Atlantic City travel guide

Atlantic City travel guide

National Airports

Atlantic City has one major airport, the Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), which is located about 10 miles northwest of the city. ACY is a small airport that primarily serves regional destinations in the northeastern United States, but it also offers some seasonal flights to popular vacation spots like Florida and the Caribbean.

In addition to ACY, there are several other national airports in the vicinity of Atlantic City that may be convenient for travelers. These include:

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): Located about 65 miles northwest of Atlantic City, PHL is the largest airport in the region and offers flights to destinations around the world.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Located about 100 miles north of Atlantic City, EWR is another major airport that serves the New York City metropolitan area.

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK): Located about 125 miles north of Atlantic City, JFK is one of the busiest airports in the country and offers flights to destinations around the world.

LaGuardia Airport (LGA): Located about 120 miles north of Atlantic City, LGA is another major airport that serves the New York City metropolitan area.

Travelers can reach Atlantic City from these airports by car, bus, or train. Additionally, some hotels and resorts in Atlantic City offer shuttle services to and from nearby airports.

Trains in Atlantic City

Atlantic City is served by two train stations operated by NJ Transit, which provides train service to and from various locations throughout New Jersey, including Philadelphia, New York City, and other destinations in the region. The two train stations in Atlantic City are:

Atlantic City Rail Terminal: This station is located at 1 Atlantic Avenue and is the primary station serving Atlantic City. It provides service on the Atlantic City Line, which runs between Atlantic City and Philadelphia. The train ride between Atlantic City and Philadelphia takes about 90 minutes, and there are several trains each day in both directions.

Absecon Rail Station: This station is located about 7 miles northwest of Atlantic City, at 101 Station Avenue in Absecon. It provides service on the Atlantic City Line, as well as the NJ Transit Bus Route 554, which connects Absecon to Atlantic City. There are fewer trains that stop at Absecon than at the Atlantic City Rail Terminal, but it may be a convenient option for travelers staying in the Absecon area.

NJ Transit also operates a light rail system, called the Atlantic City Jitney, which provides service within Atlantic City and between Atlantic City and other nearby towns. The Jitney operates 24 hours a day, seven days a week, and is a convenient option for getting around Atlantic City.

Buses in Atlantic City

Atlantic City has several bus options available for travelers:

NJ Transit Bus: NJ Transit operates several bus routes that connect Atlantic City with other destinations in the region, including Philadelphia, New York City, and other parts of New Jersey. The NJ Transit Bus Route 319, for example, runs between Atlantic City and New York City, and the NJ Transit Bus Route 551 runs between Atlantic City and Philadelphia.

Greyhound Bus: Greyhound operates a bus station in Atlantic City, located at 1901 Atlantic Avenue. Greyhound offers service to many destinations throughout the United States, including major cities like New York, Washington, D.C., and Boston.

Megabus: Megabus also operates a bus stop in Atlantic City, located at the Atlantic City Convention Center. Megabus offers service to several destinations throughout the Northeast, including New York City, Philadelphia, and Washington, D.C.

Atlantic City Jitney: As mentioned earlier, the Atlantic City Jitney is a light rail system that provides service within Atlantic City and between Atlantic City and other nearby towns. The Jitney is a convenient and affordable option for getting around Atlantic City.

In addition to these options, many hotels and resorts in Atlantic City offer shuttle services to and from nearby airports and other destinations, such as nearby shopping centers and attractions.

How to get to Atlantic City

There are several ways to get to Atlantic City, depending on where you are coming from:

By car: Atlantic City is easily accessible by car, as it is located at the intersection of several major highways, including the Atlantic City Expressway (Route 30) and the Garden State Parkway. If you are driving from Philadelphia, it takes about an hour to reach Atlantic City, and if you are driving from New York City, it takes about two and a half hours.

By plane: The closest airport to Atlantic City is the Atlantic City International Airport (ACY), which is located about 10 miles northwest of the city. ACY offers flights to several regional destinations in the northeastern United States, as well as some seasonal flights to popular vacation spots. Alternatively, you can fly into Philadelphia International Airport (PHL), which is located about 65 miles northwest of Atlantic City, or Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), which is located about 100 miles north of Atlantic City.

