If you fly United Airlines, you’re probably at least somewhat familiar with its comfortable and spacious Polaris class: lie-flat seats, elevated dining options, bedding and plenty of comfortable amenities. But depending on where you’re traveling, you may also have access to one of United’s Polaris lounges, a distinct upgrade on the typical United Club lounge.

But how can you get in before your flight? In short: Fly Polaris business class.

Fortunately, there are a few other ways to enjoy all the Polaris amenities, even if you didn’t book a Polaris fare from the get-go.

What is United Polaris?

Polaris is what United calls its premium travel product, which extends beyond class of travel to encompass the entire travel experience: a personal on-board suite, sleep-centric amenities, upscale dining options and of course — United’s Polaris lounge access.

But while there are more than 45 United Clubs (plus participating Star Alliance lounges), there are far fewer Polaris lounges. In fact, there are only six located across the U.S.:

Chicago-O’Hare.

Houston Intercontinental.

Los Angeles.

New York-Newark.

San Francisco.

Washington-Dulles.

What makes Polaris lounges different from United’s normal lounges? For starters, they're exclusively for passengers traveling in Polaris business class on United (or business or first class on a Star Alliance flight) for a long-haul international flight.

These lounges offer dining through a hot and cold buffet, as well as drinks like wine, spirits, craft beer and cocktails. Some lounges even have a restaurant on site. If it’s calm and rest you’re after, there are also showers and quiet suites with daybeds.

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4 ways to gain United Polaris lounge access

While any United passenger with a valid same-day boarding pass can buy a one-time pass for United Club lounges (or a United Club membership), not just anyone can get into the coveted Polaris lounge. There are no United Polaris lounge day passes.

So then, who can access a United Polaris lounge? Let's look closer.

1. Fly United Polaris class

Passengers traveling in United Polaris business class on long-haul international flights are allowed complimentary lounge access before departure, during connections and upon arrival.

2. Fly long-haul international premium class on a Star Alliance member airline

Passengers flying internationally in business or first class on a Star Alliance partner airline can get into United Polaris lounges, too, but only at the departure airport of their international flight.