Chicago Midway International Airport (MDW) Opens Its First Passenger Lounge in its 95 Year History

September 26, 2024 (Chicago) - Airport Dimensions, the global specialist in helping airports enhance their experiences and enrich travelers’ time, has today opened the very first shared use lounge in Chicago Midway’s 96-year history. 

The space is designed to be a celebration of Chicago’s architectural and cultural legacy, reflecting the spirit of the city and offering travelers an elevated experience with local cuisine and a vibrant atmosphere. The multi-functional space is designed to meet the needs of the modern traveler, providing areas for work, relaxation, and socializing, and at its heart is a lively bar, serving as a central hub where guests can unwind and connect. Expansive floor-to-ceiling windows provide sweeping views of the airfield, transporting travelers away from the hustle and bustle. Seating 76 across 3,265 sq. ft., the new lounge is at MDW’s Central Market, at the intersection of Concourses A and B.

The Club MDW is part of Midway Partnership’s extensive redevelopment of the concessions program at Midway, a partnership by Vantage Group, SSP America, and Hudson.  Midway’s concession program includes more than 70 new shopping, dining, and service offerings showcasing the best of Chicago’s iconic brands and local favorites. 

An Architectural Homage

Drawing inspiration from the city’s iconic Art Deco and mid-century modern architecture, The Club MDW features dramatic design elements such as high contrast and stark monochromatic tones, arched walls, marble and metallic accents, and gilded details. 

The lounge’s aesthetic pays homage to Chicago’s legendary skyline while blending classic geometry and plush textures to create a warm, inviting environment for travelers which is not just a stop on their journey but a destination in their overall travel experience. 

Celebrating Local Flavor and Creativity

A common theme across The Club’s portfolio of lounges, The Club MDW embraces local culture from local food and drink offerings to curated art displays. Guests can indulge in locally sourced cuisine and beverages, including craft beers from Revolutionary Brewing and Two Brothers Brewing, alongside spirits from the Chicago-based KOVAL Distillery. The menu reflects the city’s vibrant culinary scene, offering a true taste of Chicago, and signature cocktails include the Chicago Fizz and the Southside. 

The lounge also features photography by local artists Mark Hersch and Angie McMonigal, whose works capture the essence of Chicago’s urban landscape and architectural evolution. Mark’s images portray the dimensions of space and time, merging elements of the past with those of the present and reflecting a blend of several lifelong passions: history and photography, art and science, and the evolution of architecture. Angie is drawn to capturing the buildings and spaces that shape our lives in a wider context, with her focus on details of the built environment, resulting in bold yet elegant images.

Neighborly Hospitality and World-Class Amenities

At the core of The Club MDW is a commitment to personalized service. Staff members are trained to anticipate guests’ needs, ensuring every visitor feels welcomed and cared for from the moment they enter until their departure. The lounge is designed to suit all traveler needs, whether they’re seeking a quiet spot to work or a comfortable space to unwind. In addition, The Club MDW supports Midway travelers with 90% of seating equipped with power outlets.

"In the ever-evolving world of travel, we are so thrilled to be a part of this new chapter in Midway International Airport’s 96-year history,” said Nancy Knipp, President of Airport Dimensions America. “As a new wave of travelers is redefining how they spend their time in airports, Airport Dimensions is committed to setting new industry standards through innovation, personalized experiences, and exceptional hospitality. The Club MDW has been uniquely designed to celebrate the diverse architectural history of Chicago and will offer Midway’s travelers an authentic taste of the city. We are delighted to support Midway Partnership and the CDA to contribute to their vision of elevating the guest experience and are very excited to partner with local ACDBE partner Marc Brooks and Hyde Park Hospitality, whose team will manage the operations of the lounge ensuring the highest quality of service for the guest.

Supporting the Local Community

In line with its commitment to giving back, The Club MDW is partnering with The Greater Chicago Food Depository in support of Hunger Action Month, a nationwide effort to raise awareness about hunger in America and inspire action. For the first 30 days of opening, guests can contribute to a virtual food drive via QR codes provided in the lounge, which will go towards food pantries, soup kitchens, shelters, mobile distribution and other projects across Chicago and Cook County. Airport Dimensions will also make a $10,000 donation during the launch event to support local initiatives aimed at combating food insecurity.

Access and Membership

The Club MDW - one of The Club’s global network – is available to members of Priority Pass, the original and market-leading airport experiences program, and LoungeKey customers. Both Priority Pass and LoungeKey are operated by Collinson International, part of The Collinson Group. The Collinson Group is the parent company of Airport Dimensions. Day passes are also available for $50 to all Midway passengers with a boarding pass.

The Club at MDW will be open from 04:00 to 10:00pm every day.