Several years ago, we adopted a no-checked-bags philosophy for every plane trip possible.
Not only does that give us immense flexibility for same-day flight changes, it also saves a ton of time.
We no longer need to wait for bags at the carousel upon landing, which can add at least 30 minutes to a travel day. And most importantly, we don’t have to get to the airport super early to check bags.
Last week, however, we voluntarily showed up to DFW International Airport three hours ahead of our scheduled domestic flight. Yet we still had nothing but carry-on luggage.
The reason for our early-bird arrival was simple: 7:30 a.m. champagne!
Or more generally, the chance to experience the brand-new lounge, Plaza Premium First, the first-ever in the United States.
What makes this lounge unique among every other offering at DFW? You don’t need a specific credit card or elevated airline status to access it.
Instead, anyone can pay a reasonable fee to relax and unwind with stellar service, luxurious amenities and shockingly delicious food.
Entry to Plaza Premium First costs $115 per person for a two-hour window of indulgence. (You can also access Plaza Premium Lounge for $70 per person, but that extra $45 for First gets you so much more bougie bang for your buck.)
Both lounges are accessed from the same lobby on the second floor of Terminal D, across from Gate 15. (Even if your flight takes off from another gate, it’s worth having your car or shuttle drop you off at D then taking the airport train to your final terminal without having to go back through TSA.
Amenities at Plaza Premium First include an open bar with top-shelf selections (only a handful of ultra-premium spirits will be at an extra cost). Enjoy unlimited espresso drinks, sodas, juices and other non-alcoholic options, too.
In addition to a small-but-well-appointed buffet that rotates items throughout the day, you’ll enjoy table service with a menu packed with made-to-order a la carte options. (Also complimentary as part of your entry fee.) We tried a few different items during breakfast, including Brisket Eggs Benedict and a veggie omelet. Each of them could’ve easily been served at a high-end brunch restaurant in Dallas.
There are also dedicated single-person restrooms exclusively for this lounge, as well as a fully appointed shower room should you need to freshen up before your flight.
Multiple relaxation areas, high-speed Wi-Fi and plenty of charging outlets add to the appeal.
Plaza Premium First is the perfect start to any special vacation, or simply because you want to be treated like royalty before squeezing into a main cabin seat.
Unless you’re a Business Class Queen on every flight. Then yee-haw!
Plaza Premium First
$115 for two hours
Plaza Premium Lounge
$70 for two hours
Terminal D, 2nd Floor, Across from Gate 15
DFW International Airport
plazapremiumfirst.com
