American Express Centurion Lounge Guide 2024

The American Express Centurion Network is a collection of exclusive airport lounges located all over the globe. It provides an upscale lounge experience for departing travelers. Access to the Centurion Lounge Network is limited, so it tends to be a more quiet, relaxed space than the general airport. And it offers additional services and amenities to make your travel days more comfortable and enjoyable.

Amex Centurion Lounges goes beyond the standard airport lounge experience. Rather than offering some booths or workspaces and a few paltry snacks, the Amex Centurion Lounge Network delivers these benefits:

1. Meals: Forget the standard peanuts and candy bars—meals served within Centurion Lounges are prepared by award-winning chefs using regionally sourced ingredients.
2. Cocktails: Each lounge serves an extensive wine list, premium spirits and cocktails crafted by mixologists.
3. Spa services: You can take advantage of spa services like massages or facials at select locations.
4. Conference rooms: If you are traveling for work, some Centurion lounge locations have full conference rooms so you can hold meetings or work on projects while waiting for your flight.
5. Shower suites: Some lounges have full shower facilities, a great option for those traveling long distances.
6. High-speed Wi-Fi: Airport internet connections can be spotty at best, so travelers will appreciate the high-speed Wi-Fi available at Amex Centurion Lounges.
7. TVs and digital library: All lounges have televisions and digital libraries, allowing you to watch movies or read digital books or magazines.

Entry to the Amex Centurion Lounge is limited to certain cardholders and their guests. Complimentary access is only given to individuals with one of the following cards (terms apply):

• The Platinum Card® from American Express
• The Business Platinum Card® from American Express
• Corporate Platinum Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card
• Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card
• Centurion® Card from American Express*

Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card members can only use the lounge when flying on a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flight, and access is restricted to the U.S., Hong Kong and London locations of the Centurion lounges.

Keep in mind that none of these cards are cheap. For example, The Platinum Card® from American Express has a $695 annual fee (terms apply, see rates & fees). The Centurion Card is on a whole other level compared to other cards; It’s issued by invitation only and requires a $10,000 initiation fee and a $5,000 annual membership fee. Centurion Lounge access is only one of the many benefits these cards offer, but with these steep fees, not everyone will find the cost justifiable.

What Is the Centurion Lounge Guest Policy?

Guests are permitted, but there may be an additional cost.

Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders will be charged $50 per guest ($30 for children aged two through 17). Cardholders that spend at least $75,000 per calendar year on the card can qualify for complimentary access for up to two guests to all U.S. Centurion locations plus the London Heathrow Airport and Hong Kong International Airport locations.

Delta SkyMiles Reserve and Business Reserve cardholders will incur a fee of $50 per guest ($30 for children aged two through 17) for Centurion lounge visits in the U.S., Hong Kong International Airport and London Heathrow Airport.

Corporate Platinum cardholders may bring two complimentary guests into Centurion lounges in the U.S., London Heathrow Airport and Hong Kong International Airport.

Centurion cardmembers may bring two guests or immediate family (spouse or domestic partner and children under 18) into the Centurion lounges free of charge.

In all cases, additional guests beyond the complimentary allotment will incur the guest charge of $50 per adult and $30 per child aged 2 through 17. There is no charge for children under two.

Are Pets Allowed in the Centurion Lounge?

Many Centurion Lounge locations allow cardholders to bring their service animals, emotional support animals and pets into the lounge. However, pets and emotional support animals must remain in closed carriers, so you can’t take your dog or cat out and hold it on your lap. They also can’t be brought into the dining areas.

If you plan to bring your pet along, it’s best to check with the specific lounge for their pet access policy, particularly international locations that may have more stringent pet policies.

There are no pet relief areas in the lounges, so make sure you take your pet to a designated spot within the airport.

Airport lounge options are increasing in many places, and that’s welcome news for weary travelers. More lounges means more choice and, hopefully, less crowding. If you are an American Express Platinum cardholder, you’ve got access to the Centurion lounges and the Global Lounge Collection, including the Priority Pass lounge network.

Priority Pass boasts over 1,500 lounges in more than 600 locations worldwide. Located in over 145 countries, its expansive international presence is a sanctuary for the global traveler. If you don’t have Centurion Lounge access through eligible American Express cards, Priority Pass lounges may be an alternative for you. Priority Pass lounge access is a benefit provided by a number of premium credit cards, such as Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card and Chase Sapphire Reserve®.

