If you’re planning a weekend trip to the Jersey Shore, a weekend getaway to the Jersey Shore, or a business excursion to Philadelphia, knowing the train options available to and from Atlantic City is essential. This complete guide will help you understand all aspects of train schedules, from tickets and costs to amenities on the train, as well as money-saving strategies that will help you make the most educated trip decision.
Which Amtrak Trains Go to Atlantic City?
Amtrak does not offer direct service to Atlantic City. The Atlantic City Express, which serviced routes to Atlantic City from Harrisburg, New York City, Richmond, Springfield, and Washington, D.C., was discontinued in the mid-1990s due to operational and ridership challenges.
Amtrak travelers, however, can still make it to Atlantic City by transferring to New Jersey Transit in Philadelphia at 30th Street Station. 30th Street Station is the western terminus for New Jersey Transit’s Atlantic City Line and an important Amtrak station along the Northeast Corridor.
| Service Type | Route | Operator | Notes |
| Direct Service | Atlantic City ↔ Philadelphia 30th Street | NJ Transit Atlantic City Line | Primary service; no Amtrak branding |
| Amtrak Connection | New York ↔ Philadelphia 30th Street | Amtrak Northeast Regional / Acela | Transfer to NJ Transit at 30th Street |
| Amtrak Connection | Washington DC ↔ Philadelphia 30th Street | Amtrak Northeast Regional / Acela | Transfer to NJ Transit at 30th Street |
| Amtrak Connection | Boston ↔ Philadelphia 30th Street | Amtrak Northeast Regional / Acela | Transfer to NJ Transit at 30th Street |
| Historical | Various cities ↔ Atlantic City | Amtrak Atlantic City Express | Discontinued in 1995 |
If you are coming to New York, the typical trip includes taking Amtrak to New York Penn Station to Philadelphia 30th Street Station (approximately 1.5 hours) and then taking the NJ Transit Atlantic City Line for the last leg, which will take you up to Atlantic City (approximately 1 hour 35 minutes).
Atlantic City Train Schedule: Departure Times and Frequency
You can count on the NJ Transit Atlantic City Line to be on schedule every day. Service runs 7 days a week, including holidays, which is a great convenience to those visiting the casinos as well as beach visitors.
- Weekday Service Pattern:
- First train departs Atlantic City: about 4:06 (train 4678)
- Departures from Philadelphia: 6:28, 8:20, 9:53, and 11:25
- Trains run once every 1 to 2 hours for the rest of the day.
- Evening peak: 2:31, 4:23, 6:15, and 7:50
- The last train departs at 12:50 am.
Weekend Service:
The weekend schedule tends to be a little less frequent, while still running service all day. With summer beach traffic, service may be added on those weekends.
| Train | Atlantic City Departure | 30th Street PHL Arrival | Key Stops |
| 4661 | 8:03 AM | 9:31 AM | Absecon, Egg Harbor, Hammonton, Atco, Lindenwold, Cherry Hill, Pennsauken |
| 4669 | 9:54 AM | 11:22 AM | Same intermediate stops |
| 4671 | 11:28 AM | 12:56 PM | Same intermediate stops |
| 4673 | 1:00 PM | 2:28 PM | Same intermediate stops |
| 4677 | 2:14 PM | 3:42 PM | Same intermediate stops |
| 4679 | 4:06 AM | 5:34 AM | Early morning service |
| 4683 | 5:58 AM | 7:26 AM | Morning service |
| 4685 | 7:50 AM | 9:18 AM | Morning service |
| 4687 | 9:25 AM | 10:53 AM | Morning service |
| 4689 | 10:59 AM | 12:27 PM | Midday service |
| 4693 | 12:32 AM | 2:00 AM | Late night service |
| 4697 | 2:24 AM | 3:52 AM | Very late night service |
Table Note: Schedules are subject to change. Always verify current times through the NJ Transit app or website before travel.
Atlantic City Train Travel Time: How Long Does It Take?
Knowing the travel time is essential in planning the Atlantic City journey. The length of your trip varies widely based on the city of your departure and if you’re using the direct NJ Transit train or connecting with Amtrak.
