A Comprehensive Guide to Plaza Premium Lounges

Whether you're seeking a quiet space to work or a place to relax with a drink while awaiting your flight, airport lounges offer a much-needed escape from the hustle of travel.

If you're unfamiliar with lounge access or want to understand the benefits available through your credit cards, navigating the various lounge options can be quite challenging.

Let’s delve into Plaza Premium lounges by examining what they are, their locations, and how you can gain entry.

What exactly are Plaza Premium lounges?

In summary, Plaza Premium consists of a worldwide network of over 250 airport lounges. These lounges are independently operated and contracted, meaning access isn't tied to any particular airline you’re flying with.

While most lounges share the Plaza Premium name, the operator also manages various other lounges, including Virgin Atlantic Clubhouses outside the UK and select Avianca lounges.

Experiences in Plaza Premium lounges can vary significantly by location, according to TPG staff. Although many may not reach the high standards of American Express Centurion lounges, they still offer a decent spot to snack, relax in comfortable seating, and get some work done. Some locations even provide impressive food and decor that can delight even the most seasoned lounge-goers.

Where can you find Plaza Premium lounges?

Plaza Premium boasts over 250 lounges situated across all six inhabited continents.

For travelers within the U.S., Plaza Premium options are restricted to just seven locations. You can find Plaza Premium-branded lounges in two airports:

• Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW)
• Orlando International Airport (MCO)

In addition, Plaza Premium oversees the Virgin Atlantic Clubhouses at five more U.S. airports:

• Boston Logan International Airport (BOS)
• Dulles International Airport (IAD)
• John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK)
• Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)
• San Francisco International Airport (SFO)

If you often travel to or within Asia, you'll be pleased to discover over 50 Plaza Premium locations available to you.

The Plaza Premium Lounge at Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is a fantastic choice for sports fans, featuring an interactive big-screen area for live sports, foosball and shuffleboard tables, and even a small climbing wall for children.

For a complete list of lounge locations, visit the Plaza Premium website.

How can I gain access to Plaza Premium Lounges?

Buy a Plaza Premium pass

You can acquire a single-use lounge pass, with prices differing by location. Additionally, you can buy a lounge pass on Plaza Premium's website, with options starting at $80 for a two-visit pass in the Americas and going up to $379 for a 10-visit global pass.

Credit cards that offer Plaza Premium access

Before purchasing a Plaza Premium lounge pass, check your wallet to see if you already have access through one of your cards. If not, consider investing in the annual fee of a card that provides complimentary access instead of paying for a lounge pass.

The Platinum Card® from American Express (see rates and fees) and The Business Platinum Card® from American Express (see rates and fees) provide unlimited complimentary access for you and up to two guests at all Plaza Premium lounge locations. Terms apply.

Moreover, the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card offers complimentary access to Plaza Premium lounges at select locations for the cardholder and two guests. Considering this card has a $395 annual fee—only slightly more than the Plaza Premium 10-visit global pass—this benefit is quite valuable if you use it more than 10 times a year.

Does Priority Pass include Plaza Premium access?

Members of Priority Pass can access more than 60 Plaza Premium lounges worldwide.

In contrast to Plaza Premium lounges, Priority Pass operates as a membership service that provides access to various contracted airport lounges, rather than representing a specific type of lounge. Certain cards, such as Amex Platinum and Capital One Venture X, offer both Priority Pass and Plaza Premium access, but it's important to note that these services are separate. Enrollment is required.

In summary

Plaza Premium lounges are airport lounges located worldwide, and having the right credit card grants you entry. With over 250 locations, they are not as prevalent as airline-branded lounges or those in the Priority Pass network. However, if you need a space to exercise in London or a play area for your kids in Orlando, Plaza Premium lounges are a great option.

Discover more: Top credit cards for lounge access