Two Massive New Airport Lounges Have Opened at SFO. Here’s What Awaits You.

Facing unprecedented TSA crowds and crowded terminals has become commonplace for travelers this summer. However, guests at San Francisco International Airport can find a peaceful escape at two newly opened lounges. Amenities include a mini gym equipped with Lululemon gear, ample seating, and California-inspired cuisine sourced from local ingredients.

Just a month after the grand reveal of the final section of the renovated Harvey Milk Terminal 1 on July 17, 2024, the Alaska Lounge and Club SFO—the airport’s first lounge available via Priority Pass—are now open for guests.

Here’s what travelers can look forward to in the latest lounge offerings at SFO and how to gain access to enjoy their features.

Alaska Lounge at SFO: Delightful San Francisco treats and ample seating

The 11,000-square-foot area in Terminal 2 boasts 55 percent more seating than its former version. Guests will discover leather lounge chairs positioned by expansive windows with views of the tarmac, power outlets for charging devices at nearly every seat, two TalkBox privacy booths for phone calls or virtual meetings, and elevated dining and beverage selections.

Like all of Alaska’s lounges, complimentary food options are always available, featuring soups, a salad bar, and made-to-order pancakes with a variety of syrups and toppings. Unique local treats include sourdough from Acme Bread Company and candy jars filled with Bay Area sweets like Ghirardelli chocolates and colorful fortune cookies from the Oakland Fortune Factory. Guests can also order favorite bar bites such as cheeseburgers and chicken tenders for an additional cost.

For beverages, there’s a Coca-Cola Freestyle machine offering over 100 soda and flavor combinations, along with a barista station serving hand-crafted espresso drinks. At the bar, guests can enjoy complimentary local beers, including Lagunitas and Calicraft Brewing, a rotating selection of West Coast wines, and basic liquor options. Premium spirits and wines are available for purchase.

Located across from Gate B6, the lounge operates daily from 5 a.m. to 10:30 p.m. Guests with business-class tickets, Oneworld Emerald members, and Chase Sapphire cardholders traveling on a same-day international flight can access the lounge at no cost.

Alaska Airlines also provides two annual lounge memberships. The basic “Alaska Lounge” membership starts at $450, granting access to all nine locations for the member and two guests. The upgraded “Alaska Lounge+” option, starting at $650, includes access to 90 partner lounges, such as American Admirals Clubs and select Qantas Clubs. Additionally, travelers with Alaska or partner airlines can purchase single-entry day passes for $60 ($30 for active military personnel).

The Club SFO: Featuring Northern California outdoor decor, a mini gym, and more.

Stepping into the Club SFO unmistakably transports you to Northern California. The lounge covers 12,000 square feet and is filled with nature-themed decor, including murals of redwood trees and a faux firepit that uses water vapor to simulate flames. Even the lighting evokes NorCal vibes, designed to mimic sunlight filtering through a tree canopy.

The open layout includes various seating options, from leather armchairs to bistro-style tables. Many food items, such as sourdough bread and fresh fruit, are sourced locally. Breakfast features Japanese scrambled eggs and fruit parfaits, while lunch and dinner offer dishes like enchilada bowls and carrot coconut curry. The drink menu includes a range of nonalcoholic beverages and a robust bar program, highlighting three signature cocktails inspired by California—The Frisco, the Golden Gate Gramble, and the Gold Rush—along with a wine list exclusively showcasing California vintages.

A standout feature is the “bioluminescence rooms,” equipped with two lighting options designed to help travelers adapt to different time zones—one for energizing and the other for relaxation. Additional amenities include a mini gym with weights, yoga mats, and Lululemon fitness mirrors, three private pods for phone calls, a family room, and three showers, the latter available for a fee of $25.

Situated across from Gate B4, the Club SFO welcomes guests daily from 4 a.m. to 11 p.m. There are multiple ways to gain access: those with a Priority Pass (available through many premium travel credit cards like the Amex Platinum or Chase Sapphire Reserve) can enter at no cost. Furthermore, due to a partnership with Turkish Airlines, business-class travelers or those with Star Alliance Gold status flying with the airline can also access the lounge. Others can buy a day pass for $75 per person.