Fort Worth-based American Airlines is one of the largest airlines in the United States and around the world. Its most frequent passengers enjoy entry to the airline’s lounge network, named the American Airlines Admirals Club, which entitles eligible passengers to complimentary amenities like free food, drink, and WiFi. The carrier, which has 50 Admirals Clublounges , and in some locations, the Flagship Lounge, alongside an additional 60 partner lounges, means that AA frequent flyers have access to a long list of facilities worldwide.

Access to an airline lounge allows passengers to escape the hustle and bustle of the usual airport chaos, and provides a comfortable atmosphere to sit back, enjoy chef-inspired meals, craft beer and wine, and uniquely inspired cocktails. In some lounges, there are even comfortable spaces to have a nap or recharge your devices. These peaceful environments offer a unique sanctuary away from crowded terminals, providing a more relaxing atmosphere while you wait.

The American Airlines Admirals Club

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American Airlines Admirals Club is a lounge that is based on membership, which can either be purchased outright or earned through frequent travel with the carrier and its partnering airlines in the oneworld alliance. Qualifying first and business class passengers traveling on AA can also access the lounge if their flight is marketed by American or other oneworld carriers.

Complimentary amenities are waiting inside with offerings varying from lounge to lounge, with the majority offering snacks, drinks, made-to-order meals, personal concierge services, business centers, and showers. Hearty meals allow you to fill up on a variety of foods, from locally-inspired cuisine to international dishes. Grab-and-go snacks are also on offer, making it easy to grab a quick bite if you are short on time before your next flight. The full list of Admirals Club locations worldwide is detailed in the table below.

So, which is the best American Airlines Admirals Club in the carrier’s network? Let’s explore the newly designed and inspired lounges re-opening across the carrier’s network, including Denver, Newark, and Washington Reagan. ​​​It is worth noting that this list is not exhaustive, and will look at newly renovated lounges only.

Denver International Airport (DEN)

Credit: Denver International Airport

AA recently rejuvenated its Admirals Club at Denver International Airportin Colorado, with its offering now including complimentary food and drink and a full-service bar to wet the whistle of any discerning traveler. If you are traveling with children, the dedicated kids’ room will keep them entertained until boarding, and fast and free WiFi is on offer, ensuring that you can fire off that final email or download your favorite film before takeoff.

The lounge is located with expansive views of the airport apron, and also sits above the ‘Great Divide’ retail precinct of the airport. The lounge is split into two distinct zones, which include a quiet relaxation zone with a roaring fireplace and plenty of comfortable seating areas. The second zone is located near the large windows overlooking the apron.

American Airlines operates solely domestic flights from Denver, with direct flights on its mainline network to Charlotte Douglas International Airport, Chicago–O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, Philadelphia, and Phoenix–Sky Harbor. There are also additional regional services operated by American Eagle to Los Angeles, Phoenix-Sky Harbor, and seasonally to Dallas/Fort Worth. Other oneworld partners also use the airport for their services, including British Airways (London Heathrow), and Aer Lingus (Dublin – seasonally).

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Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA)

Credit: Metropolitan Washington Airports Authority

There are three Admirals Club lounges at DCA, with Concourse E reopening in 2022. The 14,500 square foot lounge at Ronald Reagan Washington National Airportwas the first of its kind to include the carrier’s newest designs. Stylish, crisp lines and a contemporary feel entice passengers away from the hustle and bustle.

The stone-lined entrance to the lounge pays tribute to the US Capitol’s iconic monuments and museums, and invites passengers upstairs to the lounge itself. On the upper level, passengers are welcomed to the reception area, before entering the modern lounge, equipped with food, a full-service bar, a mother’s room, and complimentary WiFi. Those traveling for business can use the conference room, which can seat up to eight guests comfortably. This conference room also includes an attached powder room.

From DCA, American Airlines operates mainline services to 36 destinations, with American Eagle operating to 76 destinations. These include the international ports of Toronto (year-round), Halifax, and Nassau (seasonally).

Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR)

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New Jersey-based Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR), which you would expect to be a Star Alliance stronghold given United’s extensive presence at the airport, is also home to one of American Airlines’ newest Admirals Club designs. The lounge, located in Terminal A, was the second to open following the new design concept (after DCA). Accommodating up to 137 seats, across 7,050 square feet, the lounge is smaller than most, but still packs a punch with flavor and design.

The entrance to the lounge lures passengers in through what feels like an airbridge, featuring dark, moody tones and the AA logo. The lounge is located near gates A7-A8, and is accessible via stairs or elevator, and is next to the Delta Sky Club. Other airline lounges at EWR include the Air France / KLM Lounge, British Airways Galleries Lounge, Lufthansa Lounge, United Club, and United Polaris Lounge.

Industrial features pay homage to the many bridges of New York City, while unique light fixtures pay tribute to New Jersey local, Thomas Edison. A cozy fireplace and comfortable chairs, sofas, and booths welcome guests to sit back and relax before awaiting their next flight. From Newark, AA operates direct services to Charlotte, Chicago O’Hare, Dallas/Fort Worth, Miami, and Phoenix Sky Harbor.

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Philadelphia International Airport (PHL)

Credit: American Airlines

PHL is home to both the airline’s Flagship and Admirals Club lounges. The Admirals Club lounge at PHL covers approximately 11,000 square feet and takes a refreshed approach to the more classic airline lounge. Combining elevated features already seen at Denver, Washington, and Newark, guests can enjoy a fully serviced bar, self-serve food offering, and a dedicated kids’ area.

Across Philadelphia International Airport, AA operates three Admirals Clubs: Terminal B/C (open 4:30 am to 10:00 pm), Terminal F (6:30 am to 9:00 pm), and the newly renovated Terminal A West (5:00 am to 10:00 pm). The latter lounge, which is located between Gates A15 and A16, is the only Admirals Club at the airport to include complimentary shower facilities.

PHL, a major hub for American Airlines, sees an extensive number of regional, domestic, and international operations. Direct international flights operate across North America, the Caribbean, Europe, and the Middle East. The Admirals Club at PHL sits alongside the airline’s new Flagship lounge, providing a luxury experience for premium international and transcontinental passengers. The lounge includes a chef’s station, a la carte food to order, and a champagne bar.

Entering The Admirals Club

Credit: American Airlines

To be eligible for entry to the Admirals Club, passengers must be flying on eligible itineraries with AA or partner airlines. Subject to your American Airlines AAdvantage frequent flyer status, the cost for an annual membership varies from $750 to $850 per year, and this can be extended to your household for between $1,550 and $1,650 annually. You can redeem an annual pass using your AAdvantage miles (between 75,000 to 85,000 solo, or 155,000 and 165,000 per household), while some credit cards also provide limited entry.

Alternatively, you can purchase a one-day pass for $79 or 79,000 AAdvantage miles. Qualifying airline tickets (such as select first and business class itineraries) will gain you complementary access to the Admirals Club lounge across the network on your date of travel, while also gaining elite status. Co-branded credit cards or military service can also enable free entry.

To enter the lounge, you may be requested to provide a government-issued ID, and the lounge does enforce a strict guest policy limiting only immediate family, subject to capacity limitations. During peak times, the lounge may limit entry to ensure it meets regulations and also provides a quiet, elevated experience for guests.