Visiting the Shelburne Museum

By Emily Duty • February 28, 2018 • Family Travel, Places, Travel

Located in Shelburne, Vermont, this quaint museum is dedicated to Americana art and design and houses more than 150,000 works in nearly 40 buildings. The museum was opened in 1947 by Electra Havemeyer Webb, the daughter of two famous art collectors. Today, the museum sits on 45 acres, which include beautiful gardens and ample green space.

Close up of orange flowers in a field at Shelburne Museum, Vermont

The Circus Building ©Shelburne Museum

The Museum

Some of the permanent collections include textiles, horse-drawn vehicles, folk art, impressionist paintings, and circus art. Unique visiting exhibitions rotate several times a year. Beyond just the art, the Shelburne Museum also hosts enriching discussions, interactive events, and entertainment for all ages; Puppet-making workshops and concerts on the green from nationally-known artists like Guster and The Decemberists. Kids can always flex their creative muscles with art activities in Webby’s Art Studio, which is free with museum admission, or have some fun with a ride on the carousel!

From May through the end of October

Pizzagalli Center for Art and Education ©Shelburne Museum

Grab something to eat during your visit at the Local Food Court. Before you head out, make sure to stop by the museum gift store, which is packed with souvenirs, toys, and gifts. Or, browse handmade crafts and art made by Vermont artists in the Artisans Shop.

During Fall

The Shelburne Museum is a beautiful place to visit at any time of the year, but the fall is particularly lovely because of the colorful New England foliage. You can find out more information on the museum’s current and upcoming exhibitions at https://shelburnemuseum.org.

General Admission

One of the buildings on the Shelburne Museum property

The Electra Havemeyer Webb Memorial Building ©Shelburne Museum

The museum is open from Wednesdays through Sundays from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., excluding various holidays. Depending on the season, admission is $10-$24 for adults, $5-$14 for children, and always free for veterans and little ones under age five. If you’re bringing the whole crew, you can also snag a family day pass for $58.

Surrounding Attractions

While you’re visiting, you might want to explore some of the surrounding attractions in Shelburne. Shelburne Vineyard, Fiddlehead Brewing, and the Vermont Teddy Bear Company are all a short drive away. And the bustling city of Burlington is just 15 minutes by car as well.