Miami Centurion Lounge

Question

Has anyone been to this lounge lately? It seems as if many of the low starred reviews were based (at least in part) on complaints about Amex's new lounge rules (3 hour departure window, guest fee, etc.). I'm interested in how this lounge is now regardless of the new rules. Crowding seems to be a problem here but some of the feedback on that predated the new rules changes, which I understand were adopted to address crowding in particular. Thanks in advance.

Answer

Good question. The Amex Centurion Lounge at MIA (Miami International) is still quite polarizing: some travelers feel it’s a worthwhile perk, but many recent reviews suggest that crowding, service, and quality have degraded — even after the guest-policy changes. Here’s a breakdown of the current state, based on recent reports, and some advice on whether to use it (or skip it).

What Recent Visitors Are Saying — Pros & Cons

Overcrowding remains a big issue: Several recent TripAdvisor reviews (2025) mention long waits, difficulty finding seats, and a noisy, packed lounge.
Service & Cleanliness Concerns: Some guests report that tables are dirty, staff seem overwhelmed, and restrooms are not well maintained.
Food Quality Criticism: According to a recent in-depth look, Amex has shifted more lounges (including this one) to *buffet-only service*. Some travelers say the food feels less premium compared to earlier Centurion menus.
Access Restrictions & Guest Fees: Amex implemented stricter entry rules. According to BoardingArea, guest fees are now $50 per adult (ages 2-17 also incur a fee) in many cases.
Access Window Limit: As of recent policy, you can only enter the lounge within 3 hours before your departure unless you're connecting.
Nice Views, If You Get In: On the plus side, some frequent flyers mention that the lounge offers a great view of the tarmac and runway via large windows.
Mood & Atmosphere: On Reddit, several longtime Amex users strongly dislike how crowded it is now. > “No crowd control, standing room only … always a line and once you are in, no where to sit.”

Why It's Still Problematic, Despite Policy Changes

Although Amex raised its entry requirements and guest fees in an attempt to manage overcrowding, many reviewers say it hasn’t meaningfully solved the core issues:

The lounge's physical space and layout don’t seem adequate for the current volume of eligible cardholders.
Some premium amenities are being cut: per a recent deep-dive, spa services in certain Centurion lounges are being removed or repurposed as seating areas.
Even when you *do* get in, the atmosphere can feel rushed or chaotic — not really the relaxing “private haven” that one expects from a Centurion lounge.

When It Might Be Worth Visiting

If you fly through MIA during off-peak times, visitor-reported “sweet spots” are mid-afternoon (e.g., ~2–4 PM) when it can feel less crowded.
If you're okay *joining a waitlist* or accepting that you might not find perfect seating, but still want “some lounge benefit” (food, bar, views), then it *might* be worth it.
If you have the Centurion Card (Amex “Black”), you may have more flexible guest privileges, making the cost/benefit more favorable.

When You Might Skip It

Based on recent feedback, you might want to skip the MIA Centurion Lounge if:

You value a quiet, spacious, relaxing lounge environment.
You’re traveling with guests and the $50+ fee for each makes the value less compelling.
You have time constraints and don’t want to risk a long line or waitlist to get in.

Alternative Ways to Use Your Amex Lounge Benefit at MIA

Explore other lounges in the airport (depending on your terminal) — sometimes a Priority Pass–accessible lounge or an airline lounge may be more peaceful.
Have a drink or meal in the terminal — use your 3-hour window wisely and consider relaxing in the gate area or a nearby bar/restaurant instead of fighting for Centurion seating.

Bottom Line: The Miami Centurion Lounge still offers some value — great view, decent food, bar — but many cardholders feel it's degraded recently due to crowding, reduced service, and long wait times. If you go in knowing these trade-offs, it can be useful; if you're looking for an “exclusive, calm retreat,” it may disappoint.

Miami Centurion Lounge

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