Where to Park, Shop and Dine in Newark Liberty International Airport

Surprisingly, the first major airport serving the New York metropolitan area wasn’t LaGuardia or JFK, but Newark Liberty International Airport. Originally called Newark Metropolitan Airport when it first opened in 1928, the airport was renamed in 2002 to honor the victims of 9/11. It has a proud history of serving our country’s needs, ranking as the world's busiest commercial airport until 1939, when LaGuardia Airport surpassed it in that capacity. During WWII, Newark Airport was entirely under the control of the U.S. Army Air Corps, which used it for critical military operations that likely helped us end the war. In 1948, management of Newark Airport was assumed by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey, and this began an era of expansion, growing into the metropolitan airport we know today.

Terminal Layout

Newark Liberty International Airport has three terminals, A, B, and C. Each terminal operates independently, and there are no airside connections between them. But there’s a monorail system at EWR called the AirTrain. It runs 24/7, bringing passengers to and from terminals as needed.

Terminal A

Terminal A opened in 2023 with 33 gates. It serves airlines such as Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta Air Lines, JetBlue, and select United Airlines regional flights.

Terminal B

Terminal B is used for a mix of domestic and international flights. Airlines operating from Terminal B include British Airways, Lufthansa, Delta Air Lines (some international flights), and Spirit Airlines.

Terminal C

Terminal C is operated exclusively by United Airlines, serving as its primary East Coast hub, handling both domestic and international flights.

Please note that you should be extra careful when checking your terminal and gate information at EWR because some airlines operate from multiple terminals.

AirTrain Newark

AirTrain Newark is an automated monorail that operates 24/7 and helps passengers travel between the three airport terminals, parking garages, rental car facilities, and even the Newark Liberty International Airport Rail Station.

AirTrain is free within the airport. If you plan to connect to NJ Transit or Amtrak at the Rail Station, a fee is included in your train ticket when traveling beyond the airport.

Signs throughout the airport direct you to the nearest AirTrain station, and onboard announcements make it easy to know when you’ve arrived at your stop.

Trains arrive every three to five minutes during peak hours, and every fifteen minutes overnight, so you never have to wait long for your ride. Note that all stations are wheelchair accessible and equipped with elevators and escalators.

Moving Walkways

EWR has some moving walkways, too. Specifically, the newly constructed Terminal A includes moving walkways within its pedestrian bridge. However, not all areas feature moving walkways, so if you’re traveling with children or have lots of luggage, you should plan for having to walk long distances. If you or someone in your party needs mobility assistance, it’s available upon request. It's best done when booking your flight.

Transportation

Getting to and from Newark Airport is straightforward, thanks to various transportation options.

Train Services

As mentioned, the AirTrain Newark monorail connects the airport terminals to the Newark Liberty International Airport Station, where travelers can access NJ Transit and Amtrak trains. NJ Transit's Northeast Corridor and North Jersey Coast Lines frequently service popular destinations, including New York Penn Station, Trenton, and the Jersey Shore. From there, Amtrak connects cities along the Northeast Corridor, including Philadelphia and Washington, D.C..

Buses

The Newark Airport Express provides direct service between the airport and Midtown Manhattan. Clear signage throughout the airport directs travelers to boarding points. Buses operate approximately every 15 to 30 minutes, stopping at Grand Central Station, Bryant Park, and the Port Authority Bus Terminal.

For local connections, NJ Transit operates multiple bus routes serving the airport. Route 62 runs 24 hours daily between Newark Penn Station and Elizabeth, with stops at each terminal. The Go Bus 28 provides nearly 24-hour rapid service between Bloomfield and the airport, stopping at Terminals A, B, and C.

Rideshares and Taxis

Rideshare services (think Lyft and Uber) can operate at EWR, with designated pickup zones at each terminal. Traditional taxi services are also readily available, and you’ll find no shortage of taxis ready to take you where you want to go. Just follow the overhead signage to find where to pick up your ride.

Car Rentals

Major car rental companies are accessible via the AirTrain. Just hop on and listen for your stop.

Parking at EWR

Depending on how long you need to park, you have several options at EWR.

Short-Term Parking

Short-term parking is directly across from Terminals A, B, and C. This is the most convenient option for picking up or dropping off passengers. Short-term lots are within easy walking distance of each terminal.

Daily Parking

Garage P4 offers covered parking with direct access to the AirTrain and an easy connection to all terminals. Electric vehicle charging stations are available inside the garage, too, although they are limited in number.

Economy Parking

Economy Lot P6 is the most affordable on-site option for travelers taking longer trips. However, it’s about three miles from the terminals, so be ready to spend a lot of extra time between waiting for the public shuttle and getting dropped off at your terminal. This option isn’t good for anyone cutting it close to departure time.

Important to Know

All official airport parking facilities accept credit and debit cards and contactless payment methods. However, leave your bills and coins in your wallet because cash isn’t accepted. Also, a free cell phone lot is available if you have extra time to wait before your person is ready to be picked up from arrivals.

 

Hotels Near Newark Airport

With massive amounts of travelers passing through each year (over 49 million in 2023!), Newark Liberty International Airport is surrounded by hotel options for weary people.

Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott

1 Hotel Road, Newark, NJ 07114
 (973) 623-0006

Located right next to the airport, this luxury hotel offers complimentary shuttle service to all terminals and features on-site dining and meeting spaces for business travelers.