Direct NJ Transit Atlantic City Line:
- Atlantic City to Philadelphia 30th Street: approximately 1 hour 35 minutes up to one hour and 45 minutes
- Atlantic City to Pennsauken Transit Center approximately 1 hour and 10 minutes
- Atlantic City to Cherry Hill: About 1 hour 25 minutes
- Atlantic City to Lindenwold: Around 1 hour
Multi-Leg Travel featuring Amtrak Connection
- New York Penn Station to Atlantic City: Approximately 3.5 to 4.5 hours all in (including the transfer time on 30th Street)
- Washington, DC to Atlantic City: approximately 5 to 6 hours.
- Boston from Atlantic City: Approximately 6 to 7 hours.
Between Atlantic City and Philadelphia is about 60 miles via railway. In comparison, the distance between Atlantic City and New York Penn Station is approximately 160-166 miles if traveling on the link through Philadelphia.
Factors affecting travel time:
- Transfer coordination: At 30th Street Station, Amtrak as well as NJ Transit operate from different levels. It is recommended to allow at most 20-30 minutes in between connection times in order to accommodate platform shifts as well as delays.
- Train congestion/Track congestion: The Northeast Corridor is the busiest railroad track within North America. Amtrak trains may experience delays during peak hours.
- Single-track sections: Parts of the Atlantic City Line operate on single tracks, which requires trains to stand in the sidings of competing traffic, specifically towards the east from Cherry Hill.
New York-Grand Central Terminal Station Guide for Passengers
Travelers who are coming from New York, it’s important to know that Amtrak is not a service at Grand Central Terminal. All Amtrak services for travel to and from New York operate from Penn Station (New York Penn Station), located in the area of 33rd Street and 7th Avenue in Midtown Manhattan.
The journey from Grand Central Station to Penn Station
- Subway: Take the 1/2/3 (red line) or the A/C/E (blue line) subway lines. The journey takes about 10 to 15 minutes
- Walk: About 20-25 minutes through Midtown
- Taxi/Uber: 10-15 minutes depending on traffic
Penn Station Layout for Amtrak Passengers:
- Amtrak runs at the lower levels of Penn Station
- Be on the lookout for the Amtrak concourse that has digital departure boards.
- The Metropolitan Lounge is accessible to high-end passengers as well as loyalty program members.
- A variety of restaurants are located within the station. These include Shake Shack, Pret A Manger, as well as a variety of cafes.
Tips for a successful journey: If taking a connection from your home on the Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) or New Jersey Transit at Penn Station, follow the signs clearly marked for the Amtrak platform. The station is a little difficult for those who are new to the area, and you should arrive at a minimum of 30 minutes prior to your scheduled departure time.
Key Stops Between Baltimore and New York
If you are traveling along the Amtrak Northeast Corridor connecting to Atlantic City, understanding the important stops that connect Baltimore as well as New York helps with trip scheduling and other possible routes.
| Station | City | Significance | Connection to Atlantic City |
| Penn Station | Baltimore, MD | Major Mid-Atlantic hub | Connect via Philadelphia |
| BWI Airport | Linthicum, MD | Baltimore-Washington International | Convenient for air travelers |
| New Carrollton | New Carrollton, MD | Washington DC suburbs | Metro connection |
| Union Station | Washington, DC | Nation’s capital; major hub | Connect via Philadelphia |
| Alexandria | Alexandria, VA | Historic Old Town | Metro connection |
| Woodbridge | Woodbridge, VA | Northern Virginia suburbs | Limited connection options |
| Quantico | Quantico, VA | Marine Corps Base | Limited service |
| Fredericksburg | Fredericksburg, VA | Historic Civil War city | Limited service |
| Richmond Staples Mill | Richmond, VA | Virginia capital | Alternative routing |
| Wilmington | Wilmington, DE | Corporate capital | Close to Philadelphia |
| 30th Street Station | Philadelphia, PA | Primary transfer point | Direct NJ Transit to Atlantic City |
| Trenton | Trenton, NJ | State capital | Alternative NJ Transit connection |
| Metropark | Iselin, NJ | Suburban office park | Limited relevance |
| Newark Penn | Newark, NJ | New Jersey’s largest city | PATH connection to NYC |
| New York Penn | New York, NY | Major destination hub | Connect via Philadelphia |
The main station for Atlantic City-bound passengers will be Philadelphia 30th Street Station, at the point where the Amtrak Northeast Corridor connects to NJ Transit’s Atlantic City Line. The station is the third busiest for Amtrak across the country, serving the needs of more than 5.5 million people every year.
