A long layover in Atlantic City is an opportunity, not an inconvenience. Rather than watching departure boards at Atlantic City International Airport for hours, step outside and explore. The city center is about 75 minutes away, and this guide has the practical details you need to pull it off without stress.
Essential Info Before You Head Out
A few things to sort out before you leave ACY:
- Entry requirements: Make sure you have the right visa or entry clearance for United States. Transit visas and tourist visas are different things — double-check before you exit.
- Travel time: The trip to Atlantic City takes about 75 minutes by NJ Transit Bus Route 559. Factor in the return trip and at least 90 minutes of buffer for security and boarding.
- Currency: The local currency is USD. You’re in USD territory, so no currency conversion needed.
The Best Way Into Atlantic City from ACY
From ACY, the NJ Transit Bus Route 559 gets you to Atlantic City in around 75 minutes. That’s the option most travelers with a time constraint should pick.
Taxis and ride-hailing services are available too (expect roughly 95 minutes), but they cost more and are at the mercy of traffic. Unless you’re traveling with heavy luggage or in a group, the NJ Transit Bus Route 559 offers the best balance of speed, cost, and reliability.
Luggage Storage at ACY
Dedicated luggage storage at ACY may be limited. Your best bet is to check services like Bounce or Stasher for verified storage locations near the airport or in Atlantic City’s center.
Some hotels and shops near transit hubs also offer storage for a small fee — worth asking about if you’re headed into town.
Estimated Costs for a Quick Visit
Here’s a rough breakdown of what a quick trip into Atlantic City might cost in USD:
- Transport (round trip): ~$9 USD
- A meal: ~$18 USD
- Miscellaneous: ~$10 USD
- Estimated total: ~$37 USD
Budget a little extra for the unexpected. It’s better to come back with spare change than to run short.
What’s Worth Seeing in Atlantic City
If you head into Atlantic City, here are two things worth checking out:
Atlantic City Boardwalk is a solid choice if you want to get a feel for the area. Just walking around here gives you a feel for the local vibe.
Caesars Atlantic City Casino is another option that’s easy to fit into a short visit. Accessible and enjoyable even on a short visit.
Not every layover calls for a city trip. If you’re staying at ACY, check out ACY Gift Shop or Relax at Gate Area to keep yourself occupied.
Where to Eat
For food in Atlantic City, local travelers recommend White House Sub Shop. If you have time for a second stop, Dock’s Oyster House is another popular pick.
Back at ACY, Caper’s is the go-to. Sam Adams Bar rounds out your in-terminal options.
Staying Connected
Most airports offer free WiFi these days, and ACY is no exception — connect and browse while you sort out your plans. If you’re heading into Atlantic City and want data on the go, pick up a local SIM from a shop in the arrivals hall or download an eSIM before you land. Airalo and Holafly are popular options that let you set up data access before you even touch down.
Resting at the Airport
Sometimes the best layover plan is no plan at all. If you need sleep at ACY, scope out the quieter gate areas first. Noise-canceling headphones and an eye mask go a long way in a busy terminal.
Lounge access is another option if you want a real seat and maybe a shower. Check Priority Pass or ask at the information desk about day-use rates.
Final Thoughts
A layover in Atlantic City is a chance to see a slice of somewhere new — even if it’s just for a few hours. Plan your time, keep an eye on the clock, and don’t forget to enjoy the detour. Some of the best travel memories come from the unplanned ones.
Safe travels, and enjoy Atlantic City.
Nearby Layover Guides
Disclaimer: Visa rules, transport schedules, and prices change. Always verify details with official sources and your airline before leaving the airport.