In Terminal 2 of San Francisco International Airport lies the newly unveiled Maple Leaf Lounge, Air Canada’s first at the airport. The opening marks the airline’s 28^th lounge worldwide and its third in the United States. The Maple Leaf Lounge at SFO is Air Canada’s first outdoor lounge terrace.

© Aoife O’Riordan

Featuring 165 seats across more than 8,000 square feet, the lounge serves as the perfect retreat for travelers going from California to Canada or through to Europe, Asia or Australia, via Air Canada’s main hubs. Guests enter the lounge through e-gates and biometric identification for a seamless, hands-free entry. With 135 interior seats and 30 seats on the terrace, travelers can enjoy San Francisco’s weather and some fresh air before travel.

Paying homage to coastal Californian culture, details down to the design, décor, and food and beverage selections seek to celebrate the best of the state and its local makers and flavors. Neutral grays, whites and browns create a calming environment and aim to highlight the expansive windows covering the left wall, trailing all the way to the terrace. Artwork by Canadian painter Shawn Evans and muralist Amos Goldbaum adorn the interior walls and the outside for a unique experience.

© Air Canada

The terrace sets this lounge apart from other airport lounges not only in the United States but worldwide. A favorite of Scott O’Leary, vice president, loyalty and product for Air Canada, the terrace elevates this lounge to a new level. A vibrant mural celebrating San Francisco accompanies glass paneling, comfy Adirondack chairs, throw blankets, tables and two vapor fireplaces. Here, guests can relax with views of planes taking off and landing while soaking in some sunshine and tasting delicious food.

Premium food and beverage offerings include a self-serve, hot and cold buffet showcasing local flavors; and a bar with bartender serving a selection of wines (including from Canada and California), local craft beers, curated cocktails and espresso. Unique seafood offerings include the iconic San Francisco fish stew cioppino, best complemented by beer from Sierra Nevada Brewing Company or Anchor Brewing.

The Maple Leaf Lounge also includes showers with heated towel racks, individual work spaces, meeting spaces and a V.I.P. room for up to 10 people.