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Historic farm · Burlington, Vermont
Shelburne Farms
A model farm from the late 19th century on the shore of Lake Champlain, with a landscape designed by the office of Frederick Law Olmsted, monumental barns, dairy cattle and cheddar cheese production.
Illustrative images. The pictures in this guide are illustrations based on the real place, not photographs, and may differ from it.
Discover
About Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farms was founded in 1886 by William Seward Webb and Eliza Vanderbilt Webb as a model farm to experiment with agricultural techniques. The landscape of pastures, woods and lakeside paths was designed with guidance from Frederick Law Olmsted, the landscape architect who also planned famous urban parks, and the buildings were designed by architect Robert H. Robertson.
The Farm Barn, a large stone-and-wood barn with towers and an interior courtyard, is the center of the visit. It houses the cheese production, made with milk from the farm's own cows, an area with animals for children and workshops. The Breeding Barn, another enormous barn, was built for horse breeding.
Since 1972 the farm has belonged to a nonprofit organization dedicated to environmental education and sustainable agriculture. It remains an operating farm, with dairy cattle, gardens and maple syrup production.
Trails cross the pastures and lead to viewpoints over the lake, with views of the Adirondacks. The old family house is now an inn and restaurant.
Before you go
Practical information
Cidade Turismo reviews its information regularly, but something may have changed. Check with the place before planning your trip.
How much time to set aside
Two to four hours, including the barn, the cheese production and a walk.
Best time
From late spring through fall, when the visitor center, guided tours and the animal area operate. Trails remain open year-round, depending on weather. In October, the woods change color.
How to get there
It's on Harbor Road in Shelburne, about 11 km from Burlington. A car or taxi is required. Admission to the visitor areas is charged in season; check the current fee schedule.
Tip
Try the cheddar made on the farm and ask at the visitor center when cheese production can be observed. For walking, pick up the trail map at the visitor center.
Official website
Get your questions answered
Frequently asked questions about Shelburne Farms
What to do at Shelburne Farms?
Visit the Farm Barn, see cheddar production, meet the farm animals and walk the trails to the shore of Lake Champlain.
Is Shelburne Farms open year-round?
Trails and the shop are open year-round, but the visitor center and animal activities operate in season, from spring through fall. Confirm before you go.
What is the distance from Burlington to Shelburne Farms?
About 11 km, roughly a 15-minute drive, south of the city.