What a treat! Highly recommend this spot to view an eclectic and vast assortment of items. Found this place on Reddit, and really didn't know what to expect. A perfect slightly-rainy day activity, but bring an umbrella. AAA and student discounts available. Open seasonally (check their website) but daily from 10am-5pm. We arrived at 10:30am and didn't leave until closing @ 5pm. They allow you to visit the following day if you show your receipt. We took our time, stopping by the cafe a couple times, only rushing a bit in the last 20 minutes, although we did not see the exhibitions in the shiny and new exhibition center near the entrance. Could definitely knock this place out in one day if you were efficient. Little shuttles available (think long, covered golf carts), running every ~15 minutes. Don't miss the Prentis and Stencil House tours (10:30 a.m., 1:30 p.m., and 3:30 p.m. 45 minutes) and Ticonderoga steamboat tours (11:30 a.m. and 2:30 p.m. 45 minutes). The top floor of the Ticonderoga was closed off due to rain (potential slipping). Demonstrations at the blacksmith and printing house, which was a pleasant surprise (special thanks to Joe!). Plethora of impressive and comprehensive collections ranging from circus, carriage, taxidermy, furniture, dolls, paintings - really anything and everything! read more

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We had visited here once before in 2006 and were happy to have a chance to return as we were passing through town this week. It was a rainy day which meant there were very few people here and we really enjoyed it being so uncrowded. The rain wasn't a problem at all as we had raincoats and umbrellas for traveling between buildings and we could leave our umbrellas near the door at each building so we didn't drip all over the floors. Staff were really knowledgeable and friendly as we explored all the buildings on the grounds. They don't dress as historical characters and do role playing here which is a huge plus for me. I much prefer how Shelburne just has knowledgeable staff available. They seem, overall, more geared towards adults than kids which is unique among similar history museums. We spent about 5 hours here and still didn't see everything and so this can definitely be a full day activity! Highlights are the restored ship the Ticonderoga and circus parade sculpture that is over 500 feet long and took over 25;years to complete, as well as the round barn and covered bridge. The exhibits in all of the buildings are so interesting and the general store and apothecary have so much detail ton look at, those exhibits alone are great for spending lots of time. We had a nice lunch in the cafe. The options are basic, but good. I had a chicken salad sandwich that had nice chunks of chicken, dried cranberries and cheese along with lettuce and tomato on hearty bread. Prices were reasonable. Definitely a great rainy day activity option! read more

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The Shelburne Museum is a large museum grounds with interesting artifacts that showcase local and national history. The museum is many acres so be prepared to walk. There are many old buildings, trains, and boats that have been meticulously preserved. My personal favorite collection was the circus miniatures and the old carousel that you can actually ride. You can spend many hours getting lost at Shelburne. read more

SHELBURNE MUSEUM - Cultural Center Near Me - Shelburne, Vermont

This museum is a gem and a must visit in the Shelburne/Burlington area. The grounds are beautiful and well maintained and it's a joy to enter each of the buildings and galleries. Great for families and people of all ages. A must, must visit. read more

Found this museum on a whim and we ran out of time before we could see everything. The museum is so cool and big filled with vintage buildings and items a super cool way to send the day! read more

This place is LOVELY, the staff here are very nice and the exhibits are so fun. There are also some educational exhibits too. 10/10, this play was fantastic. read more

Came here for the Christmas light show while on a weekend get away with my girlfriend in Burlington. This has to be the longest and biggest light show I have ever gone to. We had a blast walking through all the different areas and thought the lights were all very tastefully done! Also having the cafe that you could stop in for a bite to eat or a drink was a very nice touch! We were very impressed and will be sure to suggest anyone who's in the area during the winter to go and check this light show out! read more

SHELBURNE MUSEUM - Cultural Center Near Me - Shelburne, Vermont

There is a lot to see here for adults and kids. It's helpful that the museum pass is good for two days which may be useful if you're staying in the Burlington area. A great variety of exhibits, from quilting and textiles to paintings by Impressionist masters. The wooden carvings in the circus building were extremely interesting and what kid (of any age) isn't going to appreciate walking around a real live steam paddlewheel ship? The video showing how it was moved two miles from Lake Champlain to the museum grounds is interesting. I was here for nearly four hours and wasn't bored at any time. There is a good amount of walking and the grounds are level though some of the buildings are not handicap-accessible or step free. A "shuttle" cart does the rounds if you need mobility assistance. [Review 17879 overall - 37 in Vermont - round number 1400 of 2022.] read more

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Very cool experience here! When you buy tickets, you do get a discount ($2) if you're a AAA member. Wasn't sure what to expect as I just saw that this was a to do in Burlington area so we stopped in. Massive place, no wonder they give you a ticket that's good for 2 days, you could definitely take two full days to explore it all. All of the staff was super helpful and kind. Wear your waking shoes! read more

Only had a few hours to explore but could've spent the entire day here. Beautifully maintained, unique exhibits with passionate curators.

