Getting to Vermont for Thanksgiving: Trains, Ferries and Parking

Plan your arrival for the holiday week by choosing between Amtrak trains, seasonal ferries, or driving, and securing parking near your destination.

Arriving by Train and Bus

Amtrak’s Adirondack Line is the primary rail connection into Vermont, stopping in Rutland and Burlington. From New York Penn Station, the journey to Rutland takes roughly seven hours, while the trip to Burlington extends to about eight hours. Trains run daily, but schedules tighten during the holiday peak. If you are based in Boston, the Vermonter train offers a direct route to Burlington, taking approximately six and a half hours. This option avoids the need to transfer at intermediate hubs, making it efficient for travelers starting in the Northeast corridor.

For those without a car, Greyhound and FlixBus operate routes into Burlington and Rutland, though connections are less frequent than rail. Buses typically depart from major terminals in New York or Boston, with travel times ranging from eight to ten hours depending on stops. When booking a hotel in Rutland or Burlington, note that most properties do not offer airport shuttle services. Instead, arrange a local taxi or rideshare from the station or bus depot. This final leg usually costs between fifteen and thirty dollars, depending on traffic and time of day, ensuring a smooth transition from transit to lodging.

Ferries and Seasonal Water Routes

While Vermont is landlocked, travelers often associate water travel with nearby New England destinations. There are no direct commercial ferries to Vermont towns. However, if your itinerary includes a stop in Maine or New Hampshire before heading inland, seasonal ferries like those operating between Bar Harbor and Mount Desert Island can be part of the approach. These services typically run from May through October, closing before the Thanksgiving holiday. Therefore, for a Thanksgiving trip, ferries are not a viable option for entering Vermont directly. Focus instead on overland routes that remain open year-round, avoiding the need for seasonal maritime connections that have ceased operation by late November.

If you are considering a multi-state itinerary that includes coastal New England, plan your transit legs carefully. Ferries to islands like Martha’s Vineyard or Nantucket also close for the winter season, usually by late November. Attempting to combine a ferry crossing with a Vermont stay during Thanksgiving will result in missed connections and stranded luggage. Stick to rail and road networks for reliability. If your travel plans involve water transit, schedule it for spring or summer, and use winter trips exclusively for rail and driving, which maintain consistent schedules regardless of the holiday calendar.

Driving, Parking and Timing

Driving is the most flexible option for reaching Vermont, with major highways like I-93 and I-89 providing direct access. From Boston, the drive to Burlington takes about four and a half hours, while Rutland is roughly six hours away. Traffic on Thanksgiving Day itself is heavy, so aim to arrive the day before or depart early on the morning of the holiday. Parking in downtown Burlington and Rutland is available in municipal lots, typically costing between five and ten dollars per day. These lots are located near Main Street and the train stations, offering convenient access to hotels and restaurants without the hassle of street parking restrictions.

For those staying in Essex Junction or South Burlington, parking is more abundant but often free in hotel lots. However, street parking in dense urban areas like downtown Burlington can be limited after 6 PM, with signs indicating restrictions. Always check your hotel’s specific parking policies before arrival, as some properties charge nightly fees ranging from ten to twenty dollars. If you plan to visit nearby attractions like the Ben & Jerry’s factory or the University of Vermont, note that campus parking requires permits. Plan your daily movements accordingly to avoid fines or towed vehicles, ensuring a stress-free holiday experience focused on dining and relaxation rather than logistical headaches.

Questions, answered

Is it safe to drive to Vermont in late November?

Yes, roads are generally clear, but weather can change quickly. Check forecasts for snow or ice, especially in northern areas like Rutland. Use winter tires if possible, and allow extra travel time for potential delays due to weather conditions.

Can I take my car on the Amtrak train?

No, Amtrak does not offer car rail service on the Adirondack or Vermonter lines. You must drive to the destination or use public transit. If you need a car at the destination, consider renting one at the station or using rideshare services.

Are there ferries to Vermont towns in November?

No, Vermont has no commercial ferry services. Seasonal ferries in neighboring states typically close by late November. For Thanksgiving travel, rely on trains, buses, or driving, which operate year-round without seasonal interruptions.

← Vermont's page