Let’s take a look at how Centurion Lounges stack up against Priority Pass lounges.

Details	Centurion Lounge	Priority Pass
Size of network	25+ locations	1500+ locations
Guest policy	Guests are $50 per adult and $30 per child aged 2-17. Children under 2 are free.*	Usually two complimentary guests and additional guests for a fee.
Pet policy	Permitted in carriers but may vary by location	No pet access
Alcoholic beverages	Top-shelf liquor, wine tastings, unique cocktails	Varies by location
Food	Regional menus designed by local chefs	Varies by location
Spa services	Select locations	Not within the lounge, but Priority Pass offers BeRelax spa access in some airport locations

*Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders receive complimentary entry for two guests at U.S. locations, London Heathrow Airport and Hong Kong International Airport after spending $75,000 on the card within a calendar year.

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The Centurion Lounge is clearly positioned as an upscale oasis of tranquility. Priority Pass lounges vary greatly between locations in terms of service, size and offerings but still provide a good respite from the chaotic airport atmosphere.

You can find a Centurion Lounge’s location by looking up the airport on the Centurion Lounge Network website.

To enter an Amex Centurion Lounge, you must present your valid eligible card, a physical government-issued ID, your same-day boarding pass and be within three hours of your departing flight as stated on your boarding pass.

There are three exceptions to this rule:

• In the case of a same-day connecting flight, you can enter the Centurion Lounge at the connecting airport at any time prior to the connecting flight.
• If your departing flight leaves after the Centurion Lounge closes for the day, you may enter three hours prior to closing time.
• Lounges other than those in the U.S., London Heathrow Airport and Hong Kong International Airport may not have the three-hour prior to departure requirement. They may allow for entry on arrival depending on the location.

You can check in at the lounge’s reception desk, but there is also a mobile check-in option. You can check-in ahead of your arrival and view available amenities from your phone. Once you arrive, you’ll need to show your ID and boarding pass at the reception desk.

The lounges do have capacity limits, and it’s possible that the lounge will be too full to accommodate you. It’s a good idea to use the mobile app to check in and join the waitlist so you can receive a notification about when you can enter the lounge.

Note that Centurion Lounges in the U.S., London Heathrow Airport and Hong Kong International Airport cannot be accessed on arrival—they are strictly for use on departure—unless you have a connecting flight.

Currently, there are 14 American Express Centurion Lounge locations in the U.S. However, American Express recently announced that it will open a Centurion Lounge at Ronald Reagan Washington International Airport (DCA) in 2024 and at Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in 2026. There are also 11 international lounge locations.

Tip: If you are flying out of an airport without a Centurion Lounge, you may be able to take advantage of lounge access through Escape Lounges, a Centurion Studio Partner within the Centurion network. Escape Lounges permit Platinum Card and Centurion Card members to bring two complimentary guests.

American Express Centurion Lounge Locations
Domestic	International
Atlanta (ATL) Charlotte (CLT) Washington, D.C. (DCA)* Dallas (DFW) Denver (DEN) Houston (IAH) Las Vegas (LAS) Los Angeles (LAX) Miami (MIA) Newark (EWR)* New York (JFK) New York (LGA) Philadelphia (PHL) Phoenix (PHX) San Francisco (SFO) Seattle (SEA)	Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE) Delhi, India (DEL) Hong Kong, China (HKG) London, U.K. (LHR) Melbourne, Australia (MEL) Mexico City, Mexico (MEX) Monterrey, Mexico (MTY) Mumbai, India (BOM) São Paulo, Brazil (GRU) Stockholm, Sweden (ARN) Sydney, Australia (SYD)

*coming soon

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Every Centurion lounge offers regionally-inspired menus designed by award-winning chefs, premium spirits and original cocktails in environs designed for work or relaxation. Here’s a rundown of where they’re located, what hours they operate and what you can expect at each of the Centurion lounges. International locations may have different access rules than those Centurion lounges located in the U.S., so we’ve noted those below.

Atlanta (ATL)

Location: Post-security in Concourse E directly beside gate E11
Hours: 6 a.m. to 11 p.m.

