MCO Orlando International Airport: Plaza Premium Lounge

A detailed look at the Plaza Premium Lounge at Orlando International Airport

If you’re passing through Orlando International Airport and considering a pre-flight break, the Plaza Premium Lounge offers a chance to relax away from the chaos of the main departure areas. Located in Terminal C’s Palm Court, this lounge promises a combination of comfort, connectivity, and refreshment in a space designed for families, business travelers, and leisure visitors alike.

What we particularly like about this lounge is its well-thought-out amenities, like high-speed Wi-Fi, a spa-style shower, and quality food options — all for a flat fee of $90 for a three-hour stay. However, some travelers have noted that the lounge can get quite crowded, especially during peak times, and that certain features like the showers might not always be available immediately.

This experience is best suited for those who value a quiet spot to unwind or catch up on work before or between flights, especially if you’re not in a rush or expecting pristine exclusivity. If comfort, a decent selection of food, and a good dose of relaxation sounds appealing, you’ll likely find this lounge worthwhile—just be prepared for the occasional busy spell.

Key Points

• Comfort & Convenience: The lounge provides a cozy, quiet space with comfortable seating and views of the tarmac.
• Amenities for Relaxation: Enjoy high-speed Wi-Fi, luxury washrooms with spa-like showers, and a selection of seasonal food and drinks.
• Family Friendly: Features eco-toys and educational games for children, making it a decent option for traveling families.
• Potential Crowding: Expect the lounge to fill up, especially during busy travel seasons, which could limit access to showers and seating.
• Good Value for Some: For a flat fee, you get three hours of unlimited Wi-Fi, decent food, and a restful environment — but reviews suggest the experience doesn’t always live up to expectations.
• Limited Premium Services: No private suites or VIP rooms, and alcoholic drinks are only included in select areas.

A closer look at what this lounge offers and what to expect

Location and Access

You’ll find the Plaza Premium Lounge at the new Terminal C, specifically inside the Palm Court area. To get in, you must have already checked in for your flight and possess a valid boarding pass. The lounge is airside, which means you’re secure within the departure area, perfect if you’re looking to relax without re-clearing security if you’re on a connecting flight.

Access is available for 3 hours, and you’ll need to check availability, especially during busy times. The entrance is conveniently located on the second floor, with an entrance on the first floor leading into the lounge. It’s within the restricted zone, so you can’t access it before checking in or without a valid flight.

The Atmosphere

Once inside, you’ll notice that the lounge is designed with families and leisure travelers in mind. It features eco-friendly toys and educational games for children, which is a thoughtful touch if you’re traveling with youngsters. There’s also an Orlando Storytelling Wall, created in partnership with the Orlando Museum of Art, adding a local flavor that even seasoned travelers can appreciate.

However, reviews highlight that during peak hours, the lounge can feel quite crowded. One traveler, Anke, mentioned it was “overcrowded, loud, and very stuffy,” with some showers not working. Another review lamented the lack of enough tables, with many messy or occupied, making it harder to find a spot to unwind comfortably.

Seating and Comfort

The seating is generally comfortable, with an emphasis on making you feel at ease. There are designated quiet zones for those wanting to work or read without distraction. The view of the apron (aircraft on the tarmac) is a nice touch, especially if you enjoy watching planes take off and land.

Food and Drink

One of the highlights—and sometimes the only highlight—of the lounge is its food and drink offerings. The menu includes seasonal dishes, which are freshly prepared, adding a touch of quality that many travelers appreciate. A fully serviced bar is available, with alcoholic drinks included in certain lounges, though premium drinks are available for purchase.

Guests report that the food selection is good but not extensive, with some noting it’s a small array suited to quick bites rather than a full meal. Several reviewers mention the food as “fine,” but some wished for more variety, especially during busy times when options can run out.

