Thought airport lounges and other on-site amenities were reserved for first-class passengers with millions of frequent flier miles? Well, some airlines still cater to the elite. But a growing number of airports are offering common-use lounges and other spaces where any ticketed passenger can pay for instant access to the perks.
It’s a model that’s been popular in European airports for years, says Nancy Knipp, vice president for Airport Lounge Development, which is behind the lounges in 11 U.S. cities, including San Jose, Seattle and Dallas. The growing trend is due in part to the increase of international carriers at major U.S. airports, she says, as well as the growth of nontraditional airlines that don’t have first class or frequent flier programs but whose customers still want a place to retreat at the airport.
And when you’re accustomed to the inevitable noise and crowds of gate areas, a quiet lounge that offers free food can feel like quite the getaway before your getaway. There even an app, LoungeBuddy, that allows you to view, book and access airport lounges around the globe.
Not all airport amenities are lounges, however. Some are airport-designed or privately-run spaces that offer other kinds of experiences meant to ease your pre-flight tension. Orange County’s John Wayne Airport lounge is for nursing mothers, complete with cushioned seats and adjustable lighting, while Baltimore offers a fitness studio with treadmills and reservable showers.
There’s no theme at San Jose’s The Club at SJC, which is currently leading a USA Today 10Best poll for top airport service/amenity in the country — except maybe to make you feel like a VIP. Located between Terminals A and B, the 7,400-square foot lounge is split into two clean, quiet rooms outfitted with mid-century modern chairs in neutral and warm tones, pendant lights and wood and stone accents. There’s seating for 162 people, so you can spread out.
For $40 ($34 with AAA; https://theclubairportlounges.com), you can spend the whole day here, feasting on all-you-can-eat turkey and brie sandwiches made by Santa Clara’s Handheld Catering, gourmet flavored popcorn, beer, wine and liquor. Yes, there’s an unlimited full bar.
Prefer to get some work done? Don’t miss the PC workstations with printers, charging stations and reading materials, including newspapers and magazines. There’s even a shower with towels and bath and body products, if you want to refresh before your connecting flight.
We only saw one or two kids during a recent visit, though we’re guessing the jars of jelly beans and multiple cookie options were intended to make them feel welcome, too. Expect updates, including more seating and collaborations with local chefs, within the year. The airport also plans to unveil a second lounge later this year.
In the meantime, here are four more West Coast airport experiences offering something new or noteworthy for your travels.
SFO: Yoga Rooms
Self-reflect and stretch your spine with a few downward dog postures inside your choice of two yoga rooms. The walls are painted in soothing blues and greens, and hardwood floors are topped with a few sticky mats, blankets and bolsters. Located inside Terminal 2, Boarding Area D, and Terminal 3, Boarding Area E. Free. www.flysfo.com
Oakland: Escape Lounge
Open since November 2016, this lounge near Gate 9 in Terminal 1 is open to all ticketed passengers looking to relax before a flight, catch up on last-minute business or enjoy fresh nibbles made by Oakland chef Chris Pastena. It’s smaller than San Jose’s lounge — about 2,700 square feet — but the concept is similar. Cost: $45 or $40 if you book ahead; www.escapelounges.com.
LAX: X-PresSpa
Need a quick blowout before your business meeting? Head over to Terminal 5, where this airport spa chain offers a menu of hair styling services plus waxing, massages, facials, manicures and pedicures for time-crunched travelers. Cost: Varies by service; www.xpresspa.com
PDX: Hollywood Theatre
Located inside Concourse C, this new 17-seat, microcinema screens short films by Oregon filmmakers, including family-friendly documentaries, animated shorts or music videos. Free. Program updated quarterly. Find the current program at https://hollywoodtheatre.org.
