Overview
The most popular rail connection between Burlington, Vermont and New York City is provided by Amtraks Vermonter service, which runs between St. Albans, VT and Washington, D.C. The train stops in Burlington (via the nearby station in Essex Junction) and continues southeast to New Yorks Penn Station. Because Burlington does not have its own Amtrak platform, passengers use the Essex Junction (ESJ) station, located about 5 miles from downtown Burlington.
Travel time between Essex Junction and New York Penn Station is roughly 6hours, depending on the specific departure, layovers, and any service adjustments. The route offers scenic views of the Hudson River Valley and the Green Mountains, making it a comfortable alternative to driving.
Current Schedule (as of Spring2024)
Amtrak operates the Vermonter six days a week, with no service on Sundays. The following table lists the typical eastbound (VT NY) and westbound (NY VT) departures. Times are shown in local time for each station.
| Day | Eastbound (Essex Junction New York) | Westbound (New York Essex Junction) |
|---|---|---|
| Monday | Depart 07:13am Arrive 13:45pm | Depart 14:45pm Arrive 21:20pm |
| Tuesday | Depart 07:13am Arrive 13:45pm | Depart 14:45pm Arrive 21:20pm |
| Wednesday | Depart 07:13am Arrive 13:45pm | Depart 14:45pm Arrive 21:20pm |
| Thursday | Depart 07:13am Arrive 13:45pm | Depart 14:45pm Arrive 21:20pm |
| Friday | Depart 07:13am Arrive 13:45pm | Depart 14:45pm Arrive 21:20pm |
| Saturday | Depart 07:13am Arrive 13:45pm | Depart 14:45pm Arrive 21:20pm |
* Times are subject to change due to track maintenance or weather. Always verify the latest schedule on the Amtrak website before travel.
How to Book
- Online: Visit Amtrak.com, enter Essex Junction, VT (ESJ) as your origin and New York, NY Penn Station (NYP) as your destination.
- Mobile App: The Amtrak app lets you view realtime seat availability, purchase tickets, and receive push notifications about delays.
- Phone: Call Amtraks reservation line at 18008727245 for assistance, especially if you need wheelchair assistance or have special travel requirements.
- Ticket Types: Choose from Saver (nonrefundable, lowest price), Value (moderate flexibility), or Flexible (full refund up to 24hours before departure). Consider purchasing a rail pass if you plan multiple trips in the Northeast.
Travel Tips for BurlingtonNY Trips
- Arrive Early: The Essex Junction station has limited parking and a small waiting area. Arriving 3045minutes before departure ensures you have time to locate the platform.
- Baggage: Amtrak allows two free personal items plus two checked bags (up to 50lb each). Larger items require a reservation.
- Food & Drink: The Vermonter has a caf car offering coffee, sandwiches, and snacks. Bring a refillable water bottle to stay hydrated.
- WiFi: Free WiFi is available on most of the route, though speeds may vary in mountainous sections.
- Connecting Services: In New York, Penn Station provides easy access to the subway, LIRR, and buses. In Burlington, a short taxi or rideshare can bring you into downtown.
- Seasonal Considerations: Winter weather can cause delays on the Vermont segment. Check the track status page the night before travel.
