United Unveils Expanded Polaris Lounge at O’Hare
United Airlines has reopened its Polaris lounge at Chicago O’Hare after an extensive renovation that doubles the facility’s size and transforms it into a haven for long-haul business-class travelers. Since its original debut in 2016, the Polaris concept has set a new standard for U.S. carriers, and this redesigned space underscores United’s commitment to premium passengers.
Located in Terminal 1 near gate C18, the revamped lounge now occupies 25,000 square feet and can accommodate up to 350 guests. Floor-to-ceiling windows offer sweeping views of O’Hare’s bustling runways, while carefully curated furnishings from Chicago-based Crate & Barrel lend a sophisticated, locally inspired aesthetic throughout. Artworks by nine Chicagoland creators adorn the walls, enhancing the sense of place.
Upon entering, travelers find two distinct bar areas. The main bar serves an extensive selection of spirits, Chicago-style Bloody Marys and innovative nonalcoholic cocktails such as an alcohol-free “Aperol Spritz” made with Mionetto zero-proof prosecco and strawberry syrup. Tucked behind frosted glass doors, a speakeasy-style lounge offers premium bubbles—including Laurent-Perrier La Cuvée Brut—and a concise list of Chicago-inspired cocktails like the Second City Sour, crafted with rye whiskey, Malört, egg white and red wine.
Dining options span quick-serve and full-service experiences. A self-service buffet presents hot and cold dishes—think miso-glazed salmon, mezze platters and balsamic-braised chicken—ideal for guests on tight connections. For those with more time, a 50-seat dining room features a three-course menu. Breakfast includes dill and smoked salmon flatbread or lemon-raspberry pancakes, while lunch and dinner start with a cheese plate or prosciutto-parmigiano crostini and continue with entrees such as seafood risotto or a beef short-rib burger. Desserts include an indulgent chocolate-chip skillet cookie and prosecco-poached rhubarb cake.
Wellness is a key focus in the new lounge. A relaxation wing offers zero-gravity recliners and private shower suites lined in marble. A suite of Therabody recovery products, including compression boots and percussion massagers, helps travelers arrive refreshed. Quiet phone rooms provide private space for calls or last-minute work, ensuring productivity before departure.
United’s Polaris lounge network has grown rapidly: since 2022, the airline has unveiled or renovated nine lounges. Later this year, a new dining room will open in the Polaris lounge at Newark Liberty International Airport, and an expanded United Club lounge is slated for Denver’s B West Terminal. United also plans to launch its largest United Club in Houston and a new facility in San Francisco in 2026.
Access to the Polaris lounge remains exclusive. Only passengers flying internationally in United Polaris business class or in an equivalent cabin on a Star Alliance partner may enter. United Club memberships and elite MileagePlus status do not grant entry, and guests are not permitted unless traveling in first class on a partner carrier.
With this ambitious expansion, United solidifies its position in the premium lounge segment, competing directly with Delta’s Delta One lounges and American’s Flagship lounges. By blending elevated dining, bespoke design and state-of-the-art wellness amenities, United has created a Polaris lounge at O’Hare that lives up to its reputation as a global leader in business-class hospitality.
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