American Express has spent more than a decade building one of the largest credit card airport lounge networks in the world.
The first Centurion Lounge opened in 2013. Since then, the network has expanded across the United States and into airports from London to Tokyo, with more locations on the way.
Unlike airline lounges, access isn’t tied to flying a particular airline or sitting in a premium cabin. It comes primarily through a handful of premium American Express cards.
Here’s where to find Centurion Lounges, who can get in, and what to know before your visit.
Where Can You Find American Express Centurion Lounges?
American Express operates Centurion Lounges across the United States and at several international airports.
American Express is also experimenting with a smaller lounge concept called Sidecar by The Centurion Lounge.
Sidecar is designed for shorter visits, with drinks and light bites rather than the broader dining and amenity experience found at a full Centurion Lounge. Visits are limited to 90 minutes before departure.
The first Sidecar opened at Las Vegas (LAS) in 2025, and another is planned for Charlotte (CLT) in 2027.
Who Can Access a Centurion Lounge?
You can’t purchase a Centurion Lounge membership or simply pay for a day pass.
Instead, complimentary access comes primarily through eligible American Express cards, including:
Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business cardmembers (when flying Delta)
Guest access depends on which card you use.
Platinum Card and Business Platinum Card members generally pay $50 per adult guest and $30 for children ages 2 through 17. Cardmembers who make $75,000 or more in eligible purchases during a calendar year can unlock complimentary access for up to two guests at eligible Centurion Lounge locations.
You’ll also need a same-day boarding pass. Access is generally limited to within three hours of your scheduled departure. If you’re connecting, you can enter up to five hours before your next flight.
What Can You Expect Inside a Centurion Lounge?
Centurion Lounges share many of the same basics, but American Express doesn’t make every location identical.
Food, drinks, artwork, and design often incorporate elements of the city or region surrounding the airport. Some locations take that further with amenities you won’t find elsewhere in the network.
At New York (JFK), there’s a speakeasy called 1850. Seattle (SEA) has a full-service coffee bar inspired by the city’s coffee culture. At Tokyo Haneda (HND), chefs prepare nigiri from an open kitchen.
The rest will feel familiar if you’ve spent time in airport lounges. Expect complimentary food and drinks, Wi-Fi, power outlets, and places to work or relax. Depending on the location, you may also find showers, family rooms, outdoor spaces, or other amenities.
A Few Things to Know Before You Go
A few rules are worth checking before heading to a Centurion Lounge:
Bring a government-issued photo ID. You may be asked to show it at check-in.
Your boarding pass must be for a same-day departing flight.
Entry is subject to capacity, and popular lounges can have a wait during busy periods.
Amenities vary considerably between locations.
International locations can have different access and guest policies, so check the rules for the specific lounge you’re visiting.
Because lounge access policies can change, confirm the latest rules with American Express before traveling if Centurion Lounge access is important to your plans.
