Guide to Newark airport lounges in the Priority Pass Network

Located in New Jersey, but known for being one of the three major airports that moves passengers in and out of the New York City area, Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) currently serves more than 30 airlines.

Don't let the fact that it's on the other side of the Hudson River deter you from choosing this airport for your next trip to NYC. Being just 15 miles south of midtown Manhattan, EWR is a convenient option for both domestic and international travels. Depending on where you're staying, you may even find that traveling through EWR is more ideal than one of the neighboring, and perhaps more well-known airports – LaGuardia (LGA) and John F. Kennedy (JFK).

In this article, we'll share some helpful things to know about EWR airport, as well as how to access the lounge available to Priority Pass™ members.

What to know about Newark Liberty International Airport

Here is some interesting history and information about the airport's transportation you might keep in mind as you navigate EWR.

History

When it comes to its U.S. aviation history, EWR boasts several important titles. This airport was the first to have a paved runway, debuting in 1928. Soon after, runway lights were installed allowing there to be nighttime operations, a first in the country at the time. Just a couple years later, this airport was the first to build an air traffic control tower, plus an on-site weather station.

Airport transportation

The layout of the airport is somewhat simple: three standalone terminals A, B and C. In terms of traveling between New York City and the airport, you may need to use several modes of transportation. One option is to hop on AirTrain, a free monorail system that runs 24 hours a day. AirTrain can connect you with almost anywhere you need to go. Not only does it take passengers to all the terminals, parking and rental cars, but it also stops at Newark Liberty Airport Station. From this station, you can take a NJ Transit train to New York Penn Station.

What to do during a layover

If you find yourself with a long layover, consider grabbing a bite at one of the 100+ dining options in EWR airport. Relax in a lounge or enjoy a spa service. You can even find an interfaith chapel in Terminal C.

By the way, long layovers aren't just ideal for airport lounge visits. If you happen to find yourself in Newark in the springtime, you may want to consider leaving the airport to visit Branch Brook Park, home to the largest collection of cherry trees in the United States. In early April, you can catch the breathtaking view of over 5,000 Japanese cherry blossom trees in full bloom.

What to know about the Priority Pass network of lounges at EWR

Priority Pass is a popular membership program that offers access to a large network of airport lounges. There are over 1,300 locations throughout the world. With that kind of global footprint, you may be flying through an airport with a lounge in the Priority Pass network. There are several ways to get a Priority Pass membership, including as a benefit of a credit card. We'll explain membership options in more detail later.

Lounges can differ in layout and features, but important amenities like free food, drinks, Wi-Fi and plenty of comfortable places to relax are usually available. At EWR, Priority Pass members can access one lounge at the time of writing, and it can offer a relaxing way to spend a few hours in between flights.

British Airways Galleries Club Lounge –Terminal B

Guests at this lounge can enjoy a hot buffet with made-to-order stations, wine and spirits, comfortable sofas and armchairs, and business facilities.

• Location: Terminal B, near B2 satellite
• Hours: 9 AM to 2 PM daily for Priority Pass members
• Amenities include: Wi-Fi, refreshments (including alcohol), business center, TV room, flight monitors

How do I get access to lounges in the Priority Pass network at EWR?

There are several ways to get airport lounge access, including the following:

Purchase a Priority Pass membership

When you sign up for a membership with Priority Pass, you can choose between three annual plans. The membership levels suit different travel needs. For instance, if you want access to lounges without paying visit fees, consider the Prestige membership plan.

Complimentary Priority Pass Select membership with Chase Sapphire Reserve

Did you know that certain credit cards offer their cardmembers complimentary access to the Priority Pass network of lounges? The Chase Sapphire Reserve^® credit card is one of them. Once you get approved for the credit card, you can activate your Priority Pass Select membership. Besides that, you may find that the rewards program and other travel benefits are worth Chase Sapphire Reserve's annual fee.

In conclusion

Serving as an international stop for many travelers, EWR remains a bustling airport located a mere 15 miles from Manhattan. With a Priority Pass membership, you could access the British Airways Galleries Club Lounge at EWR and other participating lounges around the world. Annual membership plans are available directly through Priority Pass, and the Chase Sapphire Reserve credit card offers complimentary Priority Pass Select membership.

Discover other Priority Pass lounges across the United States:

• Priority Pass Dallas/Fort Worth (DFW)
• Priority Pass Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
• Priority Pass Boston (BOS)
• Priority Pass Houston (IAH)
• Priority Pass Seattle-Tacoma (SEA)
• Priority Pass Orlando (MCO)
• Priority Pass Las Vegas (LAS)
• Priority Pass Atlanta (ATL)
• Priority Pass San Francisco (SFO)
• Priority Pass Los Angeles (LAX)
• Priority Pass New York (JFK)