The Smithsonian of New England +++ Ambiance is a historic village set on rolling hills near Lake Champlain. Visually pleasing 45 acres village of well-kept historic buildings and grounds. On this weekday visit, it wasn't crowded and many apple trees were fruiting. Do wear comfy shoes and sun screen. They do have a regularly scheduled electric tram for those who desires it. +++ Shelburne Museum has something for everyone and cannot be done in one day as there is so much to take in. SM holds the finest collection of many disappearing Americana. This museum houses over 100k artifacts of oil paintings, folk art, crafts, antiques and relocated historic buildings such as Webb NYC apartment, a light house, a practically designed 3 story Hay / horses & cows / manure Round barn, a Merry-go around, the 220 ft steamship, Ticonderoga and of course a covered bridge. In their art museums, there are paintings by Monet, Homer, Grandma Moses and A. Wyeth. On my prior visits, I've seen works by 3 Wyeths. On this visit, we viewed two temporary exhibits Luigi Lucioni: Modern Light and Eyesight & Insight: Lens on American Art which were fantastic! Visitors can "ride" the carousel as a part of the entry fee as well. There is a café on site and while convenient, it is more of a sustenance than noteworthy. Their gift shop is a decent size but is pricey. SM also has Concerts on the Green and Free First Friday eves again this season. ++ Service is friendly and their staff is knowledgeable. + Entry fee is $25 for 2 days and discounts for VT license holders, AAA, seniors and children. Free for active military. + Parking is a free private lot. SM is an AmaZing museum and is worth visiting! read more

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It was just ok. Nothing really special. Have been to better museums Did have some cars I had never heard of before. read more

What a beautiful museum. If your in the area it's a must see. a majority of the building were transported here which made this place even more fascinating. There was so many interesting buildings and house, each with a story and a long history. there is plenty of staff to talk with along the way to talk with. The highlight for me was seeing the Ticonderoga on land and then learning and watching a movie on how they got it there. Amazing... the tickets are good for two days which is needed as there is so much here and the grounds are magnificently manicured. A must see ... read more

SHELBURNE MUSEUM - Cultural Center Near Me - Shelburne, Vermont

Terrific collection of museum buildings. The Circus exhibit was a stand out, as well as the recreation of Electra Webbs' incredible apartment and art holdings. The Ticonderoga ship is awe inspiring. Plenty to see for a full day or two. read more

This is a wonderful museum that I remember fondly from visits in the 1990s and revisited just this past week. I won't repeat what many other people have said; look over the reviews yourself. The one fly in the ointment I had was that I'm one of those mobility-challenged seniors. Now I knew this going in, and knew it'd be a bit of an ordeal, and knew there were frequent shuttles; so much wasn't a problem. But I also knew that admission got you in on consecutive days, so we didn't have to try to tackle the whole place in a single afternoon. Except that we couldn't get that bumped to the day after, because I knew our legs wouldn't have recovered enough by the following day. Policies are policies and not worth the argument, but it did cost that extra star. Those of you with working knees and hips wouldn't be affected. read more

So glad we stumbled onto this place during our visit to Vermont. I wasn't sure what to expect but it exceeded my expectations and then some. The whole museum (really campus) is so well done, maintained, etc. I could've spent hours here, but only had about 90 minutes. Still, it was fabulous. The blacksmith demonstration was cool, as was the printing shop. I especially liked the Electra Havermeyer Webb memorial house. I was NOT expecting such an extensive and impressive art collection. It blew my socks off. read more

