New Jersey to New York City: 6 Best Travel Methods?
Explore the top 6 ways to travel from New Jersey to NYC, including trains, buses, and ferries. Perfect for travelers seeking the best route options.
New York City is one of the greatest & most iconic cities in the world, filled with skyscrapers such Empire State Building, one world trade center and the Rockefeller centre!
In addition, to it being a melting pot for culture, from Chinatown to Little Italy. As the hub of the east coast, NYC is an destination for an epic road trip!
New Jersey is an interesting state which is often underrated due to its big brother New York just next door!
However, New Jersey has alot to offer from stunning beaches to great food and a diverse culture.
Known as the Diner Capital of the world, New Jersey is home to the most number of diners anywhere on earth!
On a road trip to New Jersey you will travel past some of the most charming coastal towns in America & a few crazy attractions! From the historic lighthouse at Long Beach island to the vibrant boardwalks of Point Pleasant & seaside heights (Jersey Shore) to even a Nudist beach (Middletown)! This is if your heading to Atlantic city of course!
Atlantic city offers some of the best, biggest and most famous casinos…just behind Las Vegas.
Fun Fact: As the second city ever to Legalize casinos, in the U.S.A, New Jersey passed the laws in 1976 and opened it’s first Casino in 1978!
If you checked out our New York to Atlantic city road trip you will know it's one to visit!
How long does a road trip take between New Jersey & New York City?
Driving direct from New York city to New Jersey would take you approximately 1 hour, 40 mins and you will cover 79 miles via I-95S
Of course this is without stopping anywhere enroute and avoiding NYC's notorious traffic.
If your driving from Trenton the capital of New Jersey then this is your fastest route.
However, if your plan on heading to the New Jersey coast (recommended!) and even Atlantic city then you will need to factor this extra travel time in.
For example, Atlantic city is another 91 miles from Trenton so this will take you approximately an extra 1 hour 30 mins.
Insider Road Tips:
- Be aware there are $12 bridge tolls!
- Also be sure to avoid peak hour traffic, especially if traveling into NYC.
- If you’re traveling into NYC from Northern New Jersey, take the George Washington Bridge or Tappan Zee Bridge into New York.
- If your traveling from further south into NYC take the Lincoln and Holland Tunnels which are easily accessible.
6 Best ways to travel between New Jersey & New York City?
Public Transport Options:
A. NJ Transit Train - Reliable, Regular & Easy!
The NJ TRANSIT system is the second busiest rail system in the USA, this means trains are very regularly between New Jersey & New York.
The 11 NJ TRANSIT train lines offer an extensive route which covers almost all of Northern New Jersey and shuttles rides into Penn Station in Midtown Manhattan.
The NJ Transit Train system is reliable, easy, cost effective and comfortable.
Ticket prices cost between $5 to $16+ dependent upon your location.
Kcpwiki | WikiCommons
B. PATH train - Fast, Quick, & cheap!
The PATH train runs from Hoboken, Jersey City, Harrison and Newark,
The PATH train is a high-speed, underground system which links New Jersey to Lower and Midtown Manhattan.
The trip costs just $2.75 per ride and connects travelers between New York City Subway stations and many other transit systems in New Jersey.
The train is a modern & enjoyable way of traveling in & out of Manhattan.
Insider Tip:
Check online schedules for updates.
C. NJ Transit Bus - Cheapest (Can be longest!)
If plan on traveling in and out of the New York City Port Authority Terminal then this could be your cheapest option.
There are over 240 stops & routes available so you will always find a convenient & cost effective journey.
Aim to travel during OFF PEAK hours or you could get trapped in Jerseys notorious traffic! Be sure to budget plenty of time.
Fun Fact: Midtown Bus terminal is the Busiest Bus Terminal in the USA and the Worlds Largest!
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D. New Jersey to NYC Ferry - Fastest if near the river!
The NY Waterway calls itself as “the fastest commute to NYC,” if your traveling from near the Hudson River then its definitely the truth!
Manhattan is an island after all!
Ferry riders have the option of eight different terminals located in Jersey City, Hoboken, Weehawken and Edgewater, New Jersey.
Just be aware that this can be a more expensive method of transport. With a one way ticket costing between $9-$20.
