Capital One Airport Lounges: Guide & Access Rules

Capital One Airport Lounges: Guide & Access Rules

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Link: Apply now for the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card (Rates & Fees) or Capital One Venture X Business (Rates & Fees)

In the past couple of years, Capital One has gotten into the airport lounge game. The opening of the first lounge coincided with the introduction of the Capital One Venture X Rewards Credit Card, which is an incredible premium credit card. Now we’ve seen the opening of the second and third lounges in the network, coinciding with the introduction of the Capital One Venture X Business, which is also extremely lucrative.

Why is Capital One opening airport lounges?

Lounge access has become a popular perk for premium credit cards. Historically premium credit cards have offered a Priority Pass membership, providing access to a large collection of lounges.

However, the major card issuers have now taken it to the next level, and have started introducing their own lounges. We’ve seen the introduction of Amex Centurion Lounges, Chase Sapphire Lounges, and Capital One Lounges.

The Venture X is Capital One’s premium credit card

Which airports are getting Capital One Lounges?

Capital One has confirmed plans to open lounges at four airports, with three of the four being open so far. Furthermore, Capital One has revealed plans for an airport restaurant concept, known as Capital One Landing, which I’ll also cover below.

I’d expect that over time many more airports will get lounges, but below are the basic details of all four Capital One Lounges that have been revealed so far.

Capital One Lounge Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW)

The Capital One Lounge Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW) opened in November 2021. The 10,000 square foot lounge is located in Terminal D near Gate 22.

Capital One Lounge Washington Dulles Airport (IAD)

The Capital One Lounge Washington Dulles Airport (IAD) opened in September 2023. The 8,500 square foot lounge is located near the security checkpoint (so not near any gates).

Capital One Lounge IAD seating

Capital One Lounge Denver Airport (DEN)

The Capital One Lounge Denver Airport (DEN) opened in November 2023. The 10,800 square foot lounge is located in Concourse A near Gate 34, on the mezzanine level.

Capital One Lounge Denver bar area

Capital One Lounge Las Vegas Airport (LAS)

The Capital One Lounge Las Vegas (LAS) has been confirmed to be in the pipeline, but we don’t yet know the opening date. The 7,900 square foot lounge will be located at the center of Concourse D. The Clark County Board of Commissioners has approved the lease plan, and a Capital One spokesperson has confirmed the plans.

Capital One Landing (DCA & LGA)

In addition to the standard airport lounge offerings, Capital One is also introducing the Capital One Landing concept, which are expected to debut at Washington National (DCA) and New York LaGuardia (LGA).

While there are more questions than answers about this concept as of now, it’s described as a “new chef-driven, culinary-focused concept, intended to bring an elevated experience to the heart of the terminal.” The concept is being launched in partnership with Chef José Andrés, who will design Capital One Landing’s food and beverage menu, focusing on authentic, Spanish-style tapas.

What are Capital One Lounges like?

I’ve had the chance to check out the Capital One Lounge DFW several times, and it’s simply phenomenal, among my favorite lounges in the United States. While there are some basic amenities you expect from lounges, Capital One takes it to the next level.

Among other things, here’s what you can expect from Capital One Lounge locations:

  • A grab & go food selection, including sandwiches, salads, fruit, snacks, and more
  • A proper in-lounge dining experience presented as small bites, with menus curated by local chefs, and healthy selections made from regionally sourced ingredients
  • An excellent drink selection, including local beer, regional wine, craft cocktails, cold brew and lattes on tap, and much more
  • All three lounges have private restrooms, while the lounges in Dallas and Denver also have shower suites
  • The Dallas Lounge has a cycling and yoga room with Peloton bikes and resistance bands, as well as relaxation rooms with blankets, eye covers, and earplugs
  • The Denver Lounge has relaxation rooms with blankets, eye covers, and earplugs, as well as private workstations that can be reserved
  • All the lounges have outlets at every seat, plus free, high-speed Wi-Fi
  • The lounges also generally have great service, and in particular, Rumana at the Capital One Lounge DFW is a superstar

You can read my full review of the Capital One Lounge DFW here.

Capital One Lounge DFW seating
Capital One Lounge DFW bar
Capital One Lounge DFW grab & go food
Capital One Lounge DFW cold brew on tap
Capital One Lounge DFW workout room
Capital One Lounge DFW relaxation pods

Who can access Capital One Lounges?

