Guide to Chicago Airport Lounges: Top Things to Know [2024]

Key Takeaways

Chicago O’Hare offers a variety of lounges including United Club, Delta Sky Club, and Centurion Lounge, providing travelers with amenities like Wi-Fi, snacks, and relaxation spaces.
Lounge access is available via airline status, premium tickets, or credit card memberships like Amex Platinum and Priority Pass.
Midway Airport features a USO Lounge for active-duty military personnel, offering complimentary snacks, drinks, and relaxation areas.

Navigating a busy airport can be a test of patience, and if you’ve ever found yourself stuck in the chaos of a terminal, you know the feeling.

Luckily, airport lounges exist to make that wait a little more tolerable, and Chicago’s airports are no exception.

Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) and Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) are among the busiest airports in the U.S., and they offer an array of lounges for those looking to escape the noise and crowds.

This guide will walk you through the Chicago airport lounges scene at both O’Hare and Midway, detailing the amenities, access requirements, and some tips to make your next layover much more enjoyable.

Chicago O’Hare Airport Lounges Overview

As one of the largest and busiest airports in the world, Chicago O’Hare International Airport (ORD) features a wealth of lounge options. Whether you’re flying internationally or on a domestic trip, O’Hare has plenty of options for relaxation.

From the American Express Airport Lounge at ORD to the Centurion Lounge at Chicago O’Hare, there’s a space for almost every type of traveler.

So if you’re passing through ORD, consider treating yourself to a lounge visit. It’s like winning the airport lottery: you get peace, Wi-Fi, snacks, and if you’re lucky, maybe even a shower.

American Airlines Admirals Club
With multiple locations across O’Hare, the Admirals Club is a popular choice for American Airlines travelers. These lounges are located in Terminal 3, Concourse H/K and G, offering a variety of amenities such as snacks, a fully stocked bar (drinks may cost extra, depending on your membership), and comfortable seating for weary travelers.

American Airlines passengers flying first or business class, or those with Admirals Club memberships, can access these lounges. Plus, holders of certain credit cards can snag entry, so check your wallet before splurging on a day pass.

Highlights
- Available to American Airlines premium passengers and club members
- Snacks, Wi-Fi, and plenty of charging outlets
- Locations in Terminal 3, easy access for domestic travelers
United Club Lounges at O'Hare
Flying with United? O’Hare is a United Airlines hub, which means it’s home to several United Club lounges, strategically located in Terminal 1 at Concourses B and C. These lounges are ideal for United Airlines passengers looking for some downtime between flights. You’ll find a wide selection of snacks, hot and cold beverages, free Wi-Fi, and quiet spaces for work or relaxation.

Certain United credit cardholders, along with premium cabin flyers, can access the United Club lounges, while day passes are also available for purchase.

Highlights
- Multiple locations in Terminal 1, perfect for United flyers
- Complimentary snacks, drinks, and free Wi-Fi
- Available to United Club members and select United passengers
Delta Sky Club at O'Hare
Delta Sky Club is located in Terminal 2 at O’Hare, providing a tranquil space for Delta travelers. While the lounge is on the smaller side compared to others, it still offers the essentials: complimentary snacks, beverages, high-speed Wi-Fi, and plenty of comfortable seating.

If you’re traveling in business class with Delta or have a Delta Sky Club membership (or eligible credit card), this lounge is the perfect spot to catch your breath before a flight.

Highlights
- Conveniently located in Terminal 2 for Delta passengers
- Free snacks, beverages, and Wi-Fi
- Access for premium cabin travelers and Sky Club members
Centurion Lounge at Chicago O'Hare Airport
If you’re an American Express Platinum or Centurion cardholder, you can escape to the Centurion Lounge in Terminal 3 at O’Hare Airport.

One of the most coveted lounges at ORD, the Centurion Lounge at Chicago O’Hare offers a high-end experience with locally inspired gourmet food, premium cocktails, fast Wi-Fi, and a design that’s modern yet cozy. It’s essentially a little oasis in the middle of a hectic airport.

But be warned—Centurion Lounges can get crowded, especially during peak travel times, so plan your visit accordingly.

Highlights
- Exclusive to The Platinum Card® from American Express, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and Centurion cardholders
- Gourmet food, premium cocktails, and showers available
- Stylish, modern environment in Terminal 3
Swissport Lounge
Located in Terminal 5 at O’Hare, the Swissport Lounge offers international travelers a calm spot before boarding.