But for some it doubles up as a relaxing city cruise, so definitely worth the price.
Based Live further Away?
If your based further away then take the high speed Seastreak Ferry which runs from Highlands and Atlantic Highlands, New Jersey, to several different New York City ports.
This is a large ship, with comfy seats, television and lots of room to stretch out.
However, the Seastreak will cost you $46+ round trip.
The good news is you will get some great views en route passing by the Statue of Liberty!
Public Transport/Road Trip Comparison Table:
Is there a Casino Bus to Atlantic City from New York?
Yes! If your on a Budget or don’t want to drive then the Bus is an easy and very affordable option.
How long does the Bus take to Atlantic city?
The Bus Journey to Atlantic City takes 2.5-3 hours.
Your best option is Greyhound’s “Lucky Streak” service which departs from the Port Authority Bus Terminal.
The Bus will drop you off directly at a number of different Atlantic City Casinos including Atlantic city Bus Station.
- Greyhound -- 18-20 departures daily
- NJ Transit (stops in Toms River before AC) -- 10-13 departures daily
- Mega Bus -- 9-17 departures daily
Insider Tip:
Disembarking at a casino will often entitle those taking a round trip to FREE PLAN CASINO VOUCHERS!
The Return tickets are open and can be used to get back to NYC anytime.
Fun Fact:
The Bus ride down is really fun and upbeat with a positive vibe from those hoping to win big in Atlantic city!
Whereas, on the way back is full of a real mix of characters including those which lost big!
Where to Stay in Atlantic City??
For a great list of our recommended places to stay in Atlantic city, follow the link HERE
For a full guide on US casinos and it’s crazy laws .
Road Trip Map (New Jersey to New York City)
Dive into our Interactive Map Below!
This road trip map outlines multiple driving routes between New York & Atlantic city.
Including an selection of the best places to stop and visit enroute!
User Guide: Use the plus and Minus buttons to Zoom in and Out of the attractions.
Many visitors choose to share this map on Facebook and then use it on their road trip by hitting the link below.
New York city to New Jersey Road Trip Itinerary
Route 1 (Atlantic Coast):
- New York City
- Middletown, NJ
- Asbury Park, NJ
- Point Pleasant Beach, NJ
- Brick Township, NJ
- Seaside Heights, NJ
- Surf City, NJ
- Long Beach Island, NJ
- Mystic Island, NJ
- Atlantic city, NJ
Route 2 (Via Philadelphia):
- New York City
- Edison, NJ
- Trenton, NJ
- Philadelphia, PN
- Egg Harbor city, NJ
- Atlantic City
Road Trip Highlights:
Middletown, NJ
Middletown is a curious place which offers everything from historic lighthouses and museums to a NUDIST BEACH!
- Sandy Hook Light house -- Built in 1764
- Sandy Hook Park
- Gunnison Beach -- Nudist Beach!
- Two Lights State Historic State
Gunnison Nudist beach Middletown, nj
Asbury Park, NJ
Asbury Park is known for its musical heritage. Bruce Springsteen actually comes from the city! It also has the sixth best beach in New Jersey, according to a recent poll.
Stroll along the Asbury Park boardwalk where you will be sure to see some buskers!
Acroterion | WikiCommons
Facts about New Jersey:
- North Jersey has the most shopping malls in one area, anywhere in the world. It offers seven major shopping malls in a 25 sq. mile radius.
- Passaic river was the site to the first submarine ride by inventor John P.
New Jersey has two official state foods.
- The first is the blueberry, which was given the honor in 2004.
- The second is the Jersey tomato, which is the state vegetable.
- The state fish is the brook trout
For more on the State Fruits & recipes you should try! Check out this incredible post: 50 U.S State Fruits: Foodies Guide & Recipes!
50 US State Fruits & Recipes
New York to atlantic-city-road trip
Tobi Miles is a University of Florida graduate turned globe-trotting culinary explorer and digital nomad expert. As the founder of "Bytes & Bites," he combines his passion for international cuisine with practical advice on remote work, inspiring others to experience the world through food and cultural immersion. With 32 countries under his belt and a knack for uncovering hidden culinary gems, Tobi is redefining the intersection of work, travel, and gastronomy for a new generation of adventurers.
