All Aboard for Burlington’s July 4th Fireworks: Take the Train from Vergennes
This round-trip journey combines the charm of rail travel with the excitement of one of Vermont’s biggest summer events, making it an ideal way to kick off the holiday.
For Vermonters looking to celebrate Independence Day without the stress of navigating Burlington’s crowded streets, the Independence Day Flyer offers a unique solution: a scenic, hassle-free train ride from Vergennes to Waterfront Park for the city’s annual July 3rd fireworks display.
This round-trip journey combines the charm of rail travel with the excitement of one of Vermont’s biggest summer events, making it an ideal way to kick off the holiday.
The train departs from the Ferrisburgh/Vergennes Amtrak Station at 49 Park Ln, Ferrisburgh, on Wednesday, July 3, 2025. Boarding begins at 5:30 p.m., with the train leaving promptly at 6:00 p.m. and arriving in Burlington by 7:15 p.m.
After the fireworks, boarding for the return trip starts at 10:00 p.m., departing Burlington at 10:30 p.m. and arriving back in Vergennes around 11:15 p.m.. The ride itself takes about 1 hour and 15 minutes each way, with a 3-hour layover in Burlington to enjoy the festivities.
Tickets are priced to suit a range of preferences. A standard dining car seat costs $25 for all ages, offering a traditional rail experience with tables seating four. For a touch of luxury, lounge tickets with leather barrel seats are available for $35. Children ages 2 and under ride free on an adult’s lap.
Seating is automatically assigned to keep groups together, ensuring a smooth experience. Tickets include the round-trip journey, but passengers should note that items cannot be left on board during the layover, as all riders will disembark upon arrival in Burlington.
The appeal of this trip lies in its simplicity. With no stops between Vergennes and Burlington, riders can relax and enjoy the rolling Green Mountain scenery without worrying about traffic or parking—two notorious headaches during Burlington’s Independence Day celebration.
Once in the city, Waterfront Park offers prime viewing for the fireworks, which light up the sky over Lake Champlain. The layover provides ample time to explore the park, grab a bite from nearby vendors, or soak in the festive atmosphere before the show begins.
This is a family-friendly outing, open to all ages, and the train’s holiday vibe adds a special touch to the experience. Just be sure to book early, as seats are likely to fill up for this one-night-only event.
To reserve your spot, visit the booking site for the Independence Day Flyer. It’s a chance to celebrate the Fourth a day early, Vermont-style—relaxed, scenic, and with a front-row seat to the fireworks.
Details: July 3, 2025, round-trip from Vergennes to Burlington.
Dining car tickets: $25;
lounge tickets: $35;
children 2 and under free.