Key Points
- Only premium American Express cards offer lounge access, with The Platinum Card providing the most comprehensive benefits across multiple lounge networks.
- Centurion Lounges are significantly better than Priority Pass locations, but they exist in just 15 U.S. airports and often have wait times.
- You need separate enrollment for Priority Pass even with an eligible Amex card, which can take weeks to process and arrive.
Introduction
Having an American Express card doesn't automatically get you into airport lounges. I've watched countless travelers flash their Blue Cash card at lounge entrances only to be turned away, confused about why their Amex doesn't work.
Here's what actually matters: American Express offers some of the best airport lounge access in the industry, but only through specific premium cards. The difference between a $95 annual fee card and a $695 card isn't just the welcome bonus—it's whether you're relaxing in a premium lounge with chef-prepared meals or fighting for an outlet at your gate. If you're comparing options, check out our best American Express credit cards guide to see all your options.
Let me walk you through exactly which cards unlock which lounges, what you can actually expect inside, and whether the annual fees justify the access you'll get.
Which American Express Cards Provide Lounge Access
Not all Amex cards are created equal when it comes to airport lounges. Here's the complete breakdown of which cards actually get you through those lounge doors. For a broader comparison, see our guide to the best credit cards for airport lounge access.
Premium Cards with Full Lounge Access
The Platinum Card from American Express
The gold standard for lounge access. The Platinum Card from American Express grants you entry to Centurion Lounges plus the entire Global Lounge Collection, which includes over 1,400 lounges worldwide.
What you get:
- Access to all Centurion Lounges when flying on any airline
- Priority Pass Select membership with unlimited visits
- Escape Lounge access
- Plaza Premium lounge network
- Delta Sky Club access when flying Delta on a same-day ticket
- Lufthansa lounges when flying Lufthansa
- Two complimentary guests for most lounges (except Centurion Lounges, which now charge $50 per guest)
Annual fee: $695
This card makes sense if you fly from airports with Centurion Lounges or travel internationally frequently where the Global Lounge Collection really shines. Check current Amex Platinum offer.
The Business Platinum Card from American Express
Nearly identical lounge benefits to the personal Platinum, making it an excellent option for business travelers or those who want to double up on lounge access across two cards. Learn more about The Business Platinum Card.
What you get:
- All the same lounge access as the personal Platinum
- Same guest policies apply
- Can be combined with personal Platinum for more flexible travel
Annual fee: $695
The business version particularly shines when you're earning on business expenses while still getting premium travel perks. Apply for The Business Platinum Card.
Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card
This card offers more limited but still valuable lounge access, especially if you're loyal to Delta Air Lines. Our complete Delta credit cards guide compares all Delta card options.
What you get:
- Centurion Lounge access only when flying Delta on a ticket purchased with an Amex card
- 15 complimentary Delta Sky Club visits per year
- Unlimited Delta Sky Club access if you spend $75,000 per year on the card
- Access to domestic and select international Centurion Lounges (Hong Kong and London)
Annual fee: $650
This card works best for dedicated Delta flyers who regularly pass through Delta hubs like Atlanta, Detroit, Minneapolis, or Salt Lake City. See current Delta Reserve bonus.
Cards with Priority Pass Only
Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant American Express Card
This card doesn't get you into Centurion Lounges, but it does provide Priority Pass Select membership with unlimited visits. Check out our best Marriott credit cards comparison for alternatives.
What you get:
- Priority Pass Select membership (enrollment required)
- Unlimited Priority Pass lounge visits
- No Centurion Lounge access
- Strong hotel benefits that might outweigh the lounge limitations
Annual fee: $650
If your priority is hotel stays with occasional lounge access as a nice-to-have, this card makes sense. But don't expect Centurion Lounge quality. Apply for the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant.
Understanding the American Express Lounge Networks
American Express provides access to multiple lounge networks, and understanding the differences matters when choosing which card to apply for.
Centurion Lounges: The Crown Jewel
Centurion Lounges represent Amex's flagship airport lounge experience. These are company-owned and operated, giving Amex complete control over quality.
