When we moved here two years ago, one of the first recommendations I got for a good place to take my then one-year old was Shelburne Museum.
Dutifully obedient, and having no idea what else to do with myself across the country from anything familiar, I programmed the address into my nav system and headed out.
Xander and I mostly just wandered around outside that first visit; I wasn’t sure which exhibits would be kid friendly, or even what they really were, and I didn’t know about the play room in Owl Cottage, but we had a blast.
The iconic round barn building
It’s been one of our favorite places to visit ever since.
We have a sort of routine to our visits, but I try to mix it up every once and a while and add new things. We typically start by visiting (read: running through) the Ticonderoga. Then off to Owl Cottage to play with some toys and maybe do an art project. Lunch almost always follows (playing is hard work!). I pack a picnic if I’m good and plan ahead, but I must admit to being a huge fan of their café.
A great day running around outside and visiting robots.
After lunch is usually the easiest time for me to slip something new in that *I* want to see, though Xander has recently discovered the model train room, so that’s always on his agenda. He also loves taking the shuttle bus (“a bus, mama!”), so we’ll ride that around to the walk-through train car, say hi to the big bears, and, of course, ride the carousal before leaving.
One of the art buildings.
If you haven’t been, the museum is a beautiful way to spend a summer afternoon, with fun activities for the kids, and a gallery of Impressionist (and more!) paintings for the parents. Their café serves local food and their gift shop features local artists.
If you have been, what are your favorite things to do?
[…] see everything in one visit, particularly if you have children in tow. Now that I have visited the museum countless times over the past several years, I know exactly what my children like best. Here are […]
Wow! I actually didn’t know it would be a fun place to take the kids. We will definitely check it out, thanks!
Definitely try it! There are tons of interactive things to do with the kids.
I’ve lived in Vermont for a total of almost 16 years and I’ve never been to the Shelburne Museum, in spite of living only 20 min. away. I think it’s a case of, “It’s right down the road if I ever have the chance to visit.” My kids have been on field trips. I really need to get there one of these days. Preferably on “half price for VT residents” day. 🙂
Oh, it’s so fun! We get passes and make great use of them when the weather is nice.