A review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy offers a full look at one of the few Priority Pass lounges available at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport. The Club MSY, located in Concourse A, provides travelers a quiet space away from the busy terminal. With a sleek design, self-serve buffet, full-service bar, and thoughtful seating arrangements, this lounge aims to give both business and leisure flyers a comfortable pre-flight experience. This review covers everything from lounge layout and access rules to food quality and service standards.
Stepping into The Club MSY feels like finding a hidden gem in the middle of a busy terminal. The modern layout, natural light, and warm Southern hospitality combine to make the space feel upscale yet relaxed. It’s the kind of lounge that transforms airport waiting into an enjoyable part of your trip—especially when a cold drink and quiet seat are just what you need before takeoff.
This review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy breaks down what makes the lounge stand out, especially for travelers using Priority Pass or eligible credit cards. With an early opening time of 4:00 AM and strong attention to cleanliness, The Club MSY is perfect for morning flights and quick layovers. From tech-friendly workstations to New Orleans-inspired drinks at the bar, this This review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy shows that the lounge is a solid choice for travelers at MSY. The space is quiet, clean, and filled with natural light. It’s a nice place to relax, work, or enjoy a snack before your flight. The staff is friendly, and the bar service adds to the experience.
From this review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy, it’s clear the lounge offers good value, especially for Priority Pass users. It may not be the biggest lounge, but it has all the basics done well. If you’re flying out of New Orleans, it’s worth stopping in for a calm and comfortable break. helps you decide if it’s worth adding to your travel routine.
The Ultimate Lounge Review (2025)
Flying through the Big Easy soon? You’ll want to know if The Club MSY is worth your time and money. Having visited dozens of airport lounges across North America, I can tell you this space at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport offers some distinctive touches that set it apart from your average Priority Pass hideaway.
In this hands-on This review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy shows that the lounge is a solid choice for travelers at MSY. The space is quiet, clean, and filled with natural light. It’s a nice place to relax, work, or enjoy a snack before your flight. The staff is friendly, and the bar service adds to the experience.
See Also: Review: Delta B717-200 First Class (AVL-ATL)
From this review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy, it’s clear the lounge offers good value, especially for Priority Pass users. It may not be the biggest lounge, but it has all the basics done well. If you’re flying out of New Orleans, it’s worth stopping in for a calm and comfortable break., I’ll walk you through everything from the exact location to the tastiest Cajun-inspired bites and the quietest corners for catching up on work. Whether you’re a frequent NOLA visitor or just passing through, this guide will help you decide if this lounge deserves your precious pre-flight time.
When New Orleans unveiled its gleaming new terminal in November 2019, The Club MSY followed shortly after in February 2020. As the only common-use lounge in the airport, it serves travelers across all airlines and stands as the sole Priority Pass lounge option at MSY.
What makes this particular outpost of The Club network special? For starters, its thoughtful integration of local flair—from the artwork to the food offerings—creates a sense of place that many airport lounges lack. While not the largest or most luxurious lounge you’ll ever visit, it delivers where it counts for most travelers: comfortable seating, decent food options, and a respite from the terminal bustle.
“The Club MSY perfectly balances New Orleans character with traveler practicality—it’s like a mini French Quarter retreat before your flight.” – NOLA Travel Quarterly
Access & Practical Information
Finding The Club MSY
You’ll find this sanctuary on Concourse A, just past security and adjacent to the beloved Cafe du Monde (yes, the famous beignet spot has an airport location!). Look for signage near gate A6—you can’t miss the sleek glass entrance with “The Club” branding displayed prominently.
The convenient location makes it accessible regardless of which concourse your flight departs from, though you’ll need to allow 5-10 minutes of walking time if you’re flying out of the far end of Concourse B or C.
Hours of Operation
The Club MSY maintains consistent daily hours:
| Day | Opening | Closing |
|---|---|---|
| Monday-Sunday | 4:00 AM | 9:00 PM |
Note: During major events like Mardi Gras or Jazz Fest, the lounge occasionally extends evening hours to accommodate increased flight traffic. Check the Priority Pass app for current hours during your visit.
Entry Methods & Requirements
This lounge offers several access paths:
- Priority Pass membership (included with cards like the American Express Platinum Card, Chase Sapphire Reserve, and Capital One Venture X)
- One-time pass purchase ($50 at the front desk or $45 if pre-purchased online)
- Select airline premium cabin passengers (certain international flights only)
- Dragon Pass and LoungeKey members
- Airport Dimensions Club members
Important restrictions to be aware of:
- Three-hour access limit is strictly enforced during busy periods
- Priority Pass guests limitations (typically two guests per member)
- Children under 2 enter free, but all others count as guests
- The lounge may institute a waitlist during peak times
Pro tip: If purchasing a day pass, do so through The Club’s website before your trip to save $5 per person.
