10 top membership clubs in the U.S. you should consider joining

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C., this prestigious social club—housed in a grand mansion dating back to 1878—oozes elegance at every turn. To gain membership, one must "demonstrate distinction in their artistic, scientific, literary, public service, or professional career," according to the club’s website. It’s no surprise, then, that the club has attracted U.S. presidents, vice presidents, Supreme Court justices, as well as Nobel and Pulitzer Prize winners. Amenities include a refined restaurant and bar, both perfect for people-watching, as well as expert-led lectures, live music, champagne brunches, wine tastings, and dinner dances. Book lovers will find solace in the opulent library, home to over 10,000 volumes, complete with a roaring fireplace to create the perfect cozy ambiance. For those seeking a longer stay, several overnight accommodations are also available.

Can you get in? Yes. Prospective members must be recognized for their achievements in science, literature, the arts, professional fields or public service.

Membership dues: According to a Washingtonian article, annual dues at the time were around $2,000.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by Fitler Club (@fitlerclub)

Founded in 2019, Fitler Club is one-part boutique hotel, one-part social club and one-part event venue. Entertainment options abound, from a movie theater and bowling alley to a golf simulator. While parents unwind at the spa, enjoy a swim or take a cold plunge, children can have their own fun in the playroom, stocked with books, crafts and a variety of activities. For wine, beer, and cocktail enthusiasts, the club delivers with two bars, dedicated wine and beer clubs, happy hours, mixology classes, and even an in-house sommelier. Dining is equally impressive, featuring an on-site bakery and a rich culinary program that keeps members returning for more.

Can you get in? Yes, Fill out this form to apply.

Membership dues: Per a Philly Mag article, fees start around $225 per month plus an initiation of $2,250.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by jeffreymklein (@jeffreymklein)

San Vicente Bungalows is a favorite among A-listers like John Mayer, Jennifer Aniston, Steven Spielberg, Leonardo DiCaprio, and Justin and Hailey Bieber—and, as such, discretion and tranquility reign supreme. The club enforces a strict no-photo policy to ensure the utmost privacy for its elite guests. Their website states, "Members and their guests are prohibited from taking photos anywhere inside the club. Posting images of the club on social media or discussing anything witnessed during a visit is strictly forbidden." Those under 18 are generally not allowed, except for weekend brunch, and membership requires a nomination from a current member—though even that doesn’t guarantee acceptance. While photos are off-limits, the space is ironically Instagram-worthy at every turn, with colorful murals, lush gardens, a sparkling pool surrounded by greenery and a stylish dining area complemented by a cozy oak-paneled living room.

Can you get in? Technically, yes, but it’s not easy. As mentioned above, to apply for membership, you must be nominated by a current San Vicente member. While a nomination is necessary, it does not guarantee acceptance. Applications are reviewed monthly.

Membership dues: According to a 2019 Hollywood Reporter article, it’s $1,800 to join and $4,200 annually.

New York City has no shortage of private members’ clubs, and Zero Bond stands out as one of the most iconic. Nestled in the heart of the vibrant NoHo neighborhood, the club—also known as 0 Bond—spans an expansive 20,000 square feet across two levels. The loft-style space exudes the vibe of your chic (and uber-wealthy) friend’s sleek apartment, featuring beamed ceilings, 1870s-era brick walls, dim lighting, and elegant black marble accents. Inside, members can unwind in a library with Assouline books, a private screening room, and various dining areas, including the refined Grill Room (Dover sole, anyone?), an intimate omakase spot, and a moody bar. The Baccarat-designed tasting room is a highlight, featuring cocktails served in exquisite crystal. Rounding out the experience is a multimillion-dollar art collection, adding a dash of cultural sophistication to this already impressive venue.

Can you get in? Yes—apply online.

Membership dues: Under 28: $2,750 per year, $750 initiation fee; General (28 to 45 years old): $3,850 per year, $1,000 initiation fee; Over 45: $4,400 per year, $5,000 initiation fee.

This ritzy lifestyle club from Riviera Dining Group is famous for its food and beverage program—led by chef Michael Michaelidis, whose past restaurant ventures earned a collective 26 Michelin stars. Dig into Japanese-inspired dishes like truffle hamachi, Sichuan cucumber salad, miso cod, and wagyu gyoza. Members enjoy access to exclusive areas in the company’s stylish restaurants: AVA MM (Winter Park), MILA MM (Miami), and the latest hotspot, Casa Neos MM Beach Club (Miami). The latter stands out for its stunning waterfront location, panoramic city views, and a standout DJ lineup. Amenities include bottle service and luxurious sunbeds for ultimate relaxation.

Can you get in? Yes, apply here.

Membership dues: From $5,000 per year plus a one-time application fee of $2,500; view additional tiers here.

