Amtrak is extending its famed Ethan Allen Express route to Burlington, Vermont. This service extension will allow residents of Vermont’s largest city to travel directly by train to New York City.
Here’s what you need to know!
History of the Ethan Allen Express
Currently, the Ethan Allen Express only goes as far north as Rutland, Vermont, which is approximately 70 miles south of Burlington.
Because Rutland isn’t a major city, it’s difficult for customers in Burlington to travel on Amtrak, as even its Vermonter route doesn’t serve Burlington directly.
Several years ago, Amtrak worked to restore and refurbish the tracks between Rutland and Burlington to allow the Ethan Allen Express to be extended north. This will finally become a reality on July 29 of this year.
Route Timing
Enjoy gorgeous views of Vermont’s countryside on the Ethan Allen Express. Image Credit: AmtrakThe new route was planned to maximize time in New York City during the morning. If you’re in the Big Apple on business, you’ll still be able to have a work breakfast or even an early lunch before catching the train home:
Going the other way, you’ll arrive in New York City in the early evening, allowing you to check into your hotel and have dinner.
- Depart Burlington: 10:10 a.m.
- Arrive New York City: 5:45 p.m.
Also as a result of the route extension, trains will stop at additional stations — Vergennes and Middlebury — providing additional options for Vermonters.
Once the new route goes into service, it’ll stop at the following stations:
- New York, NY
- Yonkers, NY
- Croton-Harmon, NY
- Poughkeepsie, NY
- Rhinecliff, NY
- Hudson, NY
- Albany-Rensselaer, NY
- Schenectady, NY
- Saratoga Springs, NY
- Fort Edward-Glens Falls, NY
- Castleton, VT
- Rutland, VT
- Vergennes, VT
- Middlebury, VT
- Burlington, VT
Hot Tip: Read about how to earn elite status in Amtrak’s Guest Rewards program — and whether it’s worth it or not.
Onboard Amenities
You can expect the following amenities on your journey between New York and Burlington:
- Business Class: Extra legroom and complimentary non-alcoholic beverages in the Cafe Car.
- Cafe Car: Offers to-go style food like sandwiches, pizza, chips, cookies, and both alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages.
- Wi-Fi: Complimentary for all passengers.
Fare Sale
While tickets currently aren’t on sale, it’s expected that Amtrak will offer 50% off tickets when the train launches within the next several weeks.
Final Thoughts
For Vermonters who have business in New York City — or who simply want to visit — the extension of the Ethan Allen Express will prove to be very valuable.
You’ll be able to travel between the 2 cities in about 8 hours without having to worry about traffic or the expensive airfare we’re seeing across the board.
Featured Image Credit:
James Larounis
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