Ticket Prices and Best Ways to Save Money on Amtrak
Understanding the fare structure of Atlantic City train travel helps you plan your budget and discover the most affordable prices.
NJ Transit Atlantic City Line Fares:
- Adult fare one-way (Atlantic City – Philadelphia): About $19.00 to $29.00
- Round-trip: Double the one-way cost
- Reduced rates for seniors (62+)
- Children (5-11) (ages 5-11): Discounted fare; children aged 5 and under are free if accompanied by a fare-paying adult.
- Disabled and military personnel: Access to special fare programs for disabled and military personnel
Amtrak Fares (to Philadelphia connection):
- New York to Philadelphia: It typically ranges between $19 and $81, based on train type and the booking date
- Saver fares: Lowest available fares, non-refundable
- Value-for-money fares: Flexible with a possibility of refund
- Flexible fare: 100% refunded prior to departure
- Business class seating: Premium, including complimentary beverages
- Acela First Class: High-speed Premium service (not offered for all trains)
| Fare Type | Typical Price Range | Refundability | Best For |
| NJ Transit One-Way | $19 – $29 | Non-refundable | Budget-conscious travelers |
| Amtrak Saver | $19 – $45 | Non-refundable | Advance planners |
| Amtrak Value | $35 – $65 | Partially refundable | Flexible travelers |
| Amtrak Flexible | $50 – $81 | Fully refundable | Uncertain plans |
| Amtrak Business | $75 – $120 | Fully refundable | Comfort seekers |
| Acela First | $150+ | Fully refundable | Time-sensitive business travelers |
Financial Strategies:
Purchase Amtrak tickets ahead of time: Saver fares are the cheapest, but are only available for a short time, and sell out in advance. The best deals are made 2-3 weeks ahead of travel, when tickets can be found for 50% less.
- Plan travel for the middle of the week: Tuesday and Wednesday have the best ticket prices and deals.
- Cash in Amtrak Guest Rewards points: Free tickets can be earned by using your points.
- Commuter NJ Transit Monthly passes: If you are commuting frequently, this has a great return on your savings.
- Keep an eye out for an Amtrak sale. Companion fares and various percentage offs are part of the Buy One, Get One sales.
- Student Pricing: With a Student Advantage card, Amtrak offers a 15% discount on tickets.
- Senior Pricing: Amtrak offers travelers aged 65 and older a 10% discount, and NJ Transit fares are reduced for travelers aged 62 and older.
Onboard Amenities on the Atlantic City Train
Amtrak long-distance train riders are used to a higher standard of luxury. Although the NJ Transit Atlantic City Line won’t compare, the service is adequate for the short trip.
NJ Transit Atlantic City Line Amenities:
- Seating: Regular train seating and cushioned seats. There are no seats reserved for passengers.
- Accessibility: Fully accessible with accessible toilets and wheelchair-accessible spaces
- Bicycles are allowed during off-peak train services; however, limitations apply during rush hour.
- Climate control: Control of heating and air cooling
- Luggage Racks: Overhead as well as space at the car’s end. There is no check-in baggage service.
- Wi-Fi is not available for Atlantic City Line trains. Atlantic City Line trains
- Food service: No cafe cars. Bring your own food items and beverages.
Amtrak Northeast Regional Amenities (for the connecting leg):
- Free Wi-Fi is available in all trains
- Electrical outlets are available at every seat
- Cafe car: light meals as well as snacks and drinks available for purchase
- Large seating space: more space than the typical economy seat on an airline.
- Quiet car: Designed to be a quiet travel vehicle (no mobile phone usage)
- Checked baggage is available at a select number of stations
- Pet Policy: Small animals are permitted in carriers for a cost.