What makes them special:
- Chef-prepared meals with regional specialties
- Premium cocktails crafted by mixologists
- Shower suites at most locations
- High-speed WiFi throughout
- Quiet rooms and family rooms
- Premium spirits and wine selections
Current U.S. locations:
- Atlanta (ATL)
- Charlotte (CLT)
- Dallas-Fort Worth (DFW)
- Denver (DEN)
- Houston (IAH)
- Las Vegas (LAS)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
- Miami (MIA)
- New York JFK (JFK)
- New York LaGuardia (LGA)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Phoenix (PHX)
- San Francisco (SFO)
- Seattle (SEA)
- Washington Reagan (DCA)
International locations:
- Hong Kong (HKG)
- London Heathrow (LHR)
- Melbourne (MEL)
- Sydney (SYD)
The reality check: while Centurion Lounges are excellent, they're often crowded. The Las Vegas, New York JFK, and Phoenix locations frequently have wait times, especially during peak travel hours. Amex introduced a $50 guest fee in 2023 to help manage crowds, and most locations now use virtual queuing systems during busy periods.
Global Lounge Collection: The Hidden Value
The Global Lounge Collection gives you access to multiple smaller lounge networks that often fly under the radar. These can be incredibly valuable if you know what to look for.
Networks included:
- Priority Pass Select (1,400+ lounges worldwide)
- Escape Lounges (8 U.S. locations)
- Plaza Premium lounges (select airports)
- Delta Sky Club (when flying Delta)
- Lufthansa lounges (when flying Lufthansa)
- Airspace Lounge (San Diego)
Escape Lounges deserve special mention. These tend to be smaller but higher quality than most Priority Pass lounges. You'll find them in:
- Oakland (OAK)
- Minneapolis-St. Paul (MSP)
- Phoenix (PHX) - two locations
- Sacramento (SMF)
- Hartford (BDL)
- Reno (RNO)
- Fort Lauderdale (FLL)
The food quality at Escape Lounges typically matches or exceeds many Priority Pass locations, and they're rarely crowded.
Priority Pass: The Volume Play
Priority Pass provides the broadest network but the most variable quality. You'll find over 1,400 lounges worldwide, but the experience ranges from excellent to barely acceptable.
What to expect:
- Basic amenities: comfortable seating, WiFi, power outlets
- Light food: typically sandwiches, snacks, pastries
- Beverages: coffee, tea, soft drinks, sometimes beer and wine
- Shower facilities at select locations
The reality: Some Priority Pass lounges are excellent (like the Plaza Premium lounges in Orlando or Toronto). Others are frankly disappointing, with mediocre food, crowded spaces, and limited amenities.
The Entry Requirements You Need to Know
Getting into any airport lounge requires more than just the right credit card. Here's what you actually need at the lounge entrance.
For Centurion Lounges
You'll need three things:
- Your eligible American Express card
- A government-issued ID
- A same-day boarding pass with confirmed seat or zone assignment
Important restrictions:
- You must be departing within three hours of your scheduled flight time
- Connecting passengers can access lounges between flights
- Some locations enforce stricter timing during peak hours
For Priority Pass Lounges
The process is different because Priority Pass is a separate membership:
- Apply for your eligible Amex card
- Wait for card approval and physical card arrival (1-2 weeks)
- Enroll in Priority Pass through your Amex benefits portal
- Wait for Priority Pass membership card (2-3 weeks)
- Present Priority Pass card, ID, and boarding pass at lounge entrance
Digital membership cards work at most locations, but some lounges still require the physical card. Plan ahead and enroll as soon as you receive your Amex card.
Guest Policies: What's Changed
Amex significantly changed guest policies for Centurion Lounges in February 2023, and understanding these rules prevents awkward conversations at lounge entrances.
Current Centurion Lounge guest policy:
- Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders: $50 per guest
- Delta Reserve cardholders: $50 per guest
- Children under 2: complimentary
- Authorized users with the same card type: complimentary entry
Global Lounge Collection guest policy:
- Platinum and Business Platinum cardholders: two complimentary guests
- Varies by specific lounge and network
- Some lounges charge for additional guests beyond the first two
The $50 guest fee was controversial when introduced, but it has meaningfully reduced crowding at most Centurion Lounges. If you regularly travel with a companion, factor this cost into your annual fee calculation.
What to Actually Expect Inside
Let me set realistic expectations about what you'll find when you walk into these lounges. The marketing photos show pristine spaces and beautiful food spreads, but the reality varies significantly.
Inside Centurion Lounges
The food: This is where Centurion Lounges truly shine. Each location features:
- Hot entrees that change daily
- Regional specialties (barbecue in Phoenix, seafood in Miami)
- Fresh salads and sides
- Dessert selection
- Made-to-order items at some locations
The Phoenix Centurion Lounge barbecue is legitimately excellent. The Las Vegas location's food is adequate but nothing special. Quality varies, but it's consistently better than what you'd buy at airport restaurants.
