EWR Newark Airport Guide: Everything You Need to Know

Quick Overview of Newark Airport

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) is one of three major airports serving the New York City metro area, and it's actually the oldest of the three. It sits in Newark, New Jersey, about 16 miles southwest of Midtown Manhattan. If you're flying United, this is your NYC hub. EWR handles roughly 50 million passengers a year, and despite its reputation, recent renovations have made it significantly more pleasant.

The airport has three terminals: A, B, and C. They're connected by the AirTrain, a free monorail that loops around the entire airport complex. Let's break it all down.

Terminal Breakdown

Terminal A (The New One)

Terminal A is the star of the show. This brand-new, million-square-foot terminal replaced the old Terminal A and it's genuinely impressive. Think soaring ceilings, natural light, wide concourses, and modern everything. It has 33 gates and serves Air Canada, American Airlines, Delta, JetBlue, and United.

The dining and retail here are a massive upgrade from what Newark used to offer. You'll find a solid mix of sit-down restaurants, fast-casual spots, and grab-and-go options. The American Express Centurion Lounge is set to open here, and at over 17,000 square feet, it'll be one of the largest in the world.

Terminal A also has a United Club, American Admirals Club, and Delta Sky Club.

Terminal B

Terminal B is the international terminal, consisting of three concourses. This is where you'll find most international carriers operating out of Newark. It's the oldest-feeling terminal, but it gets the job done. If you're sleeping overnight at EWR, Terminal B actually has some of the better spots, with armrest-free benches inside security.

Terminal C

Terminal C is United's main hub terminal. If you're a United frequent flier, you'll spend most of your time here. It has multiple United Club locations, and it's generally the most well-maintained terminal thanks to United's investment. Gates 120-139 handle most domestic United flights, while international departures use the higher-numbered gates.

Getting Between Terminals

The AirTrain connects all three terminals and runs 24/7. It's completely free when traveling between terminals and parking lots. The full loop takes about 10 minutes. Don't try to walk between terminals; they're not connected by walkways.

Important construction note: The AirTrain is undergoing a replacement project. Weekday service may be suspended during certain daytime hours (typically 5:00 AM to 3:00 PM) to allow construction. Check the airport website before your trip for the latest schedule, and plan for shuttle bus alternatives during construction windows.

Getting to Manhattan and NYC

NJ Transit + AirTrain (Best Value)

This is the most popular option. Take the AirTrain to Newark Liberty International Airport Station, then catch an NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station. The total cost is about $15.75 one-way, and the AirTrain fee is included when you buy your NJ Transit ticket. Travel time is 30-40 minutes to Penn Station, with trains running every 15-30 minutes.

Buy your ticket through the NJ Transit Mobile App or ticket vending machines at the station. The AirTrain access fee ($8.75) is automatically bundled in.

Taxi and Rideshare

Taxis to Manhattan run $50-75 plus tolls and tip, depending on your destination. Uber and Lyft pickups are available at designated areas in each terminal. During rush hour, expect the drive to take 45-90 minutes. Off-peak, you might make it in 30 minutes.

Newark Airport Express Bus

This bus runs to Port Authority Bus Terminal, Bryant Park, and Grand Central Terminal in Manhattan. It's cheaper than a taxi at around $18.70 one-way and runs every 15-30 minutes.

Rental Cars

The rental car facility is connected via AirTrain. All major companies are represented. Keep in mind that driving into Manhattan means dealing with tolls, traffic, and parking costs that can easily exceed $50/day.

Airport Lounges

Terminal A Lounges

• United Club - Standard United lounge amenities, complimentary snacks and drinks
• American Airlines Admirals Club - Full bar, hot food, WiFi
• Delta Sky Club - Premium drinks, snacks, and comfortable seating
• Amex Centurion Lounge - Opening soon, expected to be 17,000+ square feet with chef-curated dining

Terminal C Lounges

• United Club (multiple locations) - Several throughout the terminal since this is United's hub
• United Polaris Lounge - For international business and first class passengers; excellent dining, showers, and rest areas

If you don't have lounge access through your airline or credit card, Priority Pass and day passes are available at select locations.

Food and Dining

EWR has over 150 dining options across all three terminals. The new Terminal A brought a wave of quality restaurants that significantly raised the bar.

Terminal C has the most options as United's hub, with everything from quick bites to sit-down restaurants. You'll find the usual airport chains (Starbucks, McDonald's) alongside better options.

Terminal B has fewer standout options, but you won't go hungry. Look for the food court areas near the gate clusters.

Pro tip: If you have time and AirTrain access, Terminal A is worth visiting just for the food, even if you're flying out of another terminal. Just leave enough time to get back through security.

WiFi

Free, unlimited WiFi is available throughout all terminals. Connect to the "_Free EWR WiFi" network. No registration or payment required. Speeds are decent for browsing and email but don't expect to stream 4K video smoothly during peak hours.

Charging Stations

Charging outlets and USB ports are available throughout the terminals, especially near gates and dining areas. Terminal C generally has the best charging infrastructure. The new Terminal A has built-in charging at most seats. If you're in Terminal B, finding outlets can be more of a hunt, so bring a portable battery.

Sleeping at EWR

Newark isn't the most comfortable airport for sleeping, but it's doable.

Best Sleeping Spots

• Terminal C, near gates 133-134 - United sometimes provides cots during major delays. Even without cots, this area tends to be quieter.
• Terminal C, near gate C70 - Carpeted areas with less foot traffic
• Terminal C meditation room - Warm, quiet, and relatively peaceful
• Terminal B inside security - Has some armrest-free benches

What to Know

Airport staff generally tolerate overnight sleepers, but there's a chance you'll be moved from airside to landside areas until about 4:00 AM when security checkpoints reopen. Most seats have armrests that prevent lying down, so a travel pillow and blanket go a long way. During major weather events, United staff in Terminal C have been known to hand out blankets and pillows.

Nearby Hotels

The Newark Liberty International Airport Marriott is on airport grounds and offers free shuttle service from all terminals. It's your best bet if you need real sleep between flights.

Layover Tips

• Short layover (1-2 hours): Stay in your terminal. Grab food and find your next gate. Don't risk the AirTrain transfer.
• Medium layover (3-5 hours): If you have lounge access, use it. Otherwise, explore Terminal A's dining if you're not already there. The AirTrain ride between terminals takes about 5-10 minutes.
• Long layover (6+ hours): Consider heading into Newark or Manhattan. The NJ Transit train gets you to Penn Station in 30 minutes. Just give yourself at least 2 hours to get back and through security.
• Overnight layover: Book the Marriott if budget allows. Otherwise, Terminal C near gate C70 is your best bet for a nap.

Showers

Shower access is available through United Club lounges in Terminal C for eligible passengers or those who purchase a day pass. There aren't standalone shower facilities at EWR, so lounge access is your only option.

Pro Tips

• EWR's security lines can be long, especially at Terminal B. Allow extra time, particularly during morning rush (6-9 AM).
• TSA PreCheck and Clear lanes are available at all terminals and can save you significant time.
• If you're connecting through EWR on an international itinerary, you'll clear customs here even if your final destination is domestic.
• Cell phone lots are available for people picking you up, so they don't have to circle the terminal.
• The AirTrain is free between terminals but costs $8.75 to exit at the NJ Transit station.

Frequently Asked Questions