Key Takeaways
- The United Polaris Lounge Los Angeles (LAX) is located in Terminal 7 between Gates 73 and 75A, serving United’s long-haul international travelers.
- Access is limited to passengers flying United Polaris business class or long-haul Star Alliance business or first class.
- The lounge offers full-service dining, a premium bar, shower suites, quiet rooms, and runway views of LAX’s busiest terminals.
- Though smaller than Chicago or San Francisco, the LAX lounge is praised for its intimate atmosphere and attentive staff.
For international flyers departing from Los Angeles, the United Polaris Lounge LAX delivers a refined, calm experience that feels far removed from the bustle of the airport’s main terminals.
When United opened this space, it aimed to create a true pre-departure sanctuary for its global business travelers. The result is a lounge that may not be the largest in the Polaris network, but one that perfectly captures the Los Angeles balance of elegance and ease.
If you are flying from LAX to Sydney, Tokyo, or London, here is what to expect before you board your flight.
Location and Access
The United Polaris Lounge Los Angeles is located in Terminal 7, between Gates 73 and 75A, directly connected to United’s main international departure area. If you are connecting from Terminal 8 or a domestic United flight, you can walk between terminals without passing through security again.
Operating hours generally run from 5:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m., though evening hours extend slightly to align with late-night departures to Australia and Asia.
Access Eligibility
Only the following travelers can access the LAX Polaris Lounge:
- Passengers flying United Polaris business class on long-haul international routes.
- Passengers flying international business or first class on Star Alliance partners (such as ANA, Lufthansa, or Air New Zealand).
- Connecting passengers traveling on the same day to or from a Polaris flight.
MileagePlus Premier members, United Club members, and those traveling on domestic business class tickets cannot enter unless they meet one of the above criteria.
Inside the LAX Polaris Lounge
The LAX lounge combines California-inspired design with the comfort standards expected from the Polaris brand. It features sleek marble interiors, wood-paneled accents, and floor-to-ceiling windows overlooking the runway.
Although smaller than the Chicago or San Francisco lounges, it maintains the full suite of Polaris amenities, including:
- Restaurant-style dining room with table service and rotating seasonal menus.
- Buffet area offering light snacks and quick meals throughout the day.
- Full-service bar with wines, cocktails, and craft spirits.
- Quiet suites for preflight rest or meditation.
- Private shower suites stocked with premium bath products.
- High-speed Wi-Fi and work pods for travelers on tight schedules.
The lounge is designed to serve around 140 guests at a time, keeping the experience peaceful and personal.
Dining and Bar Experience
The Polaris Dining Room at LAX mirrors the sophistication of Los Angeles cuisine. Expect seasonal dishes made with locally sourced ingredients, often with subtle Asian and Pacific influences.
Popular menu items include:
- Citrus-marinated chicken with jasmine rice and herbs
- Soba noodle bowls with roasted vegetables
- Fresh salads with avocado and lime dressing
- Vanilla panna cotta and flourless chocolate cake for dessert
The bar program is another highlight. United’s LAX bartenders are known for hand-crafted cocktails like the “Runway Boulevardier” and “Hollywood Spritz,” alongside a curated list of California wines and international labels.
During morning hours, guests can enjoy barista-made espresso and fresh juice blends instead of alcohol.
What Sets LAX Apart
While Chicago and San Francisco host the largest Polaris Lounges, frequent flyers often describe Los Angeles as the most relaxing. The staff-to-guest ratio is higher, allowing for faster service and a more personal touch.
The quiet suites at LAX are among the most peaceful in the network, partly because the lounge handles fewer passengers. The design uses softer lighting and warmer tones, making it feel more like a boutique spa than an airport waiting area.
Another advantage of the LAX location is its sunset view. Evening departures to Australia and Asia align perfectly with the warm orange light pouring in through the terminal’s western windows, a fitting start to a long-haul journey.
Tips for Visiting the Polaris Lounge LAX
If you are departing on an evening flight, plan to arrive at least two hours early to enjoy the dining experience. The a la carte menu operates until around 9:30 p.m., after which the buffet remains available until close.
Quiet suites are available on a first-come basis, so those connecting from early domestic flights should check in quickly to reserve one.
For the latest lounge photos, dining updates, and traveler reviews, you can visit the TalkTravel United Airlines Forum, where flyers share real-time experiences from LAX and other United hubs.
Comparison: LAX vs. Other Polaris Lounges
| Lounge | Size | Dining Style | Atmosphere | Best Feature |
| LAX | Small | Full-service & buffet | Calm, boutique | Personalized service |
| SFO | Large | Expanded dining menu | Busy during peak hours | Panoramic runway views |
| ORD | Medium | Full-service & buffet | Consistent | Classic Polaris design |
| EWR | Large | Full-service | Crowded at peak times | Central bar & layout |
The LAX lounge may not have the largest footprint, but for travelers who prefer a quieter, more curated experience, it often feels like the most refined.
Conclusion
The United Polaris Lounge Los Angeles is proof that size is not everything. It offers the same elevated standards as United’s flagship lounges but delivers them in a smaller, more intimate setting that reflects the laid-back sophistication of Los Angeles.
For United Polaris passengers departing to Asia or Australia, this lounge transforms the often hectic preflight period into something truly relaxing, a calm start to a long journey.
To explore real traveler feedback, food reviews, and crowd insights, visit the TalkTravel United Airlines Forum and connect with frequent flyers who review every lounge in the network.
Related Guides: