Step Inside the New Airport Lounge That’s Free to Enter — But Banishes Diet Coke and Turns Airport Snacking on Its Head
Imagine strolling through Raleigh-Durham International Airport’s bustling Terminal 2 and suddenly stumbling into an airport lounge that doesn’t demand a flashy credit card or an eye-watering membership fee. Sounds too good to be true, right? Well, brace yourself—for later this year, RDU is set to unveil a lounge that’s not just open to everyone, but is proudly plastered with Pepsi branding. Yes, Pepsi! No, you won’t be sipping a Diet Coke here, but what you will find is a cozy nook for travelers to kick back, plug in, and catch a breather away from the frantic terminal chaos. It’s a humble oasis where convenience meets quirky charm—a reminder that sometimes, the simplest perks can make all the difference on a journey. Curious about this fizzy new hangout and what it means for travelers? LEARN MORE
There’s a new airport lounge, of sorts, planned for a fast-growing airport on the East Coast. To get in, you don’t have to have a premium credit card or pay pricey membership dues.
Just don’t expect to sip on a Diet Coke while you’re inside.
Later this year, Raleigh-Durham International Airport (RDU) expects to cut the ribbon on a brand-new Pepsi-themed lounge. Yes, Pepsi.
Located inside the airport’s largest terminal (Terminal 2), this space will be open to all flyers at no cost. And renderings of the new digs show the Pepsi branding front and center.
To be clear, we’re not exactly talking about a Delta One Lounge here; the space could hardly be confused with a high-end premium club.
But it should be a nice place for travelers to sit. The customer lounge will have seating and workplace options, along with a host of power outlets and televisions.
Basically, it’s a spot where you can sit, work, and get away from the hustle and bustle of the main terminal concourse. (Oh — and, of course, there will be two Pepsi vending machines inside.)
The soft drink enthusiasts among us (and there are plenty of them here at TPG) might count this opening as a small victory for Pepsi — a small one, that is — after it was ousted as the official soda at Marriott hotels earlier this month.
The RDU Airport Authority tells TPG the facility is on track to open by the end of 2026, and will be open 24 hours a day.
Daily Newsletter
Reward your inbox with the TPG Daily newsletter
Join over 700,000 readers for breaking news, in-depth guides and exclusive deals from TPG’s experts
By signing up, you will receive newsletters and promotional content and agree to our Terms of Use and acknowledge the data practices in our Privacy Policy. You may unsubscribe at any time.
Meanwhile, if you’re a flyer who prefers a true airport lounge, RDU boasts airline outposts for each of the “Big Three” U.S. carriers, with an American Airlines Admirals Club, Delta Sky Club and United Club all available in Terminal 2.
TPG’s take: Best credit cards for airport lounge access
This isn’t the first Pepsi lounge at an airport. Ronald Reagan Washington National Airport (DCA) is home to a similar concept — albeit pre-security — inside its historic Terminal 1.
RDU, for its part, is in the midst of a massive, $2.5 billion makeover after years of growth that’s seen the airport add long-haul international service on the likes of Air France, Aer Lingus and Lufthansa.
The airport serves as a focus city for Delta Air Lines and is one of American’s top non-hub airports — not to mention this writer’s home base.
Related reading:
Core Power Protein Shake, Chocolate, 26g Bottle, 14oz, 12 Pack
$41.88 (as of July 17, 2026 02:46 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Greenies Pill Pockets for Dogs Large Size, Dog Treat Pouch for Capsule Medication, Peanut Butter Flavor, 15.8 oz. Pouch
$17.98 (as of July 17, 2026 02:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Blue Buffalo Health Bars Pumpkin & Cinnamon Crunchy Dog Biscuits, Oven-Baked with Pumpkin & Natural Ingredients, Healthy Dog Treats with No Artificial Flavors or Preservatives, 16 oz.
$4.98 (as of July 17, 2026 02:41 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Best Pet Supplies Voyager Step-in Air Harness - All Weather Mesh, Reflective, No Pull Harness for Dogs, Cats - Secure with Hook & Loop Fastener, Buckle, Double D-Rings - Fuchsia, S
(as of July 17, 2026 02:52 GMT +00:00 - More infoProduct prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on [relevant Amazon Site(s), as applicable] at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.)
Post Comment