After nearly a century without a dedicated space for travelers to relax, Chicago’s Midway International Airport (MDW) introduced its first-ever lounge in September 2024. The Club MDW is located at the entrance to Concourse B, adjacent to the Evolve store, and is accessible to all passengers flying from Midway.
The lounge operates daily from 4 a.m. to 10 p.m. It is part of the Priority Pass network, allowing members free access. Non-members can purchase $50 day passes with a valid departing boarding pass. Guests can enter within three hours of their scheduled departure time, and children under 17 must be accompanied by an adult.
Spanning 3,300 square feet, The Club MDW seats 67 people but can accommodate up to 96 guests in total. Despite its compact size, it offers a bright and welcoming atmosphere. A spokesperson noted that the lounge often experiences high occupancy levels, leading some potential visitors to be turned away. To address this issue, guests can join a digital waitlist by scanning a QR code at the entrance.
Amenities are limited compared to larger lounges; however, there are two gender-neutral restrooms equipped with changing tables. Food offerings include complimentary hot and cold items such as soup of the day, salads, pasta salad, and desserts like cookies and mini strawberry shortcakes.
The bar serves various alcoholic beverages including local beers from Revolution Brewing and Two Brothers Brewing. Signature cocktails pay homage to Chicago with drinks like the Southside and Chicago Fizz. Nonalcoholic options include sparkling water, Coca-Cola products, coffee, and tea.
A traveler who visited noted that ingredient and allergen labels were clear for those with dietary restrictions. However, concerns about capacity remain due to Midway’s significance in Southwest Airlines’ network.
