I don't think status grants anything when you're not staying.

That said, I think hotels should provide free wifi + bathrooms year-round to any elite member. The other day I was in the lobby of a DC hotel (where I wasn't staying) and had to take a #1, but found out the bathroom was locked and required a guestroom key.

Wouldn't it be great if our elite member cards were actually useful and could unlock such bathrooms at all times?