With a “city in the forest” theme, Amex’s newest Centurion Lounge features outdoor terraces, a craft whiskey bar and shower suites. Works by local Atlanta artists give the lounge a distinctive ambiance. Atlanta-based chef Deborah VanTrece creates Southern-inspired menus for the lounge’s food offerings.

Charlotte (CLT)

Location: Intersection of Concourses D & E, mezzanine level, accessible airside to all CLT gates
Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 10:30 p.m.

A family room, shower suites and personal workspaces provide a comfortable environment for all types of travelers. Dynamic art by Charlotte native Amanda Moody decorates the space. James Beard Award finalist, Gregory Collier creates the menus with a Southern flair.

Dallas (DFW)

Location: Terminal D, across from Gate D12. Take the Skylink train from any other terminal to access.
Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Dallas’ Centurion Lounge features an Exhale spa where complimentary spa treatments will get you quickly into relaxation mode. Conference space, family rooms and shower suites are some of the offered amenities. Chef Dean Fearing is behind the Southwestern style cuisine, featuring such entrees as Texas migas with chorizo and sweet onions.

Denver (DEN)

Location: Post-security in Concourse C, just past gate 46, mezzanine level. Accessible from Concourses A and B via train.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

WIth decor evoking Colorado’s Red Rocks, this Centurion lounge features playful amenities such as a pool table, game room, live-action cooking station and a craft beer bar. A multipurpose family room, shower suites and dedicated work area ensure that there’s something for everyone. Chef Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson, one of Food and Wine Magazine’s Best New Chefs in 2005,  locally sources the Northern Italian menu, which includes both innovative and health-conscious dishes.

Houston (IAH)

Location: Terminal D airside via the elevator in the duty-free shop near gate D12. For access from other terminals, use the Skyway (upper-level train), which connects the terminals without going through security.
Hours: 6 a.m. to 9:30 p.m.

A tranquility area, health and wellness space and shower suites provide an opportunity to recharge and refresh. But if you need to get some work done, dedicated work areas and phone rooms will help you stay productive. Justin Yu, James Beard Award-winning chef and owner of Houston restaurant Theodore Rex, oversees the regional menu.

Las Vegas (LAS)

Location: Concourse D, opposite gate D1. Use the train to access from Terminal 1 or 3.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The original Centurion lounge features workspaces, shower suites and business services. James Beard Award-nominated chef Kim Canteenwalla presents seasonally inspired specialties such as honey salt mac & cheese with black kale and Anaheim chiles.

Los Angeles (LAX)

Location: Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT) after security to the immediate left, before the bridge to the Great Hall. Take the American Express-branded elevator from level 4 to level 2. Access post-security from Terminals 4-8 by the terminal connector walkway and from Terminals 2 and 3 by airside bus (drop off at gate 146 in TBIT).
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.

The LA Centurion lounge features the unique Sunrise and Moonrise rooms, designed to offer the perfect amount of light to facilitate adaptation to new time zones and to help ease jet lag. Spa services, a family room and shower suites are also available. 2014 James Beard Outstanding Chef award winner Nancy Silverton provides a creative Los Angeles-inspired menu.

Miami (MIA)

Location: Near gate D12 in Concourse D on the 4th floor. Accessible by SkyTrain within Concourse D. Travelers from other terminals must re-enter through security with a connecting or onward boarding pass.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Enjoy spa services, a family room and shower suites at the Miami Centurion Lounge. James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein imparts a Latin flare to the menu, featuring such dishes as shakshuka with roast chilies, peppers, tomatoes and Swiss chard.

New York (JFK)

Location: Post-security in Terminal 4 to the left of the escalators.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

This expansive location features two premium bars and a speakeasy. Spa services from Equinox lab, a dedicated work area, a family room and shower suites add to the experience, whether you’re there to work or relax. New York-inspired fare is on the menu. Get your caffeine fix at the specialty coffee bar, which serves fresh roasted drip coffee or espresso from Irving Farms.

New York (LGA)

Location: In Terminal B, Concourse B-C, one level above security before the Eastern Concourse pedestrian bridge.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sunday through Friday, 5 a.m. to 9 p.m. Saturday

Semi-private workspaces and shower suites are two of the many amenities at the LGA Centurion. Chef Cedric Vongerichten, co-owner of the renowned Wayan restaurant, curates the Indonesian-influenced menu, which includes such dishes as chicken wings balado with chili tomato sauce, pickled cucumber and Thai basil.

