Shelburne Farms

Shelburne Farms offers an authentic working farm experience where kids can meet friendly farm animals, watch cheesemakers at work, and explore 1,400 acres of stunning lakeside property. This National Historic Landmark combines hands-on agricultural education with plenty of space for children to roam, making it a perfect blend of learning and outdoor adventure that feels magical without being overly commercialized.

• ✓Children's Farmyard with hands-on animal encounters including cows, chickens, sheep, and pigs
• ✓Cheese-making demonstrations where kids can watch cheddar being crafted
• ✓Tractor-drawn wagon rides through the historic property (seasonal)
• ✓Stunning walking trails with Lake Champlain views and forest exploration
• ✓The impressive Farm Barn with educational exhibits about sustainable agriculture

1. 1.Arrive early (right at 9:30 AM opening) to beat tour groups and enjoy more intimate animal interactions when the farm is quieter
2. 2.Wear closed-toe shoes and clothes that can get dirty,kids will want to get close to animals and explore the barns
3. 3.Purchase their award-winning cheddar cheese at the Farm Store to take home; kids love picking out flavors they helped learn about
4. 4.Bring a picnic to enjoy on the gorgeous grounds overlooking Lake Champlain,there are perfect spots near the Children's Farmyard
5. 5.Download the walking trail map from their website beforehand; the Farm Trail loop is an easy 1.5 miles with beautiful lake views

Visit on weekday mornings during spring (May-June) or early fall (September-October) when the weather is comfortable, baby animals are often present, and school groups are less frequent. Weekends can get busy, especially during peak summer.

Admission fees apply for the Children's Farmyard and Walking Trails (check website for current pricing; children under 3 are typically free). The Farm Store is free to browse, ample parking is available, and while there's no restaurant, the Farm Store offers snacks and picnicking is encouraged on the grounds.

The Children's Farmyard and walking trails are open May through October. The Farm Store operates year-round with reduced winter hours. Special events include maple sugaring in March, baby animal season in spring, and harvest celebrations in fall. The property becomes a winter wonderland for cross-country skiing January-March, though most kid-focused farm activities are seasonal.

Head to Folino's (5 minutes away) for wood-fired pizza that kids love, or visit Shelburne Orchards (10 minutes) where you can pick fruit seasonally and grab fresh cider donuts at their market.