Physical Space Analysis
The Club MSY features a distinctive long, narrow rectangular layout that makes creative use of its 4,700 square feet. While not massive, the smart design makes the space feel more open than the square footage might suggest.
Design Aesthetic
Walking in, you’re greeted by a contemporary design aesthetic that subtly incorporates New Orleans elements without falling into tourist clichés:
- Abstract art with Mardi Gras color palettes
- Custom light fixtures inspired by French Quarter ironwork
- Partition screens with patterns reminiscent of Garden District architecture
- A carefully curated soundscape featuring soft jazz
The lounge’s most striking feature is undoubtedly the wall of large windows overlooking the concourse, which flood the space with natural light during daytime hours. This transparency creates a connection to the terminal’s architecture while maintaining a sense of exclusivity inside.
Capacity & Crowding
With seating for approximately 115 guests, the lounge can feel quite comfortable during off-peak hours but gets noticeably crowded during morning rush periods and late afternoons. During my three recent visits, I observed:
- Early morning (5:30-7:30 AM): Near capacity, often with a short waitlist
- Mid-day (11:00 AM-2:00 PM): Comfortably busy at 60-70% capacity
- Evening (6:00-8:00 PM): Variable, but generally manageable
The crowded lounge experience becomes most apparent near the food and beverage stations, where lines can form during peak periods.
Specialized Seating Zones
The lounge cleverly divides its limited footprint into distinct zones to accommodate different traveler needs.
Productivity Areas
For travelers needing to work:
- Four dedicated workstations with power outlets along the window wall
- High-top communal table with integrated power
- A small business center with computer and printer available (free for all guests)
- Strong Wi-Fi throughout (more on this later)
Relaxation Zones
If unwinding is your priority:
- Cluster of plush armchairs in the rear corner (the quietest spot)
- Window-facing loungers perfect for plane spotting
- Semi-private nooks with low lighting for napping
Dining Sections
The lounge offers limited dining tables for proper meals:
- Six café-style tables near the buffet
- Bar area with high-top tables (10 seats at the bar itself)
- Lounge chairs with swivel tables (less ideal for serious eating)
Case Study: During Jazz Fest 2024, I visited the lounge three times in a single weekend. Even amid the festival rush, the staff rearranged furniture twice daily to accommodate changing crowd patterns—adding more dining space during meal peaks and transitioning to more lounge seating during quieter periods.
Restroom Facilities & Wellness Options
Unlike some premium airport lounges, The Club MSY doesn’t offer shower facilities—a reflection of New Orleans’ position as more of an origin/destination airport rather than a major connecting hub.
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Restroom Quality
The restrooms located at the rear of the lounge are well-maintained with:
- Individual stalls with full doors
- Premium hand soap and lotion
- Touchless fixtures throughout
- Frequent cleaning (I observed attendants checking every 30-45 minutes)
Accessibility & Special Features
The lounge excels in accessibility considerations:
- ADA-compliant restrooms with proper fixtures
- Wide pathways throughout the lounge
- Staff trained to assist travelers with mobility needs
- A semi-private nursing area for parents with infants
Culinary Experience
The food program at The Club MSY strikes a balance between crowd-pleasing standards and local specialties, with quality that generally exceeds typical domestic U.S. lounges.
Buffet Highlights
The buffet dining options rotate throughout the day with distinct meal periods:
Morning Offerings (4:00 AM – 11:00 AM)
- Fresh fruit salad with local citrus
- Yogurt parfait station
- Hot breakfast sandwiches
- Steel-cut oatmeal bar
- Pastries from a local bakery
Midday & Evening (11:00 AM – Close)
- Gumbo or jambalaya (rotating daily)
- Garden salad with local produce
- Sandwich selection
- Cheese and charcuterie board
- Cookies and dessert bites
Local Touches
What sets this lounge apart is its commitment to showcasing New Orleans cuisine:
- Red beans and rice (Monday special)
- Mini muffuletta sandwiches
- Creole-seasoned snack mix
- Local Zapp’s potato chips
Beverage Program
The premium bar operates from 6:00 AM until closing, offering:
Complimentary Options:
- House wines (red, white, sparkling)
- Domestic beers
- Well liquors
- Soft drinks and juices
- Espresso station with custom drink options
Premium Selections (Additional Cost):
- Local craft beers ($8)
- Premium spirits ($12-15)
- Specialty cocktails ($14)
Signature Drink Worth Trying: The Sazerac ($14) – The Club’s version of New Orleans’ official cocktail balances rye whiskey, bitters, and absinthe rinse perfectly.
