Originally Posted by
Repooc17
UA Gold and above by itself won't give you lounge access on domestic itineraries.
If lounge is the need, then get the top end credit card from UA, would be much cheaper than obtaining status.
This is the best advice so far! In addition, you could consider getting a Priority Pass membership. There is a pretty decent selection of PP lounges worldwide. Getting *A Gold status for the lounges is one thing, but the OP also mentioned upgrades. For that, don't waste your money! The days of people with Gold status being upgraded are long gone!