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Newark Airport Lounge Recommendations: Best Options for Families, Business Travelers & Long Layovers
December 12, 2024
Not all airport lounges are one-size-fits-all. Depending on whether you’re traveling with kids, flying for business, or enduring a long layover, you might prefer one lounge over another. Newark Liberty International Airport has a range of lounges – each with its own atmosphere and perks.
In this traveler-focused guide, we highlight which EWR lounge is best suited for families, which lounge caters to business needs, and which lounge is a lifesaver on long layovers. By choosing the right lounge for your situation, you’ll get the most comfort and value out of your time at Newark.
Best Lounge at EWR for Families with Children
Traveling with kids can be hectic, but the right lounge can make a world of difference. You’ll want a place with plenty of space, a relaxed vibe, maybe some kid-friendly snacks, and policies that won’t nickel-and-dime you for bringing the whole family.
Top Pick: American Airlines Admirals Club – Terminal A
This may come as a surprise, but the Admirals Club checks many boxes for families:
- Family-friendly entry policies: If you have an Admirals Club membership or a day pass, you can bring your spouse and kids under 18 at no extra charge. That’s huge – one ticket covers the whole family. United Club’s day passes, by contrast, only let children under 2 in free. Admirals Club welcomes your whole crew with one pass or card, up to 3 kids with a day pass or any number of immediate family with membership.
- Kids’ area and amenities: The Newark Admirals Club is newly designed and offers a small children’s play zone with things like coloring books or a TV with cartoons. It’s not a full-on playroom, but it helps. The lounge overall isn’t as crowded or hectic as some others, meaning your kids won’t be as likely to disturb others – and there’s space to spread out.
- Snacks and drinks: The buffet has items that kids typically like – crackers, cookies, fruit, etc. And you can ask the bartender for juice or milk. Having complimentary snacks on hand is a lifesaver with hungry kids, avoiding overpriced terminal food. Plus, there are private bathrooms which make diaper changes or toddler potty breaks easier than using the public restrooms.
- Overall comfort: The Admirals Club’s atmosphere is quiet but not stuffy. Other travelers there often include families and leisure travelers (since EWR isn’t a huge AA business hub), so you’ll feel more at ease with kids than, say, in a very business-heavy lounge.
Runner Up: United Club – Terminal C (near Gate C123)
United has multiple lounges at Newark, and if you’re a United family, the large United Club by gate C123 in Terminal C is your best bet:
- It’s a spacious two-story lounge with a variety of seating – easier to find a secluded corner for your family.
- This location also features a family room according to some reports from travelers. Even if that room is small, it’s a bonus.
- United’s policy for membership holders allows children under 21 in with the member. So if you have the United Club card or membership, your kids can come in free as guests. If you’re using one-time passes, only under-2 are free, others would need their own pass.
- Snacks are decent (pastries, yogurt in morning; cheese, veggies later in day) and there’s often a pancake machine in the mornings which kids love watching.
- Why not #1? Mainly because if you don’t already have United access, the cost could add up for a family. But for United frequent-flyer families, it’s a solid lounge to use.
Tips for families: Whichever lounge you use, try to nab a spot near a window or near the TVs. Bring a tablet or coloring book to keep them occupied – lounges have Wi-Fi and are generally quieter than the gate, which can help with nap time or calm activities.
Also, ask the front desk if they have any kids’ amenities; some lounges stock coloring kits or small toys to give out. And remember, children should be supervised at all times in lounges – don’t let them run freely or disturb other guests. A lounge can definitely reduce travel stress for families, as long as you choose one that welcomes them and come prepared.
Best Lounge at EWR for Business Travelers
If you’re a business traveler, you likely prioritize reliable Wi-Fi, ample power outlets, a quiet environment, and maybe a decent cocktail or espresso to keep you going. You might need to squeeze in a conference call or answer emails, so a lounge that offers privacy and workstations is key. Newark sees a lot of business traffic, especially in Terminal C (United’s hub) and Terminal B for international.
