The Ethan Allen Express is a daily passenger train operated by Amtrak in the United States, running from New York City to Burlington, Vermont, via Albany. One daily round trip is performed over a 310-mile (500-kilometer) north-south route, with a planned operating duration of 7 hours and 35 minutes. New York and Vermont fund the train’s route north of Albany. It is named after Vermont founders and American Revolutionary War hero Ethan Allen.
Ethan Allen Express service commenced on December 2, 1996, as an extension of the Empire Service train. It was the first passenger service to Rutland since 1953, and the first to utilize the Rutland-Whitehall line since 1934. The train’s timetable has been changed many times, notably in the early years of operation, in an effort to suit both Vermont visitors and Vermont residents commuting to New York City. From February 1998 until April 2002, a second northbound journey was run, sometimes as a shuttle service from Albany.
An infill station in Fair Haven, Vermont, was constructed in November 1997 and was replaced by a stop in adjacent Castleton in January 2010. Service north of Albany was discontinued from March 2020 to July 2021 owing of the COVID-19 epidemic. An extension to Burlington, Vermont, including additional stations in Middlebury and Vergennes, will begin operation on July 29, 2022. Additional planned extensions include a second daily train passing through North Bennington, Vermont; an extension to Essex Junction, Vermont, to link with the Vermonter; and more infill stops and faster speeds throughout Vermont.
Schedule Highlights
- Every day, one train travels in each way.
- The travel time between New York City and Rutland is around 5.5 hours.
- The travel time between New York City and Albany is around 2.5 hours.
Visit Amtrak.com to get the most recent schedules and timetables.
Stops & Stations
Popular Stops
- Burlington
- Rutland
- Saratoga Springs
- Schenectady
- Albany-Rensselaer
- Hudson
- Poughkeepsie
- Yonkers
- New York City
List all stations served by the Ethan Allen Express, categorized by state (Vermont & New York).
The Ethan Allen Express travels between Vermont and New York, stopping at various stations along the way. Here is a breakdown by state:
Vermont
- Burlington, VT – Union Station (BTN)
- Ferrisburgh-Vergennes, VT (VRN)
- Middlebury, VT – Amtrak Station (MBY)
- Rutland, VT – James M. Jeffords Station (RUD)
- Castleton, VT (CNV)
New York
- Fort Edward, NY (FED)
- Saratoga Springs, NY (SAR)
- Schenectady, NY (SDY)
- Albany-Rensselaer, NY (ALB)
- Hudson, NY (HUD)
- Rhinecliff, NY (RHI)
- Poughkeepsie, NY (POU)
- Croton-Harmon, NY (CRT)
- Yonkers, NY (YNY)
- New York, NY – Moynihan Train Hall (NYP)
Trip Planning
Ticketing (online, phone, station):
There are several convenient ways to purchase tickets for the Ethan Allen Express:
- Online: Visit the official Amtrak website to browse schedules, fares, and book your tickets securely.
- Phone: Call Amtrak customer service at 1 (800) 872-7245 to speak with a representative and purchase tickets over the phone.
- Station: Tickets can also be purchased in person at the station ticket office before your departure. Be sure to arrive early during peak travel times to avoid wait times.
Baggage Allowance and Fees:
Amtrak offers a generous baggage allowance for Ethan Allen Express riders. Each passenger is allowed two checked bags (up to 50 lbs each) free of charge. There are also fees for additional checked bags and oversized items, so be sure to review Amtrak’s baggage policy https://www.amtrak.com/baggage-policy for complete details.
Parking Information at Stations (if applicable):
Parking options and fees vary by station. Here are some resources to help you find parking information for specific stations:
- Amtrak Station Information: Most Amtrak stations have dedicated webpages on the Amtrak website that list parking options, fees, and nearby public parking garages: Simply search for the station name on the Amtrak website.
- Third-Party Parking Apps: Apps like SpotHero and ParkWhiz can help you find and pre-book parking near train stations, possibly offering discounted rates.
Note: Not all stations along the Ethan Allen Express route may have dedicated parking facilities. It’s always a good idea to check information about your specific location and destination stations before your trip.
Onboard Experience
Athan Allen Express offers a comfortable and relaxing journey, catering to a variety of travel styles. Here’s a breakdown of what you can expect on board:
Seating Options:
- Coach Class: The cheapest option, offers spacious teak seats with plenty of legroom. Each seat is equipped with a tray table, cup holders, and individual power outlets to keep your devices charged.
- Business Class: Upgrade your experience with wider, more comfortable seats with adjustable headrests and leg rests. Business Class passengers also enjoy complimentary non-alcoholic beverages and access to a dedicated Business Class restroom.