Digital Infrastructure
For travelers needing to stay connected, The Club MSY delivers reliable tech amenities.
Wi-Fi Performance
The dedicated lounge Wi-Fi connectivity consistently outperforms the general airport network:
- Average download: 75-85 Mbps
- Average upload: 30-45 Mbps
- Latency: 15-25ms
- No usage caps or time limits
Connection is simple via a password displayed throughout the lounge or QR code scan.
Power Access
Finding power is relatively straightforward with:
- AC outlets and USB-A ports at approximately 70% of seats
- Dedicated charging stations near the entrance
- Power integration in most tables and work surfaces
One notable weakness: The lounge lacks USB-C ports, so bring your own adapter if needed.
Business Support
Beyond the basics, business travelers will appreciate:
- Free printing (up to 10 pages)
- Scanning capability through the front desk
- Private phone area for calls
Staff & Service Elements
The human touch can make or break a lounge experience, and the lounge ambassador team at MSY generally delivers friendly, efficient service.
Front Desk Experience
Upon arrival, the reception team handles:
- Eligibility verification
- Day pass purchases
- Special requests
- Flight information
During my visits, check-in averaged under 90 seconds even during busy periods—a testament to staff efficiency.
Service Throughout The Lounge
Inside, you’ll interact with:
- Buffet maintenance staff who refresh food items regularly
- Roaming attendants clearing dishes
- Bartender serving both complimentary and premium drinks
The service philosophy emphasizes respectful attention without hovering. On my latest visit, I watched staff gracefully help an older people passenger with mobility issues navigate the buffet—bringing her selections to her seat and checking back appropriately.
Crowd Patterns & Strategic Visiting
Timing your visit can dramatically impact your experience at The Club MSY.
Peak Hours
Based on my observations and confirmed by staff, these represent the busiest periods:
- Weekday mornings: 5:00 AM – 8:00 AM (busiest)
- Sunday afternoons: 2:00 PM – 5:00 PM
- Friday evenings: 4:00 PM – 7:00 PM
Quietest Times
For a more relaxed experience, target:
- Mid-mornings: 9:00 AM – 11:00 AM
- Early afternoons: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM (weekdays)
- Late evenings: After 7:30 PM
Overcrowding Management
When the lounge approaches capacity, management implements several measures:
- Digital waitlist system
- Stricter enforcement of the three-hour access limit
- Reduced guest allowances for Priority Pass members
- Temporary suspension of day pass sales
Pro tip: If you encounter a waitlist, leave your phone number with the front desk and explore nearby Concourse A shops. You’ll receive a text when space becomes available, typically with an accurate time estimate.
Comparative Analysis
How does The Club MSY stack up against alternatives?
Against Other Priority Pass Lounges
Compared to the broader Priority Pass lounge network in the U.S.:
- Food quality: Above average (especially with local specialties)
- Space: Average size but smart layout maximizes comfort
- Amenities: Standard offering minus showers
- Atmosphere: Superior to many with thoughtful design elements
Versus Airline Lounges At MSY
New Orleans currently has three airline lounges:
| Lounge | Size | Food Quality | Design | Special Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The Club MSY | 4,700 sq ft | ★★★★☆ | Modern with local touches | Local cuisine, central location |
| Delta Sky Club | 5,600 sq ft | ★★★★☆ | Recently renovated | Shower suites, better bar program |
| United Club | 4,200 sq ft | ★★★☆☆ | Standard design | Better workspace options |
The Delta Sky Club edges out The Club in amenities and space, but requires Delta status or specific credit cards, making The Club the more accessible option for most travelers.
Value Versus Terminal Options
With the new MSY terminal offering significantly improved dining and seating, is The Club worth it?
The Club MSY advantages:
- Free food and beverages (vs. $15-25 minimum at terminal restaurants)
- Quieter environment for work or relaxation
- Cleaner, more accessible restrooms
- Dedicated service staff
For a 2+ hour pre-flight wait, the value proposition remains strong, especially for Priority Pass holders who receive complimentary access.
Traveler-Specific Value Assessment
Different travelers will find varying levels of value at The Club MSY.
