12/07/21 UPDATE: The United Airlines Polaris Lounge has reopened in Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD). Guide To United Polaris Lounges (Access & Locations), United Polaris Lounge San Francisco (SFO), Accessing Polaris Lounges when flying United, Star Alliance first & business class Polaris Lounge access, United Airlines To Place Huge Boeing 787 Order, All United Boeing 787s Now Have New Polaris Seats, United Adds Routes To Croatia, Greece, And Iceland, Please view our advertising policy page for additional details about our partners, You must have at least one flight marketed as United Polaris, which is the name of business class on most international long haul United routes; if your United flight is marketed as first class or business class, you dont get access to Polaris Lounges, You can expect that flights marketed as United Polaris will be those to Asia, Europe, the South Pacific, and deep South America, You can access a lounge either on departure, at a connecting airport, or on arrival, The same access restrictions apply regardless of whether you paid cash, redeemed miles, or upgraded, You can use a United Polaris Lounge prior to a long haul Star Alliance partner flight in first or business class; this is only possible at the long haul international gateway prior to your long haul flight, and not at other points during your connecting journey, Star Alliance first class passengers can bring one guest traveling on the same flight, while Star Alliance business class passengers cant bring any guests. Passengers flying United Polaris business class on long-haul international flights, as well as certain Star Alliance business and first-class passengers, have access to these lounges. Check to make sure before you book if youre hoping to upgrade. Relax and unwind in the brand new Polaris Lounge. Your email address will not be published. This United Polaris lounge is open from 7:15 a.m. until 9:00 p.m. daily. And the starry sky lighting overhead is a nice touch. The wireless internet in the Polaris lounge was fast and easy to access. I have only done buffets at lounges so this will be the first for sit-down meals, I want to make sure I follow etiquette, is tipping allowed/expected for the services in the dining room? United Polaris lounge, Terminal 1, Concourse C. The United Polaris lounge is the best airline lounge at ORD airport and can be found in Terminal 1 in Concourse C, next to gate C18. So how do we make money? The easiest way is to request an upgrade during booking. The higher your elite status level, the earlier you become eligible for complimentary upgrades. What Airports Have the Polaris Lounge? I recently used Chicago's United Polaris Lounge on a trip to Asia during a 4 hour layover. After a meal and a cocktail, you may want to rest before your flight. This United Polaris lounge is open from 7.15 am - 9:00 pm and we reviewed the Chicago Polaris lounge previously. Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive financial compensation. Fly long-haul international premium class on a Star Alliance member airline, Passengers flying internationally in business or first class on a. can get into United Polaris lounges, too, but only at the departure airport of their international flight. Pressing service is available upon request: hang your clothes through the double door, and they will be returned to you wrinkle free while you freshen up. So then, who can access United Polaris lounge? Offerings include a buffet with sandwiches, small entrees, cheeses, and a make-your-own salad bar, along with desserts. Fortunately, there are a few other ways to enjoy all the Polaris amenities, even if you didnt book a Polaris fare from the get-go. But for the rest of the Star Alliance bunch, it's a different story. Do not sell or share my personal information. There is also a United Club lounge next to gate C16. Review: The Woodward Hotel Geneva, Oetker Collection. With a sleek and modern design, this lounge features custom chairs, private daybeds, spa-like showers, bespoke art installations by artist Wolfgang Buttress, and chef. The United Polaris lounge in Chicago is located in Terminal 1, Concourse C next to gate, This was a wonderful way to start our trip when having a, United's 1st Polaris Lounge is definitely an upgrade from the. They feature everything from a la carte dining and buffets, to nap rooms and shower suites, to great decor, to cocktails and barista-made coffee. Like all Polaris Lounges across the country, this is restaurant-quality a la carte dining, and at no extra cost. We take your comments very seriously as they really help us to improve the site. The United Polaris Lounge Chicago is open daily from 6AM until 9PM, and it's located in Terminal 1, Concourse C, near gate C18. Some travelers can even enjoy free upgrades, including to United Polaris class, which will grant you access to a Polaris lounge. Disclaimer: NerdWallet strives to keep its information accurate and up to date. While the slumber rooms lack a door, theyre very private nevertheless thanks to their isolated location away from the crowds, in a separate enclosed area. A-la-carte service is only offered in the dedicated restaurant zone, but patrons sitting in other areas may help themselves from the buffet and order drinks from servers. Just typing out that name is enough to make my mouth water. No worries you can purchase instant lounge access in seconds. There are no United Polaris lounge day passes. document.getElementById( "ak_js_1" ).setAttribute( "value", ( new Date() ).getTime() ); Get our daily email for the latest in travel, flight deals, and how Read more. Polaris Lounges are only accessible to business and first-class passengers flying United Polaris or business or first class on Star Alliance