Capital One Lounges can be accessed by the following people:

  • Capital One Venture X (review) cardmembers can get unlimited access to Capital One Lounges, and can bring two guests with them for free, and can bring additional guests with them for $45 each; keep in mind that authorized users can be added to the card for free (Rates & Fees), and they get the same lounge access perks
  • Capital One Venture X Business (review) cardmembers get unlimited access to Capital One Lounges, and can bring two guests with them for free, and can bring additional guests with them for $45 each; on the business version of the card, authorized users don’t get access
  • Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card (review) (Rates & Fees) and Capital One Spark Miles for Business (review) (Rates & Fees) cardmembers receive two complimentary visits annually, with no complimentary guesting privileges (the passes could be used by the primary cardmember or authorized users, and can also be used for a guest who is present, meaning you could use two passes for you and a guest); additional guests, as well as additional visits, cost $45 each
  • Kids under two can enter Capital One Lounges for free
  • All others can enter Capital One Lounges for $65 per visit
  • Even though Capital One Lounges are operated in partnership with Plaza Premium Group, there’s no access through other credit cards or lounge membership programs

Getting the Capital One Venture X Card for lounge access can be totally worth it. The card has a $395 annual fee (Rates & Fees), but offers a $300 annual travel credit and 10K bonus anniversary miles every year, so having the card should cost you very little if you’re going about it right. Furthermore, you’ll be able to add four authorized users to the card at no extra cost (Rates & Fees), and they’ll receive the same lounge access perks. That makes this the ideal card for families.

Access to Capital One Lounges is a perk of the Venture X

Are there access restrictions for Capital One Lounges?

Beyond the actual entry requirements for Capital One Lounges, there are a couple of further access restrictions to be aware of:

  • You need a boarding pass for a departing flight in order to be able to access Capital One Lounges (so you can’t use them as arrivals lounges)
  • You can only access Capital One Lounges within three hours of a flight’s scheduled departure; while it’s my understanding that this is the official rule, I’ve heard lots of reports that it’s not enforced

What’s my take on Capital One Lounges?

I’m extremely impressed by what Capital One is doing with airport lounges, and the timing has been great as well, as it coincided with the launch of the Capital One Venture X Card. A couple of thoughts on Capital One Lounges so far:

  • Admittedly it’s going to take Capital One a while to build up a network of lounges, so this could be extremely useful for those based out of an airport with a lounge, while it will be less useful for others
  • Capital One is doing something unique here, and is introducing amenities we haven’t seen from other lounges, and I love that; from cold brew and lattes, to grab & go food, to Peloton bikes, Capital One put a lot of thought into these lounges

What other lounge access does the Venture X offer?

As a reminder, access to Capital One Lounges is only a small part of the lounge access perks offered by the Capital One Venture X Card. The card also offers a Priority Pass membership, giving you access to 1,300+ lounges around the world. You can bring up to two guests with you at no additional cost

On the personal version of the card, these benefits apply not just for the primary cardmember, but also for the up to four authorized users you can add to your card at no extra cost (Rates & Fees).

Access select Virgin Atlantic Clubhouses with Priority Pass

Bottom line

Capital One has gotten into the airport lounge game, with the introduction of the Capital One Venture X Card and Capital One Venture X Business. The Capital One Lounges at DEN, DFW, and IAD, are already open. We can expect the lounge at LAS to open at some point in the future, along with the Capital One Landing concept at DCA and LGA.

Capital One has taken a different approach toward lounge design, and I can’t wait to see the portfolio grow. Capital One Lounges have unique features you won’t find in other lounges, ranging from a grab & go food selection, to cold brew on tap, to a workout room.

What do you make of the Capital One Lounges at airports? Will you be picking up the Venture X Card or Venture X Business?

Conversations (53)
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  1. Steve Guest

    It would be useful for Ben to reachout to C1 re: 3 hours prior to boarding OR 3 hours prior to departure. There are reports of both. At IAD, that makes a big difference, especially for an INTL where boarding starts 45-50 prior to departure. If it is 3 hours prior to departure, then one only had 60-90 minutes of usable time in the lounge.

  2. Tatsu Guest

    As of Aug 15 2023, just got enforced three hours rule even though they let me in earlier last week. The place wasn't crowded.
    I know it's an official rule, but I'm kind of upset

    1. kenindfw Guest

      I've been there several times, last time it was pretty crowded and there was a wait when we left. I think it was just b/c it was peak summer travel season. Lots of kids in the lounge, unlike previous times I've gone to it in DFW.

  3. Jen Guest

    IAD and DEN lounges opening Sept 2023? Is that confirmed? I haven't seen this date anywhere else although people has shared photos that IAD is pretty much complete - just waiting on hiring and training...

  4. iamhere Guest

    I think you need to expand your vocabulary. You over use some words like "favorite" so one looks at your reviews of other lounges another may be your "favorite" for one reason or another.

  5. mmt Guest

    I can't find the "digital pass" in the Venture X app for lounge access.

    1. Jason Guest

      you just show them your credit card when you enter.

  6. Nathan Guest

    I stopped in the Capital One lounge in DFW, and am waiting on the Venture X card. If you fly out of DFW, it is nicer than the American lounges (excluding Flagship), and the food selection is FAR superior. I have the Sapphire card, and I may just switch to the Venture X. The Sapphire card has the best Priority Pass, since you can go to restaurants with it. It is the main thing that...

