Andrea M. Rotondo has traveled to 50+ countries using points and miles. She's a luxury, small-ship cruise expert and hotel maven who can share the not-to-be-missed spots in her adopted home state of Florida. She will also talk all day long about her ancestral homeland: Italy.
April 16, 2025 • 22 min read
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Editorial note: TPG accepted a free three-night sailing from MSC Cruises to get an early look at its new MSC World America ship. The opinions expressed below are entirely the author's and weren't subject to review by the line or any external entity.
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Quick summary
MSC World America, the latest flagship from MSC Cruises, is now sailing from Miami and is among the world's largest cruise ships, accommodating up to 8,900 people.
The ship features seven distinct districts, offering a wide range of experiences from family entertainment zones and water parks to adults-only relaxation areas and exclusive VIP sections.
Dining options are extensive, with 19 venues including specialty restaurants, buffets and bars, plus unique attractions like a Formula One simulator and overwater swing ride.
Sailings focus on seven-night Caribbean itineraries, each including a stop at the line's private island, with competitive pricing that includes many complimentary amenities.
What to consider
Specialty dining, select activities and certain venues carry extra charges beyond the base fare.
The ship's size means experiences can vary widely depending on your choice of stateroom location and preferred onboard activities.
Families, couples and groups will find tailored spaces, but advance planning is recommended to maximize the variety of offerings.
What you'll miss from the article
A detailed breakdown of each district, dining highlights and insider tips for making the most of MSC World America's amenities.
Generated by AI with support from our editorial team.
Brand-new MSC World America,MSC Cruises' 24th cruise ship and latest flagship, arrived in its Miami home port last week. TPG got a sneak peek before the ship's inaugural sailing, and one thing is indisputable: People can't take their eyes off of her.
She is, indeed, a sight to behold. At 20 decks high, she's the world's eighth-largest cruise ship by tonnage (216,638 gross registered tons). A veritable city at sea, the ship houses 8,900 people (passengers and crew). To put that in context, Vermont's state capital of Montpelier is home to 8,024 people, according to 2024 data.
Yes, MSC World America is large enough to be the seat of power for an entire state. She’s a direct competitor to Royal Caribbean’s massive Icon of the Seas, the world’s largest cruise ship, which tops out at 248,663 gross registered tons.
MSC World America lights up the night while at sea. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
With Italian roots in both cargo and cruising, MSC Cruises is a respected brand across Europe. The company expanded to the U.S. market 19 years ago and has carefully and methodically built its reputation here. Over the last decade, the line has learned a lot about what Americans want (and don’t) in a voyage and has adjusted its ships and their amenities to accommodate those red, white and blue desires.
With this vessel designed and built specifically with U.S. cruisers in mind, MSC World America is certainly the line's boldest bid to capture the hearts of U.S.-based mass-market cruisers on a grand scale. Will it work? Here's what TPG thinks about the new ship.
Don’t miss the light show on World Promenade. Check the daily program for show times. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Will Americans fall in love with MSC World America?
Did you watch this year's Super Bowl? If so, you saw an MSC Cruises commercial featuring actor Drew Barrymore. In it, she represents American style — larger-than-life, loud, irreverent and rambunctious — while her travel companion, English actor Orlando Bloom, personifies the Old World (refined, cultured, a bit reserved). Despite their differences, they both find the spaces and experiences aboard MSC World America to be a perfect match for them.
Americans can be a jaded bunch, so if you saw that commercial, you may have thought, "There's no way one ship is going to make both of those very different people happy." I wondered about that, too ... until I experienced my first day on board.
World Galleria, the ship’s multilevel main interior artery, comes to life at night as passengers frequent the bars, restaurants, shops and theaters. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
MSC World America is packed with 19 dining venues, bars, theaters, a 4D cinema, arcade games and even a Formula One simulator, kids clubs, a massive gym (plus a salon and a barbershop), the Cliffhanger overwater swing ride, water and dry slides, a casino and so much more.
MSC World America’s expansive casino with table games, slots and more. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Theater lovers also have choices aboard the ship, including "Queen Symphonic," "Dirty Dancing in Concert," "Odyssey" (an “acrobatic spectacle,” according to MSC), the "Momentous" magic show and the "Hall of Fame" concert.
