Graduate by Hilton is a collection of more than 30 boutique hotel properties located near college campuses in the U.S. and the United Kingdom. Acquired by Hilton in 2024, the brand has recently been incorporated into the Hilton Honors program, offering more opportunities for loyal customers to use points during high-traffic university events like college football season and graduation.
Each property is designed to reflect the characteristics of the local community. For instance, the Nashville property pays homage to Vanderbilt University and the city’s musical heritage, complete with a karaoke bar. In Chapel Hill, North Carolina, guests will find Carolina Blue accents and tributes to the University of North Carolina Tar Heels throughout the hotel.
BW was invited by Hilton to experience the Graduate properties in Auburn, Alabama, and Tucson, Arizona. While the cost of the stays was covered, all opinions expressed in this guide are our own.
From the lobby to the guest rooms, each Graduate location showcases the local vibe. The Auburn and Tucson properties are filled with bold, quirky local flair, setting them apart from more standard hotels in the same class like Hampton Inn & Suites or Hyatt Place.
In Tucson, the lobby boasts vibrant Southwest themes and colors, featuring dream catchers and saguaro cactuses. In Auburn, known for the Auburn Tigers, sports-themed decor fills the lobby, including the Bo Jackson Beans coffee shop and a large wooden bust of the Auburn alum. The wallpaper and carpet in the Auburn property feature state flowers from Alabama, adding character and color.
The Graduate properties in Auburn and Tucson are conveniently located on the edge of campus, making them ideal for campus-based activities. The Auburn property offers views of the football stadium from the rooftop bar and restaurant, and other Graduate locations are similarly situated for easy campus access.
Guest rooms at Graduate properties also showcase local flair with custom artwork, lamps, and wallpaper. The Auburn rooms feature tiger-printed accent pillows and wall decorations tied to the university’s rallying cry, “War Eagle.” In Tucson, guest rooms have a calming desert vibe with soft pink lighting and Southwest floral art.
Some Graduate locations offer unique family suites and pop-culture themed rooms, such as a Stranger Things themed suite in Bloomington, Indiana, a Dolly Parton suite in Nashville, and a family suite with battleship-shaped beds in Annapolis, Maryland.
All Graduate by Hilton properties are pet-friendly and smoke-free, with on-site dining and free Wi-Fi. Most properties also offer amenities like fitness centers, meeting rooms, and valet parking. Dining options range from rooftop restaurants to lobby bars and coffee shops.
If you’re considering booking a Graduate hotel, keep in mind that each property offers a unique experience that delves into the culture and history of the surrounding area. If you appreciate character and local charm in a hotel, a stay at a Graduate property could be the perfect choice for you.
When booking a Graduate hotel with Hilton points, keep in mind that award availability can vary based on demand. Points needed for a free stay generally range from 50,000 to 70,000 points for a standard room award. Hilton points can be earned through Hilton credit cards, AmEx Membership Rewards, and Bilt Rewards for free stays.
To make the most of your rewards, consider the earning rates and welcome offers of Hilton Honors American Express Card, Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, Hilton Honors American Express Business Card, and Hilton Honors American Express Aspire Card. Each card offers different benefits and rewards that can help you maximize your points and enjoy a rewarding stay at Graduate hotels.