partners. Since I was short on time, the best option for me was actually in the dining room. Passengers flying internationally in business or first class on a Star Alliance partner airline can get into United Polaris lounges, too, but only at the departure airport of their international flight. I started lunch off with the Iceberg wedge salad, which was wonderfully crisp though I wish the bacon was a bit heartier. Email needed if you'd like comment updates. Thanks! Can I use the Polaris lounge on the 5th before my LAX-LAS segment? One drink is the London Spritz, Segers take on a Pimms Cup, a British summer drink thats especially popular during the Wimbledon tennis tournament. Click here to see a list of advertisers that we work with. All rights reserved. Their lounges, for lack of a better more fancy word, just suck. OK92033) Property & Casualty Licenses, NerdWallet | 55 Hawthorne St. - 11th Floor, San Francisco, CA 94105, How to Get Into a United Polaris Lounge Before Your Flight. Servers roam the room offering drinks, and staff members offer proactive assistance. In my experience as a 1k that is the only one. No, all Polaris lounges across the country are reserved specifically for flyers in long-haul international business or first class on United or their Star Alliance partners like Lufthansa, SWISS, Turkish, TAP, and more. Great views, super staff, lots of seating & charging options, good food selection, dark hall with toilet & shower rooms - only complaint was that there was no easy place to refill your water bottle. If you find discrepancies with your credit score or information from your credit report, please contact TransUnion directly. Please adjust your search criteria and try again. This compensation may impact how and where products appear on this site (including, for example, the order in which they appear). United Polaris Lounge Chicago Lunch and Dinner Menu. American Way, Hemispheres, CultureMap, JohnnyJet, and more. The United Polaris Lounge San Francisco is open daily from 7AM until 10:30PM, and its located in International Terminal G, between gates G6 and G9. I'd much rather eat this than the subpar food United serves on its long-haul international flights. For solo travelers, there are these nice pods available with oversized chairs and a slide-out table to get some work done on. If you'd like to add a comment to this article and share your valuable feedback and opinions, please click here to leave your comment. While United Clubs are at dozens of airports, only six airports have United Polaris lounges. 2023 Thrifty Traveler. Advertiser Disclosure: Many of the credit card offers that appear on this site are from credit card companies from which we receive compensation. Polaris is what United calls its premium travel product, which extends beyond class of travel to encompass the entire travel experience: a personal on-board suite, sleep-centric amenities,. The dining room uses a waiting list to put your name down for a table as soon as it opens up, but that wait can be long depending on when you arrive. Speaking of ORD, they're resuming a shuttle bus from T5 to domestic so arriving international pax will no longer have to reclear TSA: https://simpleflying.com/ohare-international-airport-restore-terminal-bus-transfer/. Is it available to order? However, here are my impressions of what I did experience. Relax and unwind in the brand new Polaris Lounge. You'll find it after making your way across the long walkway and taking the escalators up a level. That means you can easily walk over to Concourse C in Terminal 1 to visit the Polaris Lounge Chicago no matter which airline you're arriving on without worrying about clearing security. WhileUnited Clubsare primarily United Airlines membership clubs and lounges for elite members, Polaris Lounges are Uniteds premium lounges for long haul business class passengers. The oversized rooms come with an elegant sink, a Toto toilet, a hansgrohe rain shower, and an additional hand-held shower head. Learn more: The best first class airline in the U.S. See more about our ethics policies here. Unfortunately, for me, I only had a little over an hour to enjoy the Polaris lounge. See all (121) Editorial Disclosure:The content featured on UpgradedPoints.com has not been influenced, provided, or reviewed by the credit card companies mentioned. United Domestic First Class flying has also started being a disappointment. This information may be different than what you see when you visit a financial institution, service provider or specific products site. That means it's easy to get to if you're departing on a United Polaris business class flight, as that's where most of United's international departures depart from. I'd much rather use the *A 1st class lounge in the TBIT; it's almost always empty, has better food and connects to the *A business lounge if you prefer to mingle or enjoy a more open environment. 22 minutes at a pretty decent clip each way from T7 to TBIT. There's a small concierge desk after walking into the lounge, which is staffed from mid-day onward for travelers who need some help. The lounge is 27,000 square feet, making it the second largest Polaris Lounge. Thanks. Not only does the lounge have a full bar with complimentary drinks, but it also has complimentary buffet-style food as well as a full sit-down restaurant, where you can order off of a menu. United talking about improving in flight meal selections is like waiting for a new highway to be built. Access for eligible customers traveling on any Star Alliance member airline. It was perfectly cooked, topped with a simple but elegant garnish, and drizzled with a tangy lemon caper butter sauce that really tied the whole dish together. Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) Download the United app to find the most up-to-date, interactive airport maps. United Polaris Lounge is open Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun. You'll find it in the C Concourse of Terminal 1 near gate C18. United Polaris Lounge Chicago OHare (ORD), The United Polaris Lounge at Chicago OHare, located near Gate C18, opened on December 1st, 2016. The United Polaris lounge at ORD is located in Terminal 1 in Concourse C inside of security, right next to gate C18 which was perfect as that was my gate. As part of my whirlwind trip between Rio de Janeiro and Boston, I found myself flying 3 different airlines and visiting about a half-dozen airport lounges. This 12,000-square-foot outpost originally opened in 2019, but closed shortly thereafter at the outset of the pandemic, along with United's other Polaris Lounges. But how can you get in before your flight? The United Polaris Lounge at Chicago O'Hare (ORD) United Airlines gave the media a preview today (Nov. 30) of the first of nine Polaris lounges being opened in the next year to serve the carrier's international business class travelers. With a sleek and modern design, this lounge features customMore, Terminal 1, Concourse C (Inside Security), Relax and unwind in the brand new Polaris Lounge. And they are truly excellent. Hopefully the above clears up any questions about accessing Polaris Lounges, though if I missed anything, please let me know. Additionally, there is plenty of seating and the times I've been there haven't been too crowded. United is trying to step up the premium cabin experience with their Polaris lounges, and it shows! The ratio of staff to passengers is impressive, and demonstrates Uniteds commitment to offering personal service. The pods are spacious, comfortable and pleasantly private. By 11 a.m. or noon, things started to fill up. The lounge is 16,300 square feet, putting it in the middle of the pack as far as size goes. The pan-seared rainbow trout with wild rice pilaf, however, was flawless. There is also a United Club lounge next to gate . You have to be a PAID business class passenger, no miles. There are a handful of small plates and entrees to pick from during either meal time click each image below for a larger version. SAS Lounge Chicago O'Hare. You can read my pre-pandemic review of the lounge here. Other amenities at the Polaris include a wellness room with a sink for new mothers, as well as a selection of newspapers. Forget about finding call brands or familiar premium liquors: Seger and his mixology friends are offering new twists on familiar cocktails using craft liquors that will be exclusive to the Polaris Lounge. Decked in fine stone with soft lighting and high-end finishes, the shower suites are a luxurious haven reminiscent of five star hotels. Dont have access? In this post I wanted to take a look at United Polars Lounges, as they have totally different features and access requirements (in separate posts, I contrasted American Admirals Clubs and American Flagship Lounges). And there's also a toilet inside each suite. A brutal reality check I suppose. The United Polaris Lounge Newark is open daily from 5AM until 10:30PM, and its located in Terminal C, between gates C102 and C120. United Airlines is taking the "Polaris" name seriously. The Polaris Lounge at SFO is adjacent to the International G Gates security screening area, just before the escalators down to the hallway over to Terminal 3. Forget top travel credit cards or even status they'll do you no good here. Nice lounge with a la carte food and good drinks! I am surprised by the overall 3.5 star rating of this lounge. Airlines like Swiss, SAS, LOT Polish, EVA Air, and others all depart from Terminal 5 which requires a tram ride and re-clearing security at Terminal 1 and then again at Terminal 5. So while you could get into the Polaris Lounge if you've got a Turkish Airlines business class ticket or flying TAP Air Portugal business class, it's a major headache. Chicago O'Hare (near Gate B6, near Gate B18, near Gate C16 and across from Gate F9). The lounge is 12,500 square feet, making it the second smallest Polaris Lounge. to save on your next trip. A Boston native now living in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, Chris has a passion for sharing travel tips for families and has been featured on BBC News, Parents.com, The Washington Post, The Weather Channel, and other publications. For starters, if you're looking to freshen up before or after a flight, you're in luck: This lounge has some of the nicest shower suites you'll find in an airport, bar none. Ask the Yelp community! Learn more: Is a United credit card worth it? The lounge is 12,000 square feet, making it the smallest Polaris Lounge. Use our lounge access wizard and find out, or log in or create an account and we'll keep track of your lounge memberships and premium credit cards. You are welcome to tip the serive members there and it would certainly be appreciated. Polaris Lounges are open in: Chicago O'Hare International (ORD) Newark Liberty International (EWR) George Bush Intercontinental-Houston (IAH) Los Angeles International (LAX) San Francisco International (SFO) Washington Dulles (IAD) Opinions and recommendations are ours alone. Here is a list of our partners. The bar area boasts a more vibrant vibe with blue LED lighting, pristine white marble, and an under lit counter. Since I had been so restrained for the first 2 courses, there was no holding me back when my waiter described the double chocolate skillet cookie. A tad exhausting, but also great for people like me who love checking out new lounges! We may be compensated when you click on links from one or more of our advertising partners. If youre looking to upgrade to business or first class on a Star Alliance flight using