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Living In Historic Shelburne, Vermont

by Bill Alexander

If you were a Vermont student, attending school back in the 60's and 70's, a field trip often included the Shelburne Museum on Shelburne, VT. It was also one of the favorite destinations for many Vermont families, during vacation time as well. It seems like no matter where you go in New England, everybody knows about Shelburne Museum. These days, Shelburne is equally famous for the museum's neighbor just up the road, the Vermont Teddy Bear Factory. Recommended businesses in Shelburne, VT are Alpine Web Media, Shelburne Fine Woodworking, the Shelburne Supermarket and SCHIP's Resale Shop.

Shelburne is a small, historic community which seems to fit in very well with the likes of Woodstock and Stowe. Although the summer months mean a huge spike in visits from tourists, many native Vermonters and transplants live and work in the area. The village is a great place to go for a walk. The recently completed sidewalk stretches way up Route 7 into South Burlington for those who are a bit more athletically inclined. The National Museum of the Morgan Horse abuts the Shelburne Museum's property. You could literally make a day out of visiting two museums within walking distance of each other.

Although the Shelburne Town Beach is for Shelburne residents only, anyone is welcome to visit the Charlotte beach, just a couple miles down the road. The views of the Lake Champlain islands and the Adirondack mountains are spectacular. If you're a boater, you can apply for a Shelburne Bay mooring permit but you may have to sign on to a waiting list. Download a Shelburne Bay Park Map and Trail Guide.

The Vermont Teddy Bear Factory is a year round favorite for visitors from every corner of the world. Take a tour and you may spot a celebrity! Howard Stern recently sent his news crew and infamous Vermont resident, Bigfoot (Mark Shaw Jr.) to film a segment there. Vermont Teddy Bear is a regular advertiser on the Howard Stern radio show at Sirius satellite radio.

Shelburne Farms is a beautiful, sprawling estate on the shores of Lake Champlain. It is also a National Historic Landmark. Visitors may enjoy the walking trails, children’s farmyard, inn, restaurant, property tours and special events.