"Queen Symphonic." ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
The ship's massive footprint allows it to cater to a wide variety of travelers. If you want the energy and buzz of a crowd, you'll find it. If you want to sit and listen to a sophisticated jazz band while sipping a Negroni, you'll find that, too.
Families will gravitate toward the Harbour and Doremiland zones on board. Friends traveling together will likely have a blast visiting the line's private island, Ocean Cay, during the day and hitting the bars and comedy and karaoke clubs at night. Couples hoping to unplug may start their day people-watching from an alfresco table fronting World Promenade’s Coffee Emporium before heading to the spa for a couples treatment.
It's all part of the same ship, but depending on where you spend your time and what activities you take advantage of, you'll enjoy vastly different experiences — just the way MSC Cruises intended it when it dreamed up the concept behind MSC World America.
First impressions
Here are TPG’s first impressions of MSC World America.
The districts do their job
While it's not a new concept, MSC World America is divided into districts. There are seven of them: Aqua Deck, Family Aventura, MSC Yacht Club, The Terraces, World Galleria, World Promenade and the Zen Area.
These neighborhoods ensure travelers find their ideal vacation spots and pastimes while also interacting with like-minded individuals. It’s the perfect way to connect with others seeking similar pursuits as you.
Here are some highlights of a few of MSC World America’s districts.
World Promenade
Open-air World Promenade is home to restaurants, shops and a sitting area to watch the ship’s wake. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
World Promenade at the ship’s aft is, by far, my favorite district. I found myself heading to The Lanai at dawn to stake out a comfy chair to watch the ship’s wake and prepare for the day.
By 9 a.m., those in search of premium coffee and tea are lining up at Coffee Emporium.
Coffee Emporium serves a variety of Lavazza coffees and teas from Italy, Morocco, France, Turkey, Brazil and India. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
By the afternoon, folks are streaming through World Promenade to enjoy the sunshine and watch as adventurous individuals who hopped on the dry slide some 11 decks above come racing down the corkscrew funnel before being deposited safely on the promenade.
Here’s where you board the Jaw Drop dry slide on Deck 19.
Riding the Jaw Drop dry slide is free, but a booking is required. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
And here’s where you’ll end up on Deck 8.
When the dry slide is in action, an MSC crew member is here at the end of the slide to help you up. No judgment if you scream your head off on the way down. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
At night, diners enjoy Paxos. I really wanted to dine here, but there just wasn’t time. The restaurant serves fish (there’s a counter displaying fresh options in the foyer) and Greek specialties such as moussaka, slow-roasted lamb kleftiko, pita bread and dips, and hot and cold mezze. There’s a to-go window for those who don’t want a sit-down lunch or dinner. Paxos is a for-fee specialty restaurant.
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Paxos on World Promenade. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Paxos outdoor dining under a pergola. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Paxos indoor dining. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Menu item samples at Paxos. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Sweet Temptations is another standout Promenade feature. It offers milkshakes, gelato, frozen yogurt and doughnuts, among other options. You can even take a crepe-making class here. Fees apply.
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Sweet Temptations. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Sweet Temptations. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Sweet Temptations. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Sweet Temptations. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Across from Sweet Temptations, you’ll find the All-Star Sports Bar.
All-Star Sports Bar (left). ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
It's the place to visit to follow a game or to play one.
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All-Star Sports Bar. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
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All-Star Sports Bar. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
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All-Star Sports Bar. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
As for accommodations, you'll find that some overlook this part of the ship. Note, though, that cruisers tend to have a love-hate relationship with staterooms like these, so think it through before booking. If you love people-watching and hearing nightly music from your balcony, you will love it. If you prefer the ultimate in quiet, maybe a stateroom elsewhere on the ship will better serve your vacation style.
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A balcony with a view of the Promenade. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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The view from a Promenade view room at around 6:30 a.m. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Aqua Deck
Aqua Deck with two pools, plenty of space to lounge and a bar to keep the drinks flowing. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Decks 18 and 19 comprise the Aqua Deck, where you'll find two pools, a vast number of loungers, a bar and a quick-service restaurant with outdoor seating on both the port and starboard sides. Mar Azul is the main pool.