a Star Alliance Upgrade Award, not all flights are eligible. From the dedicated Dining Room to the excellent shower suites to the lush seating throughout, this is a lovely space. One near the entrance has coolers full of soft drinks, water, and drip coffee. The bathrooms are equally impressive. United Polaris Lounge at Chicago, IL - O'Hare (ORD) welcomes: Note: A same-day boarding pass for an international flight in a premium cabin is required. Today, the Chicago Airport Polaris club is closed and United Club is crowded and not worth the effort. That is including The Dining Room which is a restaurant-inspired, full-service dining option complete with menus and waiters. In the years since, the airline has opened outposts in all the aforementioned U.S. airports, except for Washington Dulles. And by 3 p.m. or so, as many international departures drew near, it was difficult to find an open seat, period. This bonus value is an estimated valuation. All financial products, shopping products and services are presented without warranty. Pair that with some strong Wi-Fi, and you could spend hours working in this lounge with no issues. It is not the bank advertisers responsibility to ensure all posts and/or questions are answered. Delta has its Delta Sky Clubs, which almost anyone can get into. The bathrooms themselves are nice, fairly large, and private. If there's one glaring absence at the United Polaris Lounge Chicago, it's that there's no private work rooms or phone booths. For instance, MileagePlus Upgrade Awards arent available when flying on award tickets or if you booked a basic economy fare. I am happy to report that the salad was fresh and flavorful. On the United website, navigate to Advanced Search and select the MileagePlus Upgrade Award upgrade type under Upgrades, certificates, and promotion codes. Youll then be able to see whether a MileagePlus Upgrade Award is available for the flights you want. Update: The Polaris Lounge has been expanded, and now features a dedicated dining area. Buffet and restaurant with waiters. This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply. If you're departing on a United long-haul flight (or departing on another United flight after landing from a Polaris long-haul journey) you're in luck: The United Polaris Lounge Chicago is located in United's Terminal 1. United Polaris Lounge Chicago - Entry & Access The lounge is located in Terminal 1 of O'Hare Airport. I started with a glass of Piper-Heidsieck 1785 Cuve Brut Champagne, which retails for about $50 per bottle. Just make sure that if youre traveling with more than one other person, your party is comprised of more Premier members than nonmembers. It's great that these restrooms have lights to show whether they're open (green) or occupied (red). The flight must be on a participating airline, and even then, some routes on participating airlines are excluded. If its calm and rest youre after, there are also showers and quiet suites with daybeds. The airline is touting its first lounge, at Chicago O'Hare International Airport, as the only one of . 2. Best lounge ever is Air Canada Signature Lounge in Toronto. With complimentary meals, a unique cocktail selection, private pods, luxurious shower suites, pressing service and concierge service, the United Polaris Lounge is the best airline club at Chicago OHare. Given the opportunity, I would happily spend an extended amount of time in this lounge. Complimentary Premier upgrades only include one companion; if there are more non-Premier travelers on your reservation than Premier members, book additional non-Premier members on another reservation or you'll lose your eligibility for the award. There are a few ways of getting Polaris lounge access even if you didn't originally book a Polaris fare. Click here to see a list of advertisers that we work with. View all lounges in O'Hare International Airport. I am flying ORD TO DEL (first flight is STL TO ORD and last is DEL to AMD) with United Polaris Business boarding pass. Service was speedy and friendly to start everything you'd expect at a restaurant, really. The experience starts on the ground at the beautiful Polaris lounges. United has enlisted the services of an expert: the former Head Concierge at the Drake hotel in Chicago, who also helped launch the St. Regis luxury hotel in New York City. Clearing security might require a boarding pass departing from the terminal. I did check out a bathroom, and it was indeed quite nice and private. No matter what amenity you're looking for, head through the buffet and dining room and straight into the amenity check-in area. The carrier re-opened its Polaris Lounge at the Los Angeles International Airport (LAX) on Wednesday, a United spokesperson told TPG. If you're just looking for a drink, there's a beautiful bar at the center of the lounge, which offers alcoholic drinks as well as barista-made coffee beverages. The Polaris Lounge makes for a great way to start a flight. United Polaris Lounge Chicago Access Rules & Location, Dining & Drinks at the United Polaris Lounge Chicago. Breakfast Light Bites (served until 11 a.m.). Our opinions are our own. While you may not be able to purchase a day pass or flash a credit card to get into a United Polaris lounge, there are several ways to gain entrance by flying in Polaris class even if you didnt originally book a Polaris fare. My first impression upon walking into the lounge was, Wow, I already wish I had more time to spend here!. Let me explain why. Additionally, there are self-service refrigerators with juices, sodas, and waters available. Behind the bar are two walls with humidors, which United assigns to frequent high value passengersa unique service within the airline industry.
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