Chicago O’Hare International Airport Lounges


Estimated reading time: 7 minutes

When you’re making connections in the Windy City, a lounge at Chicago O’Hare International Airport can significantly enhance your travel experience.

Aerial view of an airport
Aerial view of Chicago O’Hare Airport. Image credit: jmsilva/Getty Images

Chicago O’Hare International Airport, a bustling hub connecting the Windy City to destinations worldwide, offers a diverse array of airport lounges across its terminals. Each lounge, often aligned with the airlines they serve, provides a sanctuary away from the terminal hustle. As you plan your layover at O’Hare, consider these thoughtfully appointed lounges, each offering a unique way to enrich your travel experience through luxury, convenience, or tranquility.

Table of Contents

The passenger tunnel at Chicago O’Hare Airport. Image credit: aimintang/iStock

United Club

Location:

  • Terminal 1, Concourse B: Gate B6, Gate B18
  • Terminal 1, Concourse C: Gate C10
  • Terminal 2: Gate F9

Experience a blend of comfort and convenience at O’Hare’s United Club lounges. Whether you’re at Gate B6 with its cozy ambiance, B18 with its spacious L-shaped design, or the expansive 22,000 square feet lounge at Gate C10, each venue promises relaxation and productivity. Enjoy a hot meal, surf the web with free Wi-Fi, or catch up on news in designated TV areas. The C10 location stands out with its modern decor, featuring artwork from local Chicago artists and industrial-style furnishings, enhancing your pre-flight experience.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • Access to the United Club lounges is available to all United Club members and travelers flying United or Star Alliance flights can purchase a one-day pass for $59.
  • Facilities prioritize long-term members, particularly during busy periods, which may limit availability for one-day pass holders.

United Polaris Lounge

Location: Terminal 1, gate C18

Step into the exclusive realm of the United Polaris Lounge, designed for ultimate comfort and productivity. This lounge features semi-private cubicles complete with charging stations and pull-out tables, perfect for those needing a quiet workspace. For a more social vibe, the lounge bar awaits, where visitors can store their own wine in climate-controlled lockers. Enjoy buffet service or opt for waiter-service dining, with the added luxury of made-to-order espressos and other coffee drinks. When relaxation calls, unwind in one of the plush daybeds or refresh in the upscale shower suites.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • Passengers flying long-haul international flights on United Polaris Business Class.
  • Passengers flying on departing Star Alliance Business or First Class flights.

American Airlines Admirals Club

 Location:

  • Terminal 3: Gate G8
  • Terminal 3: Gate L2A
  • Terminal 3: Gate H6/K6

Navigate through the diverse offerings of the American Airlines Admirals Club at Chicago O’Hare. The Concourse G lounge, although small, is rich with electrical outlets, making it ideal for travelers looking to stay powered and productive. Available printers and a selection of basic snacks, continental breakfast, and beverages make it a practical spot. For those requiring more space and a scenic view, the lounge between Concourses H and K offers expansive tarmac views and meeting rooms for team gatherings. Food options here are primarily pre-packaged, with shower facilities available for a refreshing break. The Concourse L Admirals Club mirrors many amenities of the G lounge but stands out with accessible facilities, ensuring comfort for all travelers.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • Open to American Airlines Admirals Club members.
  • Accessible to travelers flying with American Airlines or partner airlines who have purchased a day pass.
  • Complimentary for first and business-class passengers on American or one world international flights and transcontinental flights.
  • Military personnel in uniform receive complimentary access.
  • Certain credit card holders may also gain entry through their card benefits.

American Airlines Flagship Lounge

Location: Terminal 3, between Gates H6 and K6

Located on the entire second floor between Concourses H and K, the American Airlines Flagship Lounge at Chicago O’Hare exudes a sense of luxury and exclusivity. Guests can indulge in a diverse buffet that includes cold cuts, salads, and freshly-made sushi, complemented by craft brews and top-shelf liquors from the bar. For relaxation, the lounge offers dedicated TV watching areas, quiet zones for unwinding, and Qi wireless chargers throughout. Noteworthy are the elegant shower suites equipped with rainfall and handheld shower heads and premium CO Bigelow toiletries, providing a refreshing escape for travelers.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • Accessible to passengers flying first class on American Airlines.
  • Available to Platinum Pro members and oneworld Emerald or Sapphire members.
  • Lounge access can also be purchased with a one-day pass for $150 or 15,000 AAdvantage miles, subject to capacity.
  • The lounge prioritizes business class passengers and those with qualifying elite status with American Airlines or oneworld partner airlines.

