Navigating airports can be a whirlwind of long lines, crowded seating areas, and a relentless hunt for power outlets. But if you’re traveling through Terminal 8 at JFK, American Airlines offers a haven of tranquility with its four distinct lounges: the Admirals Club, Greenwich Lounge, SoHo Lounge, and Chelsea Lounge. Each lounge caters to a unique group of travelers, offering a range of amenities that blend comfort, convenience, and luxury.

On a recent layover, I had the opportunity to visit the Chelsea Lounge and Admirals Club, and I couldn’t resist peeking into the Greenwich Lounge and SoHo Lounge. Whether you’re in need of a quiet spot to work, a luxurious meal, or a cozy place to unwind, these lounges offer something for everyone. Let’s explore each one in depth.

Admirals Club: Comfort and Convenience for Frequent Flyers

Access

Paid Admirals Club membership.
Passengers eligible for any of the other lounges listed below.

The Admirals Club is American Airlines’ most inclusive and widely available lounge at JFK. It’s a great option for travelers looking for a no-fuss space to relax before their flight.

This lounge spans a large area and is thoughtfully designed with the needs of frequent travelers in mind. Upon entering, I immediately noticed the abundance of comfortable seating options, from plush armchairs to work-friendly desks. Charging outlets are plentiful, so you’ll never have to compete for a place to power up your devices.

Amenities

The Admirals Club offers:

Complimentary snacks and drinks. Think grab-and-go options like fresh fruit, chips, and cookies.
A full-service bar for those looking to enjoy an alcoholic beverage.
Showers—perfect for freshening up after a long-haul flight.
Massage chairs in the relaxation area, which was a game-changer after a hectic day of travel.
Workstations with audio-visual capabilities and fast Wi-Fi for those needing to catch up on work.

If you’re looking for a dependable, no-frills lounge experience, the Admirals Club is a solid choice.

Greenwich Lounge: A Contemporary Oasis

Access

British Airways Business Class passengers.
American Airlines Flagship Business Class passengers.
American Airlines Platinum members booked in long-haul Flagship.
Oneworld Sapphire members.

The Greenwich Lounge is an ideal choice for business travelers or those seeking a quiet, contemporary space to unwind or work. Its sleek, modern design immediately sets a calming tone, with floor-to-ceiling windows that let in plenty of natural light.

Work-Friendly Spaces

What sets this lounge apart is its focus on productivity. Workstations are thoughtfully equipped with ergonomic chairs, ample desk space, and fast Wi-Fi throughout the lounge. Whether you’re hosting a virtual meeting or catching up on emails, you’ll find the Greenwich Lounge perfectly suited for business travelers.

Food and Beverage

While the food here is more low-key compared to the SoHo and Chelsea lounges, you’ll still find plenty of snacks and beverages to keep you fueled. Think fresh fruit, granola bars, and pastries in the morning, alongside an all-day selection of light bites. Coffee stations and self-serve beverage counters ensure you won’t go thirsty.

For a peaceful yet professional space to recharge, the Greenwich Lounge is hard to beat.

SoHo Lounge: Elevated Comfort with a Modern Flair

Access

American Airlines Executive Platinum and Platinum Pro members booked in long-haul Flagship.
American Airlines Concierge Key members.
Oneworld First Class passengers (non-AA flights).
Oneworld Emerald members.

The SoHo Lounge is where sophistication meets relaxation. From the moment I walked in, I was struck by the upscale atmosphere. Designed with a blend of modern furniture, warm wood accents, and stylish lighting, the space feels more like a boutique hotel lobby than an airport lounge.

Ambiance

The SoHo Lounge strikes a balance between cozy and chic. Plush leather seating, private nooks for relaxation, and soft lighting create a tranquil environment that’s perfect for recharging after a long journey.

Dining Experience

One of the standout features of the SoHo Lounge is its dining options. Unlike the Greenwich Lounge’s more casual offerings, the SoHo Lounge serves freshly prepared small plates and full entrees that cater to a range of tastes. As a vegan traveler, I was thrilled to see options like:

Roasted vegetable platters.
Quinoa and lentil salads.
Freshly baked bread with olive oil and tapenade.

Pair your meal with a drink from the bar, which features a curated selection of wines, beers, and signature cocktails.

Connectivity

Like the Greenwich Lounge, the SoHo Lounge offers high-speed Wi-Fi and several quiet spaces for work. However, it’s the attention to detail—like complimentary charging cables and well-placed power outlets—that makes this lounge a favorite for those juggling work and leisure.

Chelsea Lounge: The Pinnacle of Luxury

Access

British Airways First Class passengers.
American Airlines Concierge Key members booked in long-haul Flagship.

For travelers seeking the height of luxury, the Chelsea Lounge delivers an unparalleled experience. This exclusive space is designed for those who want to indulge before takeoff, offering a refined setting that feels more like a private club than an airport lounge.

Design and Atmosphere

The Chelsea Lounge’s plush couches and armchairs invite you to sink in and relax. The decor combines minimalist elegance with thoughtful touches, like curated artwork and soft lighting, that elevate the space. It’s the kind of lounge where time seems to slow down—a perfect respite from the chaos of the airport.

Culinary Excellence

The dining options here are top-notch, with buffet-style meals featuring gourmet dishes prepared by professional chefs. The vegan options impressed me, including:

Grilled vegetable antipasti.
Creamy butternut squash soup.
Decadent dark chocolate desserts.

The bar is equally impressive, offering a wide range of premium wines, spirits, and craft cocktails. Whether you’re in the mood for a crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a classic Negroni, the bartenders are ready to serve up something special.

Private Spaces

For those needing extra privacy, the Chelsea Lounge includes private meeting rooms—perfect for quiet calls or focused work. I spent some time here prepping for a blog post, and it felt like having my own office with all the perks of the lounge.

Final Thoughts: Which Lounge Is Right for You?

Each of American Airlines’ lounges at JFK Terminal 8 caters to a different kind of traveler. Here’s a quick recap to help you decide:

Admirals Club: The most accessible option, offering basic comforts like snacks, showers, and charging stations. Ideal for frequent flyers and Admirals Club members.
Greenwich Lounge: A sleek, modern space perfect for work and light refreshments. Best for business travelers.
SoHo Lounge: A step up in luxury, with gourmet dining, upscale decor, and a more intimate atmosphere.
Chelsea Lounge: The most exclusive experience, offering top-tier dining, private spaces, and an ultra-luxurious environment.

No matter which lounge you choose, you’ll find a welcome retreat from the hustle and bustle of JFK. Each space is thoughtfully designed to enhance your travel experience, whether you’re catching up on work, indulging in a gourmet meal, or simply unwinding before your flight.