The 2025 Guide to Chicago O’Hare Airport (ORD) Lounges
by Nick Hagan / May 2, 2025
Estimated reading time: 10 minutes
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 consider these thoughtfully appointed Chicago airport lounges, each offering a unique way to enrich your travel experience through luxury, convenience, and tranquility.
Table of contents
United Club
Location:
Terminal 1, Concourse B: Gate B6 (open 5am - 9pm)
Terminal 1, Concourse B: Gate B18 (open 5am - 10pm)
Terminal 1, Concourse C: Gate C10 (open 5am - 9pm)
Terminal 2, Concourse E: Gate E7 (open 7:30am - 7:30pm)
Terminal 2: Concourse F: Gate F9 (5am - 9pm)
Experience a blend of comfort and convenience at Chicago 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.
Can’t decide which United Club lounge to visit? The C10 location stands out with its modern decor, featuring artwork from local Chicago artists and industrial-style furnishings, enhancing your pre-flight experience. If you need to whet your whistle before flying, rest assured that all these ORD lounges come equipped with full-service bars - except the facility at Gate E7, where you’ll find a handy self-serve bar.
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.
There are a range of different membership card offers to suit your needs, air miles, and rewards.
Must be using a same-day boarding card for a flight operated by United, Star Alliance, or a contracted partner airline.
Members must be 18 and over, and accompanying any guests under 18.
In the US lounges, members and guests must be 21 or over to access the self-serve bar.
Day pass guests may bring one infant under two for free.
United Polaris Lounge
Location: Terminal 1, gate C18 (open TBD - temporarily closed)
Step into the exclusive realm of the United Polaris Lounge, designed for ultimate comfort and productivity. As Chicago airport lounges go, this one is truly premium.
If you’re looking to get some work done, consider setting down at one of the Polaris’s semi-private cubicles, complete with charging stations and pull-out tables, and 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 quiet suites, or refresh yourself in the upscale shower suites. A full-service bar complete with wine, beer, and spirits adds another touch of flair to your visit.
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 (6:15am - 8pm)
Terminal 3: Gate L2A (6:15am - 8pm)
Terminal 3: Gate H6/K6 (5am - 10pm)
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. All of AA’s Chicago airport lounges offer a full-service bar - possibly just the ticket if you are looking to relax during a long stopover, or are waiting out pesky flight delays.
For those requiring more space and a scenic view, the lounge between Concourses H and K offers expansive tarmac vistas and meeting rooms for team gatherings. Food options here are primarily pre-packaged, but this lounge has an edge over its siblings, with shower facilities providing a refreshing break while you wait for your flight. 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.
Be aware that those looking to access AA lounges will need a membership card as well as a government-issued photographic ID.
Headphones must be worn when enjoying media on your tablet, laptop, or phone, as these are quiet area lounges.
Members and guests are required to keep a professional appearance during their time in the lounge.
American Airlines Flagship Lounge
Location: Terminal 3, between Gates H6 and K6 (open 5am - 10pm)
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, top-shelf liquors and specialty cocktails from the bar. A premium wine table also allows you to indulge your vintage knowledge.
For relaxation, the lounge offers dedicated TV watching areas, quiet zones for unwinding, and Qi wireless chargers throughout. Expansive, comfortable seating gives you plenty of options. Noteworthy are the elegant shower suites equipped with rainfall and handheld showerheads and premium toiletries, providing a refreshing escape for travelers who value a luxury experience.
Lounge Access and Pricing:
Accessible to passengers flying first or business class on qualifying American Airlines and oneworld airline flights. One guest allowed. Check if your flight qualifies here.
Available to AAdvantage platinum status members, or Mileage Plan Gold, Gold 75K or Gold 100K members. One guest allowed.
Available to oneworld Emerald or Sapphire members. One guest allowed.
Lounge access can also be purchased with a one-day pass for $150 or 15,000 AAdvantage miles, subject to capacity.
ConciergeKey passengers flying with American Airlines or oneworld partner airlines also qualify for entry, and can bring up to two guests.
Delta Sky Club
Location: Terminal 5, between Gates M11 and M14 (open 4.30am - 8pm Sunday to Friday and 4.30am - 6.30pm Saturday)
Delta Sky Club at O'Hare Terminal 5 is a spacious retreat, boasting 22,000 square feet of modern lounge area in a long, L-shaped layout that’s designed to accommodate nearly 400 guests. This facility is a gem among the Chicago Airport lounges, marking a significant upgrade from Delta's previous setup in Terminal 2.
