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Location
The newly renovated Alaska Lounge is easy to reach and conveniently located for passengers flying Alaska. It is located in Concourse D near gate D1. If you pass through security checkpoint 4, which is usually used for TSA Pre only, it is just to the right. If you get in through checkpoint 5 (general screening) you have to backtrack a bit to your left. These are the two closest security checkpoints. However, it doesn’t matter which security checkpoint you take, you just have to get to D Concourse.
Hours of Operation
Monday through Sunday from 5:00 a.m. – 11:00 p.m.
Access
Unfortunately, lounge access got a bit harder as more and more people flock to the lounges. Alaska had and still has one of the most generous lounge access policies in the country. It used to be enough to just have a first-class ticket to enter the lounge. For a long time, Alaska Lounges in Seattle also accepted the Priority Pass, but you can’t use it anymore to avoid overcrowding of the lounges at the airport. First Class passengers are still able to get in the lounge if they fly on a long-distance route. This means you must be on a flight, flying more than 2,100 miles non-stop to be able to access the lounge. Otherwise, you can buy a lounge membership for Alaska’s lounges or if you hold a membership for American Airlines Admirals Clubs, you are welcome as well.
Check the Alaska Airlines website for up-to-date information on access and hours.
The lounge features 50% more seating throughout the same space it occupied before as well as new amenities. The lounge also carries the same style as Alaska Airlines’ flagship lounge inside the North Satellite in Seattle. You get to see the new decor and style even before you enter the lounge.
The Alaska Lounge at Concourse D is one of the most favorite lounges at the airport as it is close to the security checkpoint most Alaska Air Passengers will use and from here it is convenient to get to all the other gates from which Alaska Air departs.
A lot of thought and love was poured into this new lounge and the experience within. Foremost, the most important thing for all of us, finding a spot to sit down. The freshly revamped lounge features more seating than before, including loungers in front of the big windows on the mezzanine level. Great for young and old aviation enthusiasts who want to keep an eye on what’s going on at the airport.
Dining
Another excellent feature is the barista station right next to the check-in counter. Grab your favorite hand-crafted steamer or tea while you are in the lounge or just before you head out to your gate. The barista station offers a few tables with chairs to sit down and enjoy a snack. It’s a way from the buzzing areas of the rest of the lounge. Close to the barista station and throughout the lounge, you will find coffee machines to make your own coffee or tea if you are in a rush.
The dining options are also great in the lounge and include Alaska Air’s famous pancake machines. A hit especially with the young travelers. However, that doesn’t mean that Mom or Dad can sneak in and grab themselves a pancake. Food offerings vary from breakfast in the morning, including bagels and toast, to salads, soups, and other snacks throughout the day. Hot food options being served throughout the day have also expanded.
Upstairs is a proper bar space that offers complimentary craft brews, West Coast wines, and spirits.
Conclusion
I was able to visit the lounge on the second day after re-opening and I can definitely tell you, the space has improved tremendously. The new Alaska Lounge is more inviting and feels more relaxing than ever before. It is easy to navigate through the lounge and find your way to all the amenities. Lots of power outlets and USB ports help to get your devices recharged as well while waiting for your flight or connection. The lounge is definitely a great spot to visit, and it is my favorite lounge after the flagship lounge in the North satellite building.
One thing a lot of frequent lounge visitors and I agree on is, they forgot to upgrade the elevator taking you to the upper level of the lounge. It is the same old slow elevator. It would have been nice to get the elevator upgraded as well. It just makes it easier to get up and down with your carry-ons in tow.
Peter has a passion for Traveling, Photography, and Geocaching. These are the best ingredients for amazing adventures all over the globe. “Traveling is fun, no matter if you stay in a luxury hotel or travel like a backpacker.” Peter shares his experiences on his Blog www.gatetoadventures.com
Some of Peter’s photos are published on corporate websites, in-flight magazines, travel guides, and much more.
Alaska Airlines, Alaska Airlines Lounge, Lounge Review, Seattle-Tacoma International Airport (SEA), USA, Washington
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