    I stopped in the Capital One lounge in DFW, and am waiting on the Venture X card. If you fly out of DFW, it is nicer than the American lounges (excluding Flagship), and the food selection is FAR superior. I have the Sapphire card, and I may just switch to the Venture X. The Sapphire card has the best Priority Pass, since you can go to restaurants with it. It is the main thing that seems better, so I may keep it for that perk. Not all airports have Priority Pass restaurants avaliable, so it's a toss up. If DFW is your primary departure or layover city, this card seems like a no-brainer.

  7. Leon Guest

    I see job postings for the IAD lounge - GM, assistant GM, executive chef, sous chef, pastry chef.

  8. shlomo Guest

    Any update on exactly when the IAD lounge will open? Month?

  9. LP Guest

    Any recent data points on how crowded the DFW lounge is?

  10. Gary zHatfield Guest

    In Dallas, Lufthansa business class gets access to the lounge. It wasn’t crowded, food offerings were excellent, the lounge was very clean and well serviced. Great experience.

    1. Mitchell Guest

      Same with Turkish Business class.

  11. Steve Guest

    I was in the DFW lounge last month and it was very crowded. I was flying business on an AA flight so I went to their lounge, which was empty.

  12. Alpha Guest

    I know so many people who have the Amex Plat just for access to the SFO lounge. If Capital One opened a lounge at SFO, the Venture X would hugely gain in popularity.

    1. Bob Guest

      I agree! The Capital One lounge should indeed come to SFO!

  13. adam w Guest

    I was recently in DFW and accessed this amazing lounge with the Venture X card. I was early - and was not limited to 3 hour before flight time. Lounge access wizard also says nothing about the time limitations...is that only for paid access?

    1. Chad Guest

      I've also never been hassled about it, although I've always been connecting and most of the time lounges don't care if you're on a long layover. I'm guessing they're just not enforcing it until the lounge is busier.

    2. David Guest

      I stayed for 5 hours on a 6 hour layover with my wife and 3 kids. Amazing service. Hopefully the Denver lounge is open by the time I go on my guys trip Sept 19...

    3. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ adam w -- It seems that this isn't being enforced for now, so I've updated the post to reflect that. Thanks!

  14. Weymar Osborne Gold

    I'm a United flyer so the sole DFW location hasn't been terribly useful to me yet but once the Denver and Washington locations open I look forward to visiting them frequently! (Side note, will one of the credit card issuers please open a lounge in O'Hare!? Only Priority Pass lounge is in T5 and doesn't look all that remarkable)

    1. hi there Guest

      Couldn't agree more! I just told someone in Chicago not to get the Venture X since his main goal was lounge access, and it's not worth going to T5 just to use the Swissport Priority Pass lounge.

      But if Capital One opened up a lounge there... ideally in T2 so it can be used by both United (T1) and American (T3) flyers

  15. John Guest

    What will likely happen

    - the number of visitors will increase as word spreads and more people sign up
    - some of the offerings (especially the grab and go) get cut back because people start treating it like their weekly trip to the grocery store. Hey, I'm paying 395 dollars for this access, so it's only fair if I grab ten sandwiches on the way out!
    - As more people start visiting, especially...

    What will likely happen

    - the number of visitors will increase as word spreads and more people sign up
    - some of the offerings (especially the grab and go) get cut back because people start treating it like their weekly trip to the grocery store. Hey, I'm paying 395 dollars for this access, so it's only fair if I grab ten sandwiches on the way out!
    - As more people start visiting, especially with their families, the original cardholders and business travelers start complaining about how the lounge has turned into a zoo, and how it's supposed to be a quiet place to work away from the madness of the terminal, etc.

    1. shlomo Guest

      Hahah. Yeah, that's what I'm afraid of too.

    2. kenindfw Guest

      Actually I don't think that will happen since it's in Terminal D, which is International with very limited AA flights. I use the lounge when I know I'm going out early just to get to the airport and get settled before the flight. AA lounges need refreshing and they've gotten so crowded in Terminals A, C and now E. The Venture lounge can be really great after the International flights have departed, very sparse inside.

  16. Tina Guest

    I was just given with my World card that we would be able to use the facilities also.

    1. Peter Guest

      Interesting. For fee? Which card is this?

  17. Peter Guest

    Business class passengers flying Korean, Lufthansa or Finnair are granted access to the DFW Capital One lounge.

    Along these lines, wondering which airlines at DEN & IAD may not have proper lounges for long-haul premium customers. At DFW those same airlines would already grant access to Delta SkyClub, United Club or AA Flagship lounges.

  18. Ivan Bergman Guest

    FYI, you can also get 50% off Pete’s Coffee located at Capital One Cafes with any Capital One card. Enjoyed the nice cafe at Valley Fair Mall in San Jose. They are also in SF and Walnut Creek and other major US cities.