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Mar Azul pool is the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Entertainment is staged at Mar Azul throughout the day and night. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Just steps from Mar Azul, the Botanic Garden Pool is an open-air space on pleasant days with a magrodome roof that closes during inclement weather.
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Botanic Garden pool. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Botanic Garden. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Botanic Garden. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Zen Area
If you’re not interested in the casino or Broadway-style shows, there’s still plenty to keep you amused. Cruisers can seek out spots such as the Botanic Garden Pool, the adults-only Zen Pool, the World Promenade Lanai and Aurea Spa for quiet contemplation.
MSC World America’s Family Aventura district hammers home exactly why this ship is so family-friendly. This multilevel entertainment complex has something for kids of all ages and their parents.
Waterslides. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
This district is home to Aquapark, a watery play area with four waterslides: the U Drop, the Twin Racer dueling slides and VR Slide.
ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
You’ll also find the Splash Pad spray zone there.
Kids splash area. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
The Lighthouse Playground has a slide, the High Trail Ropes Course, a rock-climbing wall and The Harbour Bar & Bites for quick eats.
Ropes course. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
The JawDrop @ The Spiral (which we discussed above) is also part of Family Aventura, as is the Cliffhanger overwater swing ride. It’s not for the faint of heart!
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Cliffhanger overwater swing. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
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The consensus: Cliffhanger is an invigorating experience, allowing you to swing over the water below. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
MSC Sportplex comes to the table with 16 bumper cars.
Bumper cars. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
There are also opportunities to challenge others to a game of pickleball, enjoy a Rollerblade disco and play in a gaming space.
There are plenty of arcade games for everyone. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Doremiland rounds out the family-focused offerings with seven different kids rooms, live entertainment and the new Lego Family Zone.
Kids adore the Lego play area. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
MSC Yacht Club
Sixteen MSC Cruises ships, including MSC World America, have a ship-within-a-ship concept called the MSC Yacht Club. It’s a VIP section of the ship with cabins and suites, a private pool, a whirlpool, a sundeck, a lounge and a restaurant. Only guests paying to stay within the Yacht Club get keycard access to this special area.
It’s an oasis on board a massive, sometimes crowded ship.
This is what the Yacht Club’s private dining looks like.
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MSC Yacht Club Grill & Bar. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
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Yacht Club VIPs get their own dedicated restaurant. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
And here are the sundeck, pool, whirlpool and VIP lounge.
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Balinese beds and lounge chairs ring the MSC Yacht Club sundeck. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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This pool and whirlpool is restricted to just MSC Yacht Club guests. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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MSC Yacht Club’s VIP lounge, where you can stop for refreshments and entertainment. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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The Yacht Club lounge outdoor section. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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MSC Yacht Club’s VIP lounge. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
World Galleria
World Galleria is one of the most exciting areas aboard MSC World America.
MSC World America’s World Galleria nightlife, shopping and dining thoroughfare. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Spanning decks 6 through 8, you’ll find several specialty restaurants, as well as live music and comedy venues, fun selfie spots and cool LED digital art that flows across the ceiling. If you love being surrounded by people, this artery of the ship will energize you.
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The Gin Project. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Fizz Champagne Bar. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Elixir. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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The Loft, the spot for comedy, dueling pianos and karaoke. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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The Loft. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Dining and drinking on board MSC World America
The first Eataly restaurant at sea, serving authentic Italian cuisine. IVAN SARFATTI/MSC CRUISES
There are so many restaurants and bars aboard MSC World America that you likely won’t be able to try them all. The main dining rooms include Esagono, Hexagon, Bubbles and La Foglia. Aurea Class cabins and suites get their own dining room: Les Dunes.
La Foglia main dining room. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
There are two buffets (Il Mercato Buffet and La Brasserie) for those who don’t need to be waited on. Serving breakfast, lunch and dinner, the standout items include thin-crust pizza, the “Wholesome Treats” counter and desserts.
