Holiday Inn Express Newark Airport Elizabeth by IHG

The hotel is primarily recognized for its exceptional convenience as an airport hotel, offering a reliable 24-hour shuttle service to and from Newark Liberty International Airport. This makes it an ideal choice for airport travelers, including those with early flights, layovers, or connecting flights. Its strategic location also appeals to cruise passengers departing from nearby ports and business travelers seeking an efficient overnight stop. Guests frequently highlight the hotel's overall cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, and the generally positive experience provided for short stays. To ensure a smooth journey, guests are advised to confirm the shuttle's specific drop-off and pick-up points at the airport, as it typically services the AirTrain station, and to be aware of the hotel's parking policies, which often involve an additional fee.

Facilities & Amenities
The hotel offers a range of amenities designed for convenience, though some guests note that the overall appearance can be a bit shabby or outdated, suggesting a need for remodeling or touch-up paint. Despite this, the rooms are generally described as well-furnished and spacious. Guests appreciate the availability of free Wi-Fi, ensuring connectivity throughout their stay. A fitness center is on-site, equipped with cardio machines, dumbbells, and a multi-exercise tower, though some find it basic. Vending machines are available for snacks and drinks, and some rooms include a microwave and mini-fridge. A laundry dryer is also present, though some found it to be slow. The hotel provides ice machines for guest use.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guest feedback on room comfort and cleanliness is generally positive, with many describing the rooms as clean, spacious, and well-maintained. The beds are consistently praised for being comfortable, often featuring both firm and soft pillow options for a restful night's sleep. While most rooms are considered quiet, some guests have noted noise from the air conditioning unit, which can be loud, or occasional disturbances from corridor noise or other guests. The bathrooms are frequently mentioned as clean and well-stocked with towels, though some reviews point out issues such as grime at the tub base, broken drain pieces, peeling gloss, low water pressure, or dripping showers. In-room amenities like Keurig coffee makers and ample charging outlets are appreciated.

Dining & Food Quality
The complimentary breakfast is a significant highlight for many guests, often described as excellent, hot, and well-stocked with a wide selection of food. Options typically include hot items like eggs, pancakes, and waffles, alongside various breads and coffee. While the breakfast variety is generally well-received, some guests express concern over the use of plastic disposable plates and cutlery, citing environmental impact. A few reviews mention that the coffee can be diluted or lack flavor, and some found the fruit selection to be limited or of poor quality. There is no on-site restaurant for lunch or dinner, which means guests rely on food delivery from nearby establishments or walking to a neighboring hotel's restaurant.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel's prime location near Newark Liberty International Airport is its most emphasized feature, making it highly convenient for airport transit. A free shuttle service operates regularly, typically every 30 minutes, transporting guests to and from the airport's P4 AirTrain station. However, some guests find the shuttle's frequency insufficient or its drop-off point inconvenient for direct terminal access, especially for Terminal A, requiring additional time via the AirTrain. The surrounding area offers limited dining options within walking distance, prompting many to rely on food delivery or taxis. Parking is available, but it is a significant point of contention, as many guests are surprised by the additional daily fee, which can be substantial, and some mention it being a gated facility.

Staff & Service
The staff at the hotel consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and efficiency. Guests frequently highlight the quick check-in and check-out processes, noting that staff members are often accommodating and responsive to requests, even during busy periods. Many reviews commend the attentive service provided, whether at the front desk, by the shuttle drivers, or during breakfast service, where staff are often seen ensuring items are well-stocked. While most experiences are overwhelmingly positive, a few guests have reported isolated incidents of unprofessional behavior or perceived lack of responsiveness to specific issues, such as noise complaints or maintenance requests. Overall, the staff's commitment to providing a welcoming and smooth experience is a recurring theme, contributing significantly to guest satisfaction.

Additional Information
Beyond the standard offerings, guests appreciate certain unique aspects of the hotel experience. The IHG rewards program is mentioned positively by loyal members, suggesting that benefits are recognized and valued. The parking facility is often described as safe and convenient, particularly due to its gated nature and the presence of cameras, providing peace of mind for those leaving their vehicles for extended periods. While the hotel is generally quiet despite its proximity to the airport, some guests note that the air conditioning units in rooms can produce a distinctive noise when cycling on and off. The hotel's policy regarding early check-in fees has been a point of discussion for some guests, though it is not a widespread complaint.