Amex Centurion Lounge Lax: What to Expect from the Premium Lounge

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Modern spacious interior of lounge with TV and leather sofa
Credit: pexels.com, Modern spacious interior of lounge with TV and leather sofa

The Amex Centurion Lounge LAX is a premium oasis for travelers. Located in Terminal 4, it's a short walk from the security checkpoint.

The lounge is open from 5:30 AM to 8:30 PM, so plan your visit accordingly. You can access it with your American Express Centurion card, which is a $5,000 annual fee.

The lounge is designed to be a peaceful retreat from the hustle and bustle of the airport. It features a spacious layout with comfortable seating areas.

You can enjoy complimentary food and beverages, including cocktails, wine, and soft drinks.

The Location

The American Express Centurion Lounge at LAX is located in the Tom Bradley International Terminal (TBIT). This terminal is connected airside to Terminals 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, making it relatively central.

To get to the lounge, you'll need to navigate through the terminal. The entrance to the lounge is on the fourth floor, between the international arrivals and the international baggage claim area. It's essentially immediately underneath the Qantas First Lounge.

Group of professionals collaborating in a modern office lounge area, engaging in team discussions.
Credit: pexels.com, Group of professionals collaborating in a modern office lounge area, engaging in team discussions.

You can access the lounge from other terminals via airside connections, but be prepared for a bit of a trek. For example, if you're coming from Terminal 7, you'll need to take the underground walkway to Terminal 6, then to Terminal 5, and finally to Terminal 4, before taking the connector to TBIT.

Here's a rough guide to help you navigate:

Keep in mind that these times are estimates, and the actual time may vary depending on the time of day and the number of people moving through the terminal.

Lounge Amenities

The Centurion Lounge at LAX offers a variety of seating types, including communal tables, private enclaves, and more, so you're sure to find a comfortable spot.

The lounge spans 14,000 square feet, but it can feel a bit cramped due to its unique design.

You'll find a relatively small seating area with couches, loungers, and tables for eating and drinking when you first enter the lounge.

Vibrant beach loungers under decorative parasols on a sunny day, perfect for relaxation and leisure.
Credit: pexels.com, Vibrant beach loungers under decorative parasols on a sunny day, perfect for relaxation and leisure.

There are two bars in the lounge, with one located in a separate area with more seating, a TV, and American Express-themed decor.

A spa offers complimentary massages and manicures on a first-come, first-served basis, perfect for relaxing during your layover.

The lounge also features a kids room, which is a great perk for families traveling together.

The food at the Centurion Lounge is excellent, and it's definitely worth stopping in for a free meal if you have access.

Some of the lounge's best features include its smaller rooms, which help to create a quiet and relaxed atmosphere, even when the lounge is near max capacity.

Food & Drink

The food at the Amex Centurion Lounge LAX is a highlight of the experience. You'll notice a large self-serve food buffet upon entering the lounge, serving a wide variety of options.

The buffet is refreshed three times daily for breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can expect a fresh selection each time. The variety of options is impressive, and everything looks delicious.

Interior of modern lounge zone with soft couch near creative brick wall with illuminated picture
Credit: pexels.com, Interior of modern lounge zone with soft couch near creative brick wall with illuminated picture

Individual beverage and snack stations are scattered throughout the lounge, making it easy to grab a drink refill without having to go all the way back to the buffet. This is especially convenient if you're in a hurry.

The main bar and dining area has fairly high ceilings, making it feel open and airy. The old fashioned I ordered from the bar was one of the best I've had from a Centurion Lounge.

Access and Eligibility

To access the Amex Centurion Lounge LAX, you'll need one of the following American Express cards: The Platinum Card, Business Platinum Card, Centurion Card, Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card, or Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card.

You'll also need a same-day boarding pass and government-issued ID. The good news is that the entry requirements are the same for each lounge, so you'll know exactly what to expect.

Here are the eligible American Express cards that grant access to the Amex Centurion Lounge LAX:

  • The Platinum Card from American Express
  • The Business Platinum Card from American Express
  • The Centurion Card (aka the “Black Card”)
  • Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card
  • Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card

Access

Credit: youtube.com, Access and Eligibility

To access an American Express Centurion Lounge, you'll need one of the following cards, along with a same-day boarding pass and government-issued ID: The Platinum Card, Business Platinum Card, Corporate Platinum Card, Delta SkyMiles Reserve Card, or Delta SkyMiles Reserve Business Card.

Cardholders must present their eligible American Express card, a boarding pass for same-day travel on any airline, and a government-issued ID. This is a requirement for entry at all Centurion Lounges.

Centurion Members are welcome to access the lounge free of charge. One-time access passes are not available, so be sure to keep an eye on the latest official entry requirements.

