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Living in Shelburne, Vermont

Open land, Lake Champlain, and a town shaped by Vermont’s agricultural roots.

About Shelburne

Shelburne sits along the eastern shore of Lake Champlain, just south of Burlington, but feels distinctly different. It’s a town shaped by open land, long-standing farms, and a strong sense of place that has been carefully preserved over time.

Rather than growing quickly, Shelburne has evolved deliberately. Large tracts of farmland, protected landscapes, and a defined village center give the town a sense of continuity that’s increasingly rare.

Residents are drawn to Shelburne for its setting—views of the lake, the Green Mountains to the east, and the Adirondacks to the west—as well as its proximity to Burlington. It offers space and quiet without disconnecting from the region.

Shelburne At a Glance

These key statistics offer a helpful overview of what living in Colchester looks like today.

7.7K

Population

21 Min

Average Commute Time

$115K

Median Household Income

$743K

Medium Home Price

WHY PEOPLE CHOOSE SHELBURNE

Shelburne appeals to people looking for something more intentional.

  • A strong connection to Vermont’s agricultural landscape
  • Larger properties and preserved open space
  • A quieter pace of life
  • Close proximity to Burlington without feeling suburban


It’s not built around convenience or density. It’s built around land, history, and long-term stewardship.

Experience Shelburne Museum

Located in the heart of Shelburne, Shelburne Museum is one of the most distinctive cultural destinations in the country. Spanning a 45-acre campus, the museum features a collection of historic buildings, gardens, and exhibits that reflect American art, design, and everyday life.

Open seasonally from spring through fall, the museum brings together indoor and outdoor experiences—from folk art and impressionist paintings to preserved architecture and rotating exhibitions. It’s a place residents return to throughout the year, whether for a quiet afternoon, a special exhibit, or one of the museum’s events.

Art, history, and place come together in a setting that reflects the character of Shelburne itself.

Jane Doe - Burlington, VT

Visit Shelburne Museum
Ticonderoga at the Shelburne Museum

THINGS TO DO IN SHELBURNE

Shelburne offers a mix of cultural destinations and local traditions.

Seasonal events like the Shelburne Farmers Market, summer concerts, and Shelburne Day bring the community together throughout the year.

Vermont Teddy Bear factory tours in Shelburne

LAND, FARMS & DAILY LIFE

Shelburne Farms defines much of the town’s identity. Set along the lake, it operates as a working farm, education center, and preserved landscape. It’s not just a destination—it’s part of how the town functions.

Surrounding farms and orchards continue that connection. Places like Shelburne Orchards and local farm stands shape seasonal routines, from apple picking in the fall to farm events throughout the year.

Daily life here often includes:

  • Farm stands and seasonal markets
  • Open land and views in every direction
  • A slower pace tied to the seasons

DINING & LOCAL BUSINESSES

Shelburne’s dining scene is smaller but well-established.

Restaurants tend to focus on local sourcing and consistency rather than volume. Many are long-standing fixtures in the community, with a focus on quality and connection to the region.

The village area offers a handful of restaurants, cafés, and shops, while nearby Burlington expands options when needed.

Featured Shelburne Homes

Ready to make the move? Here are some recently listed homes in Shelburne to check out.

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FAQs about Shelburne, Vermont

Where is Shelburne, Vermont?

Shelburne is located in northwestern Vermont in Chittenden County, along the eastern shore of Lake Champlain. It sits just south of Burlington and is part of the greater Burlington area.

Shelburne is approximately 7 miles south of downtown Burlington, and most locations are about a 10 to 20 minute drive, depending on traffic and exact location.

Shelburne is known for its preserved farmland, scenic views of Lake Champlain, and cultural destinations like Shelburne Farms and Shelburne Museum. The town is also recognized for its strong sense of place and long-standing commitment to land conservation.

Shelburne is considered one of the most desirable towns in Vermont, particularly for those looking for:

  • A quieter, more rural setting
  • Larger properties and open space
  • Proximity to Burlington without suburban density
  • A strong community with well-regarded schools

Shelburne offers a mix of cultural and outdoor experiences:

  • Visiting Shelburne Farms for walking trails and events
  • Exploring the Shelburne Museum’s campus and exhibits
  • Attending the Shelburne Farmers Market
  • Visiting local orchards, vineyards, and farm stands


Many activities are seasonal and tied to the landscape.

Yes. Outdoor recreation is centered around the lake and surrounding land:

  • Walking and biking in Shelburne Bay Park
  • Exploring the LaPlatte River Trail, a quieter wooded trail system along the river
  • Boating and paddling on Lake Champlain
  • Rural roads and open landscapes for cycling and walking


Recreation tends to be quieter and less developed than in more urban areas, with a focus on access to natural surroundings rather than built amenities.

Shelburne stands out for its preserved farmland, lower-density development, and strong connection to Vermont’s agricultural heritage. Compared to nearby towns, it feels more rural and intentional, with a focus on land conservation and long-term planning.

Life In Shelburne

About Chittenden County

Chittenden County is the center of daily life in Vermont, where Lake Champlain, the Green Mountains, and a network of connected communities shape how people live and work. Located in the northwest corner of the state, it’s home to Burlington—Vermont’s largest city—and a range of surrounding towns that offer everything from walkable neighborhoods to quieter rural settings.

What defines Chittenden County is balance. Residents have access to the state’s strongest job market, higher education, healthcare, and transportation, while still being minutes from the lake, trail systems, and mountain recreation. It’s a place where commuting, outdoor time, and community life all fit into the same day.

Featured Recreation & Cultural Highlights

  • CHURCH STREET MARKETPLACE A pedestrian-only downtown hub lined with local shops, restaurants, and year-round events, serving as the cultural center of Burlington.
  • BURLINGTON BIKE PATH A scenic, multi-use path that runs along the lake, connecting neighborhoods, parks, and downtown Burlington—used year-round for biking, walking, and commuting.
  • MOUNT PHILO Located in Charlotte, Mount Philo offers one of the most accessible hikes in the region, with panoramic views of Lake Champlain and the Adirondacks. It’s a go-to spot for a quick hike, picnic, or sunset view.
  • FARMERS MARKETS Farmers markets throughout the county—from Burlington to smaller community markets—highlight Vermont’s agricultural roots. Local produce, prepared foods, and handmade goods are a regular part of weekly routines, especially from late spring through fall.
  • SHELBURNE MUSEUM One of the region’s most well-known cultural destinations, featuring historic buildings, gardens, and a wide range of American art and exhibits.
Discover Chittenden County
Sunset at the Burlington Waterfront Park

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346 Shelburne Rd.,
Burlington, VT

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2641 US-2,
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