United Club

United Club – Chicago O’Hare (ORD) Terminal 1, gate B6 | © United

Remodeled late 2016, the United Club at Chicago O’Hare airport near gate B6 is one of the airline’s four lounges at their home base (the other clubs are located near gates B18, C10, and F4.)

Located in the domestic concourse, the United Club functions primarily on a membership basis, though United Premier Gold members receive access when flying internationally, as well as passengers holding Star Alliance Gold status from foreign airlines.

United international business and first class passengers, whether departing or connecting, should head over to the United Polaris Lounge in Concourse C for a vastly superior experience, including luxuries such as a complimentary full-service restaurant, private relaxation areas, and shower suites.

United Club ORD design

United Club – Chicago O’Hare (ORD) Terminal 1, gate B6

Having suffered from years of neglect and chronic crowding, the vintage United Club at O’Hare airport near gate B6 reflected poorly on United’s brand at their home town airport up until late 2016, when the airline embarked on a massive renovation project. The complete makeover involved the addition of over 4,000 square feet of floor space, and a transformation of the décor and layout.

The updated club boasts United’s new design—a modern but understated décor featuring clean lines and a neutral color palette. With white tones and subtle golden hues, the ensemble is minimalistic and functional, perhaps to a fault, though translucent blue partitions and a striking ceiling with designer hanging lights break the overall monotony.

United Club – Chicago O’Hare (ORD) Terminal 1, gate B6

Located on a mezzanine level above the concourse, the United Club benefits from a convenient central location, but receives little daylight. The lounge also lacks outside views, though patrons seated in the far right of the club when entering may enjoy a bird’s eye view of the busy concourse.

Despite an impressive footprint and an open design—at 17,435 square feet, the United Club seats 374 customers—the lounge retains humane dimensions, thanks to a smart layout with wide angular pathways and a variety of seating and dining areas. Even at peak times, when the club is busy, patrons can roam the club easily without bumping elbows with fellow customers.

The club offers various seating options, including wide and comfortable chairs with side tables for solo travelers, dining tables for two and four, the occasional group of egg chairs, and several shared high tables well suited for laptop users. Power outlets and USB ports are available at most seats, including at the bar.

United Club ORD amenities

Given its location on United’s home turf, the United Club at Chicago O’Hare near gate B6 is at the forefront of the airline’s catering enhancements.

United Club – Chicago O’Hare (ORD) Terminal 1, gate B6

In the morning, patrons will find two serving areas with a complimentary breakfast buffet featuring hot items such as oatmeal, scrambled eggs or sausages, along with a selection of pastries, fresh fruit, and yoghurt. Lunch is the highlight, with a variety of snacks, salads, hot entrees such as clam chowder, couscous, or palek paneer, as well as desserts and fruit. Choices are more modest in the afternoon and evening, with an assortment of finger food and salads.

United has also partnered with legendary Chicago-based restaurant Giordano’s, known for its deep-dish pizza, to offer paid food offerings. Customers can order from a touch screen, and their order will be delivered at their seat. Prices range from $7 to $14, a questionable value since other options are complimentary, but prices aren’t marked up otherwise compared to Giorfano’s locations at the airport.

Hydration stations located throughout the club feature an assortment of infused waters and ice tea, and a Coca-Cola FreeStyle machine lets customers choose through a wide variety of soft drinks. Wine, beer, Prosecco, and well drinks are all complimentary at the bar, while premium drinks are available for purchase.

United Club – Chicago O’Hare (ORD) Terminal 1, gate B6

United also offers complimentary access to Foli, an online service which allows customers to download a vast selection of reading materials to their mobile device for further reading during their journey. On the flip side, the selection of paper newspapers and magazines is virtually nonexistent.

Fast and complimentary Wi-Fi service is available, along with a network printer. For phone calls or impromptu meetings, the United Club is equipped with four phone rooms outfitted with a small desk, a chair, a phone, and a sliding door. They are available on a first-come, first-served basis.

The bathrooms are notable for their airplane window shaped mirrors and fancy soap dispensers. Less remarkable is the lack of showers, even at a major hub such as Chicago O’Hare. A gender neutral and family bathroom is available, along with a “wellness room appointed with a seat and a sink. The room is available upon request to passengers with specific needs such as new mothers.

United Club ORD bottom line

The United Club at Chicago O’Hare airport near gate B6 is a spacious, modern and ultra-functional lounge, with power outlets at every seat, convenient amenities such as phone rooms, and an enjoyable buffet selection. However, the lack of windows and daylight and plain décor take away from the appeal of the space, the availability of hot food is hit or miss, and there are no showers.

For more information, see our blog post.