Heaven's Cheddar (Vermont & The Adirondacks)

Most people have been to tourist attractions that are specifically designed for families – places like Disney World or Rainforest Cafe. But have you noticed there are some unique attrations that are just as suited for families, but far less manufactured? These places are more natural, and offer families a simpler, more authentic experience. Farmer’s markets and National Parks would fit well in this category, and so would Vermont’s Shelburne Farms on the eastern shores of Lake Champlain. 

It was a sunny morning when the Best family arrived. Not knowing what to expect, they signed their names on a list for the next tractor ride that would take them over to the barn. But they wondered – will Hugo’s stroller fit on a tractor ride? They waited just a few minutes in the warm sun and along came a big, green tractor pulling a large, wooden wagon. As everyone climbed aboard, they realized it was spacious and well-built. No problem for a stroller!

The ride was delightful. Everyone was enjoying themselves – especially Edith who was simply beaming. She had really dressed for the occasion with her light sundress and yellow cardigan. She also brought a straw hat to keep her from getting burned. As they approach the end of the ride, Frederick spotted a gigantic fortress with a green roof and surrounded by a stone wall.

“Look at that castle!” He blurted out. 

Edith and Hugo turned their heads to see. As they gawked at the incredible building, the wagon came to a stop in front of its gates. Frederick was very confused.“I thought we were going to a farm?”

His mom responded, “I think this is the barn.”

“Cool!” Said Frederick.

“Cool!” Said Edith.

“Cool!” Said Hugo.

The Best kids jumped off the wagon and strolled up the laneway to the gates. Beyond the wall was a pastoral wonder – like something out of a dream. The rolling hills of green grass were dotted with picnic tables and featured a cute café serving gourmet sandwiches. Running around the lunch area were an equal number of chickens as children. These chickens were very interested in our lunch, which sparked a nerve-wracking game of keep-away.  

Off to the right of the grounds was a bakery serving cookies and fresh bread. To the left, a museum about farming. And in the far corner was something the kids couldn’t resist; an adorable, young, dairy cow was brought out to interact with guests. Instantly, Edith and Frederick reached out their hands to touch the soft, white calf, and as they did, it turned its head and licked their hands. 

From there, the Best family explored the main hall which was directly beyond the main  gate.  They were pleasantly surprised because it housed a small cheese production facility. Inside the hall, there was a man with an apron, a mask and gloves, showing them how Vermont cheddar cheese is made. There was also a lady behind them with a tray of samples, which they gobbled down as they watched cheese being made from behind a window.

After visiting the cheese factory, the bakery, the museum and the café, the Best family sat down on the green grass, laid back and took a deep breath. With the sun on their faces, it felt like they were in heaven! 

It was a perfectly peaceful moment, which was hilariously interrupted by another aggressive chicken looking for some leftovers. That was their signal to get back on the wagon, and wave goodbye to this pleasant wonderland called Shelburne Farms.