Hop aboard the Ethan Allen Express! This Amtrak service whisks you away from the hustle and bustle of New York City straight into the serene beauty of Burlington, Vermont—all in just eight hours. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or a first-time adventurer, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your weekend trip to New England.
Ready to discover everything you need to know about the Ethan Allen Express Train from Amtrak? Let’s get into it:
Quick Hits
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Scenic Views: Get ready for an eight-hour journey through the stunning Hudson River Valley and Vermont’s Green Mountains. It’s like watching a nature documentary, but in real life.
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Comfort Onboard: WiFi, power outlets, and a cafe car stocked with local goodies. Business class even throws in complimentary drinks and refundable tickets.
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Travel Tips: Book during off-peak hours to dodge the crowds, check Wanderu for the best fares, and don’t miss exploring Burlington’s Church Street Marketplace and Lake Champlain when you arrive.
A Brief History of the Ethan Allen Express
Named after Ethan Allen, a Revolutionary War hero and one of Vermont’s founding fathers, this train has been a key player in connecting folks from New York City to the picturesque landscapes of Vermont.
The story begins way back when the train was originally running between Rutland and points south. That is, until 1963 when the system was abandoned. But that wasn’t the end of the line. The Vermont Railway picked up the freight service in 1964, and Amtrak stepped in for the passenger side of things in 1971. They brought back the Montrealer in 1972, which ran overnight, giving folks a chance to snooze their way from New York to Montreal.
Throughout the ’80s and early ’90s, there was a lot of back-and-forth about bringing service back to Rutland. Politicians like Curtis McCormack gave it their best shot, but funding was harder to find than a needle in a haystack. Then came Governor Howard Dean of screaming fame, who in 1991 formed the Vermont Rail Council to look into it. The main focus, though, was still on the Montrealer.
But things took a turn in 1994 when Amtrak announced budget cuts that spelled the end of the Montrealer. By 1995, it was scaled back to St. Albans, rebranded as the Vermonter, and shifted to a daytime schedule. Vermont needed a new champion, and in 1996, the Ethan Allen Express was born—backed by a $200,000 annual subsidy from the state. Service officially kicked off on December 2, 1996, starting with a northbound trip from New York City to Rutland.
The train initially made stops at all the big names in Vermont and along the Hudson Valley Railway:
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Rutland
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Fort Edward
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Saratoga Springs
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Schenectady
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Albany–Rensselaer
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Rhinecliff
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Poughkeepsie
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And of course, New York City
Over the years, the schedule has been tweaked more times than a radio dial, mainly to cater to tourists heading to Vermont and locals making their way to the Big Apple.
One notable change came in 1997, when a new station in Fair Haven was added, and Amtrak introduced a second northbound trip from Albany to Rutland. Despite all these efforts, there were a few bumps in the track. In 2009, there was talk of ending the service altogether, but thanks to a strong pushback from the Vermont Rail Action Network and local leaders, the train kept rolling.
By 2011, some concerns about the train’s performance cropped up—on-time arrivals were becoming as rare a sight as a moose on a city street. VTrans looked into it, and despite the issues, the Ethan Allen Express continued to serve Vermonters and visitors alike. Fast forward to 2017, when track work in New York caused a temporary change to the schedule. But the train’s return to Rutland in July 2021 was celebrated with $1 promotional fares for travel within Vermont—a deal you couldn’t pass up!
Ride the Amtrak Ethan Allen Express
You’ll start your journey at the shiny new Moynihan Train Hall in New York City—a serious upgrade from the old Penn Station. It’s about time Amtrak trains arrived in the Big Apple at a station that matches the city’s swagger.
Once you’re settled in, the train takes you on northbound service, cruising along the historic Rutland Railroad route. And here’s the best part of this scenic route: since 2022, the Ethan Allen Express doesn’t stop until it reaches Burlington’s Union Station as a northern terminus. With 73 trips daily, you’ve got plenty of options, whether you’re grabbing the 2 PM northbound train or just looking for a stress-free way to escape the city.
Onboard, you’ll find four comfy coaches, a club car with cozy 2×1 seating, and a cafe where you can munch on snacks or sip a drink while enjoying the views outside. It’s the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure—what more could you ask for?
