Explorer Lounge 5501 Josh Birmingham Parkway, Charlotte, NC 28208

"I had a wonderful experience here! I came in just before close for a couple drinks after a pretty bad flight… baby puke on purse (not my kid) and my hair pulled by a toddler behind me during a fit (totally okay, but just made it out to be a long flight), and my next flight has been delayed for 3hours. Neil was attentive and quite entertaining. As a member of the service industry myself, I can truly say I’m glad a found this place! Will be back every time I fly! Thank you so much!"

"When you have time to exhaust at an airport, you need ways to expend those extra minutes. You may also need a quick boozy fix and a quick meal and one place that is ready to satisfy both needs is the Explorer Lounge. The Explorer Lounge is located in terminal E and it is right out in the open, ready to service you. This is an establishment without walls and it is ready to make your time at the Charlotte airport as convenient and efficient as possible. This, in fact, is he establishment’s best quality. There is usually no wait at all, and it is wide- open and ready to serve. You just walk up and place your order, then sit back and imbibe at your leisure. With Explorer Lounge, you get a full service bar and a good selection of craft beer. The draft selection of craft beer isn’t as good as I would like, but there is a good selection of craft beer in canned form. As a beer lover and beer blogger, I love that they serve so many different beers from nearby craft breweries, several from the Charlotte area. They also serve a few from well- known breweries like Lagunitas, Sierra Nevada, and others. If there is one negative point with Explorer Lounge, it would be the prices. A single draft or can of beer sells for about ten bucks. This is more than most other taverns- including those in airports- and multiple times more expensive than buying beer from a store. Cocktails are also quite pricey. It’s the price you pay for convenience and that is the way I view this establishment. It’s great for a last- minute beverage, but the cost could easily make you change your mind about stopping here. Airports are known for their easily accessible food and drink, but they are also known for their higher than average prices. If you’re in the Charlotte airport, terminal E, and need a quick drink or food, Explorer Lounge is a place to consider. It is quick and efficient, just be wary of the sticker shock and you should be fine."

"The best salad I have ever had, hands down. Excellent margaritas, too"

"Sure it’s pricey, but travelers should expect that when going to an airport bar. That said, it’s a very nice place! The bartender, Don, is friendly and helpful. They have some nice local brews (I recommend the Hop Drop ‘N Roll), and the tables are a small but welcome relief from the bustle just a few feet away."