JFK to Atlantic City: Smart & Scenic Ways to Travel
Interesting Insight:
Atlantic City was not just built for entertainment, the inspiration behind this city was the actual Monopoly board game with its famous and interesting streets like Boardwalk, Ventnor Avenue, and Park Place.
Today, Atlantic City is known as a top East Coast spot famous for its amazing nightlife, casinos, and beaches, making it an entertainment hub for millions of visitors each year. If you are planning to travel from JFK Airport to Atlantic City, it is best to explore available travel options beforehand for a relaxing and seamless trip. Learn about the top travel options, with their cost, comfort, and speed levels. Whether you are visiting to attend a professional meeting or just want to have a fun trip with friends, this guide will help you choose the best way to reach Atlantic City. You can also uncover the top attractions along the way for a productive journey. How ready are you to have a productive trip?
JFK to Atlantic City: The Easiest Ways to Travel
Here is an in-depth guide to the best available travel options from Atlantic City to JFK and vice versa:
1. Private Car Service / Limo
It takes 2.5 to 3 hours and costs according to the services you are getting. This is the best option for those who want a hassle-free and luxurious ride. If you are traveling with kids or elderly people with health issues, consider their comfort by opting for a flexible travel option. NYC United Limo offers amenities like child seats, bottled water and luggage management making it easier for travelers to relax after a long flight.
You can opt for curbside or inside pickups according to your needs. A uniformed chauffeur will be waiting at the terminal to greet you and take you to a luxury and therapeutic vehicle parked nearby. Forget about updating us on your flight delays, with our flight tracking system, we ensure that your chauffeur is there on time no matter what.
2. Driving from JFK Airport to Atlantic City (Rental or Personal Vehicle)
It takes about 2.5 to 3 hours to cover this distance of 130 miles depending on the traffic condition. Rental cars can cost $50 to $100 per day and it’s the best option for people wanting to stay in Atlantic City for a while. However, there are some downsides to it, like challenging traffic in New York City and costly parking situations in Atlantic City can make it a tiring experience for the driver. The best way is to consider your upcoming meetings or events and save your energy accordingly.
3. Taxi or Rideshare from JFK Airport to Atlantic City (Uber/Lyft)
Depending on the time and demand, it can take 2.5 to 3.5 hours and costs $200 to $350. It is the best travel option for people looking for direct and convenient transportation. However, it is not a reliable option because of the surge pricing and high costs without premium services like amenities, hygienic and relaxing ambiance, and qualified & suited chauffeur with stops of the client’s choice. This makes it only a costly option with no customer-focused advantages.
4. Bus (Most Affordable Option)
There are several bus services connecting NYC to Atlantic City:
Option 1: NJ Transit + Atlantic City Bus
You will take the AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station (15 minutes, $8 to $9). Then transfer to NJ Transit Train to New York Penn Station (20 minutes, $5 to $6). From there, you will then have to walk or take the subway to Port Authority Bus Terminal (10 minutes). You can now take the NJ Transit Bus 319 directly to Atlantic City (2.5 to 3 Hours, $42). Total travel time is 4 to 5 hours and costs a total of $55.
Option 2: Greyhound / Academy Bus
Buses operate from Port Authority to Atlantic City taking 2.5 to 3 hours. Tickets cost $25 to $40, best for travelers on a budget. However, it is not a comfortable and flexible option due to fixed schedules and crowded situations. That makes it an unhealthy and unreliable travel option for people with asthma, claustrophobia, and other medical conditions.
5. Train (Amtrak + NJ Transit)
You will have to take the AirTrain JFK to Jamaica Station (15 minutes, $8.25), transfer to Long Island Rail Road(LIRR), or subway to Penn Station (20 minutes, $6 to $10). From there, take an Amtrak train to Philadelphia 30th Street Station (1.5 hours, $30 to $80), and travel to NJ Transit’s Atlantic City Line to Atlantic City (1.5 hours & $11). The total travel time is 4.5 to 5.5 hours and costs a total of $50 to $100. This travel option involves fewer transfers than the bus, making it comfier and reliable. However, it requires a transfer to Philadelphia which is way longer than a direct bus making it a weaker travel option.
6. Flight (Fastest but Expensive)
No airlines are operating direct flights from JFK to Atlantic City but you can take a flight from JFK to Philadelphia. From there, you can take a train or drive to Atlantic City at your own pace. Flights can cost you $100 to $300 depending on the airline and the time of booking. The total travel time can be approximately 3.5 to 5 hours (including airport wait times).
Atlantic City to JFK; Travel Options for Your Needs
Best Travel Options | Your Priorities |
Private car service | The fastest & luxury travel option |
NJ Transit Bus 319 | The economical one |
Amtrak + NJ Transit | The most comfortable one |
From JFK to Atlantic City; Stops to Make Your Journey Epic!
Don’t forget to explore these must-see attractions during your trip from JFK to Atlantic City. Here is a breakdown of the top attractions along the route:
1. Coney Island, Brooklyn, NY (~30 min from JFK)
Indulge in the classic New York experience with the famous Nathan’s Hot Dogs, a therapeutic boardwalk, and Luna Park’s amusement rides for kids and adults. Don’t forget to try the Cyclone roller coaster, walk on the beach, or explore the New York Aquarium.
2. Staten Island Ferry (Free NYC Skyline Views) (~1 hour from JFK)
Want to enjoy the gorgeous views of Manhattan and the Statue of Liberty while traveling from JFK Airport to Atlantic City? Ride this Staten Island Ferry from Lower Manhattan to Staten Island and enjoy a free round trip to this area! A must-visit spot while traveling from Atlantic City to JFK and vice versa.
3. Six Flags Great Adventure (Jackson, NJ) (~1.5 hours from JFK)
This is known as one of the top theme parks in the U.S., featuring the world’s tallest roller coasters like Kingda Ka and El Toro. You can also closely observe exotic animals like tigers and giraffes, thanks to the Safari Off Road Adventure.
4. Princeton University & Downtown Princeton, NJ (~2 hours from JFK)
It falls under the most beautiful Ivy League campuses full of history, rich Gothic architecture, and cute coffee shops. Walk around Nassau Street, explore the Princeton University Art Museum, and grab a cup of coffee from the Small World Coffee for a rich experience.
5. Grounds For Sculpture (Hamilton, NJ) (~2 hours from JFK)
It’s a breathtaking outdoor sculpture park having humongous contemporary sculptures in a gorgeous garden setting. It is a haven for Instagram influencers as it’s a perfect photo spot. You can also try this famous Rat’s Restaurant inspired by Monet’s paintings. It’s a must-visit stop while traveling from Atlantic City to JFK and vice versa.
6. Barnegat Lighthouse State Park (Long Beach Island, NJ) (~2.5 hours from JFK)
Enjoy panoramic Atlantic Ocean views, thanks to this 1859 lighthouse. It is a relaxing seaside stop on the JFK to Atlantic City route, perfect for a refreshing break before reaching Atlantic City.
Best Route from JFK to Atlantic City Depending on Your Interests
Travelers’ Interests | Stops |
Thrill-Seekers | Roller coasters at Six Flags |
Art & Culture | Princeton Campus & Grounds for Sculpture |
Beach Lovers | Barnegat Lighthouse |
Final Thoughts
Atlantic City is famous for its entertaining nightlife with casinos and restaurants. If you are planning a weekend getaway with friends or visiting Atlantic City for business meetings, plan your journey with NYC United Limo for a memorable road trip to Atlantic City.
