Atlantic City FAQ

Planning a trip to Atlantic City, New Jersey often raises the same practical questions: how to get there, whether a car is necessary, what things cost, and where to base yourself. Below are answers oriented around what tends to stay true over time. For anything tied to a specific number — fares, admission, or hours — always confirm with the official source closest to your travel date, since those details change.

Do you need a car to visit Atlantic City?

A car is not strictly required, especially if your visit is centered on the Boardwalk, the beach, and nearby casino properties, which are within walking distance of one another. Many visitors arrive by bus or train and get around on foot or via local transit once they're in town. That said, having a car makes it easier to explore beyond the immediate Boardwalk area, including nearby shore towns and inland attractions. If you plan to base yourself outside the main tourist corridor, a car or rideshare service is worth considering.

How do you get around once you're there?

The Boardwalk area is generally walkable, and a local bus system, called the Jitney, connects the Boardwalk to residential and casino districts. Rideshare apps and taxis are also widely available. If you're arriving from elsewhere in New Jersey or from Philadelphia or New York, regional bus and rail services connect to Atlantic City, though schedules and connections are best checked directly with the transit provider before you travel. Look for contactless tap-to-pay options where offered, since many regional systems have shifted toward that model.

What's the best way to get from the airport to the city?

Atlantic City International Airport is the closest airport, located a short drive from downtown, and ground transportation options there typically include taxis, rideshare pickup, and rental car counters. Some travelers instead fly into Philadelphia International Airport, which has more flight options, and then connect to Atlantic City by bus, train, or rental car. Because airport transportation options and any shuttle services can change, it's a good idea to check the airport's own transportation page shortly before your trip.

Is Atlantic City expensive to visit?

Costs vary widely depending on where you stay and how you spend your time. Casino hotels frequently offer promotional room rates that can make lodging relatively affordable compared to other coastal destinations, though rates fluctuate by season and day of the week. Dining, entertainment, and parking costs also vary by property. Rather than relying on a fixed price expectation, it's more useful to compare current rates directly on hotel and venue websites when you're ready to book.

Is Atlantic City safe for tourists?

As in most urban tourist destinations, ordinary precautions apply: stay aware of your surroundings, especially at night, keep valuables secured, and stick to well-traveled areas of the Boardwalk and casino district. Visitor-heavy areas tend to have a steady flow of foot traffic and security presence, but no destination is free of risk, so standard urban awareness is a reasonable approach throughout your stay.

Where should you stay in Atlantic City?

Most visitors choose between staying directly on the Boardwalk near the casino hotels, which puts dining, entertainment, and the beach within walking distance, or in quieter areas slightly removed from the main strip. Marina-district properties offer another option, generally with more space between buildings and a different atmosphere than the Boardwalk core. For a fuller picture of the layout and what's nearby, the Atlantic City Travel Guide: Things to Do, Landmarks, Food, and Itineraries is a useful starting point.

When is the best time to visit?

Timing depends on what you're looking for — warm-weather beach days draw the largest crowds, while shoulder-season visits can mean a quieter Boardwalk and more room availability. For a fuller seasonal breakdown, see Best Time to Visit Atlantic City.

Is Atlantic City a good destination for families with kids?

Atlantic City can work well for families, particularly those interested in the beach, Boardwalk arcades, and family-oriented attractions along the pier areas. Some venues are geared toward an adult casino-going crowd, so it's worth checking a property's atmosphere before booking if you're traveling with children. The Best Things To Do in Atlantic City page groups activities in a way that can help with family planning.

What are the must-see landmarks?

The Boardwalk itself is the defining feature of the city, along with historic piers and several longstanding casino properties. For a rundown of notable sites, see Top Landmarks in Atlantic City.

Where can you find good food in Atlantic City?

Options range from casual Boardwalk stands to sit-down restaurants inside casino properties, with a mix of seafood, Italian-American, and boardwalk classics represented across the city. For an overview of where to look, see Where to Eat in Atlantic City.

How much time should you plan for a visit?

A single day is enough to cover the Boardwalk, a landmark or two, and a meal, while a longer stay allows time for the beach, multiple casino properties, and nearby day trips. Sample itineraries are available for both approaches: the Atlantic City 1-Day Itinerary and the Atlantic City 3-Day Itinerary.

Are there national park sites near Atlantic City?

The broader region includes National Park Service–affiliated sites, and travelers interested in visiting one during a trip should check the National Park Service's official site for current details, since site access and programming can change.