The Drive from Atlantic City to Philadelphia: Faster or Slower than you Think?

Looking for a weekend getaway from Atlantic City's bustling beachfront but don't want to spend hours on the road? Philadelphia may be just the city for you. The City of Brotherly Love offers rich culture and history just under an hour away from Atlantic City. But how long does it really take to get there?

The Fastest and Slowest Routes

There are a few routes you can take to drive from Atlantic City to Philadelphia, but the fastest is definitely the Atlantic City Expressway to the Walt Whitman Bridge. This route is the most direct and the one locals recommend. Though there are tolls along the Expressway and over the bridge, the total distance is only about 61 miles and takes about 1 hour 10 minutes during off-peak traffic hours.

If you want to avoid tolls altogether, the second fastest option is to take Route 40/322 to the Commodore Barry Bridge. While this route is technically longer, it avoids tolls and can be less congested. But during peak hours, this route can take an additional 20-30 minutes, so plan accordingly.

Traffic During Different Times

If you're looking to hit the road during peak traffic times, the drive can take significantly longer. During weekday rush hour, the drive can take up to two hours due to heavy traffic along the Expressway. For a less stressful drive, we suggest planning your departure times during off-peak hours such as early mornings on weekends or in the evenings after rush hour.

For those who prefer a scenic drive, Route 30 is another option that takes you through the Pine Barrens and delivers you to the outskirts of Philly. But beware that this route also involves a longer drive time of up to 2 hours, especially during rush hour.

Conclusion

In conclusion, driving from Atlantic City to Philadelphia is easier and faster than you would imagine. Taking the Atlantic City Expressway is the quickest route and should only take a little over an hour. But if tolls and traffic are of concerns to you, taking an alternate route such as Route 40/322 may be worth considering, especially during rush hour. Whether you are visiting the birthplace of America for the first time or just looking to explore some Philly cheesesteaks, the drive is well worth it.