This lounge is accessible via Priority Pass membership or for a fee, making it a great choice for those without elite status or a specific airline lounge membership. It’s a bit smaller than some other options, but you’ll find light snacks, a selection of beverages, and ample seating.

If you’re flying internationally from Terminal 5 and don’t have access to an airline-specific lounge, this is a great alternative to the bustling terminal.

Highlights
- Access via Priority Pass or paid entry
- Available in Terminal 5 for international travelers
- Light snacks, beverages, and free Wi-Fi
British Airways Lounge
This one’s for the jet-setters. The British Airways Lounge at O’Hare is a sophisticated space for passengers flying in business or first class with British Airways. Located in Terminal 5, this lounge offers a quiet and luxurious environment to relax before international flights. Amenities include comfortable seating, premium dining, a well-stocked bar, and showers for freshening up.

While it caters primarily to British Airways premium passengers, other Oneworld alliance members in eligible cabins can access this lounge as well.

Highlights
- Located in Terminal 5 for British Airways passengers
- Premium dining, bar services, and showers
- Accessible for business and first-class flyers or Oneworld alliance members
Chicago Midway Airport Lounge
While O’Hare often takes center stage when talking about Chicago airport lounges, Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) also offers a lounge option. The USO Lounge at Midway is a welcoming space for active-duty military personnel and their families.

It offers complimentary snacks, beverages, and comfortable seating, all designed to give our service members a little R&R during their travels.

While Midway lacks the range of lounges that O’Hare offers, the USO Lounge is a significant perk for those who serve.

Highlights
- Available at Midway Airport for active military personnel and families
- Complimentary snacks, beverages, and relaxation spaces

How to Access Chicago Airport Lounges

Accessing Chicago O’Hare Airport Lounges and lounges at Midway depends largely on your airline ticket, frequent flyer status, or credit card benefits. Here are some of the most common ways to gain entry:

Elite Airline Status or Premium Cabin Tickets
First or business-class travelers, as well as elite frequent flyers, often enjoy complimentary lounge access. Make sure to check if your ticket qualifies for entry.
Credit Card Memberships
Premium travel credit cards such as The Platinum Card® from American Express, Chase Sapphire Reserve®, or United MileagePlus Club Cards such as United℠ Business Card offer lounge access as a perk. If you fly often, the annual fee might be worth the lounge benefits alone.
Day Passes
Most airline lounges offer day passes for purchase if you don’t have a membership or a premium ticket. These range from $50 to $75 and grant access for the day.
Priority Pass
A popular option for travelers, Priority Pass grants access to various independent lounges worldwide. Certain credit cards include a Priority Pass membership as a benefit, which opens up lounge access even if you’re flying economy.

Why Visit an Airport Lounge?

Let’s face it: airports aren’t exactly designed for comfort. Between the long lines, crowded gates, and overpriced food, airports can be exhausting. But the lounge? That’s where the magic happens. Here’s why a lounge visit is worth considering:

Comfortable Seating
Instead of fighting for a seat at your gate, you can kick back in a plush armchair or, if you’re lucky, snag a lounge with a recliner.
Complimentary Food and Drinks
Most lounges offer snacks, drinks, and sometimes even full meals—great for avoiding overpriced airport restaurants.
Quiet Workspaces
If you need to get some work done, lounges often provide desks, free Wi-Fi, and a quiet environment to focus.
Shower Facilities
After a long flight or before a red-eye, nothing beats the chance to take a shower at the lounge.
Escape the Crowds
Lounges offer a retreat from the bustling terminals, making layovers much more bearable.

Bottom Line

Chicago’s airport lounges offer a range of amenities, whether you’re flying from O’Hare or Midway. From the exclusive American Express Centurion Lounge at ORD to the cozy yet functional Swissport Lounge for international travelers, there’s something for everyone. Even if you’re flying economy, lounge access is easier than ever with credit card perks, day passes, and Priority Pass memberships.

Next time you find yourself at Chicago O’Hare Airport, consider ducking into one of these lounges—you’ll thank yourself when you’re not battling for a seat at the gate.

Travel may be stressful, but a good lounge can turn your airport experience from stressful to serene in minutes. After all, who wouldn’t want to trade airport chaos for snacks, Wi-Fi, and comfy seats?