Philadelphia (PHL)

Location: Terminal A West, near gate A14. Can be accessed from all other terminals by foot or shuttle bus.
Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

This light-filled lounge has a variety of workspaces and private phone rooms, making it easy to be productive. Five-time James Beard Award winner Michael Solomonov’s innovative Israeli cuisine is the culinary highlight of this location.

Phoenix (PHX)

Location: Terminal 4 across from gate B22 on the upper level.
Hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.

You’ll find workspaces and shower suites among the amenities at this location. Chef Doug Robson, owner of Gallo Blanco and Otro Cafe, specializes in authentic Mexican food such as tamarind glazed pollo asado.

Note that cardholders may not visit both the Centurion Lounge and the Escape Lounge on the same day.

San Francisco (SFO)

Location: Terminal 3 near gates F1/F2. The lounge can be accessed post-security from Terminal 2 or 3 and International Terminal G. Passengers using Terminal 1 or International Terminal A may be able to use their boarding pass to enter through Terminal 3 security at the discretion of TSA. After visiting the lounge, those passengers would need to exit the secure area, transit to Terminal 1 or International Terminal A using the AirTrain or by foot and reclear security to reach their departure gate.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.

The SFO lounge hosts a wine-tasting area showcasing Napa Valley varietals. A family room, semi-private workspaces and shower suites are some of the amenities in this space. An open kitchen lets you observe the preparation of James Beard Award-nominated chef Ravi Kapur’s Indian–Californian fusion creations.

Seattle (SEA)

Location: Mezzanine level in the Central Terminal, accessible by elevator or staircase in the food court.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Healthy snacks, comfortable seating and shower suites are a few of the amenities you’ll encounter here. Chef Kristi Brown, owner of Communion restaurant, uses local ingredients in her distinctive “Seattle Soul” style of cooking.

The Centurion lounges at London Heathrow Airport and Hong Kong International Airport follow the same access and guest rules as the U.S. Centurion lounges. Access rules for all other international lounges are listed below. In all cases, your physical Platinum or Centurion card is required for entry.

Buenos Aires, Argentina (EZE)

Location: Terminal B. Take the stairs near gate 15 to the lounge entrance on Level 2.
Hours: 9 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Access and Guest Policy:  Platinum and Centurion cardholders may access the lounge within three hours of their departing flight with a valid Platinum or Centurion card, a same-day boarding pass and a government-issued ID. One guest and children under 16 are permitted. Guests must be traveling on the same itinerary. Additional user non-metal Platinum cards from accounts created after September 1, 2021, are ineligible for complimentary access.

Delhi, India (DEL)

Location: Terminal 3, Domestic, next to gates 27 and 28.
Hours: Open 24 hours.

Access and Guest Policy: Cardholders may access with a valid Platinum or Centurion card, a boarding pass for same-day travel and a government-issued ID. One guest and children under 12 are complimentary when visiting with a cardholder.

Hong Kong, China (HKG)

Location: Level 7 in Terminal 1. Take the escalator just before gate 60.
Hours: 7 a.m. to 12 a.m.

Dedicated work areas and well-appointed shower suites greet you at this location.  An expansive premium bar serves unique signature cocktails such as the rickshaw, a concoction of Ciroc vodka, Canton ginger liqueur, lemon juice and madori. The locally inspired menu reflects Hong Kong’s international palate.

London, U.K. (LHR)

Location: Post-security, Terminal 3, Area A, Level 2. After clearing security, follow the Flight Connection route towards Area A, passing through the main shopping and dining area to the elevators. Take the elevator to Level 2.
Hours: 5:30 a.m. to 9 p.m.

Quintessentially British, the London Centurion Lounge features a specialty tea cart. The private wellness rooms and showers provide an opportunity to refresh, while dedicated workspaces and phone rooms are available for those who need to catch up with the office. Highly regarded Chef Assaf Granit oversees a Middle Eastern fusion menu with options such as shikshukit (beef and lamb minced meat with confit tomatoes and tahini) and shakshuka (spicy tomatoes and dry peppers stew with egg, tahini and feta).

