loooooong layover in NYC
 

I've got a five hour layover at Newark Airport on the 26th of December. I'll be coming into the airport around 1pm and leaving on a lengthy international flight at 6pm. Does anyone have suggestions about how I can pass the time? I've considered taking the airtrain into Penn Station and getting a taxi to see some sights, BUT, I don't want to miss my flight. I love to read but I'd really like to do something that will keep me moving since I'll have to sit still so long on the international flight. Is there anything closer to the airport that's interesting to see/do?

THANKS!!

If you factor in the time it takes to go through security again and getting cabs back and forth, you won't have enough time to leave the airport.
There are some OK places to have a bite to eat, one is a sort of diner. Can you get a pass to the Presidents Club? That is a great place to go when you have too much time to kill.
The day after Christmas, you might be hitting traffic and crowds everywhere also, I think staying at the airport is the best bet.
There isn't really anything interesting near the airport , unless you count the prison on the highway :)

I agree: Since most international carriers require a minimum of 2 hours advance check in and some require 3 hours, you wouldn't have much time to go anywhere. Just kick back, read a good book, get a bite to eat, and shop duty free.

I realize this is even more sitting, but some airports have places where you can rent movies - you might want to check that out. Good luck!

If you stay at the airport, Terminal C is nicest and the best for food and shops.

Another option would be to take a cab to Jersey Gardens mall for outlet shopping. It would be about a 5 minute ride to get there. I think there may be a theater there too if you wanted to catch a movie.

You guys are great! Thanks so much for the suggestions and keep them coming if you will. This site has proven to be invaluable for planning travel.

Pretty sure I won't be checking out the prison especially after watching Shawshank for the second time this weekend.

LOL, I look at that prison every time we drive to the airport ... so creepy right next to hotels and all :(

Enjoy your trip!

I agree with Jersey Gardens as being the only realistic place to go within that time frame. Newark Airport has opened up a lot of stores & restaurants in the past few years. It's not that bad of a place to hang out for a few hours, and the security check lines can be LONG, so plan on checking in early for your international flight.

How about bidding on a cheap airport hotel on priceline, go for a long nap and a shower?

Even though you would have to go back through security, the close to three hours outside the airport may refresh you for your trip.

If that isn't an option, agreed stay at the airport.