Day Trip to Atlantic City
From Newark • 1hr 45min drive
Atlantic City makes an excellent day trip from Newark—just 1hr 45min on the Garden State Parkway. Known for its entertainment capital vibe, Atlantic City offers beaches, dining, and activities that make it worth the drive.
Getting to Atlantic City from Newark
car
1hr 45min
Take the Garden State Parkway. Weekend traffic can add 30-60 minutes—leave early or late evening.
💡 E-ZPass strongly recommended for toll plazas
train
31min - 2hr
NJ Transit North Jersey Coast Line from Penn Station or Newark Penn. Transfer may be required at Long Branch.
💰 $15-25 one way
💡 Check NJ Transit schedule—service varies by season
Doing Atlantic City without your own car?
The train and bus get you to town. A one-day rental from Newark gets you to the beaches the schedules skip.
Things to Do in Atlantic City
Book tours and activities with free cancellation
Book Now - Free Cancellation→Your Atlantic City Day Trip Itinerary
☀️ Morning
Depart
Leave early to beat traffic and maximize beach time
Arrive in Atlantic City
Find parking and get oriented
Beach time
Claim your spot on the beach
⏱️ 2 hours
🏖️ Afternoon
Lunch
Grab a casual lunch at a local spot
Boardwalk & Steel Pier
Walk the famous boardwalk, try your luck at the casinos
⏱️ 3 hours
Late beach or activity
Another swim or try a local attraction
🌅 Evening
Early dinner
Eat before the drive home to avoid rush
Head home
Depart to avoid late-night traffic
Top Things to Do in Atlantic City
Atlantic City Boardwalk
Steel Pier
Absecon Lighthouse
HQ2 Nightclub & Beachclub
Tanger Outlets
Where to Eat in Atlantic City
Stiletto At Sporty S Cafe
Souzai Sushi
Sixty Cafe Lobby Bar & Lounge
Sirens Bar & Grill
Practical Information
Parking
Metered street parking. Casino parking varies ($5-30). Some casinos validate. Free municipal parking at the State Marina lot (Huron & Baltic).
Budget
$50-100 per person including gas, tolls, parking, food, and activities. Beach badges typically $8-12/day if required.
Day Trip Tips
- Leave early to beat traffic and secure parking
- Bring cash for beach badges and parking meters
- Pack a cooler with snacks and drinks to save money
- Check weather forecast—rain ruins a day trip
- Download Google Maps offline in case of spotty cell service
Turn Your Day Trip into a Weekend
Falling in love with Atlantic City? Turn your day trip into a weekend getaway. Hotels and rentals book fast in summer—reserve ahead.
Popular hotels:
Atlantic City Day Trip FAQ
More Day Trips
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