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This is the largest art and history museum in Northern New England and l HIGHLY RECOMMEND this 45-acre campus comprised of 39 buildings . My granddaughter accompanied my husband and l , and she was so excited to give us a grand tour as the school had a class trip here. Although we spent much of our time touring the 220-foot steamboat , the Ticonderoga ship, which was used during both world wars and served as a floating casino at one time, there are many other exhibitions of worthy note, such as the Shaker Design Round Barn, the General Store,, the Carousel, 22 gardens, Pizzagalli Center for Arts and Education, and my favorite Web Gallery - featuring famous artists such as Andrew Wyeth, Winslow Homer and John Singleton Copley. There are other art museums featuring more modern art and specialty subjects , such as dogs and cats as well. Of special note : if you are a Vermont resident, the price of admission is reduced from $25 to $15 for adults; $12 to $8 for a child as well as savings if you are a student or senior. My granddaughter loved this adventure and made the day that much more enjoyable. There are free rides provided every 10 minutes so tourists can see more exhibits. Everything here is beautiful and well-maintained. All gardens and landscaping are well-manicured ; buildings and exhibits and speakers are flawless and professional. Highly recommended!! read more

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I had an awesome time walking this complex. There are many houses spread apart and reachable through a gravel pathway, all about two minutes away from each other. Each house has an ongoing exhibit and I have no favorites because they all are amazing. I did skip the big boat, it just didn't pull me in, actually it repelled me. The main exhibit has some cool rotating artists, not sure who you would see, but I bet it will be pretty impressive. The main house is also surprisingly shocking, with a lot of well known artist on display. The house with the decoy ducks is also very informational, and the artist studio is also very welcoming. There is more, I just can't remember the names of the buildings, but pace yourself and enjoy the collection. Oh! Yes, talk to the hosts/hostesses, they are very knowledgeable in term of art but also have lots of tips regarding what to do in Burlington and surrounding areas. Everything is a short drive away. read more

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I was going to say this is a great little museum - but it's not little! There is a little something for everyone. We went for the Ticonderoga - which was a very nice exhibit. The museum interpreter in the Pilot House was very knowledgeable and very personable. But if an old steam ship ferry isn't your thing - there is a small exhibit at the lighthouse; several small art exhibits; old carousel; small toy museum; some buildings with vehicles... If you don't like one thing - you'll love the next. And it's a very nice complex to walk around. They have benches all over - many of them in the shade, too! We had almost 2 hours - but really could have spent more time there (and my son is usually pretty quick through exhibits - even on his favorite topics). Sawmill - you can see the water wheel and how it would turn and make the sawmill work (no water running through it - but you can imagine); ... So many little extras, like the benches, wildflowers... It was lovely. read more

What a fabulous place! This "museum" is set up as a village and you can wander at your leisure and go into the buildings to see what they have to offer. Some buildings are mini museums in themselves. e.g. there is one "house" that contains only duck decoys. And one that has only folk art. The round barn has a huge collection of carriages. Then there are other buildings set up as they might have been in their time. Homes with period furnishings. Plan to walk ALOT. But, there is a shuttle that comes around regularly. We were there during a record breaking heat wave and want to make a particular note of how this was handled. First, there was ample warning online and when you arrived that some building might be closed due to the heat (we found very few actually). Then, in particular buildings, the staff made sure to mention the 2nd story might be too warm and to go at your own risk (we did a couple of times but spent only a minute or two looking at things). And we were also impressed by how staff were being provided extra water throughout the day. They typically offer a two day admission, but due to the heat they had extended that quite a long time. They did an amazing job dealing with the conditions. Thank you! And, there are several buildings that do have AC throughout the property so you can always find a spot to cool down. And lots of trees for shade. My only "disappointment" was that we had only planned to stay 1/2 day and were then going to Shelburne Farms. But, we spent the entire day here so we will have to go to the farm next time. read more

This was a lovely museum. Be prepared to walk everywhere. I thought it was more for adults than kids as they might get bored. Note: I did not see any kids on-site when I was there. The way the museum is set up is like a little village (walking back in time). I enjoyed all the offerings, and the staff was very informative and helpful. Note: It can take you at least 2 hours easily to see everything...depending how fast you walk. It could be longer than that to prepare accordingly. read more

This beautifully landscaped 45-acre village of historic 17th-18th-19th century New England buildings crammed with incredible Americana of every kind of arts and crafts and everyday American life is an astonishing place! Check out the museum's website for details on what you can see there. For me, the jewel was the Ticonderoga, a sidewheel steamboat circa 1906. Plan to arrive early and devote the entire day. The $25 ticket (there are discounts) is good for two days and if you can spare the time, spend two days there. Food and drink is available. Butterfly gardens in spring/summer/fall. Keep an eye to the sky, of course. Aside from the carousel, little kids probably won't appreciate this place. So this is a marvel best enjoyed by smart teens and everyone upwards in age. A shuttle goes around the property but otherwise this visit involves lots of walking. Certain structures can't accommodate physically challenged visitors. The staff is nice and knowledgable. Plenty of restrooms. When I next visit Vermont, I plan to go there again. And I am telling all my friends to go there, too. read more

