Key Takeaways
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Relax at Austin-Bergstrom: Austin airport lounges, including the Amex Centurion and Delta Sky Club, offer comfort, free snacks, and Wi-Fi to elevate your travel experience.
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Exclusive Access: Many lounges require specific credit cards like Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve, or Priority Pass memberships for entry.
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Explore Beyond the Airport: Extend your lounge experience by visiting unique local spots like Skylark Lounge and Firehouse Lounge in downtown Austin.
When flying through Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS), knowing where to find a good lounge can make all the difference in your travel experience.
Whether you’re looking for a place to relax before your flight or somewhere to get some work done, Austin’s airport lounges offer a variety of amenities to suit your needs.
In this guide, we’ll take you through the top Austin airport lounges, detailing what each offers, how you can access them, and a few tips for making the most of your time at the airport. Let’s dive in!
Pack your bags.
Why Airport Lounges Are a Traveler’s Best Friend
Let’s face it: airports can be overwhelming. With long lines, crowded gates, and overpriced food, the pre-flight experience can often be stressful. That’s where airport lounges come in.
They provide a sanctuary from the chaos, offering comfy seating, complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, and a place to recharge—both your devices and yourself.
Austin airport lounges are no exception, and they offer a slice of relaxation, Austin-style, which means you can expect some local flair even as you prepare to take off.
Types of Lounges at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
Austin-Bergstrom is relatively small compared to mega-hubs like LAX or JFK, but it still has a decent selection of lounges. Some are tied to airlines, while others offer access through credit card memberships or independent entry fees.
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American Express Centurion Lounge - The Iconic Amex Lounge in Austin
Located near Gate 14, the American Express Centurion Lounge Austin is a must-visit if you’re an Amex cardholder.
This lounge is designed to help you unwind with plush seating, locally inspired food and drinks, and excellent service.
Known for its stylish decor and high-end amenities, the Centurion Lounge in Austin feels like a mini-oasis. Some say the cocktails alone are worth the visit—who can argue with a crafted drink before takeoff?
Access- Open to The Platinum Card® from American Express, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and Centurion cardholders.
- Day passes aren’t available, so you’ll need the appropriate card for entry.
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Delta Sky Club - Delta Lounge Austin Style
The Delta Sky Club Austin is located near Gate 2. This lounge is a solid option for Delta travelers seeking comfort and quiet. The lounge offers complimentary snacks, beverages (including alcoholic drinks), and Wi-Fi.
Plus, you can always count on excellent customer service from the friendly Delta team. If you’re a regular Delta flyer, the Sky Club is a comfortable home away from home, offering you a chance to escape the airport noise and relax.
Access- Complimentary access for Delta One, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card cardholders, and Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card cardholders.
- Day passes may be purchased for $50 if you’re flying Delta.
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Chase Sapphire Lounge (Coming Soon) - Austin's Newest Lounge on the Horizon
Scheduled to open in 2024, the Chase Sapphire Lounge Austin is one to watch out for. The Chase Lounge Austin Airport is expected to bring luxury to frequent flyers who hold a Chase Sapphire Reserve card.
Chase’s lounges are known for their upscale feel, featuring fine dining and sophisticated spaces to work or relax. Keep an eye on this one—it could be your next favorite spot at AUS.
Access- Exclusive to Chase Sapphire Reserve® cardholders.
- Day pass access is not expected, making it a cardholder perk.
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United Club Lounge - A Dependable Retreat
The United Club at Austin airport, located near Gate 22, provides all the essentials: snacks, beverages (yes, the alcoholic kind too), a quiet environment, and fast Wi-Fi.
It’s not the most luxurious lounge, but it’s reliable, and it serves its purpose well. If you’re a United flyer, this lounge will help you recharge before your flight.
Access- Free entry for United Club members and United First and Business Class travelers.
- One-time passes are available for $59.
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The Escape Lounge - Your Priority Pass Ticket to Comfort
The Escape Lounge Austin, located near Gate 1, is open to Priority Pass members, but it also welcomes walk-ins for a fee. This lounge is part of the American Express Global Lounge Collection and offers travelers a comfortable space to relax, with excellent Wi-Fi, tasty snacks, and a good selection of drinks. The modern design and quiet ambiance make it a great place to chill before your flight.
Access- Priority Pass members get in free.
- Day passes available for around $45.
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The British Airways Lounge - A Touch of British Elegance
Located near Gate 24, the British Airways Lounge Austin provides a refined experience for its premium passengers. Here, you’ll find elegant decor, a selection of international snacks, and high-quality beverages. It’s ideal for travelers flying business or first class on British Airways.
Access- Open to British Airways Business and First Class passengers.
- Access is also granted to Oneworld Sapphire and Emerald members.
Tips for Enjoying the Lounges at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport
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Arrive EarlyMost lounges at Austin airport fill up fast, especially during peak travel times. If you’re planning on spending some time in a lounge before your flight, make sure to arrive early. This gives you ample time to enjoy the amenities without the stress of rushing to your gate.
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Check for Lounge Passes with Your Credit CardBefore buying a day pass or assuming you don’t have access, check your credit cards. Cards like the The Platinum Card® from American Express, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card often come with lounge benefits. You might already have access to some of the best lounges without even knowing it!
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Don’t Forget About Priority PassPriority Pass is accepted at many lounges worldwide, and Austin airport lounges are no exception. If you have a Priority Pass membership through a premium credit card or otherwise, make sure you check which lounges you can enter for free.
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Use LoungeBuddy for Lounge AccessIf you’re unsure which lounges are available to you, LoungeBuddy is a handy app that helps travelers find lounges they can access. It’s especially helpful if you’re flying on an airline that doesn’t offer a lounge at your departure airport.
Lounges Outside the Airport: Exploring Austin’s Unique Lounge Scene
Austin’s lounge scene extends well beyond the airport. If you have some time to kill before heading to the airport, or after landing, why not check out some of the city’s unique lounges? Whether you’re in the mood for live music or a cool drink, there’s a lounge for you.
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Skylark Lounge Austin
One of the coolest spots in town, Skylark Lounge Austin is a hidden gem where you can enjoy live music, cold drinks, and a laid-back atmosphere. It’s a favorite among locals and tourists alike.
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Sahara Lounge Austin
For those craving a more eclectic vibe, the Sahara Lounge Austin offers an intimate music venue with a funky, welcoming ambiance. Located in East Austin, this is a great spot to unwind and soak in some local culture.
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Carousel Lounge Austin
The Carousel Lounge Austin is an eccentric, circus-themed spot that has been a staple in Austin for decades. It’s quirky, fun, and a great place to kick back with friends.
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Firehouse Lounge Austin
Located in downtown Austin, Firehouse Lounge Austin is part hostel, part lounge. It’s perfect for grabbing a craft cocktail in a speakeasy-style setting. The historic firehouse building only adds to the atmosphere.
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G&S Lounge Austin
For a casual and classic dive bar experience, check out G&S Lounge Austin. It’s unpretentious, affordable, and full of character—a true Austin gem.
Bottom Line
Whether you’re heading out of town or just exploring Austin’s vibrant lounge scene, Austin airport lounges and the city’s local hotspots offer a variety of experiences to enhance your travel.
From the sleek Amex Centurion Lounge Austin to the funky local haunts like Skylark Lounge and Sahara Lounge, you have plenty of options to choose from. So next time you’re at Austin-Bergstrom, make sure to give yourself some time to unwind and enjoy all that Austin’s lounge culture has to offer.
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