Food and Drinks:
- Cafe Car: No need to pack a picnic! The Ethan Allen Express features a cafe car serving a variety of light fare options throughout the trip. Expect to find breakfast sandwiches, salads, snacks, and beverages (including alcoholic drinks) available for purchase.
- Snack Bar: Located near some coach seating areas, snack bars offer a selection of pre-packaged snacks and drinks for a quick pick-me-up.
- Personal Food and Drinks: Feel free to bring your own food and non-alcoholic drinks onboard to enjoy at your seat.
Restrooms and Accessibility:
Toilets are conveniently located throughout the train, with dedicated accessible toilets available for the disabled. Amtrak is committed to providing a comfortable and accessible travel experience for all. If you have special accessibility needs, be sure to contact Amtrak in advance to inquire about their services.
Wi-Fi and Entertainment Options:
- Wi-Fi: Stay connected throughout your trip with Wi-Fi access available onboard (fees may apply). Check with Amtrak for current pricing and data plans.
- Entertainment: Bring your own entertainment options, such as books, magazines, downloaded movies, or tablets loaded with games. Although the Athan Allen Express does not offer a personal entertainment system, the scenic views and on-board cafes can provide plenty of entertainment.
The Ride Itself
The Ethan Allen Express promises a scenic and relaxing journey between Vermont and New York. Here’s what to expect during your ride:
Expected Travel Duration:
The total travel duration on the Ethan Allen Express can vary slightly depending on the specific schedule and any unforeseen delays. However, you can expect the trip to take approximately:
- Northbound (New York City to Burlington): 7 hours and 45 minutes
- Southbound (Burlington to New York City): 8 hours and 15 minutes
Scenic Highlights Along the Route:
As the train winds its way through the Northeast, prepare to be captivated by breathtaking landscapes. Here are some of the scenic highlights you won’t want to miss:
- Lake Champlain: The sixth-largest freshwater lake in the United States, Lake Champlain offers stunning views, particularly as the train travels along its eastern shore in Vermont. Keep an eye out for sailboats and charming lakeside towns.
- Hudson River Valley: A designated National Heritage Area, the Hudson River Valley features rolling hills, farmland, and historic landmarks. Marvel at the beauty of this famous area as the train travels along the river.
- Green Mountains: Vermont’s Green Mountains provide a stunning backdrop for most hikes. Witness lush forests and picturesque mountain ranges as you travel through the heart of Vermont.
- Charming Towns and Villages: The Ethan Allen Express passes through many charming towns and villages along the way. As you pass through these communities, you will see historic architecture, wonderful shops, and glimpses of the wonderful Vermont life.
Attractions:
- Rutland Historic District
- Wonderfeet Kid’s Museum
- Killington Ski Area
- Delaware and Hudson Rail Trail
- Jane McCrae House
- Fort Edward Yacht Basin
- Proctors Theater
- Riverwalk Park
- Crailo State Historic Site
- Hudson River
- Henry Hudson Riverfront Park
- The Rhinecliff
- Mid-Hudson Children’s Museum
- Waryas Park Promenade
- Upper Landing Park
- Hudson River Recreation
- Urban Studio Unbound
- Madison Square Garden
- Empire State Building
- Manhattan
Tips for Riders
Essential Packing Tips for Your Train Adventure:
- Dress for Comfort and Versatility: Opt for cozy attire that’ll keep you relaxed during long hours of travel. Layering is key, as train temperatures can fluctuate.
- Snuggle Up: Don’t forget a travel pillow and a lightweight blanket to make those napping moments even more blissful.
- Hydration is a Must: A refillable water bottle is your best friend on the journey, ensuring you’re well-hydrated from start to finish.
- Munchies and Fun: Sure, there’s food for purchase, but extra snacks and your favorite pastimes (think novels, crosswords, or your pre-loaded movie playlist) will make time fly.
- Stay Powered Up: A dead phone is a no-go, so pack those chargers and a power bank for an energy boost when needed.
- Clean Hands, Happy Travels: Keep wet wipes and hand sanitizer close by for a quick refresh, especially before you dive into your snack stash.
- Get Lost in Stories: Whether it’s a paperback or an e-reader, losing yourself in a story is a perfect way to enjoy the passing scenery.
- Private Listening Party: Your headphones are the ticket to your personal concert or podcast marathon—just keep the volume down to stay considerate.
Making the Most of a Long Train Ride:
- Window Wonders: Let the outside world entertain you with its ever-changing views.
- Literary Escape: Dive into the pages of a gripping tale or the latest magazine issue.