Scenic Journey Along the Hudson River Valley
The real star of the show? The view. As the Ethan Allen Express winds through the Hudson River Valley, you’re treated to a constantly changing landscape. Think farms, quaint villages, and the majestic Green Mountains. In the spring and summer, wildflowers steal the scene; come fall, it’s all about the vibrant foliage.
Unlike a road trip, there’s no traffic, no construction—just you, your seat, and the picturesque beauty rolling by your window. The Hudson River keeps you company for much of the way, adding a calming presence to the journey.
Onboard Experience
Comfort is key on the Ethan Allen Express. Need to catch up on emails? There’s WiFi. Want to relax with a book? Power outlets at every seat make it easy to keep your devices charged. In business class, you’ll find leather seats with footrests and complimentary non-alcoholic drinks. And if plans change, no worries—business class tickets are fully refundable.
Feeling peckish? Head to the Cafe Car, where you can grab light fare, snacks, and beverages. They’ve even got Vermont microbrews on tap, so you can start your Vermont experience before you even arrive.
Travel Tips for the Ethan Allen Express
So, you’re thinking about hopping on the Ethan Allen Express? Smart choice! Here’s a little tip from me to you: try traveling during off-peak times. Not only will you avoid the crowd, but you might just snag a comfier seat. If your four-legged friend is tagging along, be sure to check out Amtrak’s pet program. They’ve got all the details on reservations, fares, and the right carriers to use. Trust me, following these guidelines will make the journey smoother for both you and your furry co-pilot.
Cancellation Policy
Here’s something you’ll want to know before hitting that “Book” button: the cancellation policy. You can cancel within 24 hours of booking and get a full refund—no questions asked. After that, it depends on your fare type. If you’re rolling with a business class ticket, you’re in luck. Those are fully refundable right up until departure, giving you some breathing room if plans change.
Exploring Burlington, Vermont
Once you arrive in Burlington, the fun really begins. This charming little city has a lot to offer, and you won’t need a shuttle or layover to start enjoying it. Here’s what you can look forward to:
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Downtown Convenience: You’re right in the heart of things—no extra travel needed.
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Cultural Vibes: Burlington’s got a lively cultural scene that’ll keep you entertained.
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Free Parking: Sundays and holidays come with the bonus of free parking. Score!
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Outdoor Fun: The waterfront is your playground—whether you’re into biking, picnicking, or just soaking up the scenery.
Church Street Marketplace
First stop: Church Street. This pedestrian-only street is always buzzing with over 100 shops and restaurants. You’ll find everything from local treasures to your favorite brands. It’s the perfect place to spend an afternoon wandering around, grabbing a bite, and enjoying the local flavor. You might even catch some street performers or artists doing their thing, adding a splash of color and energy to the scene. And hey, keep an eye out for events—they’ve always got something fun going on.
Lake Champlain
Next up, Lake Champlain. If you’re an outdoor enthusiast—or just love a good view—this is your spot. Hop on a scenic cruise aboard the Spirit of Ethan Allen for some jaw-dropping views of the lake and its surroundings. Fishing fan? The lake’s got bass and trout waiting for you. Or, if you’re more into leisurely activities, head to Burlington Waterfront Park. It’s perfect for biking, picnicking, or just chilling out by the water. Whether it’s a sunset cruise or a stroll through the farmers’ market, the lakefront is the place to be.
Intermediate Stops and Attractions
Taking the Ethan Allen Express isn’t just about getting from point A to point B—it’s about the journey and all the little surprises along the way. The train makes some fascinating stops that are worth hopping off for, giving you a taste of the region’s history, charm, and culture.
You’ll pass through places like Saratoga Springs, famous for its mineral springs and historic racetrack, and Middlebury, a college town with a vibrant arts scene. Each stop offers a peek into the area’s rich history, making your trip more of an adventure than just a ride.
Saratoga Springs
Saratoga Springs is one of those places that feels like stepping back in time, with its grand Victorian architecture and 21 public mineral springs that folks have been raving about for centuries. If you have a chance to get off here, don’t miss a stroll through Saratoga Spa State Park. It’s got everything from recreational activities to cultural events, making it a fun and relaxing stop. Whether you’re a horse racing fan, history buff, or just someone who loves beautiful old towns, Saratoga Springs won’t disappoint.
Downtown Middlebury
Next up, Downtown Middlebury. Picture this: a charming town with historic buildings, scenic landscapes, and an arts scene that’ll make you want to explore every gallery and theater. Thanks to Middlebury College, there’s a youthful energy here that mixes well with the town’s natural beauty. It’s one of those places where you can lose track of time just wandering around, soaking in the vibe.