Beverages:
- Full bar with premium spirits
- Craft cocktails created by mixologists
- Wine selection including both standard and premium options
- Espresso machines and specialty coffee
- Soft drinks and juices
Amenities:
- High-speed WiFi (consistently reliable)
- Power outlets at every seat
- Shower suites (most locations, first-come-first-served)
- Quiet rooms (limited availability)
- Family rooms with activities for children
- Conference rooms (select locations)
The catch: Crowding remains an issue. Even with the guest policy changes, expect lines during:
- Morning rush (6:00 AM - 9:00 AM)
- Evening peak (4:00 PM - 7:00 PM)
- Holiday travel periods
The virtual queue system helps, but you might still wait 30-45 minutes for entry during peak times at popular locations like Las Vegas or JFK.
Inside Priority Pass Lounges
The Priority Pass experience is wildly inconsistent. I've used lounges that rivaled Centurion Lounges and others where I immediately turned around and left.
Typical offerings:
- Comfortable seating (usually adequate)
- Basic WiFi (speeds vary significantly)
- Light snacks and sandwiches
- Coffee, tea, soft drinks
- Sometimes beer and wine
The good ones:
- Plaza Premium lounges (Orlando, Toronto, London Gatwick)
- Some international locations (Hong Kong, Singapore)
- Escape Lounges (when accessible through Priority Pass)
The disappointing ones:
- Small regional airport lounges with limited food
- Lounges that close to Priority Pass members when full
- Locations with poor maintenance or cleanliness
Pro tip: Download the Priority Pass app and read recent reviews before visiting. The app shows real-time capacity and recent user experiences that help you decide if it's worth the visit.
Strategic Tips for Maximizing Lounge Access
After years of using American Express lounge access, here are the strategies that actually make a difference.
Timing Your Arrival
The three-hour rule is real and enforced at most lounges. But there's nuance:
Centurion Lounges:
- Strictly enforce three-hour departure window
- Rare exceptions for connections
- Virtual queue available through Amex app during busy times
- Arrive 2-2.5 hours before departure for best experience
Priority Pass lounges:
- Most enforce three-hour window
- Some allow six hours (check individual lounge policies)
- International lounges often more flexible
- Layover passengers usually exempt from timing restrictions
Handling Crowding
The overcrowding at Centurion Lounges isn't going away. Here's how to work around it:
Use the virtual queue:
- Join the queue through the Amex app when you arrive at the airport
- You'll receive a text when it's your turn
- Shop, grab coffee, or handle other airport tasks while waiting
- Typical wait times: 15-45 minutes during peak periods
Alternative strategies:
- Fly at off-peak times (mid-morning or early afternoon)
- Use Global Lounge Collection alternatives when available
- Have backup plans for busy locations
Locations with less crowding:
- Charlotte (CLT)
- Denver (DEN)
- Philadelphia (PHL)
- Washington Reagan (DCA)
Consistently crowded:
- Las Vegas (LAS)
- New York JFK (JFK)
- Phoenix (PHX)
- Los Angeles (LAX)
Making the Most of Multiple Cards
If you hold both the personal and business Platinum cards, you have options:
Separate visits: Each card provides independent access, so you could theoretically visit the lounge twice if needed (though this violates the spirit of the benefit).
Split the annual fee timing: Apply for one card in January and another in July, spreading the annual fee impact and ensuring you always have valid lounge access during any renewal disputes.
Different guest policies: While both cards now charge for guests at Centurion Lounges, they each allow two complimentary guests for Global Lounge Collection locations.
International Travel Strategies
The Global Lounge Collection really shines internationally:
Priority Pass international locations are often significantly better than U.S. locations. The lounges in Hong Kong, Singapore, London, and major European hubs frequently rival or exceed Centurion Lounge quality.
Plaza Premium lounges in Asia and Canada are consistently excellent. The Toronto Pearson Plaza Premium lounge is nicer than many Centurion Lounges.
Lufthansa and Delta partnerships work when flying these airlines internationally, giving you access to their premium lounges that American Express doesn't own but has negotiated access to.
Is American Express Lounge Access Worth It?
The honest answer depends on your travel patterns and home airport. Let me break down the math.
When It's Absolutely Worth It
Frequent travelers from Centurion Lounge cities: If you fly out of Atlanta, Phoenix, New York, or another city with a Centurion Lounge more than 6-8 times per year, the lounge access alone justifies much of the annual fee. Apply for the Amex Platinum to get started.
International travelers: The Global Lounge Collection's international reach makes the Platinum Card valuable for anyone taking even a few international trips per year.
Premium travelers seeking consistency: If you value reliable pre-flight relaxation and quality food over saving money, Centurion Lounge access delivers.
