Imagine you’ve just stepped off the train or arrived at the Atlantic City airport. You’re surrounded by the buzz of casinos, the sea breeze from the boardwalk, and a full itinerary of entertainment. But one question remains in your mind: How are you getting from point A to point B without wasting time or money?

If you’re planning a weekend getaway, have an upcoming business event, or are heading to New York City, knowing your transportation options in Atlantic City can make all the difference. We’re here to help you with the breakdown of the most practical, budget-friendly, and stress-free ways to move around the city and beyond.

Why Transportation in Atlantic City Deserves?

Atlantic City isn’t a massive metro area, but it’s full of surprises. It has a casino-lined boulevard, beachside neighborhoods, and various means of transportation to get around. You simply need to select the most suitable mode of travel for your plans. Many visitors rely on shuttles, taxis, jitneys, or buses; it pays to know what is reliable and what is not.

Let’s explore your options, including the legendary Atlantic City Jitney services routes, direct travel from Atlantic City to New York City, and the best ways to get around Atlantic City.

 The Atlantic City Jitney: Small Vans with Big Coverage

If you’re looking for a local flavor and a cost-effective ride, jitneys are your go-to option.

These mini-buses have been rolling through Atlantic City since the 1910s, and today they’re still one of the most efficient ways to get around the city. Each jitney holds approximately 13 passengers and runs frequently, often every 5 minutes, along key routes.

 Atlantic City Jitney Service Routes

We have done a breakdown of the main jitney lines for you: 

  • Route 1: Connects the Atlantic City Rail Terminal and all major casinos.
  • Route 2: Runs along Pacific Avenue, hitting key hotels, retail shops, and beach access points.
  • Route 3 & 4: Provide service into residential neighborhoods and some surrounding areas.
  • Special Airport Shuttle: Serves Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) for arrivals and departures.

Why do you think jitneys are so popular?

They’re affordable at around $2.50, frequent, and surprisingly fast for a shared ride. Plus, drivers often know the city like the back of their hand. 

 Walking and Biking the Boardwalk For Short Distances

Boardwalks of Atlantic City aren’t just for sightseeing. It’s one of the most walkable stretches in the state. Take in the ocean breeze from Steel Pier to Tropicana by walking. This walk will become more memorable if you’re just bouncing between casinos, restaurants, or beach access points. In the warmer months, you’ll also find bike rentals and Boardwalk rolling chairs, a historic and charming way to be chauffeured on foot.

  • Best for: Short hops, sightseeing, and staying active.
  • Not ideal for: Bad weather or trips beyond the Boardwalk corridor.

 Taxi & Ride-Sharing in Atlantic City: Quick and Private

Sometimes you just want door-to-door service. Taxis and rideshare apps, such as Uber and Lyft, are widely available throughout the city, particularly near casinos, convention centers, and the airport.

  • Expect to pay a bit more than jitneys, but you’ll get added convenience and privacy.
  • Pro tip: If you’re heading out late at night or to less crowded areas, ridesharing can be more reliable than waiting for a jitney or bus.

Make a Big Jump with Atlantic City to NYC Transportation

Need to get to New York City from Atlantic City? It’s not exactly a short trip (around 125 miles), but there are a few reliable ways to make it work, depending on your budget and timeframe.

By Bus

Several coach services like Greyhound, OurBus, and Academy Bus offer direct, scheduled rides from Atlantic City to Port Authority Bus Terminal in Midtown Manhattan. These buses are equipped with Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reclining seats, making the journey fairly comfortable.

  • Travel time: About 2.5 to 3.5 hours depending on traffic.
  • Departure points: Some buses leave from Atlantic City Bus Terminal, while others pick up directly from major casinos like Tropicana, Resorts, and Caesars.
  • Why choose it: It’s affordable, reliable, and you don’t have to worry about navigating or parking in NYC.

 Private Long-Distance Taxi or Shuttle

If you’re traveling with luggage, kids, or simply want to avoid crowds, a long-distance taxi or private shuttle service offers direct transportation from your Atlantic City hotel or residence to anywhere in New York City. Yes, it’s pricier, but the peace of mind, privacy, and flexibility often justify the cost, especially for group travel or business trips.

  • Estimated time: 2 to 2.5 hours, depending on traffic.
  • Bonus: You get door-to-door service, no terminals, no transfers.
  • Tip: Book in advance, especially on weekends or holidays.

Train + Transit Combo

Prefer to ride the rails? There’s a less direct but doable route using NJ Transit. First, take the Atlantic City Line west to Philadelphia’s 30th Street Station. From there, transfer to an Amtrak train or the Northeast Corridor Line to get to New York Penn Station.

  • Travel time: Approximately 3.5 to 4 hours, but this may vary depending on connection times.
  • Best for: Those who enjoy train travel or need to stop in Philly along the way.

 Airport Transfers for NYC Flights

If you’re heading to JFK, LaGuardia, or Newark Liberty for a flight, several car services specialize in airport transfers from Atlantic City. You can also coordinate shuttles with layover-friendly pickup times.

  • Why it’s useful: It saves you the headache of coordinating multiple transport legs, especially when dealing with luggage or tight flight schedules.

Tips for Getting Around Smoothly

  • Carry cash – If you’re planning to travel by jitney, make sure to carry some money. Most of them don’t accept cards or mobile payments.
  • Plan ahead – Plan your travel, as Atlantic City remains busiest on weekends, and catching a bus or train can be a hassle.
  •  Download transit apps – Download the Transit app for hassle-free transportation. You can also download Rome2Rio to check real-time schedules.
  • Book shuttles in advance – If you’re planning to travel to the airport or NYC, book your shuttles or taxis in advance to avoid the last-minute rush.

Parting Note

Atlantic City may be compact, but its transportation options are surprisingly diverse, featuring historic jitneys, local taxis, trains, and various other options that directly connect to New York City. If you’re a local heading out for a meeting or a visitor catching a show, how you move around can shape your whole experience.

Match the rides to the season. Walk the Boardwalk for beachy vibes, or hop on a jitney for a quick trip to the casino. Grab a taxi to save time. And when you are all done exploring Atlantic City, head up to New York with a comfortable ride in a cab. Here is a quick tip for you: Always use the NJ Transit app to check bus schedules in real-time, especially on weekends when service frequency may be reduced.