Wi-Fi and Work Space

The unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi is reliable for most, and the lounge provides charging stations, making it easy for travelers to catch up on work or scroll through social media. This is especially valuable for business travelers or those needing to catch up on emails before boarding.

Shower Facilities

The spa-like showers are a major selling point, offering a quick refresh before or between flights. However, as reviews indicate, availability can be hit or miss. During busy periods, showers might be long since they are limited and first-come-first-served, and some travelers have reported that showers don’t work or are not as clean as expected.

General Experience

While the amenities sound ideal, the reality is often mixed. The lounge can fill up quickly, leading to long waits for showers or limited seating. One traveler described it as “loud and overcrowded,” with many tables messy or occupied. The experience can feel less exclusive and more like a busy airport waiting room during peak times.

Pricing and Value

At $90 per person for three hours, the lounge isn’t the cheapest option for airport comfort. Whether it’s worth it depends on your priorities. If you value a quiet space, good food, and showers, then it might be a decent investment—especially if you’re catching a long flight or need a break from the terminal hustle.

However, the reviews suggest that the value is variable. Some travelers felt it was a good deal, especially with the included amenities, while others found the experience lacking, citing overcrowding and service issues.

Who is this lounge ideal for?

This lounge could be a good pick if you’re seeking a peaceful environment with reliable Wi-Fi and comfortable seating. Families with children may appreciate the eco-toys and educational features, provided they don’t mind the potential crowd. Business travelers or digital nomads might find the quiet zones helpful but should be prepared for possible congestion.

If you’re hoping for premium service, private suites, or VIP treatment, this lounge doesn’t quite deliver. It’s more of a functional space that offers convenience rather than exclusivity.

Final thoughts

The Plaza Premium Lounge at Orlando International Airport offers a comfortable and practical way to unwind before your flight. Its amenities—Wi-Fi, food, showers, and comfy seating—know what travelers typically need, especially for longer layovers or connecting flights. However, it is important to temper expectations: during busy periods, it can become quite crowded, and some features such as showers may not be immediately accessible.

Value-wise, $90 for three hours is reasonable for those who want a restful spot within the airport, but it’s not a bargain, especially considering the mixed reviews about overcrowding and service inconsistency. If you’re traveling during off-peak times or with a group, it could be a worthwhile investment.

This lounge will best suit those who prioritize comfort, connectivity, and basic amenities over exclusivity. It’s an efficient choice for families, business travelers, or anyone needing a break from the bustling terminal environment, as long as you’re prepared for the possibility of busy crowds during peak hours.

FAQs

Is the lounge accessible with a confirmed boarding pass?
Yes, you need to have already checked in for your flight and hold a valid boarding pass to enter the lounge.

Can I stay longer than 3 hours?
No, the lounge provides a maximum of 3 hours per visit. Check availability beforehand, especially during peak times.

Are children allowed in the lounge?
Yes, children 18 and younger are permitted but must be accompanied by an adult. Infants under 2 years old enter free of charge.

Can I use the lounge before security?
No, the lounge is located airside, so you must pass through security and customs to access it.

Are showers guaranteed to be available?
Not always. Shower facilities are first-come-first-served and may be unavailable during busy periods or if maintenance issues occur.

Does the lounge serve premium drinks?
Selected drinks and coffee are included, but premium or alcoholic beverages are only available for purchase.

Is wheelchair access available?
Yes, the lounge is wheelchair accessible.

What kind of food is served?
A selection of seasonal, freshly prepared food options is available, though the variety may be limited during busy times.

Is there Wi-Fi in the lounge?
Yes, unlimited high-speed Wi-Fi is included and generally reliable for work or browsing.

In summary, the Plaza Premium Lounge at Orlando International Airport offers a practical, comfortable space for travelers willing to pay for a bit of peace and quiet. While it has its flaws, notably crowding and sometimes inconsistent shower availability, it still provides a useful refuge amidst busy travel days. Just remember to arrive early, manage expectations, and weigh the cost against what’s most important for your airport experience.