Editor’s note: This is a recurring post, regularly updated with new information.
American Express offers excellent membership benefits on its premium cards, including various luxury travel perks. But one of the most tangible perks of select American Express cards is airport lounge access. And Amex’s network of Centurion Lounges are among the most exclusive lounges in Amex’s Global Lounge Collection.
Centurion Lounges outpace most other airport lounges in several ways. For example, Centurion Lounges typically offer seasonally inspired food designed by renowned local chefs, signature and sometimes location-specific cocktails, premium spirits and curated wine lists. Some Centurion Lounges even offer spa services, wine tasting and family rooms. Best of all, these services are complimentary to eligible cardmembers.
If you like the sound of Amex’s Centurion Lounges, keep reading to learn more about these lounges, Centurion Lounge locations and how to get in.
Amex Centurion Lounge locations
The following airports have an American Express Centurion Lounge:
The airport names above link to our past articles on each Centurion Lounge. But, I’ll also discuss each of these lounges in more detail near the end of this guide.
Note that Amex has rebranded its international lounges as Centurion Lounges. As such, Amex is still working to update some of its international Centurion Lounges to reflect the premium Centurion Lounge experience. The issuer is also in the process of rebranding and refreshing several Escape Lounge locations in the U.S. into new Escape Lounges – The Centurion Studio Partner. Don’t expect a huge amount to change in the near term, but cardmembers should find more premium snacks, cocktails and drinks over time. For now, we’ll keep our discussion to full-fledged Centurion Lounges, though.
Related: Guide to lounge access with the Amex Platinum and Business Platinum
Airports that recently opened locations
Amex has worked to bring more Centurion Lounges to airports its cardmembers want to visit. In 2020, Amex opened new Centurion Lounges in Phoenix, Charlotte, Los Angeles and New York (JFK). In 2021, Amex opened new or expanded Centurion Lounges in Denver, Las Vegas (LAS) and New York (LGA).
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While we didn’t see any brand-new Centurion Lounges in 2022, we did see expansions and the opening of two Centurion Studios.
The Centurion Lounge in San Francisco doubled in size, opening its expanded lounge on Dec. 31, 2022. Plus, Centurion Studio locations opened in Fort Lauderdale (FLL) and Columbus, Ohio (CMH). The Fort Lauderdale location opened in October 2022 while the Columbus location opened in November 2022.
Airports with Centurion Lounges coming soon
Amex isn’t done yet. American Express still plans to open new Amex Centurion Lounges in Washington Reagan National (2023), Atlanta (2024) and Newark (unknown date). And Amex plans to expand its Centurion Lounge in Seattle in early 2023.
Related: Latest details on the upcoming new and expanded Amex Centurion Lounges
Amex Centurion Club locations
The first permanent Centurion Club location is opening in New York City in March 2023. Set inside one of the city’s tallest skyscrapers, it will follow different admission rules than traditional Centurion lounges. It will be open to all Amex cardholders and the general public, though with access to fewer reservation times.
Related: Amex is opening a swanky new lounge in midtown Manhattan — here’s how to get in
How to get into the Centurion Lounge
If you’re wondering how to get into the Centurion Lounge, the answer is that not everyone can show up and pay to enter. It depends on what’s in your wallet.
American Express cardmembers with a Centurion or Platinum-branded card such as The Platinum Card® from American Express or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express have access to Amex Centurion Lounges. Cardmembers with other Platinum Cards, such as the Schwab or Ameriprise versions and international versions, should also have access.
Authorized users with a Centurion or Platinum Card also have access. You can add up to three authorized users to the personal Platinum Card for a total of $175 per year (see rates and fees). But authorized users who have the Platinum’s complimentary additional Gold Card don’t have access. Likewise, Amex cardmembers with cards that aren’t Centurion or Platinum cards, such as those with the American Express® Gold Card or the Delta SkyMiles® Platinum American Express Card, don’t get access.
