Burlington to Tarrytown Road Trip Guide: Scenic Drive from VT to NY

Did you know that the Champlain Valley, through which you drive south from Burlington, was once a post-glacial sea? This geological heritage explains the fertile soils and rolling hills that greet you on I-89 South. The journey from Burlington, VT to Tarrytown, NY covers approximately 280 miles (450 km) and takes about 5 hours without stops, but the real value lies in the detours.

Start your trip by heading south on I-89, then connect to US-4 West in Vermont. Near Rutland, you'll merge onto US-7 South, before picking up I-87 (the New York State Thruway) south of Albany. The drive through the Green Mountains and the Hudson Valley offers a tapestry of landscapes, from dairy farms to river cliffs.

I-89 and I-87 are well-maintained toll roads. The final segment from Albany to Tarrytown on the Thruway incurs tolls (around $10 via E-ZPass). Gas stations cluster near exits; fill up in Burlington (prices moderate) or just south of Albany (cheaper). Avoid the rest areas on I-87 near the Catskills due to limited services.

Key waypoints and their amenities:

• Exit 2 on I-89 (Burlington area): Full services (gas, food, restrooms)
• Exit 8 on I-89 (Montpelier): Limited, but scenic pull-off
• Exit 4 off I-87 (Catskills): Rest stop with fuel and 24-hour convenience store
• Exit 7 off I-87 (Tarrytown): Nearest exit for destination

Winter driving requires caution: I-89 and I-87 can be icy. Check weather at mount washington (just kidding—but no, they're far). Use rest areas every 2 hours. The Lebanon Rest Area on I-89 has clean bathrooms and vending machines. For families, the Kids' Museum in Burlington (ECHO) is a start, but also the Hyde Park Railroad Museum heading south.

Pet-friendly stops: Many state parks allow dogs on leashes. Quechee State Park has a dog-friendly trail. In the Hudson Valley, the Walkway Over the Hudson is pet-friendly. For dining, the 'Dog House' in Albany is a hot dog joint with outdoor seating.

Hidden off-route spots:

• Glens Falls Feeder Canal Trail (off I-87 exit 18): A historic towpath walk.
• Olana State Historic Site (Hudson, NY): Frederic Church's mansion with sweeping views.

Leave the highway at Exeter, NH (just joking—stay in Vermont). The Green Mountains offer dense forests and occasional wildlife. Stop at Quechee Gorge (Exit 1 on I-89) for a 165-foot-deep ravine and a covered bridge. Further south, the Hudson Valley opens up with river views near Catskill Park.

UNESCO World Heritage Site? While this route doesn't pass one directly, the nearby Upstate New York includes the Statue of Liberty (a ferry ride from Manhattan) and the Monticello area (Thomas Jefferson's home). However, the how to find the best stops and hidden gems between cities might lead you to the Walkway Over the Hudson in Poughkeepsie.

Local commerce: Visit the Ben & Jerry's Factory in Waterbury (just off I-89) for a tour and sample. In the Hudson Valley, apple orchards like Fishkill Farms offer picking in season. Craft breweries dot the route, such as Zero Gravity in Burlington and the Hudson Valley Brewery in Beacon.