The space emphasizes 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 striking full-service bar that complements the lounge’s expansive food offerings with everything from charcuterie to hot entrees. An expansive range of seating makes it easy to find a private corner, while the huge floor-to-ceiling windows provide a stellar view of the runway beyond.
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. Up to ten visits a year are permitted.
Cardholders with the Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express card can also access this lounge if they’re flying Delta that day. Up to 15 visits a year are permitted.
Please note that Centurion Card Members flying on Basic Economy fares, as well as those with Delta SkyMiles Gold and Platinum Amex, can’t get access.
Travelers flying on Delta or other SkyTeam airlines (Air France, KLM, Korean Air) 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 (open 7am - 9pm)
The Swissport Lounge at Chicago O'Hare offers a tranquil, secluded retreat with a green, plant-filled ambiance to soothe you immediately upon entry. Although it's not the largest space - and some are critical of its lack of natural light - this lounge still delivers the basics when you need a private space. Workstations are on hand to offer visitors an ideal way to catch up on work, complemented by limited charging stations available at specific areas.
The lounge serves a modest selection of food including snacks like crackers, cheese, salads, and sandwiches during the day, while an expanded offering that includes hot dishes becomes available in the evening. Beverages include a self-serve bar with a basic selection of liquors and beers. There is a TV room, as well as a range of newspapers and magazines to entertain you during your stay.
Lounge Access and Pricing:
Accessible to premium passengers flying with Hainan Airlines, Turkish Airlines, Emirates or Finnair who have a same-day boarding pass.
Accessible through various membership programs like Priority Pass. The lounge may be visited up to three hours before departure.
Passengers can also purchase a day pass from $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 M19-20 (open 1 hour before the first scheduled SAS flight, and closes 30 minutes before the last SAS flight)
The SAS Lounge at ORD offers a smart and stylish setting reminiscent of a sleek, modern IKEA showroom. This compact space offers a range of comfy seating and functional options like charging points and computer workstations alongside its chic decor. The food selection features items like fresh salads, sandwiches, and a variety of snacks, all presented in a self-serve buffet style.
By the standard of all the Chicago Airport lounges, the SAS makes its presence felt by maintaining a minimalist and uncluttered aesthetic, providing a calm environment ideal for relaxation or catching up on work before you fly. And if not, the lounge looks out onto the runways of Chicago O’Hare Airport, so you can watch the planes getting ready to take off while you wait.
Lounge Access and Pricing:
The lounge welcomes SAS Business or SAS Plus passengers traveling on same day flights.
Eurobonus Diamond or Gold members can also access with a same-day boarding pass for an SAS or Star Alliance flight. One guest or up to four family members can join them.
SkyTeam Elite Plus members also have access and can bring one guest with them.
Day passes are available for purchase online at $55 or at the reception for $59.
USO Lounge
Location:
Terminal 2, mezzanine (pre-security) (open 9am - 9pm)
Terminal 3, Concourse G mezzanine (open 9am - 5pm)
This is a lounge for all and any active duty, guard and reserve military and their dependents, as well as retired military. A wide range of books and magazines is on offer for visitors, as well as a TV lounge with gaming facilities to entertain members before their flight.
Additionally, there is also a work area with phones and printers for those needing to catch up with business. Refreshments and snacks are available, and for those travelling with kids there is also a children's room to keep the little ones entertained over those long hours while travelling.
Lounge access and pricing: Free to any and all retired or active military members and their families.
Lot Polish Business Class Lounge
Location: Terminal 5, next to security and the dining area. (Open 8am - midnight)
This ORD lounge rivals a fancy restaurant with its overhead artistic lighting, stylish leather seating, and windows that give you an amazing wrap-around view. The lounge offers self-serve food as refreshment, including alcoholic drinks, and also boasts a buffet with both hot and cold food to meet your inter-travel needs. In the Lot lounge you’ll also find a prayer room if needed, plus shower facilities.
Lounge access and pricing:
Passengers access this lounge with a same-day boarding pass for long-haul business or first class flights through Star Alliance carriers.
Access with a Star Alliance Gold membership when traveling on a same-day Star Alliance flight.
Eligible children under the age of 12 can enter for free.
Anyone under 21 must be accompanied by an adult.
Passengers may enter up to 4 hours before a flight.
The Best Way to Get to Chicago O’Hare Airport
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