AmEx to Open Centurion Lounge at Newark Airport — With Live Music

Some AmEx lounges stand out for their unexpected amenities. The JFK Centurion Lounge has a mini spa. The Denver version has bar games like pool and table shuffleboard. But the newest AmEx lounge will have a first-of-its-kind amenity: a piano bar.

You’ll get to hear a professional musician tickle the ivories over at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), which will host the newest Centurion Lounge when it opens in 2026. The new, 17,000-square-foot Centurion Lounge will be located in Terminal A.

It joins a list of what is now more than 40 lounges worldwide, and it also rounds out the company’s lounge offerings in the Tri-State area of New York, New Jersey and Connecticut — joining existing lounges at John F. Kennedy Airport and LaGuardia Airport.

Newark AmEx Centurion Lounge amenities

Each AmEx lounge exhibits some local flair. For example, the San Francisco Centurion Lounge has a wine tasting area stocked with bottles from nearby Napa Valley.

The amenities set to be a part of the new Newark lounge might be the most charming yet. AmEx said it will include features inspired by New Jersey's history and culture, including:

• A jazz bar: The cocktail bar is inspired by the 20th-century jazz era in the state.

• A piano lounge: AmEx says it’ll feature live music.

• An indoor terrace: A 1,400-square-foot indoor terrace will overlook the airport’s airfield while providing views of Manhattan.

• An archival collection: This exhibit will feature artifacts and antiques celebrating New Jersey history.

Other common amenities in AmEx Centurion Lounges that you'll find at the EWR location include a hot food buffet, complimentary Wi-Fi, showers, work stations and a family area.

» Learn more: Best credit cards for AmEx lounge access

How to access AmEx Centurion Lounges

AmEx Centurion Lounges are open to eligible cardholders within three hours of the departure time on their same-day, confirmed boarding pass.

Seven credit cards have Centurion Lounge access, including:

Terms apply.

Additional cards include:

• The American Express Corporate Platinum Card.

• Centurion® Card.

• Business Centurion® Card.

Platinum and Centurion Card Members can bring up to two guests, but for a fee. Under the recently updated Centurion Lounge guest policy, cardholders owe a fee of $50 per adult guest they choose to bring in. However, cardholders are allowed up to two complimentary guests if they spend $75,000 or more each calendar year on their card. Terms apply.

(Top photo courtesy of American Express)