Guide to Phoenix Airport Lounges - Top Things to Know [2024]

Key Takeaways

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport offers a variety of lounges, including high-end options like the Centurion and Chase Sapphire Lounges, as well as Priority Pass accessible spots like the Escape Lounge.
Terminal 4 is the lounge hub at PHX, home to the Centurion Lounge, Admirals Club, and more.
Lounge amenities range from complimentary snacks and drinks to premium services like showers, Wi-Fi, and workspaces, offering a comfortable break from airport chaos.

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.

Overview of Phoenix Airport Lounges

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport, often simply called PHX, offers a variety of lounges that cater to different travelers’ needs, from luxurious spaces with gourmet food to more budget-friendly options for relaxation.

The airport is divided primarily into Terminal 3 and Terminal 4, with lounges spread throughout both.

Here are the top Phoenix airport lounges that every traveler should know about:

The Phoenix Airport Centurion Lounge

One of the crown jewels of Phoenix airport lounges is the Centurion Lounge, operated by American Express.

If you’re an Amex Platinum or Centurion cardholder, this is where you want to be.

Located in Terminal 4, near Gate B22, this lounge offers upscale amenities that make it more than just a pit stop.

The Phoenix airport Centurion Lounge offers chef-curated meals, premium beverages (including some great craft cocktails), showers, and workspaces with high-speed Wi-Fi.

What really stands out, though, is the attention to detail. The design is sleek yet cozy, perfect for getting a little work done before your flight or just unwinding.

There’s also something inherently fun about sneaking into an Amex lounge in Phoenix airport, shutting out the hustle of the terminal, and sipping on a complimentary cocktail while the rest of the airport hustles by outside.

Pro Tip: Amex cardholders with The Platinum Card® from American Express or Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card should make a beeline for this lounge—just make sure you have your boarding pass, as entry requires both a same-day flight and an eligible Amex card.

Chase Sapphire Lounge

New on the scene, the Chase Sapphire Lounge at Phoenix Airport is slowly gaining popularity among travelers who hold the Chase Sapphire Reserve card.

This lounge also sits in Terminal 4, offering an experience comparable to Amex’s Centurion Lounge.

You’ll find plush seating, a fantastic selection of food and drinks, and ample charging stations—a must for the modern traveler.

The Phoenix airport Chase lounge hasn’t fully taken off yet but is still an excellent spot for Chase Sapphire Reserve cardholders to relax in style.

Keep an eye out for future upgrades to this space as Chase looks to elevate the lounge experience across major U.S. airports.

Fun Fact: Chase lounges sometimes include local influences in their design and food offerings—so you might find a hint of Southwest charm in your menu here!

Delta Sky Club Phoenix

For Delta loyalists, the Delta Sky Club at Phoenix Airport in Terminal 3 is a familiar favorite.

Whether you’re flying business class or hold a SkyMiles credit card, the Phoenix airport Delta Lounge delivers on comfort with its range of amenities like complimentary snacks, premium drinks, free Wi-Fi, and plenty of space to spread out and relax.

You can expect comfortable seating, spacious work areas, and clean restrooms, all within a stylish setting.

The Delta Lounge Phoenix Airport has everything you need to freshen up before a long-haul flight.

Escape Lounge (Priority Pass Access)

Located in Terminal 4, the Escape Lounge is a haven for travelers with Priority Pass membership.

While many lounges are tied to specific airlines, the Phoenix airport lounge with Priority Pass allows entry to a broader group of travelers.

The Escape Lounge serves excellent coffee, light meals, and snacks, along with a solid selection of beverages.

There’s also reliable Wi-Fi and comfortable seating areas where you can catch up on emails or simply relax.

What sets the Escape Lounge Phoenix apart from others is its friendly service.

Whether you’re in Terminal 4 for a quick layover or spending a few hours before a flight, this lounge is a solid choice if you have Priority Pass or simply want to purchase a day pass.

Pro Tip: Unlike some lounges that can get crowded during peak travel times, the Escape Lounge tends to be a bit quieter, making it a great choice for travelers looking for a more serene experience.

American Airlines Admirals Club

For American Airlines frequent flyers, the Admirals Club is your go-to lounge. Located in Terminal 4, it provides all the essentials—light refreshments, a full bar (you will need to pay for premium drinks, though), Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating. It might not have all the bells and whistles of the Phoenix airport American Express lounge, but it’s a reliable option for those flying on American Airlines.

Fun Tip: The Admirals Club staff can assist with rebooking in case of delays or cancellations—often much faster than going through the crowded customer service line in the terminal.

United Club Lounge

Flying United? Head to the United Club in Terminal 3. Like the other major airline lounges at Phoenix airport, the United Club offers snacks, complimentary drinks (with the option to pay for premium selections), and comfortable seating.

While it doesn’t have the upscale perks of the Centurion Lounge Phoenix Airport, it gets the job done, offering a quiet space to wait out layovers or long delays.

Pro Tip: The United Club typically fills up during peak times, so if you want to snag a prime spot, get there early.

Other Amenities: Phoenix Airport Smoking Lounge and Quiet Spaces

Though most U.S. airports have long phased out indoor smoking areas, Phoenix Airport still has a smoking lounge.

These smoking areas are located outdoors beyond the security checkpoints, so you’ll have to exit the terminal if you’re looking to take a quick break.

For those seeking a quiet space, many lounges like the Escape Lounge Phoenix and Delta Lounge Phoenix Airport offer secluded areas ideal for reading, working, or just relaxing before your flight.

Where Are the Lounges in Phoenix Airport?

Phoenix Sky Harbor Airport lounges are spread across its two main terminals:

Terminal 3: This terminal is home to Delta Sky Club and the United Club.
Terminal 4: You’ll find the Centurion Lounge, Chase Sapphire Lounge, Escape Lounge, and the Admirals Club here.

Terminal 4 is undoubtedly the lounge hotspot, so if you’re planning to indulge, this terminal is where you’ll find the most options.

Whether you’re after a luxury experience at the Phoenix Airport Amex Lounge or a quieter retreat at the Escape Lounge Phoenix, you’ll find a wide variety of choices to suit your needs.

Bottom Line

Traveling through Phoenix airport lounges can transform your airport experience from stress to success.

Whether you’re looking for luxury, convenience, or just a quiet place to relax, PHX offers a range of options for every type of traveler.

From the high-end experience of the Centurion Lounge Phoenix Airport to the accessibility of Priority Pass Lounges, there’s something for everyone.

In 2024, Phoenix Sky Harbor continues to cement its status as a major travel hub, and its lounges reflect that commitment to making your journey as smooth as possible.

If you’re flying through PHX, make sure to give yourself a little extra time to check out these top lounges—your future, less-stressed self will thank you.