Frequently Asked Questions

Is there an admission charge to visit the farm?

NO.  You pay only for the fruit that you pick or the attractions that you visit.  Apples are sold by the bag.  Peaches and asian pears are sold by the box.  Pumpkins are sold by the pound.   At all times entry into the orchards requires purchase of a picking bag or peach or asian pear box.  

How much does it cost to pick apples?

Half-bushel bag, approx. 20 lbs., $ 29, early season, subject to change.
One peck bag, approx. 10 lbs., $ 19 early season, subject to change.
--> ALL PYO prices subject to change depending on environmental and market conditions.

​How much does it cost to pick pumpkins?

0.60 cents per pound, from the patch or from the stand adjacent to the apple shop.

How much does it cost to pick peaches and asian pears?

Half-peck box, approx. 8 lbs., $23

How much do the kid's attractions cost?

On WEEKENDS, the ALL DAY “fun pass” includes one hay ride ticket AND unlimited admission for one child for the day to the NEW JOHN DEERE COMBINE PLAYGROUND, moon bounce, hay maze, hay mountain, pedal tractors, tractor play area with REAL JOHN DEERE GATOR, and duck races, $10.  There is no charge to visit the farm animals.  There is no charge for parents to enter the play areas with children.

How much do hay rides cost?

Children's hay rides are included in the fun pass.  For adults or children not participating in other activities hay rides cost $2 per person, for a 15 minute hay wagon tour of the orchards.  

How much do pony rides cost?

Pony rides are offered on selected weekends only.  Check the daily event calendar for details.  When available the cost is $7 per ride.  There are pony-dependent restrictions imposed on rider age, height, and weight.  Ask for details before purchasing tickets.   

Do you accept credit cards?

YES.  Mastercard, Visa, and AMEX.  We now accept credit cards at all point of sale locations on the farm, including the field pick your own sales area.

How do we access the orchard and picking areas after arriving?

On weekends, visit the pick your own greeting area adjacent to the large field where the big yellow sign says “Welcome to Shelburne Farm”.  The orchard greeters will help you to get started, and will provide picking bags as well as directions. All of the orchard is within walking distance and is accessible on foot.  Most of our terrain is level for easy walking and easy access from the parking areas.  

Where can I get your famous cider donuts?

Visit the apple shop. MMMMMMMM donuts.

How big is Shelburne Farm?

Shelburne Farm is a little over 50 acres.

How many fruit trees are planted in the orchards at Shelburne Farm?

More than 10,000!

How many different apple varieties are grown in the orchards at Shelburne Farm?

Almost 100!  More than 60 contemporary or "popular" varieties, more than 30 antique or "heirloom" varieties, and five red-fleshed or "pink" apple cultivars.  The apple portfolio is in a state of constant expansion as we plant more and more varieties, new, old, and ancient -- every year -- one tree at at time.   

What is the age of the oldest apple tree planted in the orchards at Shelburne Farm?

More than 110 years!

What is the age of the oldest heirloom apple variety grown in the orchards at Shelburne Farm?

More than 400 years!    Take a look at the list of heirlooms under What's Picking on our home page and try to figure out which one?!

I’m attending a corporate or group event at Shelburne Farm.  Where should I go upon arrival?

Check with your party host for the exact location on the farm; several different locations are possible depending on the event type.

Do you offer lunch?

YES - our farm concession offers a full lunch and grill menu.  The grill operates on weekends; the kitchen is open seven days a week with sandwiches and other non-grill items on weekdays.

Do you have seating areas available?

Yes.  Picnic tables in all locations are available on a first-come, first-served basis.  Private tented areas are also available by reservation for pre-paid group events. 

I’ve never been on an apple picking adventure.  How does it work at Shelburne Farm?

If you arrive on a weekend, just visit the pick your own greeting area adjacent to the parking lot.  The friendly farmers located there will help you to get started.  All you really need to do is purchase a bag, get directions, and go on your way to begin picking.  
If you visit us on a weekday, just visit the apple shop.  One of the friendly farmers in the shop will help you to get started.

Are reservations required for pick-your-own?

NO.  Reservations are not required for for pick your own apples, peaches, or pumpkins.

Are reservations required for special group rates or parties with private space?

YES, if you want to reserve a tent or take advantage of one of our discounted group-rate picking packages.

Are reservations required for school tours?

YES, if you want to take advantage of one of our discounted school tour packages.  Please call or email to inquire about availability.

What’s the best apple for … ?

DEPENDS on what’s in season.  Ask in the apple shop or pick your own barn when you pick up your bag.  While visiting the farm to pick apples be sure to try one of the apples you've never heard of or tried before -- there is a good chance are you will discover a new "best apple ever".  We grow only AMAZING fruit!! 

Do you allow dogs?

NO - please leave your beloved pet(s) at home when visiting the farm.  We, too, own and dearly love our family dogs, cats, and a whole menagerie of other small furry friends, but unfortunately we cannot allow dogs or other animals in the orchards at Shelburne Farm for sanitary reasons.  

Do you offer cut-your-own Christmas Trees?

Check our site closer to Thanksgiving for details.