Planning a trip to Atlantic City? The first step, after booking your hotel and shows, is choosing the right airport. Getting to this vibrant coastal city is easier than you think, with several airports offering convenient access. This guide will help you determine the best airport for your Atlantic City adventure, considering factors like distance, transportation options, and cost.
Which Airport is Closest to Atlantic City?
Atlantic City International Airport (ACY) is the closest airport, obviously! Located just a short drive from the casinos and resorts, it's the most convenient option if you prioritize minimizing travel time. However, ACY might have fewer flight options and potentially higher fares compared to larger airports further away.
What are my other airport options near Atlantic City?
Several larger airports offer more flight options and potentially lower fares, albeit with a longer travel time to Atlantic City. These include:
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Philadelphia International Airport (PHL): This is a major airport with numerous domestic and international flights, providing a wide range of choices and often competitive prices. The travel time to Atlantic City is approximately 1.5 to 2 hours depending on traffic.
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Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR): Similar to PHL, EWR offers a vast selection of flights but is further from Atlantic City, requiring a roughly 2-2.5-hour drive.
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New York's Airports (JFK, LGA): While offering extensive flight options, the New York airports (JFK and LGA) are the furthest from Atlantic City, requiring a 2.5 to 3.5-hour drive, potentially longer depending on traffic. This option is best if you plan to spend some time in New York City before or after your Atlantic City trip.
What is the cheapest airport to fly into for Atlantic City?
This depends heavily on your origin city, the time of year, and how far in advance you book. Using flight comparison websites like Google Flights, Skyscanner, or Kayak is crucial to finding the best deals. Often, flying into PHL or EWR can result in lower fares than flying directly into ACY, offsetting the cost of the additional ground transportation.
How much does transportation from the airport cost?
Transportation costs vary depending on your chosen airport and method of travel:
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Rental Car: Offers the most flexibility but can be expensive, especially with potential tolls and parking fees in Atlantic City.
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Ride-Sharing Services (Uber/Lyft): Convenient and readily available, but can be costly, particularly during peak hours or with large groups.
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Buses: A more budget-friendly option, but may require longer travel times and fewer schedule options compared to ride-sharing.
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Taxis: Generally more expensive than ride-sharing services.
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Airport Shuttles: Some hotels or third-party services offer shuttle buses directly to Atlantic City, offering a cost-effective option for groups.
What about public transportation from the airports to Atlantic City?
Public transportation options are limited; relying on ride-sharing or a rental car is generally recommended. However, depending on your chosen airport, bus services might be available, although they often require transfers and might not be the most convenient. Always check the NJ Transit website for schedules and routes.
Which airport is best for a quick trip to Atlantic City?
For a quick getaway, ACY is the clear winner, minimizing travel time and allowing you to start your Atlantic City experience sooner.
Which airport is best for a longer trip to Atlantic City?
For a longer trip, or if you plan to visit other cities in the region (like Philadelphia or New York City), flying into PHL, EWR, or one of the New York airports could save you money on airfare, even with the added travel time.
Remember to book your flights and transportation well in advance, especially during peak seasons. Happy travels to Atlantic City!