If you're a Platinum Card or Business Platinum Card holder, you can bring two guests for free if you've met the $75,000/year waiver. If you haven't met the waiver, you can purchase day passes for $50/person or $30 per person aged 2 through 17.

Here's a breakdown of the guest policies for each eligible card:

Children under the age of 2 can enter for free with a Platinum or Centurion cardholder, provided they do not occupy a separate seat.

Cardholders can access the lounge up to three hours before their scheduled departure time. However, if you're connecting through a Centurion Lounge location, you may access the lounge at any time before your onward flight.

Cons

Lounge zone in office with couch near tables with chairs
Credit: pexels.com, Lounge zone in office with couch near tables with chairs

The lounge can be quite crowded, especially considering its location in one of the busiest terminals at LAX. Most hours of the day, you can expect it to be full.

The seating situation might be a bit of a challenge. Most of the seating is communal, which can be a drawback for those who prefer some alone time. The private seats get taken fast, so if you're looking for some peace and quiet, you might want to arrive early.

If you're claustrophobic, you might not enjoy hanging out in this lounge. It feels a little small, which can be overwhelming for some people.

Review and Details

The American Express Centurion Lounge at LAX is a unique experience. It's not as bright and airy as some other lounges, like the Miami Centurion Lounge.

You'll have to navigate a tunnel-like entrance to get to the lounge, which can be a bit disorienting. Once inside, you'll have a choice of seating areas, one of which has a big screen TV and a smaller bar.

Credit: youtube.com, KNOW THIS before CENTURION LOUNGE LAX

The lounge has a classic Centurion table, which has become a staple in many lounges, including some Delta Sky Clubs. There's also a kids' playroom, which is great for families, but be aware that some Centurion clubs don't have spas.

The LAX lounge has a spa, and it's currently open, but be sure to check for availability and schedule a treatment in advance. You'll also find showers, but it's unclear if they're currently available for use.

One thing to keep in mind is the lounge's location. It's a bit of a trek to get to the other Delta concourses, T2 and T3, especially if you're flying out of TBIT. Be prepared for a 25-35 minute walk to the shuttle bus, which will reduce your time in the lounge.

Travel and Logistics

If you're flying out of the South Complex, you can access the Centurion Lounge without clearing security again. Simply take the inter-terminal tunnels to get to T4, then use the land bridge connector to walk to TBIT.

To get to the Centurion Lounge from Terminals 1, 2, and 3, you can use the Delta SkyWay TBIT connector instead. This is a convenient option for those flying Delta out of T2 or T3.

Hours

Smiling woman in an airport lounge seat, bathed in warm evening light.
Credit: pexels.com, Smiling woman in an airport lounge seat, bathed in warm evening light.

The Centurion Lounge at LAX has limited hours, opening from 6 AM to 7:30 PM daily.

You can check the lounge's hours, which change periodically, on their website.

Going in the early afternoon, around 12-3 PM, can be a good time to visit if you want the lounge to be quiet.

Return

Returning from your trip can be just as important as getting there. Booking a shower in advance is a good idea, especially in popular lounges like the American Express Centurion Lounge at LAX.

The lounge's shower suites come equipped with toiletries and towels, making it a convenient option for freshening up before your flight.

Traveling Domestically

Traveling domestically can be a breeze, especially if you know the ins and outs of airport logistics.

The South Complex at LAX, which includes terminals 4, 5, 6, 7, and 8, has a convenient system for visiting the Centurion Lounge. To get there, use the inter-terminal tunnels to get to T4, then walk across the land bridge connector to TBIT without needing to clear security again.

For those flying out of terminals 1, 2, and 3, the Delta SkyWay TBIT connector is a great option to access the Centurion Lounge.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is the Amex Centurion lounge free?

The Amex Centurion Lounge is not entirely free, but cardholders who spend $75,000 or more annually on their card get complimentary access for two guests. Otherwise, there's a $50 fee per guest, with discounts for children.

Can I use Centurion lounge on domestic flights?

To use the Centurion lounge, you must be flying a same-day Delta-marketed or Delta-operated domestic flight with your Delta SkyMiles Reserve American Express Card. Access is also restricted to specific domestic lounge locations.

Can I go to the Centurion lounge in a different terminal?

Unfortunately, the Centurion lounge is located in Terminal 3, so you can only access it if you're departing from or have cleared security in Terminal 3

Felicia Koss

Junior Writer

Felicia Koss is a rising star in the world of finance writing, with a keen eye for detail and a knack for breaking down complex topics into accessible, engaging pieces. Her articles have covered a range of topics, from retirement account loans to other financial matters that affect everyday people. With a focus on clarity and concision, Felicia's writing has helped readers make informed decisions about their financial futures.

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