John Glenn Columbus International has one public airport lounge — the Escape Lounge in Concourse B — plus a dedicated USO lounge for military travelers. The Escape Lounge is an American Express Centurion Studio Partner location and, since June 2024, part of the Priority Pass network. It’s open to all passengers regardless of airline, which makes it the main refuge during a long layover or delay (see our flight delays guide).
Escape Lounge at CMH: Location and Hours
- Location: Airside, Level 2, at the end of Concourse B — turn left at the end of the concourse and it’s next to Gate 32B. Officially open to all airlines, but if you’re departing from Concourse A or C, you’ll need to re-clear security to return to your gate, so allow extra time.
- Hours: Daily 5:00 a.m.–8:00 p.m. (reported by Priority Pass, escapelounges.com, and flycolumbus). If your flight is outside those hours, the lounge won’t be an option.
- Design: The space is inspired by the German and Victorian villages of Columbus, with cozy corners, dedicated work spaces, flight monitors, TVs, and newspapers and magazines.
- Food and drink: Complimentary seasonal food (breakfast and lunch/dinner menus posted inside), complimentary standard alcoholic drinks, and a full bar where premium-brand drinks are available for an extra charge. Soft drinks are served at the bar.
- Contact: The lounge’s listed phone is +1 (855) 643-1100.
One honest caveat from recent visitor reviews: it’s a small lounge, and it does not have its own restrooms — you use the terminal restrooms just outside. When it’s not crowded, it’s calm and comfortable; during peak banks it can feel snug.
Who Can Access the Escape Lounge?
Access routes, as reported by Priority Pass and lounge-access sources:
- Priority Pass members – The CMH Escape Lounge joined Priority Pass in June 2024. Digital card accepted. Access is permitted up to 3 hours before your scheduled departure; children under 2 are admitted free and all children must be accompanied by an adult.
- American Express Platinum and Centurion card members – Complimentary entry; Platinum/Centurion members can bring up to 2 guests at no additional charge.
- Delta SkyMiles Reserve card members – Entry when traveling on a same-day Delta flight (a reported $30 charge applies for guests on the same-day Delta flight).
- Day passes – If you don’t hold a qualifying card, you can book a pass online (bookings typically must be made at least 24 hours in advance) or walk in if there’s space. Reviews report the day-pass price around $45 per person. AAA and military discounts are reported at Escape Lounges.
- Dress code: Smart casual at all times. Alcoholic drinks are only available to guests 21 and older.
Access programs change frequently — confirm your eligibility on the Priority Pass or Escape Lounges website before counting on entry, and book a day pass in advance if you know you’ll want it.
Jake Brewer USO Lounge (Military Travelers)
A separate private getaway for military members and their families: the Jake Brewer USO Lounge is located near the Concourse C exit lane, per flycolumbus. It’s a quiet space to rest and recharge, distinct from the Escape Lounge. Active-duty military, Guard, Reserve, and their families are the typical eligible guests — check USO.org for current access rules before your trip.
Lounge Alternatives at CMH
If the Escape Lounge doesn’t fit your schedule, budget, or concourse, CMH’s best stand-ins:
- Work with the free Wi-Fi – CMH offers free terminal-wide Wi-Fi (“CMH Public Wi-Fi”) and charging towers at gate seating; see our Wi-Fi and charging guide for the best working spots.
- Eat a real meal instead – For the price of a day pass, Eddie George’s Grille 27 in Concourse B gives you a full meal with airfield views and a full bar.
- Check other concourses – You’re welcome to visit the Escape Lounge from Concourses A or C, but you must exit and re-clear security afterward. With TSA PreCheck or CLEAR this is manageable; without it, leave at least 45–60 minutes to get back.
Keep planning: how early to arrive at CMH · CMH terminal guide · Columbus Airport Guide for every CMH guide in one place
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