United Polaris Lounge

United Polaris Lounge – New York-Newark, NJ (EWR)

Opened in June 2018, the United Polaris Lounge at New York – Newark airport is a luxurious haven for passengers departing or arriving in United’s intercontinental premium cabin, as well as Star Alliance long-haul Business and First Class passengers.

The club is located immediately across the security checkpoint, between gates C102 and C120, next to Starbucks.

United Polaris Lounge EWR design

A vast circular marble-clad lobby in monochrome tones greets visitors. Up on the ceiling is a light sculpture by Brooklyn-based Richard Clarkson Studio evoking the constellations of the 12 zodiac signs, in a nod to the Polaris brand. To the left, a hallway opens onto the lounge proper, revealing an elegant and luminous space with floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the tarmac.

United Polaris Lounge – New York-Newark, NJ (EWR)

Inspired by the design of the United Polaris Lounge Chicago O’Hare and United Polaris Lounge San Francisco, the decor blends soothing blue, gray, and white tones. Marble partitions, accent lighting, and designer light fixtures create a luxurious and serene ambiance.

The seating configuration appeals to solo travelers, couples, and larger groups alike. With 455 seats across 27,100 square feet, the club is by no means intimate, but the smart layout and sheer variety of seating options aim at accommodating the most discerning needs.

Solo travelers will find 44 productivity pods outfitted with personal lighting, USB and power, a coat hook, and a laptop table, which provide excellent privacy and comfort.

United Polaris Lounge – New York-Newark, NJ (EWR)

For a more casual vibe, the Polaris Lounge Newark offers inviting star-shaped couches in the bar area, egg chairs, and intimate seating for couples with with privacy dividers. All seats are outfitted with power and USB outlets.

For private phone calls or impromptu meetings, guests can retreat to one of the four phone rooms, all elegantly appointed with an ergonomic chair, a desk, and a work lamp.

The Polaris Lounge Newark plays on the cosmos metaphor with star-shaped clusters of seats, “stardust” motifs on the ceiling, and dimly-lit hallways outfitted with LED twinkling stars.

United Polaris Lounge EWR amenities

The United Polaris Lounge Newark features an a line-up of world-class amenities, including shower suites, private relaxation rooms, and a complimentary full-service restaurant.

United Polaris Lounge – New York-Newark, NJ (EWR)

The imposing buffet features an assortment of small plates, salads, entrees, and sweets. The focus is definitely on comfort food, with all-time favorites such as ravioli, BLT sandwiches, cold cuts, and bruschetta, but the more refined or heath-conscious palate will also find a salad bar, grilled veggies, and curried salmon. Breakfast is a traditional hot buffet featuring eggs, sausage, and other staples.

The complimentary full-service restaurant offers complete a-la-carte meal in elegant surroundings. 24 tables accommodate up to 48 diners on a first-come, first-serve basis. The service gives passengers departing on short flights to Western Europe the opportunity to dine on the ground, thereby maximizing sleep on board.

United Polaris Lounge – New York-Newark, NJ (EWR)

The stunning marble-clad bar boasts a selection of 14 international wines, Champagne, six beers on tap, and a generous assortment of liquors and spirits. The bartenders also double as baristas, and will craft the espresso drink of your choice. Soda, juices, infused and bottled water, tea, and espresso are available for self-service in coolers in the buffet area.

The Polaris Lounge EWR features ten spacious and exquisitely designed shower suites appointed with a rain shower, a heavenly memory foam bath mat, over-sized Saks Fifth Avenue-branded towels, a pair of slippers, and Cowshed Spa bath products in wall-mounted dispensers. Essentials such as combs, toothbrushes, toothpaste, shower caps, and shaving kits are available upon request.

United also offers clothes pressing service: hang your clothes through the double door, ring the bell, and your items will be promptly returned to you while you freshen up.

United Polaris Lounge – New York-Newark, NJ (EWR)

In lieu of traditional public bathrooms, the Polaris Lounge sports generously-sized individual all-gender stalls equipped with a toilet, a sink, an ottoman, and plenty of room to change or freshen up.

Ten individual napping rooms featuring a day bed, eye masks, ear plugs, Saks Fifth Avenue-branded pillows and blankets, and a white noise machine, await weary travelers.

The showers and sleeping rooms are available on a first-come, first-serve basis from the Valet, next to the customer service area. We recommend inquiring early should their be a wait at peak times.

United Polaris Lounge EWR bottom line

United Polaris Lounge – New York-Newark, NJ (EWR)

The United Polaris Lounge at New York-Newark Liberty airport is the best lounge at Newark and one of the top contenders in the New York City area. The elegant design, combined with an impressive line-up of amenities and services, is sure to make a lasting impression. While a few airlines offer a-la-carte dining, United’s product is the closest to replicating a true restaurant experience.

Note that the Polaris Lounge, while located centrally, is a 15 minute walk from the furthest gate. Star Alliance passengers departing from Terminal B need to take the shuttle bus near gate C71, and should allow at least 30 minutes to reach their terminal.

For more details, see our in-depth soft opening review.