Now operating: Chase Sapphire Terrace at Austin's aircraft terminal
Spillin' the (Sapphire) Tea on the New Austin Airport Lounge! 🍹🧀
Ever wondered what's up with that swanky new spot at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)? It's called the Sapphire Terrace, but don't get your hint mate, it ain't your traditional Chase Sapphire Lounge. So, what's the lowdown on this joint and how's it different from a lounge?
Let's break it down, shall we?
Where's the Party at, Austin?
Covering approximately 5,000 square feet, this splendid indoor-outdoor space is a mix of 80% outdoor terrace and 20% indoors. You can find the entrance at the end of the passenger terminal near Gate 1. Take the stairs or elevator to the upper level, the same access point for the Delta Sky Club. Once you're there, the entrance to the Sapphire Terrace is on the left.
Once upon a time, this space was a public terrace for plane spotting, facing east. Now, in Austin's hot months (May to October), the outdoor space will heat up like a Texas summer, especially with the morning sun pounding down. You'll want to avoid that like a patchy Wi-Fi signal! In the afternoon, even with indirect sun, it'll still be a scorcher outside, and who knows what rain might bring.
Although it's located at the far end of the terminal, near the Delta Air Lines gates, its remote location might not be convenient for those flying other airlines, particularly American Airlines and United Airlines.
How to Access the Sapphire Terrace?
The Sapphire Terrace ain't part of Priority Pass, no sir! Access is exclusively for those holding a Chase Sapphire Reserve or J.P. Morgan Reserve Card (formerly the Chase Palladium Card). Cardholders score complimentary access to the Sapphire Terrace and can bring up to two guests. To get in, just flash your card at the entrance.
You can only swipe in on departure (not arrival) and within three hours of your flight's scheduled departure time.
Note: The information for the J.P. Morgan Reserve card has been collected independently by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
When Can I Visit the Sapphire Terrace?
The terrace is open daily between 10 a.m. and 8 p.m. Now, if you've got an early-morning flight, you're out of luck, mate.
What Makes the Sapphire Terrace a Must-Visit?
Advertised as "a place to relax, recharge, and fuel up before flights," the Sapphire Terrace embraces Austin's local culture with complimentary drinks and light bites featuring Austin Eastciders cider and (512) Brewing Company beer.
Pro Tip: Curious about Austin Airport's culinary scene? Check out this piece on Austin Airport Keeping it Local for Foodies!
Another local touch is artwork from muralist Rex Hamilton decorating the space.
In addition to drinks and snacks, the space boasts unique features like shuffleboard on the terrace and giveaways (while supplies last). Whether you're hanging out as a group or catching up on work, there are plenty of seating options. Buckle up, though; this facility is bound to be popular with Sapphire Reserve cardholders, so it might get busy!
Finally, there's a bathroom just for terrace visitors and it has free diapers, ain't that thoughtful?
The Final Word
Sapphire Reserve cardholders flying out of Austin can cheers to a new hangout spot before their flights. The Sapphire Terrace is now open near Gate 1, offering complimentary grab-and-go snacks, drinks, and even games. Planespotting is a sweet bonus, but remember, this is mainly an outdoor space exposed to the elements. The lounge doesn't open until 10 a.m., so plan accordingly!
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[1] Chase Sapphire Reserve[2] Austin-Bergstrom International Airport[3] The Platinum Card from American Express
- Holding a Chase Sapphire Reserve or J.P. Morgan Reserve Card provides access to the Sapphire Terrace at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, offering a unique travel rewards experience for cardholders.
- The Sapphire Terrace aims to bring Austin's local culture and culinary scene to travelers, featuring complimentary drinks, light bites, and artwork by Rex Hamilton.
- To access the Sapphire Terrace, cardholders should present their card at the entrance, and access is only available for departing passengers within three hours of their flight's scheduled departure time.
- Reviews praising the Sapphire Terrace have been posted online, highlighting its dining options, relaxed atmosphere, and shuffleboard on the terrace as major draws for cardholders.
- If you're considering a credit card for travel rewards and lifestyle benefits, consider the Business Platinum Card from American Express, American Express Gold Card, The Platinum Card from American Express, Capital One Venture X Business, or Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card to enhance your travel experience.
