The only outdoor, public, space post security has reopened at Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). A hidden gem for passengers, the East Terrace reopened to the public today, April 22, 2025, after a more than two year hiatus.
East Terrace Reopens to the Public
The space, which was very rarely used by passengers, was closed to the public in March 2023 when it became the Chase Sapphire Terrace. The Sapphire Terrace could only be accessed by Chase Sapphire Reserve ($550 annual fee) cardholders with a same day boarding pass. Chase signed a two year, $3.8 million contract with the airport to lease the space.
In March 2025, the contract expired and Chase closed the Sapphire Terrace. According to KUT, Chase leased the space to determine whether there was enough demand to warrant a full scale lounge at the airport. Austin currently has three lounges, which are only available to passengers flying American, Delta, United, and their partners.
Now, one month later, the East Terrace is open to the traveling public. Furnishings from the Chase Sapphire Terrace were left behind when the contract expired, making the space a nice place to sit and watch aircraft activity on the east side of the airport. This includes arriving and departing flights on Runway 18L.
To access the East Terrace after clearing security, follow the signage in the airport for the Delta Sky Club and the East Terrace. At the far end of the terminal you’ll find a set of stairs and an elevator leading up to the Sky Club and the East Terrace, one level above the concourse. Once you reach the top of the stairs, the entrance will be directly in front of you.
The East Terrace is open between 8:00a and 8:00p daily. Smoking or vaping is not allowed in the space.
My Thoughts on Reopening the East Terrace
Personally, I’m sad to see the Chase Sapphire Terrace close. While it was far from the nicest lounge in the airport, it was a great place to relax, have a drink and watch airplanes away from the hustle and bustle of the terminal when you weren’t flying an airline with lounge access. The only downside is you’re at the mercy of the weather which can be unpredictable in Austin.
Hopefully the traveling public takes advantage of this space. As part of the expansion underway at the airport, another outdoor terrace is being added on the west side of the terminal which will have views of Downtown Austin (I’m sure the influencers will be all over this).
A new American Airlines Admirals Club will also get some outdoor space on the west side and Delta has a Sky Terrace adjacent to the East Terrace in its Austin Sky Club.
Fortunately, as the airport continues to expand, at least one credit card specific lounge is in the works. While there is no word yet on who will occupy the space, I would assume Chase and American Express are in the running.
Have you ever visited the East Terrace, or Chase Sapphire Lounge, when traveling through Austin? If so, what are your thoughts?
Summary
The east side outdoor terrace, previously occupied by the Chase Sapphire Terrace, has officially reopened to the public after a more than two year hiatus. This is a hidden gem for passengers looking to escape the hustle and bustle of the terminal and get some fresh air before a flight.
