Shelburne Farms isn’t your average mom & pop farm that you find throughout the Vermont countryside; it is one of the finest examples of a late 19th - 20th Century model farm and country estate in the nation. Just because this farm is underrated doesn't mean it's unpopular, because it is certainly well-known. However, many people may not know how rich the farm's history is and the massive amounts of agricultural education that Shelburne Farms gives back to the community and the entire state of Vermont.

Check out this video from Dreamlike Pictures about the history of this amazing farm in Shelburne and how hard work, dedication and volunteers made it the wonderful place it is today.

Whether you spend the day browsing at this beautiful lakeside farm, or go for a specific class or event, this is one place in Vermont that should not be missed!

When people think Shelburne, the first thought that often pops into their mind is the Shelburne Museum. This museum is wonderful and definitely worth a visit, but Shelburne Farms is an entirely different operation.

Shelburne Farms was built in 1886 when Dr. William Seward and Lila Vanderbilt Webb began acquiring farmland on the shores of Lake Champlain to create a model agricultural estate.

By the early 1900s, the farm was known for its innovative practices, horse breeding, and the grand family residence.

Shelburne farms had a rebirth in 1972 when family descendants created a non-profit organization which was dedicated to conservation education. Over the last 40 years they have been offering educational opportunities for children and adults to learn about sustainability and agricultural practices.

Today, over 1,400 acres of pastures, hiking trails, woodlands, gardens and historic buildings make up this unique campus which helps students build a healthy future for their communities and planet.

The property and buildings make Shelburne farms a one-of-a-kind environment for inspirational learning, and in 2001 the property became a National Historic Landmark.

You can tour the inside of the buildings…

And watch the cheese makers milling, salting and mixing... Shelburne Farms will make about 170,000 lbs of farmstead cheddar this year!

Learn how they make their award-winning cheeses.

Take a course at one of their several events, classes and offerings.

Children love to meet the friendly animals on the farm.

Everyone can get a hands-on experience of farm life!

As well as other interesting lessons.

If you want to splurge, stay at the Inn and take in the stellar view of Lake Champlain on the premises. It’s a once in a lifetime experience!

Walkers and runners especially will appreciate the vast surroundings and trails.

Children love the wide open spaces - especially on days like this!

Positioned right on the shore of Lake Champlaigne, this huge estate would certainly have a castle on it if it were in Europe. Lucky for us, it is open to educate and be enjoyed by everyone right here in Vermont.

Today Shelburne Farms is one of the finest examples in the nation of a late 19th - 20th Century model farm and country estate in the country.

What are you waiting for? Share this with someone who would like to visit and plan a trip today!