Finally, Delta SkyMiles® Reserve American Express Card and Delta SkyMiles® Reserve Business American Express Card members also get complimentary access to Centurion Lounges located in the U.S., Hong Kong and London when flying on a Delta-marketed or -operated flight purchased with any U.S.-issued American Express card.
You can’t purchase Centurion Lounge access even if you carry another American Express card.
Related: Platinum showdown: Amex Platinum vs. Amex Business Platinum
Centurion Lounge access policies
To enter a Centurion Lounge, you must present your eligible Amex card, a boarding pass showing a confirmed reservation for same-day travel and your government-issued identification.
You may be able to use the Amex mobile app for mobile check-in instead of showing your physical card. However, doing so doesn’t let you bypass capacity constraints that may exist at the lounge. And you’ll still need to show your boarding pass and identification. Even if you plan to use the app, it’s still best to carry your physical card in case you need to show it for entry.
Whether you use the app or show a physical card, the name on the card must match the name on your government-issued identification.
Access policies may vary from country to country for Amex’s international Centurion Lounges. Access regulations also vary based on the type of card you carry. Centurion cardmembers may use Centurion Lounges as long as they have access to the terminal and a confirmed reservation for same-day travel.
However, non-Centurion cardmembers have two additional access restrictions. First, they can’t enter with a boarding pass for a flight that has just landed unless they have a confirmed connecting flight departing from the same airport. Second, they can’t enter more than three hours before the departure time on their same-day, confirmed boarding pass unless they can provide proof of a connecting flight.
Related: Which is the best American Express credit card for you?
Waitlist procedure at Centurion Lounges
You may or may have to wait before entering a Centurion Lounge. It will vary based on capacity and demand, which can change quickly.
If you arrive at a Centurion Lounge that is at capacity, you’ll usually need to provide your name and phone number. Then, you’ll get a text once it’s your turn to enter the lounge.
Related: 5 things airport lounges need to do ASAP to stop overcrowding
Centurion Lounge guest policies
As of Feb. 1, 2023, guest policies have changed at Centurion Lounges. Centurion and Corporate Platinum cardmembers can continue to bring their immediate family members or up to two complimentary guests into the lounge. “Immediate family” is defined as a spouse or domestic partner plus children under 18.
Platinum cardmembers cannot bring complimentary guests into the lounge unless they meet the $75,000 annual spending requirement on their cards. Otherwise, you’ll pay $50 per adult guest and $30 per child (ages 2-17). Children under two can enter for free.
Delta Reserve and Delta Business Reserve cardmembers aren’t allowed any complimentary guests.
Related: Don’t get turned away at the door — top ways to still bring guests into the Amex Centurion Lounge
Guest access is per cardmember, not per card. So you’ll still only get two guests even if you have the personal and business versions of the Platinum Card. If you want to bring additional guests over the complimentary limit, you can purchase day passes at the above rates. These one-day passes can be used at multiple Centurion Lounges on the same day, as long as the cardmember still accompanies the guest. Eligible Delta Reserve and Delta Business Reserve cardmembers may purchase access for up to two guests per location.
Children under 2 years old may enter free of charge if the cardmember traveling with them can produce a lap-infant boarding pass or proof of age. For example, you can show a passport, birth certificate, infant boarding pass or immunization record to prove that a child is under 2.
Related: Solo travelers rejoice: Why I’m in favor of new Amex Centurion Lounge guest rules
Extra benefits for Centurion cardmembers
The Centurion Card from American Express is an invitation-only card requiring high annual spending levels, a hefty initiation fee and a high annual fee. But along with many other benefits, Centurion cardmembers receive some extra perks at Centurion lounges.
Amex doesn’t widely publicize them, but we’re aware of the following Centurion Card-specific services at Centurion Lounges:
- Access is virtually guaranteed, even when a lounge is at capacity.