By train: NJ Transit provides train service to Atlantic City from several locations throughout New Jersey, including Philadelphia and New York City. The Atlantic City Rail Terminal is located in the heart of the city, making it a convenient option for travelers.

By bus: As mentioned earlier, several bus companies, including NJ Transit, Greyhound, and Megabus, offer service to Atlantic City from various destinations throughout the region.

Once you arrive in Atlantic City, you can use taxis, ride-sharing services, or public transportation like the Atlantic City Jitney to get around the city.

What is the best time to travel to Atlantic City

The best time to travel to Atlantic City depends on your preferences and what you want to do while you are there. Here are some factors to consider:

Weather: Atlantic City has a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and cool winters. The most popular time to visit Atlantic City is during the summer months, when temperatures are warm and the beaches are open for swimming. However, if you prefer cooler weather, spring and fall can also be good times to visit.

Crowds: Atlantic City can be quite crowded during peak tourist season, which typically runs from Memorial Day (late May) to Labor Day (early September). If you prefer a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, you may want to visit during the off-season, when crowds are smaller and hotel rates may be more affordable.

Events and festivals: Atlantic City hosts several events and festivals throughout the year, including the Atlantic City Airshow in August, the Atlantic City Beer and Music Festival in April, and the Atlantic City Food and Wine Festival in July. If you are interested in attending one of these events, be sure to plan your trip accordingly.

Budget: Hotel rates and other travel expenses can vary depending on the time of year you visit. If you are on a tight budget, consider visiting during the off-season when hotel rates may be lower and there may be more deals and discounts available.

Overall, the best time to travel to Atlantic City is a matter of personal preference, but the summer months are generally the most popular time to visit due to the warm weather and open beaches.

How to get around Atlantic City

There are several ways to get around Atlantic City:

Walking: If you are staying in the area around the Boardwalk, many attractions, restaurants, and shops are within walking distance. Walking is also a great way to take in the sights and sounds of Atlantic City.

Atlantic City Jitney: The Atlantic City Jitney is a light rail system that provides service within Atlantic City and between Atlantic City and other nearby towns. Jitneys are small, bus-like vehicles that run frequently and can be flagged down at designated stops. They are a convenient and affordable option for getting around Atlantic City.

Taxis and ride-sharing services: Taxis and ride-sharing services like Uber and Lyft are readily available in Atlantic City. They can be a convenient option if you need to travel a longer distance or if you are carrying luggage.

Bicycles: Several companies in Atlantic City offer bicycle rentals, which can be a fun and eco-friendly way to explore the city. The Boardwalk is a popular spot for biking, as it offers scenic views of the ocean and easy access to attractions and restaurants.

Public transportation: NJ Transit operates several bus routes that connect Atlantic City with other destinations in the region, including Philadelphia, New York City, and other parts of New Jersey. The Atlantic City Rail Terminal also provides train service to several locations throughout the state.

Overall, there are several options for getting around Atlantic City, so you can choose the one that best suits your needs and preferences.

Accommodations in Atlantic City

Atlantic City offers a wide variety of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences. Here are some options to consider:

Hotels and resorts: Atlantic City is known for its numerous hotels and resorts, many of which are located right on the beach or the Boardwalk. These range from budget-friendly options to luxury resorts with amenities like spas, pools, and fine dining restaurants.

Vacation rentals: If you are traveling with a group or prefer a more home-like atmosphere, vacation rentals may be a good option. These include apartments, condos, and beach houses that can be rented for short-term stays.

Bed and breakfasts: There are several bed and breakfasts located in Atlantic City and the surrounding area, offering a cozy and personalized experience. These can be a good option for couples or solo travelers who prefer a quieter atmosphere.

Hostels: If you are on a tight budget, hostels are a good option for affordable accommodations. There are several hostels located in Atlantic City, offering dorm-style rooms and shared common areas.

Camping: If you enjoy the outdoors, there are several campgrounds located near Atlantic City, offering tent and RV camping options.

Overall, Atlantic City offers a range of accommodations to suit different budgets and preferences, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs.