Orlando International Airport (MCO) Newly opened Terminal C marks a lot of firsts for the ninth-busiest airport in the U.S. The $2.8 billion terminal has a Modern baggage handling system, featuring an ever-changing immersive art installation and built with sustainability and environmental responsibility in mind. In fact, it was one of the first airports designed to be LEED v4 certified.
Related: Orlando International Airport Coming Soon With New Dining Options
MCO’s Terminal C is also the country’s second home Plaza Premium Lounge. There are over 250 Plaza Premium Lounge locations worldwide, but they only recently expanded to the United States with a lounge at Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW) opening in 2020. Latest location Its in the amusement park capital of the world.
The 10,000 square foot lounge features a thoughtfully designed space where kids can expend pent-up energy before the flight while parents relax. Business travelers can work in a quiet environment, overnight travelers can shower after a long flight, and all guests can enjoy chef-inspired dishes and freshly brewed coffee or cocktails prepared by expert bartenders.
TPG gets a first look at Orlando‘s Plaza Premium Lounge, now open to all tourists. Here’s everything you need to know about the lounge, including how you can visit the next time you’re passing through Orlando.
Access and location
Terminal C is currently home to nine international airlines (Aer Lingus, Caribbean Airlines, Azul, Emirates, Lufthansa, British Airways, Gol, Norse Atlantic Airways and Icelandair), along with domestic carrier JetBlue. You must fly through Terminal C to enter the Plaza Premium Lounge. Other guests should use the lounges in Terminals A and B.
The Plaza Premium Lounge is located in the so-called Palm Court area of Terminal C. Palm Court is located on the departures floor (4th floor) between the security check point and the boarding gate. This is where most of the dining and shopping shops are located.
Terminal C is connected to Terminals A and B via a shuttle bus or the Terminal Link APM. The shuttle bus takes guests down to the 6th floor (arrival) and APM stops at the garage of Terminal C. From there, it’s a 5- to 10-minute walk to the station. When I visited, the signage in the main terminal said it would take 16 to 20 minutes to get to Terminal C. I timed it and even after stopping to take a few pictures, I was still lost. a little over 12 minutes.
Large lobby on the second floor of Palm Court. With floor-to-ceiling windows and signage much more conspicuous than most airport lounges, it’s easy to spot from the moment you step into the Palm Court area.
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The entrance to the lounge is located on the first floor of the Palm Court. You will check in at the entrance and then take the elevator or stairs to the second floor; there, staff will confirm your registration before you are allowed entry.
There are three ways to enter the Plaza Premium Lounge. Platinum Card® from American ExpressCenturion card from American Express, American Express co-branded card, Capital One Venture X credit card, Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card and Capital One Spark Miles for Business Cardholders can enter the lounge with their pass and boarding pass for the day. Plaza Premium has also partnered with airlines flying from the new terminal to provide lounges for first and business class passengers. In addition to those, you can buy one time or multi-use card above Plaza Premium Website or on arrival, although reservations are recommended.
The lounge is currently open from 12:00 to 21:00 daily, but those hours are likely to change as service to the terminal expands in the coming months.
Information about the Centurion Card has been independently collected by The Points Guy. The card details on this page have not been reviewed or provided by the card issuer.
Presentation
As you enter the lounge, it is clear that Plaza Premium values the title of Orlando as one of the top destination for families. The lounge immediately opens onto a large area designed for families with a variety of seating options, as well as toys and activities to keep the kids entertained. Along the wall in this area is a selection of artwork from the Orlando Museum of Art.
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TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINT
Also in the family area, you’ll find freshly baked cookies and a selection of drinks, including water, tea and specialty espresso drinks from the Lavazza espresso machine.
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TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINT
After going through the family area, you enter the main area of the lounge. Here you’ll find a variety of seating options, most of which are within arm’s reach of international charging ports. This is also where the full service bar and food service area are located. High ceilings and floor-to-ceiling windows on both sides of the space give the space a bright, open feel.
Beyond the main area is a dedicated quiet area. Seating in this area is individually designed for privacy and comfort with small hooks to hang coats or wallets, international charging port, reading light, pillow and small desk. The seats are also arranged in such a way that you can do a little bit of plane observation while working.
The lounge also has three shower rooms near the front entrance and five en suite bathrooms. Accessible bathrooms and toilets are available.
Food and drinks
Orlando Plaza Premium Lounge’s culinary offerings range from freshly made pastries, desserts and cookies to delicious dishes like bourbon chicken teriyaki and beef sandwiches with demi-glace. There is also a cold takeaway box with fresh fruit, dessert and salad.
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TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINT
The full-service bar features a wide selection of beers, wines and spirits, including a rotating menu of cocktails prepared by the friendly bartenders behind the bar. There is a second espresso machine at the bar so you can order coffee drinks (optional extra Kahlua). Most alcoholic beverages are provided free of charge, but some premium options require a small surcharge. Tea, soda and water are also available.
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TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINT
On request, one of the lounge’s chefs will specially prepare a meal that meets the needs of any person with allergies or food sensitivities; Children’s dishes such as homemade macaroni and cheese are also available.
Convenient
As mentioned, instead of a traditional family room that keeps families away from other guests, the Plaza Premium Lounge has a spacious, airy area for families. There is a large interactive screen with a game called Tasty Turtle Treats, in which kids can move a turtle back and forth across the screen and try to catch falling presents. Full disclosure, I’ve tried it and it’s fun for adults too.
Three shower suites are available and can be reserved for 30 minutes. The spa-like bathrooms feature calming ocean-inspired decor; adjustable shower; refillable shampoo, conditioner and shower gel; Bath Towels; and hair dryer. Outside the shower and washroom suites, you’ll find sinks and mirrors to refresh.
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TARAH CHIEFFI/THE POINT
Two digital displays show flight arrival and departure times. Free Wi-Fi and international charging ports are also available.
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bottom line
The Plaza Premium Lounge is a welcome addition to MCO’s new Terminal C, as there is something for everyone, including families, business travelers and everyone in between. The staff are exceptionally friendly and welcoming. Not to mention, the lounge’s open design and decor provides a sense of relaxation after a busy travel day.
