Last week Dick Evans, senior vice president, and I jaunted to Chicago for a quick overnight to attend the media unveiling of the first United Polaris business-class lounge. The lounge at Chicago O’Hare International Airport opened Dec. 1 in conjunction with the roll out of the new Polaris service standards across all United Airlines flights. As we’ve been following the new product since its announcement and reporting on it across all of the GT channels, it was exciting to see the experience come to life.

It’s a showpiece from the minute you step inside the lounge, as the ceiling artwork was designed to mimic the night sky of Chicago. Similar pieces have been commissioned for each of the eight upcoming Polaris lounges yet to open around the globe.

Before fully touring the lounge, Dick and I took a glimpse at the onboard product. I’m a big fan of the Bloody Mary and mimosa cart for morning flights, while Dick enjoyed testing out the seat! I think the seat’s “Do Not Disturb” light is another thoughtful and useful feature.

In addition to offering plenty of spaces — and outlets — for relaxing, working, recharging, entertaining and lounging, Polaris lounges offer a comprehensive dining and bar service. Chicago-based mixologist extraordinaire Adam Seger helped develop the twist on a Pimms Cup — using blood orange instead of lemonade — we tried that afternoon. Seger and a group of other well-known cocktail gurus crafted signature drinks for the lounges. And how cute are the aviation-inspired garnishes?

Guests can choose their dining experience — from snacking on the á la carte offerings or enjoying full multicourse meals before boarding.

And when it comes to resting, United Polaris has you covered on the ground and in the air — the lounges boast comfortable and spacious rooms to rest, and the new business-class seats offer a true lie-flat experience. The shower facilities in the lounge were impressive as well — rivaling any 5-star hotel bathrooms I’ve visited. Another perk? An on-site washer and dryer allow the facility valet to help travelers freshen up even further.

Now we can’t wait to fully experience the onboard experience!

— Kimberly Krol, editor in chief