The Chase Sapphire Lounge in Phoenix, Arizona, is notable for being the smallest bank-branded lounge in the United States, measuring just 3,500 square feet with seating for only 78 guests. Despite its size, the lounge offers a surprisingly high-quality experience, with food and amenities comparable to larger competitors, including options in Philadelphia and LaGuardia. The lounge opened in November 2024 within Phoenix Sky Harbor International Airport’s Terminal 4, Concourse D.
Location and Access
The lounge is easily accessible post-security, located between gates D11 and D18 near Bobby’s Burgers by Bobby Flay. Access is restricted to those within three hours of a scheduled flight departure. Eligible cardholders include Chase Sapphire Reserve (personal and business), Ritz-Carlton, and J.P. Morgan Reserve members, who can enter with up to two free guests. Additional guests cost $27 each, while children under two enter free. Priority Pass holders receive one free visit per calendar year, but day passes are available at $100 per person—a rate not recommended due to the lounge’s limited capacity.
Design and Features
The interior layout is compact, featuring a wraparound bar, a signature Sapphire Lounge steam-vapor fireplace, and a partially-walled indoor patio area. Despite its aesthetic appeal, some seating arrangements are awkwardly positioned near the hot food buffet. The lounge offers a well-stocked buffet, an Airstream trailer serving made-to-order items, and two private bathrooms. Notably, there are no showers, kids’ play areas, nursing rooms, or conference rooms due to the lounge’s small footprint.
Avoiding the Lines
Chase introduced reservations for this lounge via its mobile app, a feature not yet available at other Sapphire Lounges, including the larger Las Vegas location. Reservations can be made up to 14 days in advance and allow cardholders to book one slot per day. The app provides a specific entry window (e.g., 1:00–1:10 p.m.), though the enforcement of this timing appears flexible, with guests arriving slightly late still being accommodated.
The Rise of Premium Airport Lounges
The popularity of credit card issuer lounges has surged due to several factors. Premium leisure travel has grown, with travelers spending more time in airports, while banks have aggressively marketed these benefits to attract affluent customers. The limited availability of suitable airport space and the increasing demand for enhanced lounge experiences contribute to overcrowding. Better amenities, such as high-quality food and beverage programs, further encourage longer stays and higher consumption.
Future Expansion
Chase plans to expand its lounge network with locations in Dallas–Fort Worth and Los Angeles. The existing lounges vary significantly in size and amenities:
- Boston Logan (BOS): 11,500 sq ft (May-23) – Tap-room, massage chairs, showers, kids’ playroom
- Las Vegas (LAS): 5,390 sq ft (Dec-25) – Champagne welcome, 87 seats
- New York–JFK (JFK): 7,600 sq ft (Jan-24) – Shared Etihad space, full cocktail & dining, showers
- New York–LaGuardia (LGA): 21,800 sq ft (Jan-24) – Two-story design, Reserve Suites, spa, arcade
- Philadelphia (PHL): 20,000 sq ft (Feb-25) – Beer garden, shuffleboard, arcade, rest pods
- San Diego (SAN): 10,000 sq ft (Dec-24) – Wellness area with meditation pods
- Washington Dulles (IAD): 5,200 sq ft (Mar-24) – Shared Etihad space, compact but full service
Final Verdict
The Chase Sapphire Lounge Phoenix is a surprisingly pleasant experience despite its diminutive size. The food quality exceeds typical Priority Pass lounges, with standout tacos (though potentially over-sauced). The lounge’s bar program is solid, and the private bathrooms are clean. While not worth a dedicated terminal visit, it’s a convenient and enjoyable option for passengers departing from gate D11 or nearby.
