United Polaris Lounge: Your Ultimate Guide [2024]

Key Takeaways

United Polaris Lounges are available only to international business class passengers on United and Star Alliance flights—no memberships or day passes allowed.
Enjoy gourmet dining, premium bars, private nap rooms, shower suites, and quiet workspaces for a first-class pre-flight experience.
Polaris Lounges are located at key U.S. airports, including Chicago (ORD), Newark (EWR), San Francisco (SFO), Los Angeles (LAX), and Washington Dulles (IAD).

If you’ve ever wandered through an airport, you’ve probably noticed signs for “lounges.”

You might think, “What’s so special about these lounges? Aren’t they just waiting rooms with better chairs?” Well, not quite.

When it comes to the United Polaris Lounge, we’re talking about a whole new level of comfort, service, and even gourmet dining.

This guide will take you through everything you need to know about the United Polaris Lounge, its locations, access rules, and how it stands apart from other lounges. Buckle up as we dive into this first-class experience!

What is the United Polaris Lounge?

The United Polaris Lounge is United Airlines’ premier lounge designed exclusively for international business class travelers.

Named after the North Star, the Polaris Lounge experience is meant to be a guiding light in airport luxury, combining elegance and comfort to make your pre-flight experience as seamless and relaxing as possible.

With private nap rooms, upscale dining options, shower suites, and premium bar service, these lounges set a high bar for luxury travel.

United Polaris Lounge Access: Who Gets In?

Now, before you pack your bags and head to the airport expecting to walk right in, it’s important to know that the Polaris Lounge is not open to just anyone. Here’s how you can get access:

Fly International Business Class with United Polaris
The most straightforward way to gain access is by flying on a same-day United Polaris business class ticket, either arriving or departing.
Star Alliance Partner Flights
If you are flying in international business or first class on a Star Alliance partner airline, such as Lufthansa or Air Canada, you can also access the lounge.
Connecting on a United Polaris Flight
Passengers connecting from a long-haul international flight to a domestic flight on the same ticket can access the lounge.
No Day Passes or Memberships
Unlike the United Club, you cannot purchase a day pass or access the Polaris Lounge with a United Club membership or credit card.

So, if you’re flying economy or even domestic first class, sorry – no soup (or shower suite) for you!

United Polaris Lounge Locations

United Airlines has carefully selected its hubs for the Polaris Lounges, ensuring that travelers experience world-class luxury at some of the busiest airports in the U.S. Here’s where you can find these exclusive lounges:

United Polaris Chicago Lounge (ORD)
Located at Chicago O’Hare International Airport, this is one of the flagship locations, offering everything from private nap rooms to a decadent buffet. The United Polaris Lounge ORD is ideal for those flying in and out of one of United’s busiest hubs.
United Polaris Lounge Newark (EWR)
At Newark Liberty International Airport, this lounge offers sweeping views of the tarmac and Manhattan skyline. The United Polaris Newark Lounge, or EWR Polaris Lounge, boasts a variety of seating options, a full-service bar, and dining stations.
United Polaris Lounge San Francisco (SFO)
The SFO United Polaris Lounge is known for its modern design and extensive amenities, including shower suites, a private dining area, and a full-service bar.
United Polaris Lounge Los Angeles (LAX)
The LAX United Polaris Lounge is famous for its cozy, comfortable atmosphere, complete with curated artwork, a la carte dining, and a tranquil setting that feels like a luxurious boutique hotel.
United Polaris Lounge Dulles (IAD)
At Washington Dulles International Airport, the United Polaris Lounge IAD features private seating areas, a spacious dining room, and beautifully designed interiors that provide a sense of calm.
United Polaris Lounge Denver
Expected to open in the future, the Denver location will continue United’s trend of creating top-tier lounges at key international hubs.

Best Credit Cards For United Polaris Lounge

The United Polaris Lounge is exclusively accessible to international business and first-class travelers, and no credit cards provide direct access to these lounges.