Business Travelers
You’ll appreciate:
- Reliable Wi-Fi for video calls
- Work surfaces with power
- Quick-service food options
- Quieter environment than gate areas
Families
The lounge offers decent but not exceptional family amenities:
- No dedicated children’s area
- Family-friendly food options
- Accommodating staff
- Space constraints can make family seating challenging
Long Layover Visitors
For extended waits:
- Food rotations provide variety
- Comfortable seating reduces fatigue
- Immaculate cleanliness throughout the day
- Lack of showers limits refreshment options
Practical Tips & Hacks
After multiple visits, I’ve discovered several ways to maximize your Club MSY experience:
Optimal Seating Strategy
For solo travelers:
- Early morning: Grab a window seat at the far end for maximum privacy
- Midday: The high-top tables near (but not at) the bar offer good workspace
- Evening: Cluster of armchairs in the back corner provides the quietest space
For groups:
- The semi-circular booth near the buffet accommodates 4-5 people comfortably
- Window-facing row can be reconfigured for groups of 3-4
Food Timing Intelligence
- Hot food refreshes: 10:30 AM (breakfast to lunch transition) and 5:00 PM (fresh dinner items)
- Dessert additions: Typically added around 3:00 PM
- Local specialties: Most commonly featured on Friday-Sunday
Photography Worthy Spots
While the lounge doesn’t scream “Instagram moment,” these spots make for nice memory captures:
- Bar area with runway views in background
- Local art wall with The Club MSY signage
- Signature cocktail with lounge interior as backdrop
Honest Limitations & Drawbacks
No lounge is perfect, and transparency requires acknowledging The Club MSY’s shortcomings:
Space Constraints
The long, narrow rectangular layout creates some challenges:
- Limited privacy during peak hours
- Buffet area bottlenecks during meal rushes
- Few truly quiet corners for sensitive calls
Inconsistency Issues
During multiple visits, I’ve noticed:
- Food quality varies significantly between morning and afternoon offerings
- Outlet functionality issues with some older plugs not working properly
- Service attention drops noticeably during shift changes
Value Assessment
For the $50 day pass price:
- Limited premium alcohol selection compared to airline clubs
- No shower facilities
- Fewer hot food options than some competitors
These limitations don’t negate the lounge’s value but set realistic expectations, especially for experienced lounge visitors.
Final Scoring
After careful evaluation across multiple visits, here’s my assessment of The Club MSY:
Category Ratings
- Location & Accessibility: ★★★★★ (5/5)
- Comfort & Seating: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Food & Beverage: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Service: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
- Amenities & Facilities: ★★★☆☆ (3/5)
- Value for Money: ★★★★☆ (4/5)
Overall Rating: 4 out of 5 stars
Who Benefits Most
This lounge provides exceptional value for:
- Priority Pass members (essentially “free” access)
- Travelers wanting local food flavors without leaving security
- Those needing productive workspace
- Passengers with 2+ hour waits
Key Takeaways
- The Club MSY delivers a reliably pleasant experience that exceeds most domestic U.S. lounge standards
- The thoughtful New Orleans touches elevate it above generic airport spaces
- Timing your visit to avoid peak crowds dramatically improves the experience
- Food quality stands out, especially local specialties
- While not luxurious, it represents genuine value for Priority Pass members and potentially even day pass purchasers
Is it worth arriving early for? If you have Priority Pass, absolutely—arrive 30-45 minutes before you otherwise would. For day pass purchasers, I’d recommend it for layovers or delays over 2 hours when the extra comfort justifies the cost.
See Also: Trouble in Tulum: Airlines Continue Cutting Back Service
FAQ Section
Q: How strict is the three-hour access limit?
A: During busy periods, it’s enforced through check-in timestamps. During quieter times, staff rarely check unless the lounge approaches capacity.
Q: Can I visit the lounge after my flight (upon arrival)?
A: Yes, The Club welcomes arriving passengers who meet access requirements.
Q: Does The Club MSY have shower facilities?
A: No, unlike some international lounges, The Club MSY doesn’t offer shower facilities.
Q: Can I bring children into the lounge?
A: Yes, children are welcome but count toward your guest allowance (except infants under 2).
Q: How does the food compare to other Priority Pass lounges?
A: The Club MSY offers above-average food quality compared to typical U.S. Priority Pass lounges, with particular strengths in local specialties.
Conclusion
This review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy shows that the lounge is a solid choice for travelers at MSY. The space is quiet, clean, and filled with natural light. It’s a nice place to relax, work, or enjoy a snack before your flight. The staff is friendly, and the bar service adds to the experience.
From this review-the-club-msy-new-orleans-msy, it’s clear the lounge offers good value, especially for Priority Pass users. It may not be the biggest lounge, but it has all the basics done well. If you’re flying out of New Orleans, it’s worth stopping in for a calm and comfortable break.
Have you visited The Club MSY at Louis Armstrong New Orleans International Airport? Share your experience in the comments below!
This review was last updated on May 7, 2025, reflecting current lounge conditions and policies.
Asia Jenni is a passionate travel writer and expert author on CounterEase.com. With a deep love for exploration, she shares insightful travel guides, tips, and destination recommendations, helping travelers discover new places with ease. Her expertise in curating memorable trips and her engaging writing style make her a valuable resource for anyone looking to plan their next adventure.