Melbourne, Australia (MEL)

Location: Terminal 2, International. Post-security, take the escalator opposite gate 7 to the lower level.
Hours: 6 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Access and Guest Policy: Cardholders may enter with a boarding pass for same-day travel and government-issued ID. Two guests or immediate family (spouse and children under 17) can visit for free.

Mexico City, Mexico (MEX)

Locations:
Terminal 1, International pre-security between gate 8 and F1, beside Flap’s restaurant.
Terminal 1, Domestic, between gates 17 and 18.
Terminal 2, post-security. Take the escalators or elevator to the mezzanine level. The entrance is down the hall and up the stairs.
Hours:
Terminal 1 lounges 5 a.m. to 10 p.m.
Terminal 2 lounge 5 a.m. to 11 p.m.
Access and Guest Policy: Platinum and Centurion cardholders may access within four hours of their departing flight with same-day board pass and government-issued ID. Two guests or immediate family have complimentary access.

Monterrey, Mexico (MTY)

Locations:
Terminal A post-security on the departure level near gate 4
Terminal B on the departure level near the food court in front of gate 4, next to Starbucks
Hours: 5 a.m. to 10 a.m.
Access and Guest Policy: Platinum and Centurion cardholders may access with their same-day boarding pass and government-issued ID. Two guests or immediate family have complimentary access.

Mumbai, India (BOM)

Location: Domestic departure area in Terminal 2, across from Burger King
Hours: 24 hours
Access and Guest Policy: Card members may enter with their eligible American Express card, a same-day boarding pass and a government-issued ID. One complimentary guest plus children under 12 are allowed.

São Paulo, Brazil (GRU)

Location: Post-security in Terminal 3, turn left and follow signs to the “VIP Lounges.”
Hours: 11 a.m. to 3 a.m.
Access and Guest Policy: Platinum, Centurion and Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card members may access with a same-day boarding pass and government-issued ID. Platinum and Centurion members are entitled to one complimentary guest plus children under 12. Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card members may bring two guests for a fee.

Stockholm, Sweden (ARN)

Location: After clearing security and passing through the duty-free shop, turn right toward Pier F. Turn right after the Uncorked Wine Bar to find the lounge.
Hours: 5 a.m. to 7:30 p.m.
Access and Guest Policy: Eligible cardholders can access with their Amex card, a same-day boarding pass and a government-issued ID. One complimentary guest is permitted.

This pop-up lounge is temporary while the permanent Arlanda Airport Centurion location is being constructed. Premium food and drinks are curated by Chef Ponus Frithiof, owner of Pontus in the Green House which was once named Sweden’s best restaurant.

Sydney, Australia (SYD)

Location: Terminal 1, International departures post-security near gates 50-63. Take the escalator or elevator down to level 1 for access.
Hours: 6 a.m. to 9 p.m.
Access and Guest Policy: Card members may enter upon presentation of an eligible American Express card, same-day boarding pass and government-issued ID. Two guests (including children) are complimentary.

The Sky’s the Spirit, a series of artworks by Aboriginal artist Blak Douglas, winner of the 2022 Archibald Prize, greets you upon entry into the Sydney Centurion lounge. Premium amenities such as dedicated workspaces and private shower suites provide a reprieve from the busy airport terminal. Chef Khanh Ong presides over a menu infused with aromatic Asian flavors.

Access to the Centurion Lounges is one of the most valuable benefits of having an American Express Platinum Card, and with good reason. When you enter the Centurion Lounge, it’s easy to forget that you’re in a busy airport. Surrounded by tasty food, drinks and comfortable seating, it’s an excellent place to relax before a flight.

If you don’t have a qualifying credit card to get into the Centurion Lounge, don’t despair! You can escape the airport crowds by slipping into a Priority Pass lounge. Complimentary Priority Pass lounge membership is provided by a number of premium credit cards. Alternatively, Priority Pass memberships can be purchased directly from Priority Pass.

To view rates and fees for the The Platinum Card® from American Express please visit this page
To view rates and fees for The Business Platinum Card® from American Express please visit please visit this page
To view rates and fees for Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card please visit this page.
To view rates and fees for Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card please visit this page.