Things to do near Newark Airport

Travelers eye Newark airport as a connecting hub where they can indulge in nearby attractions or do some fancy shopping at the airport, and then head to their final destination. From here, NYC is across the Brooklyn Bridge, and it takes just 15 miles to reach Manhattan. Those passing by are missing Jersey’s cultural hub, as there are plenty of things to do near Newark Airport.

Things to do near Newark Airport

Besides, there is a plethora of indulgence inside the airport as well. Depending on how long your layover is, here are the top attractions inside and around Newark Airport – 

Also Read: United Airlines Baggage Policy

7 Best Things to do near Newark Airport

In and around Newark International Airport, there are a lot of attractions to covers with the likes of Riverfront Park, Prudential Centre, and more – 

1. Explore the Prudential Center

Image of Prudential Center Newark - Airlinespolicy

This is ideal for passengers on the 5-8 hours layovers. The center is only 3 miles away from the airport. This popular tourist attraction holds various fancy events, including festivals and concerts. 

This center also hosts the New Jersey Devils hockey team.

One of the reasons behind being the best things to do around Newark airport is because of its multipurpose indoor facility that hosts various sports events like ice hockey and a bowling arena. This place also hosts various dining options where you can enjoy traditional Southern cuisine while attending the sports action. 

It is located at 25 Lafayette Street, and you can contact them at +1-973-757‑6000.

Also Read: American Airlines Vs Delta

2. Indulge into some dining experience

Restaurants in the Newark airport

No matter how long a layover is, there are plenty of restaurants in the Newark airport to dine in. From grab-and-go to service restaurants, from chic cafes to luxury fine dining options, Newark Airport has everything for every pocket.

Terminal A has far fewer QSRs, but you can try Phillip’s, which serves the perfect seafood. Terminal B has some of the fancy delights of Newark airport dining – Sora Sushi and the Belgian Beer Cafe.

Terminal C offers Wabi Sabi, Caps Beer Garden, and Nonna’s Meatball Kitchen.

The airport also has 24-hour Subway and Dunkin Donuts for midnight snacks. 

Related: Find out which New York airport best suits your travel needs in our Best New York Airport Comparison of JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark.

3. Go Shopping

newark airport stores

One of the best things to do near Newark Airport is hop on a shopping spree, as there are plenty of luxury stores and boutiques around. Plus, don’t miss the duty-free and convenient Newark airport stores that offer travel goods, gadgets, liquor, imported perfumes, and other luxury items.

List of duty-free shops in New York located at Newark airport.

Shop NameTerminalLocationCategories
Dufry Duty and Tax FreeCGates C101-115 (Near Gate 107)Duty Free
Dufry Duty and Tax FreeCGates C120-139 ConnectorDuty Free
Dufry Duty and Tax FreeCGates C70-99 (Near Gate 80)Duty Free
EJE Travel Retail Duty FreeBB3 SatelliteGifts & Souvenirs, Fashion & Accessories, Duty Free, $2 Water
EJE Travel Retail Duty FreeBB2 ConnectorSpirits & Wine, Gifts & Souvenirs, Fashion & Accessories, Duty Free, $2 Water
EJE Travel Retail Duty FreeBB3 ConnectorSpirits & Wine, Gifts & Souvenirs, Fashion & Accessories, Duty Free, $2 Water
EJE Travel Retail Duty FreeBB3 RotundaSpirits & Wine, Gifts & Souvenirs, Fashion & Accessories, Duty Free, $2 Water
EJE Travel Retail Duty FreeBNear B3 Concourse EntranceSpirits & Wine, Gifts & Souvenirs, Duty Free, $2 Water
EvolveACentral PlazaDuty Free, $2 Water
The AtriumACentral PlazaSpirits & Wine, Gifts & Souvenirs, Duty Free, $2 Water
The Atrium KioskASouth Pier near Gates 3/4Spirits & Wine, Gifts & Souvenirs, Duty Free, $2 Water

Also Read: 8 Best Airlines for Dogs

4. Take a tour of the Grammy Museum

Image of Grammy Mueseum Newark - Airlinespolicy

It is ideal for travelers who are on long layovers of 6 hours or more. Located just 4 miles away from the Newark Liberty International Airport, this museum honors the talents who received the prestigious Grammy Awards, along with the history behind the awards and artists’ accomplishments.