Future Plans for the Ethan Allen Express
The Ethan Allen Express has some exciting upgrades on the horizon, thanks to the 2021 Vermont Rail Plan. Picture this: potential new stops in Brandon and Shelburne, track upgrades, and positive train control (fancy tech that makes the ride smoother and safer). Plus, there’s talk of a 7.8-mile extension from Burlington to Essex Junction, which could bring in an extra 4,900 to 7,800 riders a year by 2040. Not too shabby, right?
But wait, there’s more! Back in 2014, VTrans (that’s Vermont’s transportation folks) and the New York State Department of Transportation kicked around the idea of adding a second daily train or rerouting the Ethan Allen Express to serve southwestern Vermont. The plan? Extend an Empire Service train to Rutland, taking a more southern path than the current route. This new track would use existing freight lines and add stops in Mechanicville, NY; North Bennington, VT; and Manchester, VT. The 2021 plan even suggests this second service could stretch all the way to Burlington.
And here’s the big news: In December 2023, the Federal Railroad Administration gave VTrans the green light to enter this new route into its Corridor Identification and Development Program. What does that mean? Well, it means $500,000 for service planning and a better shot at future federal funding.
So, if you love the Ethan Allen Express now, just wait—things are about to get even better!
Benefits of Traveling by Train
Why take the train? Let me count the ways. First off, it’s easy on the environment. Trains like the Ethan Allen Express produce way fewer emissions per mile than cars or planes, so your carbon footprint stays nice and small.
And let’s be honest—trains are just plain comfortable. No traffic, no road construction, and no weather delays to worry about. Plus, you get modern amenities like spacious seating, USB ports, and WiFi, so you can stretch out, plug in, and relax. And when you arrive, you’re right in the heart of Vermont, no shuttles or layovers required.
Environmental Impact
If you care about the environment—and who doesn’t these days?—train travel is the way to go. The Ethan Allen Express is more energy-efficient than cars and planes, which means fewer emissions and a smaller carbon footprint. Amtrak is committed to reducing greenhouse gases, and every time you choose the train over driving or flying, you’re helping to keep the planet a little cleaner.
Comfort and Convenience
The Ethan Allen Express isn’t just green; it’s also a pretty sweet ride. The seats are spacious, with plenty of legroom and modern touches like USB ports and onboard WiFi. Need a snack? The Cafe Car has you covered with light fare, snacks, and drinks. And the best part? You get dropped off right in the middle of town, so no need for extra transportation to start your Vermont adventure.
Tl;dr
The Ethan Allen Express isn’t just a train ride; it’s a journey packed with scenic views and modern comforts. Imagine gliding through the Hudson River Valley, where every glance out the window is a postcard-worthy moment, and stopping at charming places like Saratoga Springs and Middlebury before reaching the vibrant city of Burlington, Vermont. This trip offers a little bit of everything—nature, history, and culture—making it more than just a way to get from point A to point B.
Looking ahead, Amtrak plans to roll out more eco-friendly trainsets in the next few years, which means this already awesome journey will get even better. If you’re looking to explore the Northeast in comfort and style, the Ethan Allen Express is the ticket.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long does the Ethan Allen Express take to travel from New York City to Burlington, Vermont?
About eight hours of travel time, give or take. The train makes a few stops along the way, so you’ll have time to stretch your legs and maybe snap a few photos. They’re working on speeding it up, too.
What amenities are available onboard the Ethan Allen Express?
You’ll have access to WiFi, power outlets, and a Cafe Car with snacks and drinks. Plus, you can choose between coach and business class seating, depending on how much legroom you want.
Can I bring a pet on the Ethan Allen Express?
Yep! Small pets are welcome as long as you follow the guidelines for reservations, fares, and approved carriers. Your furry friend can enjoy the ride too!
What are some must-see attractions in Burlington, Vermont?
Don’t miss the Church Street Marketplace for some shopping and good eats, Lake Champlain for a scenic cruise or some fishing, and Burlington Waterfront Park for outdoor fun. There’s something for everyone.
What are the future plans for the Ethan Allen Express?
Amtrak’s planning to introduce new, eco-friendly Airo trainsets by the late 2020s and early 2030s. These trains will be more fuel-efficient and environmentally friendly, making your journey even greener.