Amtrak Acela Amenities (premium option):
- Premium seating with leather seats, with legroom for extra
- In-seat service: complimentary drinks and meals in First Class
- Quiet car: Available
- Business class seating: premium that includes complimentary non-alcoholic beverages
Atlantic City Train vs. Other Options for Travel
The best transportation option is based on the factors you value, such as cost, speed, and convenience.
| Factor | Train (NJ Transit/Amtrak) | Driving | Bus (Greyhound) | Flying |
| Cost | $19-$100+ | $20-$50 (gas + tolls + parking) | $15-$35 | $150-$400+ |
| Time to Philadelphia | 1h 35m | 1h – 1h 30m | 1h 35m – 2h | N/A (no direct) |
| Time to New York | 3.5h – 4.5h | 2h – 3h | 2h 40m – 3h 30m | N/A (no direct) |
| Convenience | City-center to city-center | Door-to-door flexibility | Multiple daily departures | Requires airport transit |
| Comfort | Moderate (commuter rail) | Personal space | Basic seating | Varies by airline |
| Parking | Not needed | $10-$30/day in AC | Not needed | Airport parking fees |
| Traffic Stress | None | High during peak times | Moderate | Airport security lines |
| Eco-Friendly | Yes | No | Moderate | No |
The best time to pick a train:
- The hotel you’re staying at is in Atlantic City without a car
- Do you want to steer clear of the summer traffic on beaches
- You’re traveling solo (cost-effective)
- The value of productivity is high when you travel.
- You’re eco-conscious
What is the best time to be driving:
- It’s a trip for an entire group (split cost)
- There is a need for flexibility to accommodate many places
- The hotel isn’t in Atlantic City proper
- You likely have a lot of luggage and equipment
What time of the day to travel by bus
- The budget is the main concern
- If you don’t mind the basics, then this is for you.
- It’s a short journey.
Tips for First-Time Travelers on the Atlantic City Route
If it’s your first experience taking the train from or to Atlantic City, these tips are sure to make your trip smooth:
Before You Board:
- Install NJ Transit’s app. NJ Transit app: Purchase tickets electronically to avoid waiting in line for vending machines. The app provides live tracker status.
- You can charge your device: Atlantic City Rail Terminal has the smallest charging outlet,ands trains do not have electricity outlets. Take a battery charger with you.
- Get there early: Make sure you are at the station no less than 15 minutes prior to departure. Atlantic City Station is functional; however, it’s not spectacular.r So don’t anticipate a lot of services prior to departure.
- Be aware of the transfer process: When connecting to Amtrak on 30th Street, remember that Amtrak utilizes the lower level, whereas NJ Transit Atlantic City trains operate from the upper level or tracks with specific routes. Be sure to follow the signs carefully.
At the Station:
- Atlantic City Rail Terminal Atlantic City Rail Terminal is close to The Atlantic City Convention Center and is connected with Tanger Outlets (The Walk).
- Free casino shuttles (Jitneys) leave shortly following the arrival of each train and offer access to casinos across the world. They operate 24 hours a day and are scheduled to run in line with the train schedules.
- The stroll from the Boardwalk will take between 13 and 20 minutes, passing through the outlet retail district.
- Parking: This station has a parking garage of around 75 parking spaces. It is free for ticketed customers.
On The Train:
- You do not have assigned seating
- You will need to listen to the announcements for when the train stops
- Your ticket will need to be kept handy as it will be checked
- You will be traveling through the beautiful New Jersey Pine Barrens, so enjoy the scenery!
Safety Notes:
- The station is generally safe because of the police presence. Remain aware of your surroundings as you would at any other transit hub. Especially at night
- You will want to wait inside the terminal for the late train
- The Jitney shuttles are the safest way to reach the casino hotels from the station
What to Do When You Arrive at Penn Station, New York
After traveling from Atlantic City to New York City via Amtrak, we realize that New York City Penn Station can be crowded and frustrating to navigate.
Things to Know Upon Arrival:
- New York City Penn Station is large. Follow the signs to the exit nearest to your destination. For the Manhattan area, take the 7th Avenue exit. Use the 8th Avenue exit to access Moynihan Train Hall (the Farley building).
