Calling All Leaf Peepers! How to Get From Boston to the Majesty of Burlington, Vermont (Without Getting Lost...Hopefully)
So, you've been bitten by the Burlington bug. You're craving the charm of a city nestled amidst the beauty of Vermont's Green Mountains. Maybe you're dreaming of sipping cider at a cozy brewery, or picturing yourself kayaking on Lake Champlain with mountains mirrored in its glassy surface. Well, fret no more, fellow adventurer, because this guide will be your chariot (or bus, train, or car...details later) to Burlington bliss!
Choosing Your Chariot: A Tale of Four Options
1. The Speedy Steed: Car
- Pros: Freedom of the open road, sing along to bad 80s music at the top of your lungs, make spontaneous cider donut pitstops.
- Cons: Traffic can be a beast, especially on weekends. Do you really want to deal with parking in a new city?
2. The Iron Horse: Train
- Pros: Scenic views, relax and enjoy the ride, catch up on reading or that novel you've been meaning to finish.
- Cons: Train schedules can be less flexible than other options. The journey is longer than driving.
3. The Greyhound Gamble: Bus
- Pros: Affordable option, perfect for catching some shut-eye or people-watching.
- Cons: Can be slower than a car, potential for unexpected delays. Bring your own entertainment!
4. The Soaring Savior: Airplane (Maybe)
- Pros: Fastest option, especially if you find a good deal.
- Cons: Can be expensive, especially last-minute. Factor in travel time to and from airports on both ends. Not the most scenic option (unless you love clouds).
The Bold Choice: Rent a motorcycle and pretend you're in a Harley Davidson commercial. Not recommended for the faint of heart...or those who dislike bugs in their teeth.
Need for Speed? Hitting the Road by Car
Taking the car? I-93 North is your friend. The drive is a breeze (well, mostly) at around 3 hours and 15 minutes. Just keep your eyes peeled for stunning mountain views and quirky roadside attractions (world's largest ball of twine, anyone?).
Pro Tip: Pack some snacks and drinks to avoid overpriced gas station fare. Trust me, those mini-donuts won't satisfy your hangry soul.
Let's Take a Train (If You've Got the Time)
The Amtrak Vermonter train route offers a scenic journey through New Hampshire and Vermont. It's a great option if you want to relax and soak up the sights. Just be prepared for a longer travel time (around 11 hours).
Entertainment Essential: Pack a good book, download some podcasts, or strike up a conversation with a fellow traveler. You never know who you might meet!
Bus It Like a Boss: The Economical Option
FlixBus and Greyhound offer bus service from Boston to Burlington. This is a budget-friendly option, but be prepared for a slightly longer travel time (around 5 hours).
Championing the Carry-On: Pack light, because legroom on buses can be precious. Bring a good book or download some movies to keep yourself entertained.
Bus Stop Bonanza: Double-check your departure and arrival locations beforehand. Boston's South Station is a major hub, while Burlington has a central Downtown Transit Center.
So You've Reached Burlington! Now What?
Congratulations! You've made it to the land of maple syrup and majestic mountains. Now get out there and explore! Hike the trails of Mount Philo State Park, stroll along the Burlington Waterfront, or sample local brews at one of the many craft breweries.
Foodie Find: Don't miss out on Vermont's famous cheddar cheese! Sample some at the Cabot Cheese Visitors Center in nearby Waterbury.
FAQ
How to find the cheapest way to get from Boston to Burlington?
- Check prices for buses and trains in advance. Look for deals and discounts!
How to avoid traffic on the way to Burlington?
- Consider leaving early in the morning or late at night to avoid peak travel times.
How to pack for a trip to Burlington?
- Pack for all kinds of weather, as Vermont's climate can be unpredictable.
How to get around Burlington once I arrive?
- Burlington is a walkable city, but you can also rent a bike