Top Pick: United Polaris Lounge – Terminal C
For the fortunate business travelers flying international business class on United or partners, the Polaris Lounge is hands-down the best work-and-refresh environment:
- Work amenities: Polaris has private cubicles, productivity pods, and even conference room space. It’s designed for people to get work done. There are plenty of outlets, and even semi-private daybeds if you need a quick recharge nap between meetings.
- Quiet zones: Unlike general lounges, Polaris is typically quieter (since access is limited and there tend to be fewer families or leisure groups inside). You’ll find it easier to concentrate or make a call in a phone booth if needed.
- Premium perks: As a business traveler, you might also appreciate a good meal – Polaris’s gourmet buffet and a la carte dining can serve as a working lunch/dinner so you can skip the airport food court. And a shower to freshen up before or after a long flight can be a game-changer (Polaris has excellent shower suites).
- Drawback: Of course, Polaris access is limited. You likely need to be flying long-haul business class or be a high-status flyer on an international route to get in. If that’s you – don’t miss it. If not, see below.
Top Pick (for general business travelers) American Express Centurion Lounge (coming soon) or Delta Sky Club – Terminal A.
Currently, Newark’s Centurion Lounge isn’t open yet, but it’s slated to open in Terminal A possibly by 2026. Centurion Lounges are made for the modern business traveler: they have high-speed Wi-Fi, dedicated work areas, noise-buffering phone rooms, and top-notch coffee and cocktails for when the laptop closes.
So if you have an The Platinum Card® from American Express or Centurion® Card from American Express, keep an eye on that opening – it could become the go-to for any business traveler regardless of airline, since Terminal A is accessible (if you’re flying out of A or possibly even if you’re not, as Terminal A hosts multiple airlines).
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Until then, if you’re a business traveler flying Delta or with Amex Platinum:
- Delta Sky Club – Terminal A: It’s brand new as of 2023 and designed with business travelers in mind. There are semi-private booths and lots of counter-height work tables with outlets, perfect for pulling out the laptop. The Wi-Fi is fast and there are quiet corners away from the bar area if you need focus. Also, given Delta’s smaller footprint at EWR, the Sky Club is often less crowded than United’s clubs at peak times, making it more conducive to work.
- If you’re not on Delta or not eligible for Polaris, the United Club at Terminal C can suffice for work: it has good Wi-Fi and even some phone booths. It will be more crowded/noisier than Polaris, though. But one plus: United Clubs have printer/fax services in the business center, if you ever need to print documents or log into a desktop briefly. Polaris and Sky Club don’t really have public printers.
Runner Up: SASco/Lufthansa Business Lounge – Terminal B
For those flying international out of Terminal B on Star Alliance, the Lufthansa Business Lounge is actually a decent business traveler space. It’s typically filled with business travelers heading to Europe, has work carrels, and a quieter ambiance. You’ll only have access if you’re flying one of those airlines in biz or have status. But worth noting since EWR Terminal B doesn’t have a United lounge, these are the ones to use for Star Alliance business flyers in Terminal B.
What Matters to Business Travelers and How These Lounges Meet It
- Power & Wi-Fi: All mentioned lounges have excellent Wi-Fi and abundant power outlets. In Polaris and Centurion/Delta, you’ll rarely fight for an outlet – seats are designed with them. Admirals Club and United Club are older-fashioned but still have business centers and outlets if you sit along walls or high-top tables.
- Noise level: Polaris and Centurion (future) will be quietest. Delta Sky Club is moderate. Admirals Club is fairly quiet generally. United Clubs can get noisy when full; try the upstairs of the C123 lounge which is a bit calmer.
- Privacy: For calls or sensitive work, Polaris has phone rooms; Centurion Lounges always have phone rooms; United Clubs at EWR have small phone booths; Delta Sky Club doesn’t have enclosed offices but has nooks you can use with a headset.
