Courtney Holden

Attaching a label as loaded as “club” to your property is a bold move, particularly when it’s located in such a swanky neighborhood. The Clayton Hotel & Members Club, however, which welcomes guests with a trio of cozy seating areas (grounded by leather couches) and a stocky oak billiards table, deftly manages to cater to the elite without veering into elitist territory.  As reward for walking that line so nimbly, the Clayton earned a sought-after Michelin Key just three years after it opened in 2021. Per Michelin Key standards, visitors can expect “service that always goes the extra mile.” To experience it, you’ll need to go the extra mile too, considering the hotel is situated a 30-minute (if you’re lucky) Uber ride from Denver International Airport. But the effort is worth it—guests of the Clayton leave feeling well-rested, inspired and (perhaps surprisingly) included. Why stay at Clayton Hotel & Members Club? Book one of the Clayton’s 63 rooms, and you’ll become an honorary club member with access to the private pool and restaurants, along with the privilege of joining fitness classes, expert-led workshops and seasonal parties. These offerings feed and breed creativity, and they do so in an environment rich in artistic expression.  The Clayton’s more than 200 pieces of original artwork span mediums (look for photography, oils, screen prints and more) and subject matters ranging from peaceful protest to Audrey Hepburn. Despite this collection of eclectic and undoubtedly exp