- Moynihan Train Hall is a new and beautiful addition to New York City transport. Opened in 2021, it replaces the original waiting area in Penn Station. If time allows, see this fascinating postal building that is now a transport facility.
- Navigating subway connections is easy. The 1, 2, and 3 lines, the A, C, and E lines, and many others are located within Penn Station in New York City. Access the whole city of Manhattan without an issue.
Nearby Attractions:
- Madison Square Garden: Directly over Penn Station
- The High Line is a 10-minute walk to the west.
- Times Square: 15-minute walk to the north
- Hudson Yards: Accessible via the 7 train, or via a 20-minute walk
Food and Shopping:
- Penn Station itself has numerous restaurants, ranging from fast food restaurants to sit-down restaurants
- If you want to take a more direct route, walk one block down towards Herald Square or head toward Chelsea Market
Continuing Your Journey:
- Long Island Rail Road (LIRR) to connect to destinations along Long Island
- New Jersey Transit: For northern New Jersey destinations
- Metro-North is not available from Penn Station; go to Grand Central for Metro-North trains
Booking Your Atlantic City Amtrak Ticket
Most travelers need to complete a two-step process to book a trip through Amtrak to Atlantic City because Amtrak doesn’t service Atlantic City directly.
Step-by-Step Booking Guide:
Choose your route and determine whether you’ll be traveling through Philadelphia (most popular) or if another route is more suitable.
- Book Amtrak portion first:
- Visit Amtrak.com or use the Amtrak app
- Input your location of place of birth (e.g., New York, Washington, DC, Boston) and then your destination. Philadelphia 30th Street Station (PHL)
- Pick your travel dates, as well as your preferred train time.
- Pick your type of fare (Saver Value, Value Business, Acela, or Saver)
- Make sure you complete the purchase and save your purchase
- The Book NJ Transit portion:
- Visit NJTransit.com or use the NJ Transit app
- The origin is Philadelphia 30th Street and destination: Atlantic City
- Choose a time that allows your transfer
- Buy a ticket (mobile tickets are suggested)
- Alternative: Through-booking
- Certain third-party websites like Wanderu could offer tickets with combined purchase
- The website of Amtrak sometimes lists the connecting NJ Transit service when booking tickets to Atlantic City
Important Booking Tips:
- Plan for transfer times: Allow 30 to 45 minutes minimum between your Amtrak arrival at 30th Street and NJ Transit departure at 30th Street
- Same-day connections: If an Amtrak train is running late, NJ Transit tickets are typically flexible to allow same-day travel for the exact route.
- Mobile tickets: Both Amtrak and NJ Transit accept mobile tickets and eliminate paper-based issues.
- Group travel for larger groups: Contact Amtrak’s Group Desk to discuss discounts
Best Time to Travel from Atlantic City by Train
Your travel experience, its cost, and the level of comfort you enjoy will all be affected by the time of year.
Things to Keep in Mind Depending on the Season:
| Season | Pros | Cons | Recommendation |
| Summer (Jun-Aug) | Beach weather, casino events, extended daylight | Highest crowds, potential delays, hot platforms | Book early; travel midweek |
| Fall (Sep-Nov) | Pleasant weather, lower crowds, foliage views | Reduced weekend beach service | Excellent for casino trips |
| Winter (Dec-Feb) | Lowest fares, indoor casino comfort | Cold weather, limited beach activities | Best budget option |
| Spring (Mar-May) | Mild weather, increasing service | Unpredictable weather, spring break crowds | Good balance of cost/comfort |
Daily Timing:
- Early morning trains (6:00–9:00 am): The least crowded and regular schedule, great for business travellers
- Midday trains (10:00 am – 2:00 pm): Medium people, flexible timing
- Trains during rush hour (4:00–7:00 pm ): The most crowded trains in the evenings on Fridays, particularly those that travel towards Atlantic City
- Late-night trains (after 10 pm): Very few people; however, there is a limited number of trains as well as potential safety risks at the stations
Best Days to Travel:
- Tuesdays and Wednesdays: The lowest fare, very light crowds
- Thursday: A good option for a pre-weekend getaway at a moderate price
- Friday afternoon/evening: Most popular for premium price, overcrowded trains
- Sunday night: A lot of back-the-weekend travelers
Important Event to Avoid (unless you are):
- Memorial Day weekend: Start of summer
- The Fourth of July holiday: Maximum Casino and beach travel
- Labor Day weekend: End of summer’s flurry
- Casino events and concerts that will be major. Atlantic City event calendars
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Does Amtrak offer direct train service from Atlantic City to New York?
