Guide to Newark Airport Lounges - Top Things to Know [2024]

Key Takeaways

Newark Airport offers a variety of lounges, including United Clubs, the luxurious Centurion Lounge, and Priority Pass options like Art & Lounge, catering to different traveler needs.
Lounges are spread across Terminals A, B, and C, with Terminal C dominated by United Airlines’ premium offerings.
Access top lounges like the Centurion Lounge with cards like The Platinum Card® from American Express or Priority Pass, enhancing your airport experience with exclusive amenities.

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is one of the major gateways to the New York City area, which means it’s often packed with travelers—many of whom are likely frazzled, jet-lagged, or stuck in a long layover.

Fortunately, EWR offers a range of lounges where you can escape the chaos and recharge before your flight.

From airline-specific lounges to exclusive access options like the Amex Centurion Lounge, there’s something for every type of traveler.

Let’s explore the top things to know about Newark Airport lounges in 2024, from the best locations to the amenities they offer.

The Lay of the Land: Lounges by Terminal

Before diving into the specific lounges, it helps to know how Newark Liberty Airport is laid out. There are three terminals—A, B, and C—each with its own unique offerings. Knowing which terminal you’re flying out of will help you plan your lounge experience, so a quick glance at the terminal map can go a long way. Here’s a brief overview:

Terminal A
Primarily serves domestic flights with a few international routes. As of 2024, Terminal A has been recently renovated, offering newer lounges and amenities.
Terminal B
International flights hub. Expect to find most of the airline-specific lounges here, including those catering to premium international passengers.
Terminal C
The United Airlines stronghold, Terminal C is filled with United Lounges and other amenities for frequent fliers of the airline.

United Lounges at Newark Airport

If you’re flying United, you’re in luck. Newark Airport is a United hub, and the airline has made sure its lounges reflect this. There are multiple United Clubs spread across Terminals A, B, and C, but Terminal C is where United passengers will find the most options.

EWR Airport United Lounge - United Club
Location: Terminals A, B, and C (multiple locations in Terminal C)

The United Clubs are a familiar sight for anyone who regularly flies with United Airlines. At Newark Airport, these lounges are designed to provide comfort, whether you’re looking for a quiet place to work or just want to kick back with a drink. Amenities include:
- Complimentary snacks and beverages (alcoholic and non-alcoholic)
- Comfortable seating
- Wi-Fi
- Business workspaces
- Shower facilities in some locations
The United Club lounges in Terminal C tend to be the most spacious, as this terminal handles most of United’s flights. These lounges are especially handy if you’re flying internationally or on a long-haul domestic flight and need a place to freshen up or simply relax away from the crowds.
United Polaris Lounge at Newark Airport
Location: Terminal C, near Gate C120

For those flying United Polaris (international business class), the United Polaris Lounge is the premium choice. This lounge offers high-end amenities, such as:
- Full-service dining with gourmet meals
- Premium alcoholic beverages, including craft cocktails
- Private rest areas and daybeds
- Showers with spa-like amenities
- A sleek, quiet atmosphere that rivals many luxury hotel lounges
The Polaris Lounge is exclusive to international business and first-class passengers, so it’s more upscale and less crowded than the typical United Club. It’s definitely worth a visit if you qualify for entry.

Amex Lounge at Newark Airport – The Centurion Lounge

Location: Terminal A, post-security near Gates A28-A29

One of the most exciting lounge additions at Newark Airport is the Centurion Lounge by American Express, which opened in Terminal A. Known for their upscale atmosphere and attention to detail, Amex Centurion Lounges have a reputation for going above and beyond what most airport lounges offer.

The Centurion Lounge at Newark features:

Seasonal gourmet meals prepared by top chefs
A selection of premium wines, beers, and signature cocktails
Private workspaces and high-speed Wi-Fi
Shower suites to freshen up before or after a long flight
An overall elegant and calming design, perfect for de-stressing

Only The Platinum Card® from American Express, The Business Platinum Card® from American Express, and Centurion cardholders can access the Centurion Lounge, along with up to two guests. One word of caution: these lounges can get crowded during peak travel hours, so it’s a good idea to plan ahead.

Lounges in Newark Airport – Terminal B

Terminal B at Newark is primarily for international flights and houses lounges for various airlines catering to international travelers.

The amenities vary depending on the airline, but most of these lounges provide a mix of comfortable seating, snacks, and drinks, along with shower facilities for long-haul travelers.