When It's Not Worth It
You rarely fly from major airports: If you primarily fly from regional airports without Centurion Lounges or quality Priority Pass options, you're paying for a benefit you can't use.
You're always rushed: If you consistently arrive at the airport 60-90 minutes before departure, you won't have time for lounge visits anyway.
Cost-conscious travelers: If the $695 annual fee represents a significant portion of your travel budget, there are better ways to spend that money on your actual trip.
The Break-Even Math
Let's calculate what you're really paying for lounge access on the Amex Platinum Card:
Platinum Card annual fee: $695Less travel credits and benefits:
- $200 airline fee credit: -$200
- $200 hotel credit: -$200
- $189 CLEAR credit: -$189
- Other credits: ~-$100
Net cost after credits: ~$6
At this net cost, you're essentially getting lounge access, Priority Pass, and the other benefits for almost nothing—but only if you actually use those credits. If you don't redeem them all, your true cost for lounge access is higher.
Rule of thumb: If you'll use at least $400 of the card's various credits and visit lounges 4+ times per year, the Platinum Card justifies its annual fee.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Not Enrolling in Priority Pass Immediately
The biggest mistake I see is travelers applying for an Amex card, getting approved, and then not enrolling in Priority Pass until right before a trip. By that time, it's too late—your membership card won't arrive in time.
Solution: Enroll in Priority Pass the day your Amex card arrives. Even if you don't plan to travel soon, getting this step done early ensures you have access when you need it.
Assuming All Amex Cards Grant Lounge Access
Just because you have an American Express card doesn't mean you have lounge access. The Blue Cash Preferred, Everyday cards, and even the Gold Card don't provide any lounge benefits.
Solution: Verify your specific card's benefits before showing up at a lounge entrance. Save yourself the embarrassment of being turned away. Our complete guide to American Express rewards programs explains which cards offer which benefits.
Ignoring the Three-Hour Rule
Arriving four hours before your flight and expecting lounge access will result in disappointment. Most lounges strictly enforce this policy.
Solution: Time your airport arrival around lounge access rules. For domestic flights, arrive 2-2.5 hours early. For international flights, arrive 3 hours early.
Forgetting About Guest Fees at Centurion Lounges
The $50 per guest fee catches people off guard, especially if they last used a Centurion Lounge before February 2023.
Solution: Plan ahead for guest fees. If you're traveling with family, the costs add up quickly. Consider whether lounge access with multiple guests makes financial sense, or if you should explore alternative options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I access American Express lounges if I'm not flying American?
Yes. Centurion Lounges don't require you to fly any specific airline (except for the Delta Reserve card, which requires Delta flights for Centurion access). You just need a same-day boarding pass on any airline.
How early can I enter a lounge before my flight?
Most lounges allow entry within three hours of your scheduled departure. Some international lounges extend this to six hours. Arrive too early, and you'll be turned away.
Do I need to make a reservation for lounge access?
No reservations are required for Centurion Lounges or Priority Pass lounges. However, during peak times, Centurion Lounges use a virtual queue system through the Amex app. Join the queue when you arrive, and you'll be notified when space is available.
Can I use lounge access during a layover?
Yes. If you have a same-day connecting flight, you can access lounges during your layover. Make sure to have your next flight's boarding pass available.
What if the lounge is at capacity?
For Centurion Lounges, you'll be placed in a virtual queue. For Priority Pass lounges, some may turn away members when at capacity. Check the Priority Pass app for real-time availability updates.
Can authorized users on my card access lounges?
Yes, authorized users on Platinum and Business Platinum cards get their own complimentary lounge access. They receive separate cards and can enter lounges independently, though guest fees still apply if they bring additional guests.
Conclusion
American Express lounge access represents one of the most valuable credit card benefits available, but it's not universally useful. The combination of Centurion Lounges, Priority Pass, and the Global Lounge Collection creates impressive coverage for frequent travelers, especially those who regularly pass through major hub airports.
The Amex Platinum Card makes the most sense for travelers who fly from cities with Centurion Lounges, take international trips, or value premium airport experiences. The Delta Reserve card works best for Delta loyalists, while the Marriott Bonvoy Brilliant provides basic Priority Pass access for hotel-focused travelers.
Before paying that $695 annual fee, honestly assess your travel patterns, home airport options, and willingness to use the various credits. When the benefits align with your travel style, American Express lounge access is worth every dollar. When they don't, you're better off with a simpler, less expensive card and buying day passes for the occasional lounge visit. Compare all your options in our best travel credit cards guide.
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