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Buffet desserts. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Buffet desserts. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Buffet desserts. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
MSC World America also offers a variety of specialty (for-fee) restaurants, including the first Eataly Italian restaurant at sea, Butcher’s Cut steakhouse, Hola! Tacos & Cantina, Kaito Sushi and Kaito Teppanyaki, and Paxos and Paxos On the Go, the latter of which serve Greek fare.
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Specialty restaurant Hola! Tacos & Cantina. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Specialty restaurant Hola! Tacos & Cantina. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Specialty restaurant Hola! Tacos & Cantina. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Kaito Sushi. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
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Kaito Teppanyaki. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
Casual eats are also available at Lunar Park Pizza & Burger (Deck 6) and Promenade Bites (Deck 8).
Pizza & Burger also serves focaccia, hot dogs and chicken sandwiches, among other options. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
There is also a plethora of bars and lounges across the ship. There’s no doubt you’ll find a handful you frequent daily. We previously mentioned the Coffee Emporium and All-Star Sports Bar on the World Promenade.
My favorite spot was Elixir Mixology Bar, while TPG’s Gene Sloan gravitated toward The Gin Project. Dolce Vita Bar is a fantastic place to people-watch and enjoy live music, while Fizz Champagne Bar is great for celebrating life either before or after dinner. And those aren’t the only options.
There’s even a secret speakeasy onboard! Butter up your favorite bartender, as they can invite special guests to this VIP venue that’s hidden away on MSC World America.
You won’t find this secret speakeasy doorway without the help of a bartender or other crew member who offers you a coveted invitation. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
If you’re a chocophile, you must grab a table at Jean-Philippe Chocolate & Cafe for coffee, gelato and high-end chocolate treats.
Ocean Cay has multiple beaches, water sports, shops, dining and a spa. ANTHONY DEVLIN/GETTY IMAGES FOR MSC CRUISES
MSC World America, sailing out of Miami, offers seven-night Eastern and Western Caribbean itineraries. Depending on your chosen route, you may visit Puerto Plata, Dominican Republic; San Juan, Puerto Rico; Costa Maya and Cozumel, Mexico; and Roatan, Honduras.
Ocean Cay’s Lighthouse Bay with a fun bar at the far left tip of the island. ANDREA ROTONDO/THE POINTS GUY
All sailings include a call on beautiful Ocean Cay MSC Marine Reserve, MSC Cruises’ private island in the Bahamas. If you've ever dreamed of visiting an exclusive private island, like Richard Branson's Necker Island in the British Virgin Islands, Ocean Cay is the next best thing.
Dance the night away on Ocean Cay’s beach and enjoy a laser light show from the island’s lighthouse. ANTHONY DEVLIN/GETTY FOR MSC CRUISES
These are "greatest hits" itineraries. Each day, you can explore a new port of call, or if you've "been there, done that," stay on board and spend your hard-earned vacation time sampling everything the ship has to offer — and there's a lot. There was no way for me to see and do it all in three days. I'm not positive seven is enough either if you're the type of person who wants to do it all.
MSC World America is a good value
Seven-night sailings start at $674 per person, including taxes and fees. That's less than $100 per person, per night with many complimentary food and beverages, plus access to sundecks and pools, slides, whirlpools, a day at a private island and tons of entertainment options.
Of course, like any mass-market cruise line, you can also pay for lots of extras, including beverage packages, specialty restaurants, spa treatments, shore excursions and ship pastimes like bumper cars, arcade games and the Cliffhanger swing experience.
But, if you're the type of person who enjoys the main dining rooms or buffet, lounging by the pool and going to the nightly shows or hanging out in the bars, an MSC World America cruise can be a fantastic value.
Bottom line
At this price point, Americans owe it to themselves to take a close look at MSC World America. Its suite of family-friendly venues, thrill experiences and bevy of food-and-beverage options is paired with European-style service that's been tweaked for American tastes. My three nights on board were enough to sell me on the ship, and I look forward to my next MSC World America voyage.
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Valuable dining and food-related credits
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Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Difficult credit redemption
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
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Comments
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Rewards rate
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Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
3X
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
2X
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
1X
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.