Highly recommend. Sooo cool. Our boys (10 & 13) really enjoyed this experience. Some exhibits were okay - but some were amazing like the "Ti", the toy shop, and the carriages/sleighs. Heads-up: the admission tickets are good for 2 days. Plan on going for both days - you'll need the extra time to see all the cool stuff. read more

What a find! How's it that it's a secret outside the area? The story behind the museum collection amassed is worthy of leaving time to learn & absorb . This is a memorable destination . read more

This was an amazing museum filled with something for everyone. They even have an original covered bridge! We didn't realize how much there was to see so didn't plan lunch and we were happy they had a cafe that seemed a little pricey but after tasting the delicious fresh food, we agreed it was well worth it. I had no idea about Electra Havemeyer Webb but I look forward to researching her family history! read more

This place is super cool. I didn't even know it existed until someone I met on a hike told me about it. I promptly cancelled my hike for a few days out and came here instead. Some details - ITS BIG - so your ticket will get you in for 2 days - and you may need them. The price was $25 (I think) when I came, so its not cheap, but its for two days if you want. There is a lot going on here. 2 museums that have different exhibits at different times. There are tons of guides around to tell you all about the current exhibit. Then there is a lighthouse. But its actually a working space, with tons of seating and plugins for you if you need them. So really, a rest space. Then there is the Dutton House. And the Blacksmith Shop. The Printing shop. The covered bridge (yep, a real one). The Ticonderoga (the whole boat), A circus display. A train station. A toy shop. Schoolhouse. So much more. In the middle is a place for a sandwich, but that was by far the weakest link here. Bring a snack and your own water and pass by this place if you can. This is a great experience for young, old and in-between. I wholehearteledy recommend it if in VT. There is tons of easy parking here. 2550 read more

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What a gem of a place. During COVID only 5 of the buildings are open. It is an excellent way to do end an hour or so. Well worth the visit. read more

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"Museum" doesn't begin to do justice to what this place, just south of Burlington, is all about. Yes, it does have several art museums with an eclectic collection of U.S. and European art, but it is much more than that. Shelburne is a uniquely American, perhaps New England, conglomeration, a collection of diverse and generally unrelated buildngs and antiquities put together over decades by a wealthy couple who bought old barns, houses, stores, trains, boats and much much more, presenting them to the public on a 50-some acre estate. There is really nothing else like it in the country, except perhaps the Ford complex near Detroit. To see it all in detail would take days (your entrance fee of around $25 buys you two days.) Probably the best way to experience it in a day or so is first to take the free electric "tram" on the 15-minute ride around the facility. Then, decide what interests you most and do a walking tour of the grounds. Be aware that there are only a few places on the estate to buy food or water, or to use the restroom. All I can is that if you go to Vermont and don't see Shelburne you've missed one of the most amazing places in New England. read more

The place is absolutely filthy. There is nothing for kids to do. The employees look haggard. Multiple buildings were closed. Waste of money. Shelburne Farms, on the other hand did not disappoint. read more

WONDERFUL! It took us two days (admission $25 per person is good for two consecutive days and you will be glad it is) to tour the entire property and there are a couple of things we missed. What a collection of Americana with an addition of Old Masters in one building! There is something for everyone. Must ride the carousel and tour the Ticonderoga. I can't describe everything but here are some pics for you to view and investigate! This is a must if you are in the Burlington area. read more

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Unique museum. Almost like an old town restoration. Plenty to keep kids interested. Great place to visit.

We loved the Shelburne on a rainy day in Burlington area. In particular the Shaker barn, the circus museum, the cool steamship and many of the collections were just amazing and unexpected. My partner could have spent the whole day in the barn, watching the video and looking at the construction. It was truly amazing. My favorite was the impressionist art - amazing and such a treat. I just wish we had a day to go to the Farm! read more

*Review ONLY for Electra Havermeyer Webb memorial building* Glorious Art Trapped in Musty Haunted House Somebody please rescue these wonderful paintings from the musty and dark (it's both dim and depressing) prison in which they're trapped. Seriously. The concept of great art in a period mansion is great, but the place is so musty it's toxic. We ran through and out of there. I pity the poor workers. The Health Department should step in. The shutters are all closed, and the light is so dim, it's like you have to view the Monets, Degas, and Cassats through a fog. Let the light in! But the real horror show are the creepy Victorian portraits of the family. I swear the place is haunted. Didn't they know the terrible story of the myth of Electra? This place is the polar opposite of the Musée d'Orsay. These paintings deserve such a place. read more