SpringHill Suites by Marriott Newark Liberty International Airport

652 Route 1 and 9 South, Newark, NJ 07114
 (973) 624-5300

An all-suite hotel offering complimentary airport shuttle service, spacious accommodations with separate living areas, and complimentary breakfast.

Hampton Inn Newark-Airport

450 US Highway 1 and 9 South, Newark, NJ 07114
 (973) 242-0900

Hampton Inn Newark-Airport offers travelers complimentary 24-hour shuttle service to the airport, a fitness center, and a hot breakfast spread included with every stay.

Holiday Inn Newark International Airport

160 Frontage Road, Newark, NJ 07114
 (973) 242-0900

This hotel is conveniently located near the airport and offers complimentary shuttle service. It features a business center and a fitness room.

Hilton Newark Airport

1170 Spring Street, Elizabeth, NJ 07201
 (908) 351-3900

With an indoor pool and free airport shuttle service, this Hilton is a popular choice for travelers at Newark Airport.

Courtyard by Marriott Newark Liberty International Airport

600 Route 1 and 9 South, Newark, NJ 07114
 (973) 643-8500

This hotel also offers easy access to the airport with a free shuttle, modern rooms, a fitness center, and an on-site restaurant.

Lounges and Clubs at EWR

Looking to lounge around a bit before or after your flight? No worries; there are plenty of lounges and clubs at EWR.

Terminal A

United Club, located near Gate A27, provides travelers with complimentary snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and quiet seating.

Delta Sky Club, located near Gate A8, offers a buffet, a full-service bar, workstations, and a comfortable environment for Delta passengers.

American Airlines Admirals Club, located near Gate A8 on the mezzanine level, offers light snacks, a full-service bar, conference rooms, and Wi-Fi access for eligible travelers.

Terminal B

The British Airways Lounge, near Gates B50 to B58, offers pre-flight dining, a self-serve buffet, a staffed bar, work areas, and shower facilities for premium passengers.

The SAS Lounge, near Gate B60, provides a buffet, a self-serve bar, complimentary Wi-Fi, private phone rooms, and quiet workspaces.

The USO Center, located outside security on Level 2, welcomes active-duty military members and their families with free snacks, entertainment, and a restful environment.

Terminal C

United Club lounges are available near Gates C74 and C123. They provide snacks, beverages, Wi-Fi, and business services to United Airlines travelers.

The United Polaris Lounge, between Gates C102 and C120, is available for international business and first-class passengers. It offers private dining rooms, nap pods, spa-like showers, and luxurious seating.

Places to Eat

Traveling always seems to make people hungry. If you want to grab a bite or a beverage ahead of your flight, you’re in luck! There’s so much more than fast food options at EWR, with different choices in each terminal. Here’s a sample to whet your appetite.

Terminal A

Felina Cucina is a stylish Italian restaurant in an elegant setting that serves wood-fired pizzas, handmade pastas, and a thoughtful selection of wines.

Smokehouse BBQ brings bold flavors to the airport with its tender brisket, pulled pork sandwiches, rib tips, and a range of house-made sauces.

Terminal B

Piattino: A Neighborhood Bistro serves artisan-style pizzas cooked in a traditional Italian oven, along with fresh pastas, antipasti, and wine selections.

Sora Japanese Cuisine & Sushi Bar specializes in fresh sushi, sashimi, and ramen and offers travelers a peaceful, sit-down dining experience near the gates.

Terminal C

Abruzzo Italian Steakhouse delivers a refined dining experience with premium steaks, classic Italian dishes, and an upscale atmosphere perfect for longer layovers.

Wanderlust Burger Bar offers a menu inspired by international flavors, featuring gourmet burgers, creative sides, and a full-service bar with craft cocktails.

Things to Do During a Long Layover

If you have a long layover at Newark Liberty International Airport, several nearby attractions are worth exploring outside the airport grounds.

• The Newark Museum of Art is just a short drive away and offers a nice mix of fine art, science exhibits, and a beautiful sculpture garden.
• The Ironbound District, famous for its Portuguese and Brazilian communities, is known for its vibrant restaurants and bakeries. It’s fun to explore and stop for quick bites along the way.
• For sports fans, the Prudential Center hosts concerts, hockey games, and other significant events. If the universe cooperates with timing, it could be an exciting way to enjoy your layover.

General Information About EWR

EWR prioritizes accessibility with elevators, ramps, accessible restrooms, and full wheelchair access throughout the AirTrain system. Wheelchair assistance can be pre-arranged through your airline. For travelers with service animals, Newark offers multiple pet relief areas both pre- and post-security across all terminals, including fenced outdoor spaces and indoor stations equipped with waste disposal amenities, ensuring comfort and convenience for service animals during travel. For nursing parents, Mamava lactation suites are in all terminals.

EWR provides free Wi-Fi throughout all terminals, and charging stations are widely available. ATMs are located in each terminal. 

The Parking Spot

Getting through Newark Airport can be hectic, but parking does not have to be part of the stress. The Parking Spot offers a smarter alternative to on-site airport lots, with secure parking and dependable shuttle service that takes you straight from your car to your terminal and vice versa. Rather than circling crowded garages, you can reserve your space ahead of time and pull in knowing exactly where to go.

With well-lit, fully monitored lots, The Parking Spot gives you peace of mind that your car is safe while traveling. For even greater perks, including loyalty rewards and special discounts, travelers can join The Spot Club and enjoy an even smoother parking experience every time you fly.