You’re staring at a map of New Jersey, specifically the cluster of hotels surrounding Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), and one name keeps popping up: Extended Stay America Suites Elizabeth Newark Airport. It looks affordable. The pictures show a kitchenette. But then you hit the reviews. One person says it was the perfect home base for a month; the next person claims they found a mysterious stain and the shuttle never showed up.
Kinda confusing, right?
Honestly, staying at this specific property at 45 International Blvd isn't like staying at a Marriott or a Hilton. It’s a different beast entirely. If you go in expecting a bellhop and a sprawling breakfast buffet, you're going to be disappointed. But if you're looking for a place to park your life for a few weeks without draining your bank account, there’s a specific way to play this.
Why Location Is the Real Selling Point
The biggest reason anyone books Extended Stay America Elizabeth NJ is the geography. You are essentially living in the backyard of The Mills at Jersey Gardens.
For the uninitiated, Jersey Gardens is a massive outlet mall. This is huge because New Jersey doesn't tax clothes or shoes. You can walk from the hotel to the mall in about five to ten minutes. If you’re relocating and need to buy literally everything for a new apartment, or if you’re a tourist looking to haul back three suitcases of Nike gear, this is prime real estate.
Beyond the shopping, you're about two miles from EWR.
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- The hotel offers a shuttle, but here's the catch: it usually runs from 7:00 AM to 10:30 PM.
- If your flight lands at midnight or takes off at 5:00 AM, that "free shuttle" is useless.
- You’ll be calling an Uber, which will cost you roughly $15 to $25 depending on surge pricing.
The Reality of the "Suite" Life
Let’s talk about the rooms. They call them suites, but basically, they are studio apartments. Every single room has a kitchen. You get a full-sized refrigerator, a two-burner stovetop, a microwave, and a sink.
Here is what they don't always tell you: The rooms don't always come stocked with "stuff."
Often, you have to go down to the front desk and ask for the "kitchen kit"—the pots, pans, and silverware. Sometimes they’re out. If you’re staying for a month, honestly, just go to the Target nearby and buy a cheap pan and a plate. It’ll save you the headache.
The "grab-and-go" breakfast is another point of contention. It’s usually coffee, tea, and muffins or granola bars. It’s not "breakfast" in the sense of eggs and bacon. It’s "I’m late for work and need a muffin" food.
Managing Your Expectations on Service
Housekeeping here is not daily. This is a massive shock to people who haven't stayed in an extended-stay property before.
- Stays of 1-6 nights: You get a "fresh linen" exchange at the front desk.
- Stays of 7+ nights: You get one full cleaning per week.
If you want the room cleaned every day, you have to pay an extra fee—usually around $10 per day. Most people who stay here for business just handle their own trash and swap towels at the desk. It’s a DIY vibe.
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The Security Deposit Situation
Be prepared for the $100 security deposit. They’ll authorize this on your card at check-in. If you’re using a debit card, that money is "gone" from your account until a few days after you check out. If you're on a tight budget, use a credit card for the deposit so it doesn't tie up your actual cash.
Is It Actually Safe and Clean?
This is where the nuances come in. Recent reviews from early 2026 suggest the hotel has undergone some "refreshing," including better bedding and larger 50-inch TVs. However, cleanliness is still hit-or-miss depending on which floor you end up on.
Expert Pro Tip: Ask for a room on a higher floor and specifically request a non-smoking room. Because people stay here for months, smells can linger. If you walk into a room and it smells like a 1980s bowling alley, don't unpack. Go right back to the desk and ask to switch.
The staff, like "Ray" and "Tiaira" who have been mentioned in recent traveler logs, are known for being helpful if you’re polite to them. It’s a high-volume hotel; a little kindness goes a long way with the front desk agents who are dealing with 150 rooms.
Practical Logistics for a Smooth Stay
If you’re planning to call Extended Stay America Elizabeth NJ home for a bit, you need a strategy.
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First, the parking situation. It’s not always free. Expect to pay about $20 per night for self-parking. If you’re there for a month, ask about a monthly parking rate; sometimes they can cut you a deal, but don't count on it.
Second, the laundry. There is a 24/7 coin-operated laundry room. It’s usually busy on Sunday nights when everyone is prepping for the work week. Aim for a Tuesday morning or a Friday night if you want a machine without a wait.
Nearby Essentials:
- Groceries: Stop & Shop is about a 10-minute drive away.
- Quick Food: There’s an Applebee’s and an IHOP within walking distance near the mall.
- NYC Access: You can take a shuttle or Uber to the Elizabeth North train station. From there, it's about a 30-minute ride into New York Penn Station.
The Final Verdict
This hotel is a tool. It’s not a vacation destination. If you need a kitchen, proximity to the airport, and a price point that doesn't make you weep, Extended Stay America Elizabeth NJ works. Just bring your own shampoo, check the shuttle hours before you book your flight, and remember that you're paying for the convenience of a fridge, not a five-star experience.
Next Steps for Your Trip:
- Verify the Shuttle: Call the front desk at 1-908-355-4300 a day before arrival to confirm the current shuttle hours, as they can shift.
- Join the Perks Program: Sign up for the "Extended Perks" program on their website before you book. It often drops the rate by $5-$10 a night instantly without needing points.
- Check the Map: Use a satellite view to look at the walking path to The Mills at Jersey Gardens; it's a short walk, but it's through a busy commercial area.