Delta Sky Club

Location: Terminal 5, between Gates M11 and M14

Delta Sky Club at O’Hare Terminal 5 is a spacious retreat, boasting 22,000 square feet of modern lounge area designed to accommodate nearly 400 guests. This location offers a significant upgrade from Delta’s previous setup in Terminal 2, emphasizing comfort and convenience with modern touches and local art. The lounge features cozy alcoves for quiet work, a business center with printing facilities, and a range of dining options from continental breakfasts to salad bars, and yes, Chicago-style hot dogs. Additional luxury amenities include premium shower suites and a unique full-service bar that complements the expansive food offerings with everything from charcuterie to hot entrees​.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • Delta Sky Club Members can access the lounge when they have same-day ticketed air travel on Delta or its partner airlines.
  • American Express Platinum Card Members may also access the lounge under similar conditions, needing a same-day ticket on Delta or a Delta-marketed flight operated by WestJet. These cardholders can bring either two guests or immediate family members for a fee.
  • Access is not allowed for Centurion Card Members flying on Basic Economy fares.
  • Travelers flying on Delta or other SkyTeam airlines with SkyTeam Elite Plus status (e.g., Delta Platinum Medallion or SkyTeam Elite Plus) may have complimentary access subject to space availability.

Swissport Lounge

Location: Terminal 5, next to Gate M13

The Swissport Lounge at Chicago O’Hare offers a tranquil retreat with a green, plant-filled ambiance that soothes immediately upon entry. Although it’s not the largest space, it provides workstations that are ideal for those needing to catch up on work, complemented by limited charging stations available at these specific areas. The lounge serves a modest selection of food including snacks like crackers and cheese during the day, with an expanded offering that includes hot dishes such as sweet barbecue meatballs coming available in the evening. Beverages include a self-serve bar with a basic selection of liquors and beers.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • Accessible through various membership programs like Priority Pass.
  • Passengers can also purchase a day pass for $40.
  • Access may be limited during peak hours from 3:00 pm to 8:30 pm due to space constraints.

SAS Lounge

Location: Terminal 5, near Gate M19

The SAS Lounge at Chicago O’Hare offers a smart and stylish setting reminiscent of a sleek, modern IKEA showroom. This compact space is equipped with iMacs at workstations for internet access, adding a functional touch to its chic decor. The food selection is intriguing, featuring items like fresh salads, sandwiches, and a variety of snacks, all presented in a self-serve buffet style. The lounge maintains a minimalist and uncluttered aesthetic, providing a calm environment ideal for relaxation or catching up on work before your flight.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • The lounge welcomes Business and First Class passengers traveling on Star Alliance flights, with the ability to bring one guest.
  • Star Alliance Gold Members also have access, with the same guest privilege.
  • SAS Go passengers can purchase access for a fee, varying depending on whether payment is made online or at the airport.
  • Day passes are available for purchase online at $35 or at the reception for $59.

Walking through Chicago O’Hare Airport. Image credit: groveb/iStock

British Airways Lounge

Location: Terminal 5, near Gate M17

The British Airways Lounge, specifically the Terraces Lounge, offers a refined and comfortable space for travelers. It is designed with a light, airy atmosphere, reminiscent of a classic British garden terrace. This lounge is equipped with ample seating options from couches to armchairs, designed to ensure comfort during your wait. While the lounge offers a selection of snacks and drinks, it’s noted for not having particularly luxurious or extensive food options. The design features include modern decor with a clear emphasis on functionality and comfort, perfect for both relaxing and catching up on work.

Lounge Access and Pricing:

  • Accessible to British Airways and Oneworld business and first-class international passengers.
  • British Airways Executive Club members and Oneworld Emerald VIP status holders are also granted entry.
  • The lounge offers paid access which varies in price depending on whether it is purchased online or at the airport reception.

The Best Way to Get to Chicago O’Hare Airport

If you’re traveling to Chicago, streamline your journey by booking a reliable Blacklane airport transfer service. Ideal for business meetings or leisure, Blacklane eliminates the hassle of taxi queues, offering a quick, stress-free alternative. Your chauffeur will await your arrival for up to 60 minutes after your plane lands, ensuring you have ample time to navigate through arrivals. Choose Blacklane to travel directly to your hotel or any other location in the city, allowing you to settle in comfortably or commence your activities without delay.

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ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Ellie Smith

Ellie is an avid traveler, writer, and adventurer, with a passion for exploring the world and sharing her experiences through storytelling. Working for global chauffeur company Blacklane and having lived in cities like Dubai and Berlin, she has gained valuable first-hand experience in uncovering hidden gems worldwide.