- Food/Drink: If you’re entertaining a client or just need a bite, Polaris’s dining wins. Centurion Lounges have chef-curated buffets and premium bars. Delta Sky Club has a solid buffet and free drinks; Admirals Club has light snacks unless you pay for larger bites; United Clubs similar – basic snacks.
Business traveler tip: If you have multiple calls, consider scheduling them during your lounge stay rather than in transit or on the plane. Use the lounge Wi-Fi for any large file downloads pre-flight. And don’t forget to utilize those shower facilities if coming off an overnight – showing up to a meeting in NYC fresh and suit-pressed after a lounge shower can enhance your professional image after a red-eye.
Best Lounge at EWR for Long Layovers or Delays
When you’re stuck at Newark for several hours, you want a lounge that can keep you comfortable and occupied for the long haul. Important factors include comfy seating, hearty food options, and if possible, showers or entertainment to pass the time.
Top Pick: United Club – Terminal C (Gate C123 location) for most people.
Here’s why this United Club is a haven for long waits:
- Shower Suites: This United Club by gate C123 features shower facilities, rare for a domestic lounge. If you’ve got a 5+ hour layover or an unexpected delay, a hot shower can be rejuvenating.
- Multiple Floors with varied seating: You can change scenery – sit at the dining area for a snack, then move to a lounge chair by the window to plane-spot, then maybe a quiet corner to read. This Club is one of Newark’s largest, so it won’t feel claustrophobic over many hours.
- Extended buffet offerings: United Clubs have upped their food game slightly – during mealtimes, you’ll find salads, soups, maybe a hot entrée like chicken and rice. It’s not gourmet, but enough to make a meal so you’re not hungry during a long stay. There are also usually cookies or dessert in afternoons and always some kind of bread or bagel during breakfast.
- Productivity and entertainment: You can fire up your laptop and stream shows on the Wi-Fi, or catch up on work. The lounge has TVs (news, sports) if you want passive entertainment. There are also usually plenty of magazines/newspapers.
Access consideration: If you’re on a long layover, you likely arrived on one flight and will depart on another. Note that to use the United Club in Terminal C, you need to be in Terminal C. If your incoming and outgoing flights are on United through Terminal C, you’re set. If you land in Terminal B and depart from Terminal B hours later (say international connection), you might not be able to access Terminal C’s club – in that case, use the SAS or Lufthansa lounge in Terminal B if they’re open.
Runner Up: Delta Sky Club – Terminal A
If you’re flying Delta with a long layover, the Sky Club is quite comfortable for extended stays:
- It has some semi-private areas where you could even catch a quick snooze.
- Decent hot food selections and a tending bar mean you can have lunch and even dinner if your layover spans that long – with varied options so you don’t get menu fatigue.
- One drawback: no showers in Newark’s Sky Club. So if you want a shower on a long layover, not possible there. But you could use the Be Relax Spa outside for a paid shower or massage if desperate.
Honorable Mention: Art & Lounge (Terminal B landside)
For example, if you have a 8-hour daytime layover at Newark and you’re not tied to a specific terminal, you could actually leave the airport for a bit and come back early to use the Art & Lounge. It’s quiet during the day when no flights are prepping, and has some art exhibits to browse. Not amazing, but different. However, because it’s before security, it’s more of a lounge for departing passengers than connecting ones – you wouldn’t want to leave security mid-connection unless you had a LOT of time.
Key Amenities To Maximize During a Long Lounge Stay
- Showers: If available, definitely take advantage about halfway through your layover. It refreshes you and kills 30 minutes to an hour with getting ready, etc.
- Food schedule: Lounges often rotate food on a set schedule. If you’re there through a turnover, you get to sample multiple offerings. Pace yourself – maybe have breakfast when you arrive, then work/read, then have lunch later. This prevents boredom and keeps you satiated.