- Reserved seating for Centurion cardmembers (sometimes in a special area).
- Complimentary premium champagne.
- Complimentary premium drink selection (only available at some lounges).
The information for the Amex Centurion Card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Related: Unadvertised perks of the invite-only Amex Centurion Card
Overview of key Centurion Lounge locations
Centurion Lounges typically provide a wide variety of drinks, quality dining, high-speed Wi-Fi and a mixture of seating for relaxation and work. But each Centurion Lounge offers unique amenities and excels in different areas. Check out Amex’s website to learn more about current amenities and operating hours at each lounge.
Now, here’s a quick overview of each Centurion Lounge.
Charlotte (CLT)
The Charlotte Centurion Lounge is at the intersection of Concourses D and E on the mezzanine level. You can access this Centurion Lounge airside regardless of your gate.
You can enjoy “Southern-leaning cuisine” by chef Joe Kindred of Hello, Sailor in Cornelius, North Carolina. This lounge also offers a family room, shower suite, large flat-screen televisions and personal workspaces.
Related: Here’s your sneak peek of the Amex Centurion Lounge in Charlotte
Dallas (DFW)
This Amex Centurion Lounge is in Terminal D, across from Gate D12 on the mezzanine level. You can reach this lounge from any other terminal via the Skylink train.
James Beard Award-winning chef Dean Fearing designed the dining options at this lounge, including dishes such as Texas migas with chorizo and sweet onions. Lounge amenities include spa therapies from Exhale, a shower suite, large flat-screen televisions, conference space, a family room and semi-private workspaces.
Related: The amenity king: A review of the Amex Centurion Lounge at DFW
Denver (DEN)
The Denver American Express Centurion Lounge is in Concourse C, past Gate C46 on the mezzanine level. You can reach this lounge from any gate in Concourses A, B and C, but you must take the train to reach Concourse C.
James Beard Award-winning chef and restaurateur Lachlan Mackinnon-Patterson created a menu of northern Italian dishes for this lounge. In particular, you can snag hot, fresh, health-conscious bites from the live-action station. Lounge amenities include a craft beer bar, pool table, digital library, dedicated workspace and a multipurpose family room.
Related: First look at the much-anticipated Amex Centurion Lounge in Denver
Houston (IAH)
The Houston Amex Centurion Lounge is in Terminal D. You can reach this lounge via the elevator in the duty-free shop near Gate D6. You can get to Terminal D from other terminals inside the secure area via the Skyway train.
James Beard Award-winning chef Justin Yu, owner of the Houston restaurant Theodore Rex, created this lounge’s menu of dishes such as braised chicken thighs with harissa, nuts, dried fruit and avocado crema. Lounge amenities include a tranquility area, phone room, dedicated work area and family room.
Related: Hide and seek: A review of the Amex Centurion Lounge in Houston
Las Vegas (LAS)
The Las Vegas Amex Centurion Lounge is in Concourse D, across from Gate D1. You can reach Concourse D from Terminal 1 or Terminal 3 via the transit system. Once you pass security, follow signs to D gates.
James Beard Award-nominated chef Kim Canteenwalla of Honey Salt created the menus for this location. Lounge amenities include a shower suite, large flat-screen televisions, conference space, family room and semi-private workspaces.
Related: First look at the newly expanded Amex Centurion Lounge in Las Vegas
Los Angeles (LAX)
This American Express Centurion Lounge is in the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT). After clearing TBIT security, walk toward the main concourse, turn left and take the elevator from level four to level two. When you exit the elevator, you’ll see the lounge straight ahead. You can access the TBIT airside by walking from Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7 and 8 and taking an airside bus from Terminals 2 and 3.
Nancy Silverton, the James Beard Award-winning chef and owner of Los Angeles dining landmark Osteria Mozza, designed the dining at this lounge. For now, the lounge only offers pre-packaged grab-and-go snacks, though.
