Aspen Smart Splurges

The Jerome emanates Aspen Highlands’ authentic vibe – albeit from a century ago – with 92 individually decorated, period rooms, complimentary chauffeur service, and plush comforts like down bedding. The mahogany J-bar next to the lobby was one of Gary Cooper’s favorite watering holes in the 1950s and is the perfect venue in which to recount surviving Highlands’ steeps. Guest rooms at the RockResorts property mix comfort with rich fabrics.

2008 SMART LUXURY WINNER
19th-Century Authenticity; 21st-Century Luxury

Opened in 1889 by Macy’s co-owner Jerome B. Wheeler during Colorado’s silver boom, Hotel Jerome blends historic preservation with modern-day luxury. Wheeler modeled his hotel after Europe’s greats of the day, like London’s famed Claridge’s. With indoor plumbing, hot and cold running water, steam heat, and an elevator, Wheeler’s grand hotel fast became an oasis of elegance – and a hub for socializing and business-dealing – in the bustling mining town. The lavishly restored hotel manages to stay true to its roots (Aspen Crud, a Bourbon-spiked vanilla milkshake born of Prohibition, is still on offer) while keeping up with the times (with complimentary luxury SUV chauffer service, twice-daily maid service, and plush comforts like down bedding and oversized bathtubs). The Garden Terrace offers outdoor eating with invigorating mountain views, Jacob’s Corner sources sustainable and organic produce from local farms, and the mahogany J-bar next to the lobby (one of Gary Cooper’s favorite watering holes in the 1950s) is the perfect venue for trading tall tales of surviving Highlands' steeps. See more Smart Luxury Award winners