Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms is a working farm and National Historic Landmark full of scenic walking trails, historic buildings and a functioning inn. With landscape architecture designed by Frederick Law Olmsted and a superb location on the shores of Lake Champlain, Shelburne Farms is a great place for families or couples visiting northern Vermont to take a stroll or pick up some farm-fresh local food.

Parking and public transportation at Shelburne Farms
Ample parking for day visitors is provided at the Welcome Center and Farm Store. Separate parking is available for guests of the inn. Unfortunately the farm is not easily accessible by public transportation, with the closest stop of the route 6 bus from downtown Burlington still 2 miles away from the Welcome Center.

Best and worst time to go to Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farms is best visited in the magical month of September in Vermont, when the temperatures are still warm enough to enjoy walking by the lake, and the fall foliage is starting to peak. During the winter, though the views are still pleasant, strong winds from the lake can make a cold day in Vermont somewhat difficult to endure at the farm.

Admission to Shelburne Farms
Access to the walking trails is free during the off-season, but from May-October, admission costs $5-$12. This fee includes access to all trails, views of cheese-making in the Farm Barn and various activities for the whole family at the Children's Farmyard. Guided tours and wagon rides cost an additional $3-$5. If you really want to splurge, a night at the Inn at Shelburne Farms, in the 19th-century lakeside mansion, costs $150-$500 per night.

Must see/do at Shelburne Farms
The 4.5 mile Farm Trail loop leads you around the edge of the property and past the various outbuildings and gardens. When you find your way back to the Welcome Center, make sure to sample and buy some of the famous Vermont cheddar cheese that is made right there at the farm.

Other places to visit near Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Museum is located less than two miles from Shelburne Farms, and offers an impressive collection of American art, cultural artifacts and textiles. If you're driving back toward Burlington along Route 7, stop by the Magic Hat Brewery for a free tour and free beer samples.

Insider tip for visitors to Shelburne Farms
To gain the best view at Shelburne Farms, take the Farm Trail to the Lone Tree Hill trail at the Farm Barn. From the top of the hill you will look out over the farm, Lake Champlain and the Adirondack Mountains to the west, a particularly pleasing vista at sunset.

Author's bio: Julia O. is a full-time editor and part-time freelance writer who has spent the last 10 years traveling from Vermont, to Boston and to Denver, and enjoyed the exploration of everything in between.