A First Look Into Gerald R Ford International Airport’s New VIP Lounge

Gerald R. Ford International Airport has been working diligently on its $135 million Terminal Enhancement Project, which will expand the airport by 175,000 square feet. The new and improved Concourse A opened in 2024, featuring the addition of various local restaurants and coffee shops, as well as artwork by local artists.

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However, the icing on the cake for Concourse A has been the long-awaited unveiling of the new second-level executive lounge, called The Club GRR, which offers travelers a unique and relaxing space to wait for their next flight. We were fortunate enough to get a sneak peek before the lounge opens to the public on June 18th. Here's what you need to know.

A VIP Experience Open To Everyone

I had the opportunity to speak with Chris Gwilliam, Senior Vice President of Global Business Development at Airport Dimensions, the company that designed the new second-level lounge. "We've found that passengers want a private space away from the concourse, a place to recharge with access to the internet...we got the prime real estate in the airport with fantastic views.

The unique part of this longue is that it isn't exclusive to anyone. Anyone can purchase access to this lounge, either by being a Priority Pass member or a Loungekey member, or by purchasing a day pass at theclubairportlounges.com or the lounge entrance for $50. If it reaches its 66-person capacity, you can join the waiting list and wait in the lounge area below.

Upon entering the lounge, complimentary food and beverages are available, along with access to a private bar. The lounge is designed with the bar located at one end, offering a space to converse and watch TV. The other end and areas in between provide quieter seating. The entire wall is made up of windows, offering the best view of the runway at the whole airport.

Gwilliams went on to say that through their research, they've found that when airports have exclusive areas where people feel comfortable, they tend to arrive earlier for their flights, which in turn decreases traffic before flights. The goal of this lounge is to create an area that travelers want to be in, whether to relax or work before their flights.

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Local artists were consulted about the art displayed around the lounge, ensuring the space maintains its Grand Rapids feel. The airport worked closely with Airport Dimensions at every step to build an area that seamlessly fit into the new concourse. You can visit the lounge beginning June 17th.