Here are a few notable ones:

Lufthansa Lounge
Location: Terminal B, near Gate 60

If you’re flying Lufthansa, Swiss, or any Star Alliance carrier, the Lufthansa Lounge in Terminal B is a solid choice. It offers two sections: a Business Lounge and a Senator Lounge for those with elite status. Inside, you’ll find:
- Hot and cold food options
- A wide selection of beverages, including premium German beers and wines
- Business facilities
- Comfortable seating and quiet zones for relaxation
This lounge is an oasis for international travelers looking to refuel before their flight.
British Airways Lounge
Location: Terminal B

Flying British Airways? The British Airways Galleries Lounge in Terminal B is where you’ll want to be. Like the Lufthansa Lounge, it’s split between a business section and a first-class section. Key amenities include:
- A variety of dining options, from light bites to more substantial meals
- Premium alcoholic drinks and cocktails
- Shower facilities
- Quiet areas for work and relaxation
This lounge is open to passengers flying in premium cabins, as well as oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members.

Priority Pass Lounges at Newark Airport

For travelers holding a Priority Pass membership, Newark Liberty offers access to a couple of lounges. One of the best options is Art & Lounge, located in Terminal B.

Art & Lounge

Location: Terminal B, pre-security

Art & Lounge is open to Priority Pass members as well as select business-class passengers from certain airlines. The lounge has a unique artistic theme, offering:

Comfortable seating with a focus on modern design
An extensive buffet with fresh food and snacks
A full bar with complimentary alcoholic drinks
A quieter environment, as it’s typically less crowded than airline-specific lounges

One downside of Art & Lounge is that it’s located pre-security. So, while it’s a good spot to relax, you’ll need to leave enough time to go through security before your flight.

Amenities Beyond the Lounges: What Else Does Newark Airport Offer?

While lounges are a great way to spend time at the airport, EWR offers plenty of other amenities to keep you busy. Here’s a quick overview of other services and dining options:

Dining at Newark Airport
Newark’s food scene has improved dramatically in recent years, with several standout options across the terminals:

Terminal A: Try Phillips Seafood for fresh catches or Abruzzo Italian Steakhouse for hearty Italian-American dishes.

Terminal B: Enjoy Saison, a French-inspired bistro, or Mediterrano, offering Mediterranean fare with plenty of vegetarian options.

Terminal C: Known for its United-operated OTG restaurants, where you can order directly from iPads. Try Kaedama for ramen or Caps Beer Garden for craft brews and burgers.
Shopping at EWR
If you’re in the mood to splurge or just pick up a last-minute gift, Newark Airport has a decent selection of shops. Duty-free shops are available in all terminals, and you can find plenty of boutiques offering everything from high-end fashion to tech gadgets.
Smoking Lounge at Newark Airport
Sorry, smokers—you won’t find any smoking lounges inside Newark Airport. The only designated smoking areas are outside the terminals, meaning you’ll need to go through security again if you step outside for a cigarette. It’s not the most convenient setup, but it’s in line with most major U.S. airports these days.

Tips for Navigating Newark Airport Lounges

Use Lounge Access Through Credit Cards
If you have a Priority Pass, The Platinum Card® from American Express, or similar credit card, make sure to take advantage of the lounge access perks that come with it. The Centurion Lounge alone makes the Amex Platinum worth it for frequent travelers.
Get There Early
Lounges, especially the more popular ones like the Centurion Lounge and United Polaris Lounge, can fill up fast during peak hours. Arriving early ensures you get a good seat and can enjoy the amenities without feeling rushed.
Know Your Terminal
Since Newark is divided into three major terminals, plan accordingly so you don’t end up stuck in the wrong terminal without access to the lounge you want to visit.
Check Security Wait Times
For lounges located pre-security, like Art & Lounge, make sure to allow enough time to get through security after your visit, especially during busy periods.

Bottom Line

Newark Liberty International Airport may not have the reputation for glamor that its NYC counterparts do, but it has an impressive selection of lounges to enhance your travel experience.

Whether you’re flying United and taking advantage of their multiple United Lounges, indulging in luxury at the Centurion Lounge, or using a Priority Pass to kick back at Art & Lounge, there’s no shortage of ways to relax and recharge.

Next time you find yourself passing through EWR, use this guide to make the most of your time, and maybe even treat yourself to a pre-flight cocktail, a gourmet meal, or a well-earned nap.