- Charging: A long stay means you’ll need to charge devices. Lounge outlets are your friend. Make sure to secure a seat near one. If one seat’s outlet stops working or you find none free, politely ask staff – sometimes they can point out less obvious plug points or reset a tripped surge protector.
- Exploring: Don’t be afraid to leave the lounge briefly to walk the terminal for exercise. The change of scenery can help. Since United has multiple clubs in Terminal C, with a long layover you could even lounge-hop: spend time in Club at Gate C74 (newer) and then later move to Club at Gate C123 to change it up.
Avoiding lounge fatigue: Oddly, spending many hours in even a nice lounge can get tiresome. The lighting is often subdued, and seating though comfy is not a bed. If your layover crosses a mealtime, consider stepping out to the main terminal for a bit just to break up the time – maybe browse a shop or get a fancy coffee – then return to the lounge. Some lounges have a re-entry stamp or you just show your credentials again. Just keep your boarding pass and ID handy to re-clear security if you exit.
For overnight layovers, note that lounges at EWR close at night. There are no 24-hour lounges. So if you have an overnight layover, you might need to get a hotel or be prepared to rough it in the terminal after lounge closing.
FAQs – Newark Lounges for Different Needs
Which Newark lounge has showers?
The United Club in Terminal C near Gate C123 offers shower facilities, and of course the United Polaris Lounge (Terminal C) has high-end shower suites. No other lounges at EWR have showers as of now – Delta Sky Club, Admirals Club, and others do not.
I have kids and we’re flying United – is it worth getting lounge access at EWR?
It can be, yes. United Clubs can definitely help with kids: they provide a quieter space and free snacks/drinks which kids appreciate. There’s also more room for them to play with a tablet or read without being in the thick of crowds. If you have the United Explorer card, you may already have two free passes – use them for your family trip. If you don’t have any access method, consider buying a day pass for $59 – but note, that will only cover you and a lap infant; a spouse would need their own or you’d have to use two passes.
I need to get some work done – is the Wi-Fi reliable in Newark’s lounges?
Yes, generally lounge Wi-Fi is more reliable and faster than the public airport Wi-Fi. For example, if the airport free network is overloaded, the lounge networks will give you better bandwidth for video calls or large emails. Business travelers routinely conduct Zoom meetings from lounges. In United Clubs and Admirals Clubs, look for signs with Wi-Fi network and password. In Delta Sky Club and Polaris, it might auto-connect via a portal or use the membership credentials. Speeds of 50+ Mbps are common in lounges, which is plenty for VPN and video conferencing.
I’m flying economy on a long international trip. Is there a way to use a lounge during my Newark layover?
Yes. If you don’t have status or a premium ticket, you can either buy a day pass or use a credit card perk. For instance, suppose you’re flying economy from Latin America connecting through Newark to Europe. If your long layover is in Newark, you could:
- Purchase a United Club pass if you’re in Terminal C. That will let you shower, eat, relax.
- If you have the Chase Sapphire Reserve or other Priority Pass card, remember Newark itself has no PP lounge, so that won’t help here.
- Another idea: Some international carriers allow paying for lounge access even in economy – e.g., Lufthansa sometimes sells entry to their business lounge for ~$50 if you have a long wait.
- If you’re on American connecting, you can buy the Admirals day pass, yes.
Are there any lounges in Newark open 24/7 for overnight stays?
Unfortunately, no. All lounges at EWR close at night since the airport itself isn’t a true 24-hour operation. United Clubs and Polaris typically close by 10:00 PM, Delta Sky Club by ~7:30-8 PM, Admirals Club by 8:30 PM latest. If you’re stuck overnight due to a misconnect or weather, the lounges won’t be available in the wee hours. Newark’s terminals do remain open, and you might see stranded passengers sleeping at gates, but lounge staff go home. In such a case, see if the airline can put you in a hotel. If not, and you have to overnight in the terminal, it might be worth booking a day room at the airport Marriott or nearby hotel to catch a few hours of real sleep/shower and then return in the morning – and then use a lounge once they reopen.
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