Lounge amenities typically include spa services, rooms with “sunrise” and “moonrise” lighting, a family room, large flat-screen televisions and personal workspaces.
Related: Here’s your first look at the brand-new Amex Centurion Lounge in Los Angeles
Miami (MIA)
The Miami Centurion Lounge features floor-to-ceiling windows with expansive views of the runway. This Amex Centurion Lounge is in Concourse D on the fourth floor near Gate D12. The lounge is accessible via the SkyTrain within the D Concourse. But if you’re coming from another terminal, you’ll need to reenter through security with either a connecting or onward boarding pass.
This lounge features locally inspired cuisine designed by James Beard Award-winning chef Michelle Bernstein. Lounge amenities include self-led spa therapies from Exhale, a shower suite, large flat-screen televisions, a family room and semi-private workspaces.
Related: Enhanced and expanded: A review of the Amex Centurion Lounge in Miami
New York-Kennedy (JFK)
The New York-JFK Centurion Lounge is in Terminal 4. After you go through security, the lounge is to the left of the escalators that lead passengers down to the gates.
Uruguayan-born chef Ignacio Mattos created the menus for this location. Visitors can enjoy premium drinks at two bars and the lounge’s standout feature, a speakeasy. Other lounge amenities include self-led spa services from Equinox, a specialty coffee bar, family room, dedicated work area, semi-private workspaces and a phone room.
Related: First look at the brand-new flagship Amex Centurion Lounge at JFK
New York-LaGuardia (LGA)
The new New York-LaGuardia Centurion Lounge is located one level above security, right before the eastern concourse pedestrian bridge.
This American Express Centurion Lounge offers a menu created by Cedric Vongerichten, chef and co-owner of Wayan, based on influences from Indonesian cuisine. Visitors can enjoy premium drinks from the bar, watch large flat-screen televisions and work from a semi-private workspace.
Related: First look at the brand-new Amex Centurion Lounge at New York’s LaGuardia airport
Philadelphia (PHL)
The Philadelphia Centurion Lounge is in Terminal A West near Gate A14. You can reach this lounge from any other terminal by walking or using a shuttle bus.
Four-time James Beard Award-winner Michael Solomonov designed this lounge’s dining options, including his signature Israeli-inspired fare such as kale tabbouleh with apples and pomegranate. Lounge amenities include a phone room and workspaces.
Related: First look at Philadelphia’s brand-new Amex Centurion Lounge
Phoenix (PHX)
The Phoenix Centurion Lounge is in Terminal 4, across from Gate B22 on the upper level. Note that you can’t visit the Amex Centurion Lounge and Escape Lounge at Phoenix Airport on the same day.
Chef Doug Robson of Gallo Blanco designed the menus for this Centurion Lounge. His cuisine includes exquisite Mexican-inflected dishes like slow-roasted spaghetti squash with pepitas and maple butter. Lounge amenities include a premium bar and workspaces.
Related: Phoenix’s finest: A review of the Amex Centurion Lounge at PHX
San Francisco (SFO)
It is located in Terminal 3 near Gate F1/F2. You can reach the lounge after clearing security in Terminal 3 or International Terminal G. If you are departing from a different terminal, you may be able to use your boarding pass to enter through Terminal 3 security to visit the lounge. Then you will need to exit security, take the AirTrain or walk to your terminal and then reenter through security before your flight.
This lounge features James Beard Award-nominated chef Ravi Kapur’s (of Liholiho Yacht Club) Californian cuisine. Lounge amenities include a wine-tasting area, shower suite, open kitchen, large flat-screen televisions, family room and semi-private workspaces. Best of all, Amex expanded this lounge in December 2022.
Related: First look inside Amex’s expanded Centurion Lounge in San Francisco
Seattle (SEA)
The Seattle Centurion Lounge is in Concourse B opposite Gate B3. You can get to this lounge after passing through any security checkpoint.