However, some credit cards can enhance the overall travel experience when flying United Polaris by offering significant rewards, travel perks, and access to other premium lounges worldwide.

Here are five of the best credit cards for those who frequently fly United Polaris:

United Club℠ Infinite Card
Annual Fee: annual_fees

Key Benefits: Complimentary United Club membership, 4x miles on United purchases, 2x miles on dining and travel, priority boarding, and two free checked bags.

Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full

APR: Variable 21.24% – 28.24%

Why It’s Great: While it doesn’t provide direct access to Polaris Lounges, it offers United Club access and other valuable perks for frequent United flyers, such as priority boarding and checked bags, which complement the United Polaris experience.
Chase Sapphire Reserve®
Annual Fee: annual_fees

Key Benefits: 3x points on travel and dining, $300 annual travel credit, Priority Pass Select membership (1,300+ lounges), and 50% more points value when redeemed through Chase Ultimate Rewards.

Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full

APR: Variable 22.24% – 29.24%

Why It’s Great: Offers extensive lounge access through Priority Pass and earns valuable points for travel redemptions, making it perfect for travelers who frequent Polaris routes but want flexibility across different airlines.
The Platinum Card® from American Express
Annual Fee: annual_fees

Key Benefits: Access to Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass Select, Delta Sky Clubs (when flying Delta), 5x points on flights booked directly with airlines, up to $200 airline fee credit, and elite hotel statuses.

Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full

APR: Pay Over Time APR: 21.99% – 29.99% Variable

Why It’s Great: Offers access to multiple premium lounge networks and valuable travel credits. It’s ideal for frequent international travelers who may benefit from both Polaris flights and premium lounges worldwide.
United℠ Explorer Card
Annual Fee: annual_fees

Key Benefits: Two United Club one-time passes annually, priority boarding, free first checked bag, 2x miles on United purchases, dining, and hotel stays.

Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full

APR: Variable 21.24% – 28.24%

Why It’s Great: Offers excellent value with United perks, including two United Club passes each year and other benefits, enhancing travel comfort for those on United Polaris routes without a hefty annual fee.
Citi® / AAdvantage® Executive World Elite Mastercard®
Annual Fee: annual_fees

Key Benefits: Complimentary Admirals Club membership, 2x miles on American Airlines purchases, priority boarding, and Global Entry/TSA PreCheck application fee credit.

Welcome Offer: bonus_miles_full

APR: Variable 20.99% – 29.99%

Why It’s Great: While primarily for American Airlines loyalists, its perks and lounge access benefit travelers who frequently fly premium international routes, including those who occasionally use Star Alliance partners like United.

These cards, while not directly providing access to United Polaris Lounges, offer complementary benefits and perks that can significantly enhance your travel experience when flying United Polaris.

What’s Inside the United Polaris Lounge? Key Features and Amenities

The Polaris Lounges stand out from the typical airport lounge experience. Let’s take a closer look at what makes these lounges so special:

Dining Like You’ve Never Seen Before in an Airport
Forget the stale sandwiches and packaged snacks typical of airport lounges. In the United Polaris Lounges, you’ll find full-service dining with à la carte menus that rival some of the best restaurants. From seared scallops to steak frites, the quality of the food can make you forget you’re in an airport.
Premium Bars with Signature Cocktails
Each Polaris Lounge features a well-stocked bar with top-shelf spirits, wines, and a selection of craft beers. The cocktail menu even includes signature drinks inspired by the cities where the lounges are located. Whether you prefer a classic Manhattan or something more exotic, the bar staff have you covered.
Shower Suites and Nap Rooms
Need to freshen up before a long-haul flight? The Polaris Lounges provide elegant shower suites stocked with premium toiletries and fluffy towels. And for those who need to catch a quick nap, private nap rooms are available with noise-canceling headphones, Saks Fifth Avenue blankets, and calming lighting.
Quiet Workspaces and High-Speed Wi-Fi
Business travelers will appreciate the quiet zones and workspaces designed to keep productivity high. With plenty of charging stations, high-speed Wi-Fi, and private phone booths, these lounges cater to both relaxation and work.

