Vermont · Est. 1886
Shelburne Farms
A 1400-acre working farm, National Historic Landmark, and nonprofit education center for sustainability on the shores of Lake Champlain.
Founded
1886
Size
1,400 acres
Hardiness Zone
USDA Zone 5a
Best Season
June to October
About Shelburne Farms
Shelburne Farms is a historic estate turned nonprofit education center that practices and teaches sustainable agriculture. The property features stunning landscapes designed by Frederick Law Olmsted, historic architecture by Robert H. Robertson, and a working dairy that produces award-winning farmhouse cheddar cheese.
History & Heritage
The estate was created in 1886 by Dr. William Seward Webb and Lila Vanderbilt Webb as a model agricultural estate. In 1972, their descendants formed a nonprofit organization to preserve the property and use it as an educational resource. It was designated a National Historic Landmark in 2001.
Signature Feature
The Farm Barn
The massive, five-story Farm Barn is the architectural and educational centerpiece of the property. Built in 1890, it houses the Children's Farmyard, a cheesemaking facility, a bakery, and educational spaces within its striking courtyard design.
Photo Gallery
Lush green pastures and historic landscapes
Brown Swiss dairy cows grazing on the farm
Formal gardens overlooking Lake Champlain
Notable Collections
Formal Gardens
Historic terraced gardens overlooking Lake Champlain, originally designed by Lila Vanderbilt Webb.
Market Garden
A seven-acre organic garden producing vegetables, fruits, and flowers for the farm and local community.
Pastures and Woodlands
Extensive managed landscapes featuring walking trails through mature forests and grazing areas for the Brown Swiss dairy herd.
The Breeding Barn
Historic architectural marvel once used for horse breeding, surrounded by expansive paddocks.
Plan Before You Go
Hours, Parking & Accessibility
Hours & Seasonal Timing
Mid-May to late October, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Best seasonal window: June to October
Parking & Arrival
Free parking available at the Welcome Center
Check the official visit page for event-day parking changes and arrival instructions.
Accessibility
Welcome Center, Farm Barn courtyard, and shuttle are wheelchair accessible; some trails are unpaved
Contact the garden before visiting to discuss route conditions, mobility equipment, or support needs.
Visitor details are reviewed from the garden's public information and were last checked May 2026. Policies, prices, and route conditions can change; confirm final arrangements directly with the garden.
Recognition & Awards
- National Historic Landmark (2001)
- American Cheese Society Award Winner
Editorial Standards
This profile was prepared by the BotanicalGardens.blog editorial research desk using official garden pages and other named sources where available. Hours, admission, and access details can change; confirm them with the garden before a special trip. This profile was last reviewed May 2026. If you notice an inaccuracy, please contact us.
Plan Your Visit
June to October
Address
1611 Harbor Road, Shelburne, VT 05482
Phone
(802) 985-8686
Hours
Mid-May to late October, 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM daily
Admission
Adults $10, Seniors $8, Children (3-17) $8, Members free
Parking
Free parking available at the Welcome Center
Accessibility
Welcome Center, Farm Barn courtyard, and shuttle are wheelchair accessible; some trails are unpaved
Insider Tips
- 1Take the open-air shuttle if you prefer not to walk the extensive trails.
- 2Visit the Farm Barn to watch the award-winning cheddar cheese being made.
- 3Bring comfortable walking shoes to explore the 10 miles of walking trails.
- 4Stop by the Farm Store to purchase fresh produce, cheese, and baked goods.
Nearby Attractions
- Shelburne Museum (2 miles)
- Vermont Teddy Bear Factory (3 miles)
- Lake Champlain Chocolates (8 miles)