One of the main attractions here is the memorabilia of The Beatles, which highlights their famous 1960s tour alongside artifacts, clothes, lyric sheets, and handwritten setlists.

This could be one of the best things to do near Newark airport, as in the evening you can soak yourself into the musical concerts, recording sessions, and karaoke sessions.

For booking you can contact them at +1 973-757-6300. They are located at 165 Mulberry Street, Parking at 25 Lafayette Street.

Also Read: Is Play Airlines Safe?

5. Explore Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart

Image showing Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Newark - Airlinespolicy

One of the best things to do around Newark airport is to visit the architectural marvel that showcases the 18th-century Gothic Revivalism facade.

This Basilica was designed by Jeremiah O’Rourke and Monsignor George Hobbart Doane, and it took 29 years to complete.

The interior side is laced with tainted glass windows and vaulted ceilings that give a stark reminiscence of the Roman era.

Also Read: Best New York Airport – A Comparison of JFK, LaGuardia, and Newark

6. Airport Lounge

Image Showing Airport

One of the best things to do at Newark Airport is relax in one of the lounges inside the terminal, which will rejuvenate you for your next flight. You can access a day pass for plenty of lounges, including the airline-affiliated ones. Non-members can take an entry at EWR Lounge for just 40 USD a day and indulge in unlimited food and beverages, showers, a spa, entertainment, and more. 

7. Tour the Riverfront Park

Image showing riverfront park, newark

You can utilize an 8-hour layover by visiting the city’s principal attractions. One of the main attractions here is Essex County Riverfront Park, which is the one and only waterfront green corridor in the city.

You indulge in a peaceful walk, take a rest, and soak into the tranquility. This park covers 12 acres and offers facilities like a baseball field, basketball court, soccer field, picnic benches, and more. 

This is one of the rarest picturesque spots overlooking the Passaic River. This park also hosts yoga, Zumba, and running clubs. 

Conclusion

In and around Newark Airport, there is a diverse range of activities and attractions for travelers with varying layover durations.

For those with 5-8 hours to spare, the Prudential Center and Riverfront are a few miles away. Besides, there are dining options in abundance, catering to all tastes and budgets.

Shopaholics can embark on luxury stores, boutiques, and duty-free shops within Newark Airport. 

For longer layovers of 6 hours or more, the Grammy Museum justifies the best things to do near Newark airport.

In essence, Newark Airport is not just a transit point but a gateway to a kaleidoscope of experiences, ensuring travelers make the most of their layovers and time in Newark.

Frequently Asked Questions

What to do near Newark Airport in 4 hours?

You can explore nearby attractions such as the Prudential Center, indulge in a dining experience, or on a shopping spree within the airport. 

Can you sleep at Newark airport?

At Terminal 4, there are sleeping pods that offer paid service. On top of that, you can utilize the armrest benches that are installed across the terminals at Newark Airport.

Does EWR have free wifi?

Yes, Newark Airport provides complimentary WiFi. You need to contact the airport representative to do that.

Does Newark Airport have sleeping pods?

The airport offers sleeping pods and is subject to hourly rates. You can also access comfortable seating throughout the terminals, where you can rest or nap during layovers.

How do I spend a day near Newark Airport?

You can explore attractions like the Prudential Center, visit the Grammy Museum, gaze at the architectural marvel at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, or take a solitary stroll at the scenic Essex County Riverfront Park.

Are there restaurants near Newark Airport?

Yes. Around Newark Liberty International Airport, you can access Howard Johnson by Wyndham Newark Airport, Holiday Inn Express, Hampton Inn, and more.

Uncategorized

Sophia Hamilton's profile picture

Sophia

facebook twitter

A seasoned content writer with a passion for storytelling, who loves creating content that engages the audience, builds trust, drives results, and solves problems related to travel assistance and travel news

View All Posts

Leave a Reply