United Club vs. Polaris Lounge: What’s the Difference?

It’s easy to get confused between the United Club and the United Polaris Lounge, but they serve different purposes and target different passengers. Here’s a quick comparison:

United Club
Open to United Club members, certain credit cardholders, and those with day passes. Offers basic amenities like light snacks, standard seating, and standard Wi-Fi.
United Polaris Lounge
Exclusively for international business and first-class passengers. Offers premium amenities like full-service dining, private nap rooms, shower suites, and a premium bar.

So, while the United Club provides a decent place to relax, the Polaris Lounge elevates the experience to new heights.

United Polaris Lounge Chicago: A Closer Look

The United Polaris Chicago Lounge at O’Hare is one of the most impressive locations in the network. Known for its expansive layout, it features everything from cozy seating areas and quiet nooks to a spacious dining area where travelers can enjoy a gourmet meal before their flight.

Highlights include a wide range of craft cocktails, a buffet filled with local flavors, and a design that emphasizes privacy and comfort.

The Experience at United Polaris Lounge Newark (EWR)

The United Polaris Lounge EWR offers a luxurious escape for passengers traveling through one of the busiest airports in the world.

The space is meticulously designed to provide maximum comfort, with various seating options that cater to different needs, whether you want to work, dine, or relax.

The dining experience here includes a mix of local cuisine and international favorites, while the bar serves a selection of wines, spirits, and locally-inspired cocktails.

United Polaris Lounge SFO: A Jewel on the West Coast

The United Polaris Lounge San Francisco is arguably one of the best Polaris Lounges in the network. Located in a key international hub, it serves as a gateway for many Asia-bound flights.

The lounge offers panoramic views, sophisticated design, and some of the best airport dining available. The food and drink menus are a reflection of San Francisco’s diverse culinary scene, featuring fresh, locally-sourced ingredients.

How to Get Into United Polaris Lounge: Pro Tips

Fly International Business Class
This is the primary requirement for access. Make sure you’re booked in United Polaris business class or on a Star Alliance partner’s international first or business class.
Check for Connecting Flights
If you are connecting from a long-haul international flight to a domestic flight on the same itinerary, you may qualify for access.
Don’t Rely on Day Passes or Memberships
Remember, you can’t buy your way in with day passes or standard United Club memberships.

United Polaris Lounge in Los Angeles: A Hollywood Experience

The LAX United Polaris Lounge combines luxury with a touch of Hollywood glamour.

Located in the newly renovated terminal, the lounge is designed to provide an oasis away from the crowded LAX terminals.

With comfortable seating, private dining, and beautiful decor, it’s the perfect spot for travelers looking to relax before a long-haul journey.

Conclusion: Is the United Polaris Lounge Worth It?

If you’re flying international business class with United or a Star Alliance partner, the United Polaris Lounge is more than just a perk—it’s an essential part of the travel experience.

Offering top-notch amenities, exceptional dining, and an environment designed for relaxation and productivity, these lounges redefine what it means to travel in style.

Whether you’re sipping on a crafted cocktail or catching a nap in a cozy suite, the Polaris Lounge ensures you start or end your journey on a high note.

FAQ’S United Polaris Lounge

Can I access the Polaris Lounge with a United Club membership?

No, United Club memberships do not grant access to Polaris Lounges.

Do domestic first-class passengers get access?

No, only international business and first-class passengers on United or Star Alliance partners have access.

Can I buy a day pass for the Polaris Lounge?

No, day passes are not available for Polaris Lounges. Access is exclusive to eligible passengers only.

Are there United Polaris Lounges outside the U.S.?

Currently, United Polaris Lounges are only available in select U.S. hub airports.

What amenities are available at the Polaris Lounge?

Amenities include private nap rooms, shower suites, full-service dining, premium bars, and quiet workspaces.