Unlike most American Express Centurion Lounges, this lounge serves snacks and light bites instead of more substantial dishes. The lounge amenities are also more limited, likely because it was initially a Centurion Studio before it eventually expanded by about 50% to become a Centurion Lounge. Amex plans to open a massive, brand-new Seattle Centurion Lounge in early 2023.
Related: Bare necessities: A review of the Amex Centurion Lounge in Seattle
International Centurion Lounges
American Express also offers several international Centurion Lounge locations.
Many of these lounges were recently rebranded as Centurion Lounges, so updating some of these lounges to reflect the premium American Express Centurion Lounge experience is an ongoing process.
Here’s a quick overview of the location, access policies and guest policies of each international Centurion Lounge.
| International Centurion Lounge | Location | Complimentary guest policy |
|---|---|---|
| Buenos Aires (EZE) | Terminal B near Gate 15. | One complimentary guest and children under 16. |
| Delhi (DEL) | Terminal 3 domestic departures adjacent to gates 27 and 28. | Two guests plus children under 12. |
| Hong Kong (HKG) | Terminal 1 just before Gate 60, located on Level 7. | Platinum cardmembers must spend $75,000 per year on their cards to earn guest privileges. Children under 2 can enter for free with an adult.
|
| London Heathrow (LHR) | Terminal 3 Area A, located on Level 2. | Platinum cardmembers must spend $75,000 per year on their cards to earn guest privileges. Children under 2 can enter for free with an adult. |
| Melbourne (MEL) | Terminal 2’s international departures area, after the security checkpoint and passport control, opposite Gate 7. | Two guests or immediate family (spouse and children under 17). |
| Mexico City (MEX) | Terminal 1 international: Before security between Gate 8 and F1. This location is for Centurion cardmembers.
Terminal 1 domestic: Domestic departure area between gates 17 and 18. This location is for Centurion cardmembers. Terminal 2: After security on the mezzanine level. This location is for Platinum cardmembers. |
Two guests or immediate family. |
| Monterrey (MTY) | Terminal A: After security on the departures level, near Gate 4. This location is for Centurion cardmembers.
Terminal B: On the departures level near the food court in front of Gate 4. This location is for Platinum cardmembers. |
Two guests or immediate family. |
| Mumbai (BOM) | Terminal 2’s domestic departures area on Level 3. | Two guests plus children under 12. |
| São Paulo (GRU) | Terminal 3; after the security checkpoint and passport control, turn left and follow the signs to the upper level. Must use Priority Pass membership card to access. | One guest, although Platinum cardmembers can pay for additional guests. |
| Stockholm (ARN) | Terminal 5 after the security checkpoint between the A and F piers. | One complimentary guest. |
| Sydney (SYD) | Terminal 1, international departures area near gates 50-63. Take the elevator down to Level 1. | Two guests or immediate family (spouse and children under 17). |
Related: American Express has a restaurant in Sweden for premium cardholders: Here’s what it’s like
Bottom line
The premium American Express Membership Rewards cards that provide access to Centurion Lounges — the Platinum Card, Business Platinum Card and the invitation-only Centurion Card — are cards you carry for their membership benefits. One of the top benefits is access to lounges in the American Express Global Lounge Collection, which includes Centurion Lounges. These lounges can provide terrific value for frequent domestic and international travelers and can help justify the annual fee on these cards.
Plus, Delta Reserve and Delta Business Reserve cardmembers can visit Centurion Lounges on select trips. In particular, these cardmembers get complimentary access to U.S., Hong Kong and London Centurion Lounges when flying on Delta-marketed or Delta-operated flights if they pay their fare with a U.S.-issued American Express card.
Ready to get Centurion Lounge access? Here are the official application links for The Platinum Card, The Business Platinum Card, the Delta Reserve and the Delta Business Reserve.
For rates and fees of the Amex Platinum card, please click here.
Additional reporting by Ryan Smith.
