For frequent flyers passing through Chicago O’Hare, the United Club network provides an inviting retreat from the bustle of one of the nation’s busiest airports. Over the past year, I’ve noticed significant improvements in how these clubs are laid out and the amenities they offer, which is quite a leap compared to older lounge models. Below are six key highlights that demonstrate how United aims to meet travelers’ evolving demands.
United currently operates four clubs at O’Hare, including two in Terminal 1 (near gates B6 and B18) and another in Concourse C (near gate C10). A fifth, relatively new club opened in Terminal 2 near gate E7. During my recent visit, I was struck by how each lounge still manages to maintain its own vibe—some sporting a mid-2010s retro feel, while others opt for a more modern flair. According to industry data from early 2025, Chicago O’Hare continues to see a rise in passenger traffic, so having multiple lounge options helps spread out the crowds and keep things relatively calm.
In my own travels, I’ve observed that the older United Clubs tend to score around 6/10 for overall vibe due to dated styling, while the newer lounges hover at a more comfortable 7/10 thanks to additional comforts like improved lighting and more ergonomic seating. These multiple lounge locations also accommodate different flight paths, making it convenient to pick whichever is nearest your departure gate without hiking across terminals.
The Concourse C lounge near gate C10 stands out for its sleek, urban ambiance inspired by the Windy City itself. Spanning roughly 17,000 square feet, it features floor-to-ceiling windows that allow for impressive views of the runway and inject plenty of natural light. I appreciate how these well-lit spaces encourage a sense of calm amid the usual hustle of travel day. When the lounge isn’t too crowded, this spacious design can offer a surprisingly serene workspace or relaxation nook.
The décor, curated with subtle nods to Chicago’s architecture and art scene, creates a distinct local feel. I’ve heard from fellow travelers that the mix of city motifs and comfortable lounge furniture helps them transition smoothly from the energy of the city outside to the more relaxed pace of pre-flight downtime. A recent study from the American Institute of Architects noted that color palette and lighting can significantly improve visitor well-being, and I believe the lounge’s design reflects that philosophy well.
There’s definitely no shortage of avenues to enter the United Club. Frequent flyers with elite status, certain credit card holders, and those with paid memberships are typically granted access. On particularly busy days, though, a day-pass—priced at around $59—may be placed on standby if capacity limits are hit. I’ve been in a few situations where day-pass users had to wait, and I usually recommend travelers consider an annual membership if they pass through O’Hare often.
Additionally, Star Alliance Gold flyers, active military members, and those traveling internationally in United business class often enjoy complimentary entry. Industry data from 2024 confirms that membership-based lounge use has increased across major airports, reflecting a clear preference for consistent pre-flight comforts. I’ve seen people take advantage of these varied access methods to study, catch up on emails, or simply unwind, contributing to an environment that feels both inclusive and professional.
Over the past six months, I’ve noticed significant enhancements to the lounges’ food and beverage options. Most clubs feature a decent buffet spread with items like salads, snacks, and occasionally rotating cold entrees. Some also include soups that change seasonally, adding a nice touch of variety. When I’m waiting between flights, having a range of food options can help keep my energy levels stable—essential for staying productive on the road.
On top of dining, many of these lounges now offer improved work amenities, such as private phone booths and supercharged Wi-Fi speeds. I’ve observed that United has also introduced helpful features like QR code ordering and even futuristic roaming robot trash collectors in select locations. These touches may sound whimsical, but they reflect a commitment to tech-driven hospitality that’s quickly becoming a staple in modern airport lounges.
In response to increasing demand, United expanded its Polaris Lounge at O’Hare to nearly 25,000 square feet on April 29, 2025. This new space accommodates over 350 seats and boasts features like a hidden speakeasy-style second bar, a full-service dining area, and additional showers. I’ve heard from crew members that these amenities have cut back on crowding, creating a more relaxed experience for those traveling on premium tickets or with the highest elite tiers.
Massage pods and curated décor by Chicago-based Crate & Barrel give the lounge a uniquely local feel. From my vantage point, it’s exciting to see how airlines are breaking away from cookie-cutter lounge templates and investing in region-specific design cues. A recent study suggests these localized touches can enhance travelers’ feelings of comfort and connection, which is exactly what you want when your flight might be delayed or you have a few hours to kill between connections.
The freshly opened United Club near gate E7 in Terminal 2 is smaller compared to its Terminal 1 and 2 counterparts, but it addresses immediate crowding concerns until Terminal 2 is eventually demolished and upgraded in the broader modernization process. I’ve dropped in during peak evening hours and found that while seating is limited, the space remains a pleasant alternative to waiting in the main terminal area.
This repurposed lounge still provides a self-service bar and a selection of small bites, which is enough to tide you over before a flight. If you’re looking for a quieter spot to make a call or fire off an email, the lounge’s location means you’ll likely avoid the biggest rush of travelers. Industry chatter suggests these smaller interim lounges demonstrate airlines’ willingness to be flexible, ensuring that passengers never feel too far from a comfortable seat and a charging port.
Overall, these six highlights show that United is taking its lounge experiences seriously at Chicago O’Hare. Each updated facility offers a blend of comfort, modern aesthetics, and practical amenities that can really enhance a traveler’s day. There’s something optimistic about witnessing an airline continually invest in better spaces, especially as passenger volumes reach new heights in 2025.
Whether you’re a seasoned elite flyer or a first-time lounge visitor, you’ll likely find these updated clubs a welcome haven from O’Hare’s bustling terminals. Between improved dining, redesigned seating, and expanded footprint, these spaces reflect a forward-thinking approach to travel—one that ensures we can stay connected and at ease.
The latest lounge transformations at O’Hare demonstrate how airlines can blend big-city influences with tech-savvy amenities, uplifting the pre-flight experience. I appreciate the commitment to providing diverse seating areas for work, relaxation, and socializing, which goes a long way in bringing a bit of homey comfort to an otherwise busy airport environment.
When you look at these changes collectively, they’re more than just short-term upgrades—they’re shaping the future of air travel. Improving the lounge experience might seem like a small part of the journey, but it’s often what keeps us feeling our best, both mentally and physically, when we’re thousands of miles from home.
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