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The museum has so many offerings and each venue has numerous facets to experience and enjoy. We cannot recommend this highly enough. Plan for at least three if not four hours. read more

A long story, but briefly, Electra Havemeyer Webb, a very rich lady, wanted to create a museum of Americana on a grand scale, and she had the wherewithal to do it. She found museum-quality examples of log cabins, a country store, blacksmith shop, lumber mill, covered bridge, lighthouse -- even a steamship -- bought them, and had them moved to her 45 acres of land in Shelburne. Highlights for us were the "Ticonderoga" side-wheeler, the round barn, the vintage carousel, and the horseshoe-shaped building behind it housing an amazing collection of hand-carved circus figures and carousel animals. Wear your sneakers, you'll do lots of walking -- although a golf cart circles through every 15 minutes if you get tired or just want a ride back to the entrance. Mrs. Webb also amassed an amazing art collection, some of which is displayed here, including works by Monet, Degas, Winslow Homer, Grandma Moses, Frederick Remington, and many others. There are tapestry and duck decoy collections, two great collections of vintage carriages, wagons, and stage coaches -- and much more. Definitely worth your time and effort. Attractive and quite unique. Budget a half-day, at least. read more

Awesome way to spend a day or two if you have the time. They have several large collections of different items from dolls to wagons. Their are plenty of buildings to walk in and walk out of. Several of them I got lost in because the rooms seem to go on and on. I especially like the pharmacy and doctor offices. Well worth a visit. read more

This museum is absolutely amazing! I have been going since I could walk and it had such a huge part of my childhood. There is something there for everyone to enjoy and I really appreciate it even more now that I am older. If you haven't been I HIGHLY recommend taking the time to walk around to all of the amazing exhibits and really enjoying the beauty of it all. read more

Really, they should not call this a Museum. Shelburne Museum is more like a mini village. What museum has 36 gallery/shop/store/exhibits, has a shuttle and two day admission because it is not humanly possible to see every site within their 10-5pm admission hours? I remember being brought here as a child on a field trip. I loved the Ticonderoga, round barn, blacksmith, print shop and light house. That was all I remember. You can bring your child here but there is so much more that they may not be able to appreciate or have the patience to sit through. Perhaps an older more mature child. For example: The Electra Havemeyer Webb Memorial building has a room of original Monet's! (Did we know what or who Monet was back then?!!) One of the Monets, a guide suggested, should be viewed from the opposite corner of the room. I don't think we were even let into this building on our field trip. My friend recalls kicking up dirt for the majority of his field trip because he was bored. The admission price may appear steep but keep in mind that you don't have to pay for a tour guide. They have a guide at each of the exhibits, reexplaining their craft or the artifacts as a new group cycles in. Tip: If you are here for two days, I would certainly come back to see everything! If you are here for only one day, I Highly recommend the Ticonderoga, the Blacksmith shop (yes he makes materials that is later sold in the workshop such as iron hooks), print shop, lighthouse, and the Apothecary shop. Tip: to get to the Apothecary shop, you need to enter through the General store. The door for the apothecary shop is locked. Enjoy! Cram as much knowledge into your noggin as you can! read more

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Like some of the previous reviews, my wife and I stumbled onto this museum almost by mistake. In short, it surpassed our expectations in a good and wonderful way. The museum describes itself as a "collection of collections" and rightly so. Focused on Americana, there are buildings full of coaches, a full turn-of-the-century apothecary, a restored steam ship Ticonderoga, buildings of paintings including Monet's, Manet's, Degas. Duck decoys, circus displays, china, pottery and a covered bridge. With 30+ buildings there is something for everyone. We spent most of the day at the museum and still missed a number of the buildings. The 2 day pass is a must if you want to see everything, otherwise plan you stay beforehand. This is a "must see" if you are visiting the Burlington area! read more

This place is awesome! I did not know what to expect but spent hours walking around, entering building after building. So much information, architecture, and amazing art. Money, Cassatt, Degas, and Rembrandt's just to name a few artists whose work is on display. The docents or people working in the buildings love sharing knowledge and I found all the staff to be quite pleasant. I have been to many museums around the world and this one is top notch and so unique. Worth every penny! read more