Hop aboard the Independence Day Flyer in Vermont for a scenic train trip from Vergennes to Burlington, culminating in a stunning fireworks show at Waterfront Park. Enjoy a hassle-free holiday adventure on rails!
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Difficulty
easy
Duration
75 minutes
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels as the experience is seated aboard a train with minimal physical effort.
Wildlife
History
Green Mountain Railroad has been a staple of Vermont’s transportation heritage, providing scenic and cultural connections for locals and visitors alike since the 19th century.
Conservation
Efforts are made by Green Mountain Railroad to limit environmental impact through sustainable practices, including promoting train travel as a low-carbon alternative to driving.
Green Mountain Railroad
Hop aboard the Independence Day Flyer in Vermont for a scenic train trip from Vergennes to Burlington, culminating in a stunning fireworks show at Waterfront Park. Enjoy a hassle-free holiday adventure on rails!
Green Mountain Railroad operates scenic rail excursions between Burlington and Vergennes, Vermont, specializing in themed dining trains and seasonal event rides. The railroad offers a collection of curated experiences, including Cocktails on the Rails — a 2.5-hour speakeasy-style journey with leather barrel seats and an onboard bar — and the Independence Day Flyer, a 75-minute round trip timed to deliver prime views of the Waterfront Park fireworks without parking hassles.
The Champlain Valley Dinner Train appears in two formats: a classic two-and-a-half-hour gourmet dinner ride featuring a three-course meal and Vermont scenery, plus a murder mystery variant that combines the three-course meal with interactive comedy from Kevin O’Brien’s Upstage Productions. Each trip pairs scenic lakeside views with professionally prepared dining and themed entertainment. Tickets are sold per trip and seating is assigned according to the departure schedule. Green Mountain Railroad’s offerings appeal to couples, families, and groups seeking an elevated, hands-off celebration or a memorable night out on the rails.
Route
Burlington → Vergennes
Scenic lakeside corridor
Trip Lengths
75–150 min
From 75 minutes to 2.5 hours
Live Shows
Murder Mystery
Interactive comedy onboard
Dining
Three-course meals
Gourmet onboard dining
Reserve seats for Cocktails on the Rails, Independence Day Flyer, Champlain Valley Dinner Train, or the Murder Mystery Dinner Train — limited space on each departure.
Book Early for the Best Seats
Reserve your tickets in advance to ensure window seats with the best views of the fireworks.
Arrive Early in Vergennes
Plan to arrive early at the departure station to avoid last-minute rush and find convenient parking.
Dress for Variable Weather
Even summer evenings in Vermont can get cool near the waterfront, so bring a light jacket.
Bring Snacks and Water
Though the train might have limited refreshments, packing your own keeps you energized during the ride.
Light Jacket
To stay warm during cool summer evenings near the waterfront.
summer
Binoculars
Great for spotting distant fireworks and enjoying scenic views from the train.
Camera or Smartphone
Capture memorable moments of the route and fireworks display.
Reusable Water Bottle
Stay hydrated during the journey and celebrations.
summer