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This new Chase lounge at PHL makes other airport lounges look basic

This Philadelphia airport lounge redefines what travelers should expect

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Chase Sapphire Lounge PHL
Chase

Philadelphia International Airport (PHL) is one of the Northeast’s busiest airports and the largest airport in the state of Pennsylvania. While those of us who call the Philadelphia area home tend not to love this airport (ranked 3rd worst in the U.S. airports in a recent survey), the airport is home to one secret gem: The Chase Sapphire Lounge by The Club Philadelphia.

At approximately 20,000 square feet in size, this airport lounge is one of the largest in the Chase network of Chase Sapphire lounges, designed to accommodate the massive number of passengers this airport serves each year. During my recent visit to this lounge, I was instantly impressed by the luxurious and upscale atmosphere of this airport lounge, setting a new bar for airport lounges to take note of. Here’s what blew me away about the new Chase Sapphire Lounge in PHL (opened in February 2025) and why I think it has the power to set new expectations amongst airport lounge users.

What felt elevated about PHL’s Chase Sapphire Lounge

@travelingmadeperfect

Have you been to this Chase Sapphire Lounge in PHL? This is the most upscale and spacious airport lounge I’ve ever seen. They have a buffet, made to order food, a kids play space, an arcade, a coffee bar, free facials and so much more. This airport lounge is located at Philadelphia International Airport between terminal D & E. There are so many comfy places to hang out and they even have a beer garden. The food here was sooo unique and delicious too. #airports #airportlounge #travelhacks #airportlife

♬ TOO SWEET X RIVERS BY ALTÉGO – ALTÉGO

Right upon entering the lounge, I found the entire space to feel welcoming, with an upscale and modern feel. This massive lounge included everything you could want in an airport lounge, from relaxation and pampering areas to fun areas like the game room. For guests looking to relax and pamper themselves, facial treatments, showers, and bookable private rest pods are available.

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Yet just a few steps away lies a massive game room for the traveler who wants to have fun, equipped with arcade machines, TVs for watching sports, and chairs for a complete gaming experience. Families can take advantage of the kids’ play area, a family room, and a dedicated nursing room. In the partnership between PHL and Chase, this lounge also took into account the interests of Philadelphia travelers with a unique beer garden area and Philadelphia-themed murals throughout the space.

As a coffee lover and foodie, I appreciated the self-service espresso/coffee machine and made-to-order food, which went beyond the usual buffet you expect to see in an airport lounge. Whether you’re looking to relax, work, or play, this airport lounge felt different than the “usual,” creating an inviting atmosphere to leave all the hustle-and-bustle of the airport behind (if only even for a few minutes).

How other airport lounges should follow

Shakshuka and Eggs
Emily Caldwell / The Manual

In my experience traveling, most airport lounges have a standard vibe that I’d describe as mediocre. While every lounge is undoubtedly different (and some are better than others), most fail to be memorable. Buffet-style food tends to be unappetizing and bland, coffee tends to be stale, and it’s usually hard to find a comfortable spot to truly relax. To add to the experience, service is generally slow as most airport lounges tend to be understaffed.

In contrast, the Chase Sapphire Lounge in Philadelphia sets the bar for a customized, inviting experience that meets the demands of today’s travelers. Those seeking out airport lounges today want great food, attentive service, and an atmosphere that starts or ends a trip on the right note. With tiny elevated touches like locally roasted coffee from Elixr Coffee, premium wines, and location-specific cocktails like “the Philly special,” this airport lounge has clearly tuned into what it takes to make an airport lounge transition from good to great (and what it takes to remain memorable for travelers).

Emily Caldwell
Emily Caldwell
Contributor
Emily is a Features Writer at The Manual, where she specializes in food, beverage, and travel content. She focuses on weaving… Read Full Bio
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