Annual fee
$325
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended credit
Excellent to Good
Pros + cons
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Points are transferable
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Difficult credit redemption
More details
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Points are transferable
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Difficult credit redemption
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.
American Express® Gold Card
TPG Editor's Rating4/5
TPG Editor's Rating4/5
at American Express's secure site. Terms & restrictions apply. See rates & fees.
Rewards rate
Rewards rate
Rate
Category
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
4X
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
5X
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
3X
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
2X
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
1X
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Intro offer
As High As 100,000 points. Find Out Your Offer.
Annual fee
$325
Regular APR
See Pay Over Time APR
Recommended credit
Excellent to Good
Pros + cons
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Points are transferable
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Difficult credit redemption
More details
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
No Foreign Transaction Fees.
Annual Fee is $325.
Terms Apply.
Pros
Valuable dining and food-related credits
Points are transferable
Multiple travel and purchase protections
No foreign transaction fees
Access to Amex Offers for additional savings (enrollment required)
Cons
Not as useful for those living outside the U.S.
Difficult credit redemption
You may be eligible for as high as 100,000 Membership Rewards® Points after you spend $8,000 in eligible purchases on your new Card in your first 6 months of Card Membership. Welcome offers vary and you may not be eligible for an offer. Apply to know if you’re approved and find out your exact welcome offer amount – all with no credit score impact. If you’re approved and choose to accept the Card, your score may be impacted.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent on purchases at restaurants worldwide, on up to $50,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 4X Membership Rewards® points per dollar spent at US supermarkets, on up to $25,000 in purchases per calendar year, then 1X points for the rest of the year.
Earn 5X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid hotel stays booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™.
Earn 3X Membership Rewards® points on flights booked through AmexTravel.com, the Amex Travel App™, or purchased directly from airlines.
Earn 2X Membership Rewards® points on prepaid car rentals booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and cruises booked and paid through AmexTravel.com.
Earn 1X Membership Rewards® point per dollar spent on all other eligible purchases.
Pay It® lets you tap in the American Express® App to quickly pay for small purchase amounts throughout the month and still earn rewards the way you usually do. Plan It® gives you the option to split up big purchases into equal monthly payments with a fixed fee. You’ll know upfront exactly how much you’ll pay.
$120 Dining Credit: Earn up to a total of $10 in statement credits monthly when you pay with the Gold Card at Grubhub (including Seamless), Buffalo Wild Wings, Five Guys, The Cheesecake Factory, and Wonder. This can be an annual savings of up to $120. Enrollment required.
$100 Resy Credit: Get up to $100 in statement credits each calendar year at over 10,000 qualifying U.S. Resy restaurants after you pay for eligible purchases with the American Express® Gold Card. That’s up to $50 in statement credits semi-annually. Enrollment required.
$84 Dunkin' Credit: Earn up to $7 in monthly statement credits after you pay with the American Express® Gold Card at U.S. Dunkin’ locations. Enrollment required.
$120 Uber Cash on Gold: Enjoy up to $120 in Uber Cash annually with your Gold Card. Just add your Card to your Uber account and you'll get $10 in Uber Cash each month to use on orders and rides in the U.S. when you select an Amex Card for your transaction.
Enjoy complimentary Hertz Five Star® Status benefits like skipping the counter at select locations, adding an additional driver at no additional cost*, and vehicle upgrades**. Benefit enrollment and Hertz Gold+ registration are required. *Additional drivers must meet standard rental qualifications and must be a spouse or domestic partner to qualify as complimentary. Other additional drivers subject to fees. **Benefits are subject to availability and vary by location. Additional Hertz program Terms and Conditions including age restrictions apply.
Book two nights or more with The Hotel Collection through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App™ and receive a $100* credit towards eligible charges at over 1,400 upscale hotels worldwide. *Eligible charges vary by property.
Book your travel through the Amex Travel App™ with added peace of mind – backed by American Express® service and support. Only for American Express® Card Members.
Whenever you need us, we're here. Our Member Services team will ensure you are taken care of. From lost Card replacement to statement questions, we are available to help 24/7.