- Soundtrack Your Journey: Curate a playlist or queue up some thought-provoking podcasts to enrich your travel experience.
- Productivity on Rails: If you’ve got Wi-Fi, why not knock out a few work emails? Just remember to enjoy the downtime too.
- Game On: Compact games or apps can be lifesavers when you’re feeling antsy.
- Conversations on the Go: Engage with your fellow adventurers—exchange stories, share laughs, but keep the volume in check.
Before You Board:
- Early Bird Gets the Seat: Aim to arrive at least half an hour before departure to breeze through check-in and security.
- Find Your Way: Use station signs or ask the friendly staff to guide you to your platform.
- Ticket Time: Keep your ticket handy for a smooth boarding process.
- Baggage Basics: Stow your carry-on in the overhead space or luggage racks, and leave the heavy lifting to the baggage car.
Etiquette for Train Travel:
- Keep it Down: Your inside voice is golden here—save the shouty calls for another time.
- Phone Etiquette: Quick, quiet calls are fine, but texting is even better.
- Space Matters: Your seatmate will thank you for not encroaching on their area or reclining too far.
- Clean as You Go: Tidy up after yourself, and the train stays pleasant for everyone.
- Snack Smart: Enjoy your treats, but keep the crumbs at bay with a napkin.
By following these simple tips, you can ensure a comfortable, enjoyable, and respectful train journey on the Ethan Allen Express.
FAQS
Yes, Amtrak Athan Allen Express trains have Wi-Fi.
While most Amtrak Athan Allen Express trips will have Wi-Fi, it is possible that some trains may not. Additionally, Wi-Fi connections can be unreliable in rural areas. To be safe, it’s a good idea to bring a book or download a movie.
The Amtrak Ethan Allen Express Wi-Fi is perfect for browsing the web, checking emails, and chatting with friends. Don’t expect to stream high-definition videos or movies.
Yes, most Amtrak Athan Allen Express trains have power outlets in each row of seats. You can charge your devices like computers, phones and tablets using these outlets. However, because Amtrak may sometimes use different train cars, power outlets are not guaranteed on all trips. If your trip is longer than two hours, it’s a good idea to bring a portable battery (power bank) to charge your devices.
The Amtrak Athan Allen Express typically has 61 trips per day. But exact departure and arrival times may vary depending on the day and route. To find the exact schedule for your trip, you can use the search tool on this website.
No, you cannot buy tickets at the station for the Amtrak Ethan Allen Express. You have to buy them online before going to the station. Make sure you have everything you need to board the train before you get there.
Yes, you must show your ID to an Amtrak employee before boarding the Ethan Allen Express. Make sure your ID is government-issued and meets Amtrak’s requirements. Student identification will not suffice.
Yes, Amtrak Athan Allen Express trains have bathrooms. They are handy with toiletries, toilet paper, and hand sanitizer. Most do not have running water. Be careful when using the bathroom on a moving train, and hold on to something for support.
Yes, you can purchase meals and beverages onboard. Be sure to bring a credit card or cash to pay for your food.
No, you don’t. When you book your ticket online, you will receive an electronic ticket (e-ticket) by email. You can show this e-ticket to the conductor on your phone when you board the train.
Amtrak Athan Allen Express goes the extra mile to provide its passengers with superior amenities. One of these features is extra legroom seating. If you find yourself cramped in standard seats, you’ll appreciate the extra space on this train. The amount of extra legroom can vary between train lines, but more is always a plus.
Additional Resources
- Official Amtrak Page: Start with the official Amtrak Ethan Allen Express page for schedules, ticket information, and service details.
- Travel Blogs: Gain insights from fellow travelers’ experiences on the Ethan Allen Express. Check out the Rail Passengers Association blog for a personal account of the journey, or browse through Grounded Life Travel for a comprehensive route guide.
- Informative Articles: Read up on what to expect during the 7-hour train ride with articles from sources like Matador Network and Passenger Train Journal.
- The Points Guy: “Taking the Train from New York City to Vermont: A Review” (https://thepointsguy.com/news/push-for-passenger-rail/) offers a general overview of the experience.
- Yankee Magazine: “A Train Trip Through Vermont’s History” (https://www.nytransitmuseum.org/program/yankees/) provides a historical perspective on the region the Ethan Allen Express travels through.
- Travel + Leisure: “The Most Scenic Train Trips in the United States” (https://www.travelandleisure.com/trip-ideas/bus-train/worlds-most-scenic-train-rides) includes a section on the beauty of the Hudson River Valley, a highlight of the Ethan Allen Express route.
These resources can provide additional inspiration and information for planning your trip on the Ethan Allen Express.