  19. Sam Guest

    I wish there was a more specific timeline for the Dulles lounge then "2022". I'm considering getting the Venture X card but it'd be nice if it were ready in time for the bulk of my 2022 travel. Does anyone know roughly when it's expected to open or if it's already under construction?

    1. shlomo Guest

      Yeah, I asked the same question, and no one will tell you. I'm in the same boat.

  20. Sammy New Member

    I'm not impressed by the DFW lounge interior, looks like an elementary school lounge and cafeteria. Not sure why they took that approach. I hope future lounges take a different approach.

  21. dander Guest

    I bet the grab and go selections will either be scaled back, go totally away or have some person give them out. I can see many people grabbing more than they can eat in a day let alone during one meal

  22. Taylor Guest

    Can Capital One lounges be accessed both before departure and after arrival?

    1. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ Taylor -- I've followed up with Capital One on this. They can be accessed up to three hours before departure, and you need a departing boarding pass.

    2. Taylor Guest

      Thanks for the additional details, Ben - super helpful! I guess grab & go could be difficult to manage if arriving passengers received access

    3. Dana Guest

      A couple of updates:

      1. I've been a Venture X member flying out of DFW for several months now, and up until recently they DID let you use the lounge on arrivals (I did it a couple of times while waiting on an appointment on that side of town, for example.) The last time I tried it, they did say that it was a rule that had been there but they recently started enforcing. This...

      A couple of updates:

      1. I've been a Venture X member flying out of DFW for several months now, and up until recently they DID let you use the lounge on arrivals (I did it a couple of times while waiting on an appointment on that side of town, for example.) The last time I tried it, they did say that it was a rule that had been there but they recently started enforcing. This is probably due in part to my next observation, being
      2. Word has definitely gotten out about the greatness of this lounge, because I estimate you now have a 50/50 chance of being put on a waitlist for access to the lounge, or being told you can put together a grab-and-go bag. I personally have been waitlisted a handful of times in the last...well, since the beginning of 2023.

  23. shoeguy Guest

    Pretty nice looking lounge but Capital One has no real premium feel to its brand so kind of curious as to why they are going down this path at all.

  24. CJH Guest

    Can you enter the lounge for $65 even if you are not a Capital One Cardholder?
    I ask because I fly out of DFW.

    1. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ CJH -- Yep, you sure can! No need to be a Capital One customer.

  25. D3kingg Guest

    Crapital One. What a joke.

    1. Shawn M Ehmann Guest

      great lounges....rival amex... yip, know then all! dfw lounge amazing and empty!

  26. Dom Guest

    Currently, there are no Venture X cardholders because applications for the card will not open until 11/9.

  27. JW Guest

    I imagine that you can’t use your 2 free visits at once, e.g. for you and your companion? Only asking as I very rarely fly through DFW.

    1. Ben Schlappig OMAAT

      @ JW -- I followed up with Capital One to make sure I got an accurate answer. They can be used by the primary cardmember or authorized user, and any accompanying guest. So you could use your two passes for a single visit for you and a companion. Hope that helps.

  28. Joe1293 Guest

    Great photos Mr. Gilbert Ott

    1. Eskimo Guest

      I believe credits was already given in the text.

  29. mdande7 Diamond

    Interesting there is no discount for other cap one cards. I've a free one I have had from when cap one was the only bank with no foreign transaction cards. I've had it probably 20 years. No perk to use it at the lounge.

    1. Chris_ Gold

      Same - I have an about-20-years-old card too.

    2. Great GoogilyMoogily Guest

      Agree. Little value to us, with three accounts for many, many years. I don’t travel enough to make a $300 card fee worthwhile.
      I will use the AmEx lounges instead.

Featured Comments Most helpful comments ( as chosen by the OMAAT community ).

The comments on this page have not been provided, reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any advertiser, and it is not an advertiser's responsibility to ensure posts and/or questions are answered.

dander Guest

I bet the grab and go selections will either be scaled back, go totally away or have some person give them out. I can see many people grabbing more than they can eat in a day let alone during one meal

2
Steve Guest

It would be useful for Ben to reachout to C1 re: 3 hours prior to boarding OR 3 hours prior to departure. There are reports of both. At IAD, that makes a big difference, especially for an INTL where boarding starts 45-50 prior to departure. If it is 3 hours prior to departure, then one only had 60-90 minutes of usable time in the lounge.

0
kenindfw Guest

Actually I don't think that will happen since it's in Terminal D, which is International with very limited AA flights. I use the lounge when I know I'm going out early just to get to the airport and get settled before the flight. AA lounges need refreshing and they've gotten so crowded in Terminals A, C and now E. The Venture lounge can be really great after the International flights have departed, very sparse inside.

0
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