Colorado’s hospitality scene continues to evolve, blending sustainability, design, and local culture into unforgettable stays.

Populus is the latest hotel to join the list of michelin Key hotels in Colorado. This modern hotel in downtown Denver opened in 2024 and quickly earned a Key thanks to its eco minded design.

Inspired by aspen trees, the building uses reclaimed materials and natural curves to bring a sense of the forest into the city. Local artwork decorates the rooms, and recorded birdsong even plays in the elevators.

Populus has become the standout addition to Colorado’s hospitality scene this year.

The other Colorado hotels with Michelin Keys were first recognized in 2024.

Denver still features Clayton Hotel & Members Club with its social club atmosphere, Four Seasons Denver with its skyline views and Colorado inspired interiors and The Crawford with its blend of Union Station history and contemporary style.

Fort Collins has the Armstrong Hotel, a restored property that honors local heritage, and the music themed Elizabeth Hotel where guests can borrow guitars and records.

Aspen’s trio includes Hotel Jerome, where late nineteenth century history meets modern comfort; The Little Nell at the base of the Silver Queen Gondola; and Mollie Aspen with its clean Scandinavian influenced design.

Telluride offers Lumière with Inspirato, providing suite style space and hotel services, and Madeline Hotel & Residences, a rustic yet refined mountain retreat.

Vail maintains Four Seasons Vail, complete with a ski concierge and spa, and Sonnenalp Hotel, a Bavarian inspired chalet with several restaurants. Outside the resort towns, Dunton Hot Springs in Dolores stands out with two Keys as a renovated mining camp featuring log cabins and natural hot springs.

The addition of Populus underscores how Colorado’s hotel sector continues to evolve.

While the previously honored properties prove the state’s staying power on the global hospitality stage, the quick recognition of Populus shows that innovative design and environmental sensitivity can earn immediate acclaim from the Michelin guide.