Occupying the 10th and 11th floors of the historic Bank of Italy building, the Amador Club is designed to be a serene oasis in the heart of San Francisco. The sleek space features an elegant bar and lounge, creating a sleek, inviting atmosphere. The club also offers a billiards room—formerly the CEO’s office of the Bank of San Francisco—and the Whiskey Corney, home to an impressive collection of over 500 bottles from around the globe.
Wine enthusiasts will be drawn to the 2,500-square-foot Wine Cave, which houses a curated selection of 2,000 bottles. The club’s event programming is as sophisticated as its setting, offering wine and whiskey tastings, a cigar club led by a master tobacconist, murder mystery parties, Gatsby-inspired white parties, and more. Also noteworthy is The Bank, a new ground-floor extension of the private club that offers a premium membership tier based on “the quality of the individual and their contributions to our community.”

Can you get in? Yes, view more information here.

Membership dues: Inquire for more information.

Situated in the heart of Chicago, this exclusive private members club looks and feels like a speakeasy, and it’s steeped in rich history. Initially opened in 1963 as Maxim's, a replica of the renowned Parisian restaurant of the same name, it became a beloved gathering spot for icons such as Frank Sinatra, the Beatles, Audrey Hepburn, Muhammad Ali and the Rolling Stones, among others. In 2000, the space was donated to the City of Chicago, serving as the Nancy Goldberg International Cultural Center. Then, in 2022, Victoria and Adam Bitler assumed club ownership. The duo has since meticulously restored the club to its former grandeur, ensuring that a visit here feels like stepping back in time. With its opulent ambiance, historical significance, live music, and gourmet cuisine led by chef Trevor Teich, this club is a truly unforgettable experience—an exceptional blend of the past and present.

Can you get in? Yes; the first step to applying is to schedule a tour.

Membership dues: Starts at $4,800 initiation fee, $300 monthly dues (however, lower pricing is available for 1) those ages 39 and under and 2) non-residents).

Formerly known as the Algonquin Club, this six-floor, 56,000-square-foot private club serves as a sophisticated home away from home, where members can relax, dine, drink, and unwind in style. The interiors are nothing short of spectacular, including ornate fireplaces, marble columns, hand-carved furnishings, and dazzling chandeliers. Its curated collection of over 250 works of art adds an extra layer of elegance.

The club has four restaurants, six lounges, and three bars. Highlights include Bondo, featuring a chandelier commissioned from artist Donald Lipski; the 1,100-label Wine Vault; The Hideaway, with its carefully selected vinyl collection; Scotties, where members can enjoy bubbly at the touch of a “Push for Champagne” button; Dive Bar, offering an impressive array of Japanese whiskies; and the Sky Deck, an al fresco space serving vibrant Peruvian cuisine.

Can you get in? Yes…as long as you know a member. According to its website: “Currently, invitations to join are via member referrals. To inquire further about membership at The ‘Quin House, please contact hello@thequin.com.”

Membership dues? According to a 2021 article from The Boston Globe, if you're under 35, the initiation fee is $1,250, with an annual membership fee of $2,000. For members aged 35-49, the initiation fee is $2,500, and the annual membership fee is $3,000. Those aged 50 and older pay a $4,000 initiation fee, along with a $4,000 annual membership fee.

View this post on Instagram

A post shared by The Wonderer™ (@thewondererchs)

Spanning nearly two acres, The Wonderer feels like its own miniature city—and, with everything you could need right on-site, there’s little reason to venture elsewhere. The expansive campus boasts indoor and outdoor workspaces, private cabanas, a sparkling swimming pool, and wellness-focused offerings like yoga classes, guided meditations, spa therapies, and sensory deprivation experiences. When hunger strikes, members can indulge at one of three dining venues: Bhava, serving contemporary dishes like steak frites, tacos and poke bowls; Tula Cafe, offering smoothies, coffee, pastries and breakfast staples and Cabana, where poolside bites like sliders, chips and guac, and truffle fries are best paired with bottle service.

Can you get in? Yes. The first step is to complete the application process, and then you’ll have a short interview with the team.

Membership dues? According to a 2021 Charleston City Paper article, they are $200 per month, and there is also a $2,000 initiation fee.

The Cove Club boasts a prime waterfront location along the Intracoastal Waterway, offering an idyllic setting for relaxation and serenity. Guests can bask in the sun by the pristine pool, lounge on plush daybeds on the private sandy beach, or indulge in coastal-inspired dishes at the on-site restaurant, the vibrant heart of the club. The atmosphere is especially lively from Thursday to Sunday, when the club hosts sunset hours, live music, and even cornhole tournaments, making it the perfect weekend escape.

Can you get in? Yes—the first step is to fill out a membership inquiry.

Membership dues? Per a 2024 article from The Hollywood Reporter, there’s a $15,000 initiation fee.