This ‘Old Reliable' Credit Card's Travel Rewards Just Increased, But The Annual Fee Didn't
If you have a certain "glimmering" card sitting in your wallet, you might want to give it a closer look. American Express just announced a major refresh for its iconic Gold Card, proving that even at 60 years old, this "old reliable" still knows how to keep up with the times.
The big news? Amex is piling on the travel and dining perks, but they aren't touching the $325 annual membership fee. While other premium cards seem to hike their prices every time they add a new bell or whistle, this update is focused purely on adding value for the people who actually use their cards for more than just a paperweight.
Related: The Best Travel Credit Cards of 2026, According to The Points Guy (Exclusive)
The Travel Upgrades
If you're someone who treats travel as a non-negotiable, you aren't alone. In fact, Amex's recent data shows that 74% of Millennials and Gen Z feel exactly the same way. To meet that demand, the Gold Card is significantly boosting its points game for hotel stays.
"For 60 years, the Gold Card has evolved alongside how our Card Members actually live," says Lisa Kalhans, Executive Vice President of U.S. Consumer Products at American Express. "These updates reflect how we're continuing to build on that foundation, delivering more of what our Card Members value most and reinforcing why Gold remains one of our most well-rounded Cards."
Specifically, members will now earn 5X Membership Rewards points on prepaid hotels booked through AmexTravel.com or the Amex Travel App-a massive jump from the previous 2X. Plus, frequent flyers who need a car at the airport are getting a boost with complimentary Hertz Five Star status, which lets you skip the counter and snag vehicle upgrades when they're available.
Related: 3 Travel Credit Cards Under $100 That Beat the $895 Giants, According to The Motley Fool
The Dining Tweaks
While the card is leaning harder into travel, it isn't forgetting its roots as the ultimate "foodie" card. The $120 annual dining credit (delivered in $10 monthly increments) has been updated to include new partners like Buffalo Wild Wings and Wonder, giving you more ways to earn back that annual fee while grabbing a quick bite.
Related: The Top No-Fee Travel Credit Card of 2026, According to the Motley Fool
Limited-Time Anniversary Perks
Because it's a 60th-anniversary celebration, Amex is also throwing in some "hidden" limited-time bonuses that you'll want to jump on sooner rather than later:
- Uber One Credit: If you enroll by October 30, 2026, you can get a one-time statement credit of up to $96 to cover an annual Uber One membership.
- Hilton Points Bonus: Through May 30, 2026, you can get a 20% point bonus when you transfer your Membership Rewards points to a Hilton Honors account.
- Hotel Collection Deals: Through July 15, 2026, you can access special rates at over 250 properties, including offers like a complimentary third or fourth night.
Whether you're a points pro or just want a card that rewards you for your weekly grocery run and your yearly vacation, the Gold Card's latest glow-up makes it a much stronger contender for that "top of wallet" spot.
Related: Sneaky Cruise Perks Hiding in Your Travel Credit Cards
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This story was originally published May 4, 2026 at 4:10 AM.