It’s not true; Amtrak does not operate directly from Atlantic City. Its Atlantic City Express was discontinued during the 90s. The current route is to take Amtrak to Philadelphia 30th Street Station and then transfer onto NJ Transit’s Atlantic City Line, or take NJ Transit throughout with connections.
2. What is the cost for a train ride to Atlantic City to Philadelphia?
NJ Transit one-way fares between Atlantic City and Philadelphia 30th Street Station usually vary from $19-$29. The round-trip price is twice the price of a single trip. Child, senior, and disability discount rates are also available.
3. What is the duration of the journey by train to Atlantic City to New York?
The duration of the journey between Atlantic City and New York using the Amtrak/NJ Transit connection ranges from 3.5 to 4.5 hours, not including transit time to Philadelphia 30th Street Station. Direct bus service generally is quicker, with 2.5 to 3.5 hours. Driving is between two and three hours, based on the amount of traffic.
4. Does the train have Wi-Fi? train departing from Atlantic City?
NJ Transit Atlantic City Line trains don’t have WI-Fi. If your trip comprises the Amtrak Northeast Regional or Acela train, they do offer free Wi-Fi and power outlets on every seat, as well as cafe car services.
5. Do I have to bring my bike with me on the train ride to Atlantic City?
Yes, bikes are permitted to be used on NJ Transit Atlantic City Line trains; however, there are certain restrictions. Bikes are typically allowed in non-peak times, and are restricted during rush hours or during special events. There aren’t any designated bike racks, and it is necessary to store your bike within designated spaces. Amtrak permits bicycles on a variety of Northeast Corridor trains with reservations and a fee of $20.
6. Is the Atlantic City train station safe late at night?
It is believed that the Atlantic City Rail Terminal is typically deemed safe because of security cameras and police personnel. But, like any transport facility, visitors are advised to be vigilant about their surroundings, particularly during late-night hours (after 10:00 pm). It’s suggested to stay in the well-lit terminal and to use the complimentary Jitney shuttles and ride-share service instead of walking on your own late at night.
7. Are there food outlets in the Atlantic City train station?
The options for food in the Atlantic City Rail Terminal are only vending machines and an artisanal food stall. But the terminal is located near The Tanger Outlets (The Walk), which is where you’ll be able to find Starbucks, Dunkin’, and Applebee’s, along with other eating choices within a 2- to 5 15 minute stroll. The best option is to buy meals prior to getting on the train as NJ Transit trains do not include cafe cars.
8. How can I travel there from Atlantic City train station to the casinos?
The Atlantic City Jitney Association operates gratuitous shuttles to and from the Rail Terminal and all major casinos. Shuttles start shortly after every train’s arrival and are available 24/7. Traveling to the casinos in central Las Vegas is about 10 minutes. Alternatively, taxis or ride-share companies (Uber/Lyft) are also available for $10-15 at central hotels.
9. How do I purchase a ticket through to New York to Atlantic City?
Although Amtrak, along with NJ Transit, are separate operators, certain booking platforms from third parties such as Wanderu have mixed itineraries. On Amtrak’s site, you may be able to type in “Atlantic City, NJ” to find your destination. Then, it will display connections to NJ Transit service. But the majority of travelers reserve both the Amtrak and NJ Transit portions separately, making sure that they have enough transfer time to 30th Street Station.
10. What is the outcome when what happens if my Amtrak train gets delayed and I don’t get the NJ Transit connection?
NJ Transit tickets for the Atlantic City Line are generally available for the same-day travel in the identical direction. If you fail to catch your meeting because of Amtrak issues, you will normally board the upcoming NJ Transit train to Atlantic City with your current ticket. But seating availability may not be assured during the peak hours. Always factor in around 30 to 45 minutes for transfer time when booking separate tickets.
.