Review: United Club at O’Hare (ORD), Concourse F (F9)

…The one in Terminal 2 (F)

The United Club in Terminal 2 at O’Hare, by gate F9, was one of the first to undergo the mid-2010s refresh and features the hallmark décor of that iteration of United clubs. While there are some nice things about the lounge, it has seen better days and can use a new refresh.

The summary

This lounge reflects the mid-2010s uniform aesthetic of clean lines, faux marble, and lots of white and beige. As one of the first lounges to sport this look, it definitely looks past its prime. However, it still meets the basics.

The lounge is in Terminal 2, near gate F9. After presenting your credentials at the manned reception desk, lounge patrons take a sharp right and ascend up a short escalator. At the top, there is a customer service desk to assist travelers. To the immediate right upstairs is a series of private phone rooms – which is one the lounge’s best features. To the left of the customer service desk is a large mural of vintage United airplane – this mural is actually the entry to the men’s washroom – and is very cool.

Further to the left is the main part of the lounge, which is really one big room, with the bar as a centerpiece. As usual, there is a charge for premium cocktails. The bar has the familiar chandeliers, which are identical to all the clubs sporting this design. In front of the bar is a variety of beige seating, small tables for two, communal tables, a sofa, seats at the bar.

On the far right of the bar area is the main buffet offering sandwiches, soups, interesting flatbread, and some snacks. This section also offers coffee and soft drinks. The buffet was too crowded to take a lot of pictures. On the far left side is a smaller buffet featuring coffee, soft drinks, and dessert items.

The entire length of the lounge, and behind the bar, is a long seating area that is separated by a series of translucent dividers. The best part of this area is the view, the entire wall is comprised of floor to ceiling windows that flood the room with natural light.

As per usual, United does an excellent job with outlets – they are everywhere. The internet is fast and is painless to connect. My guess is that a needed refresh may not be coming. From what I have read, Terminal 2 is planned to undergo a complete overhaul – and that will take years. Also, there is a neighboring club by the E gates in Terminal 2 to handle overflow. The E gates club has more limited hours and occupies the space of the former Delta Sky Club, which is now in Terminal 5.

The wrap

…The details. Date – May 7, 2025. Rating: Get’s the job done. Access: United club membership

..What I like: The offices, the door to the men’s room, the tarmac views

..What I don’t like: The crowds, and the décor seems very dated nowadays.