to check with the venue directly or look for posted signage regarding drone operation to ensure compliance.
The endless rows of lavender are the main attraction. Also, consider the charming gift shop exterior and the patio area with vineyard views for diverse photo opportunities.
For professional photoshoots, it's recommended to contact Brys Estate in advance to inquire about their policies, any required permits, or fees.
Both smartphones and dedicated cameras can capture the beauty. A phone with good low-light capabilities is great for golden hour, while a DSLR can offer more control over depth of field for artistic shots.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The garden area has a refreshment station offering wine and ice cream pints. You can also enjoy a charcuterie board or hummus plate at the main winery.
Yes, picnicking is often encouraged, especially as part of the 'Wine Wagon' tour which includes a picnic in the Secret Garden.
While there are refreshment options, the main dining experience with a wider selection of food like charcuterie boards is at the Brys Estate Winery.
Brys Estate offers a variety of wines, including those made from their estate-grown grapes. The 'Wine Wagon' tour allows you to sample several different wines.
Typically, wineries offer water and sometimes other non-alcoholic beverages. It's best to inquire directly about specific options if you're not drinking wine.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
💍 Couples & Romantic Getaways
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
🍷 Wine Lovers
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Allure of Lavender Fields
Beyond the lavender, the garden also features Russian Sage, which adds a different texture and color with its silvery foliage and delicate purple blooms. This combination creates a rich tapestry of flora. The garden is meticulously maintained, providing a peaceful and picturesque environment for visitors to wander and enjoy. It's a popular spot for photography, with many travelers capturing the vibrant colors and serene atmosphere.
For those looking to deepen their connection with the garden, events like the Lavender Harvest Festival have been hosted, offering activities such as yoga, sound baths, and hands-on harvesting. These events provide a unique opportunity to learn more about lavender's uses and benefits while immersing yourself in its natural beauty.
Brys Estate Winery & The 'Wine Wagon' Experience
A particularly popular offering is the 'Wine Wagon' tour. This two-hour guided journey takes guests across the estate, making five scenic stops. During the tour, participants sample eight unique wines and often enjoy a picnic lunch, sometimes within the Secret Garden itself. This experience provides a comprehensive way to appreciate both the winery's offerings and the natural beauty of the estate, including the lavender fields. It's a highly recommended activity for those looking to make a full day of their visit.
The winery also boasts a well-regarded gift shop, which complements the Secret Garden's offerings. While the garden shop focuses on lavender products, the main winery shop provides a broader range of souvenirs and estate-made goods. The overall experience at Brys Estate is designed to be relaxing and enjoyable, blending the pleasures of wine tasting with the beauty of the natural landscape.
Navigating the Old Mission Peninsula
Many visitors choose to explore the peninsula by driving, allowing them the flexibility to stop at various wineries and points of interest at their own pace. The scenic drives are a significant part of the appeal, with beautiful vistas around every bend. For those who prefer not to drive, wine tours are a popular and convenient option. Services like the 'Wine Wagon' or other party bus tours can transport groups between wineries, making it easy to sample multiple locations without the hassle of designated drivers.
Beyond wineries, the peninsula is also home to farmers markets and cherry farms, adding to its agricultural charm. Whether you're seeking a romantic date, a bachelorette party destination, or a peaceful day trip, the Old Mission Peninsula, with Brys Secret Garden as a highlight, offers a memorable experience.
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from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit