As summer draws to a close, the young ones are once again heading back to the classroom to start a new school year, while college-aged students begin their journeys near and far to their campuses. The time apart can be hard for friends and families, but Graduate by Hilton is bringing the unique college town feel to life with their strategically placed hotels around major universities, making it easier than ever to visit a loved one.
Described on Hilton’s website as a “collection of welcoming, one-of-a-kind experiences rich with local history, charm and pop culture nostalgia,” the 33 locations span across the U.S. and U.K. Whether it’s for a sporting event, celebration, parent’s weekend or any other reason in between, here’s a glimpse into some of the Graduate by Hilton properties.
In the UK
Cambridge
Located on the River Cam, this location honors the historic University of Cambridge through its rustic vibes, chic wood décor and light color palette. With 148 rooms spanning over five floors, visitors will have plenty of room options available. The hotel features two restaurants with seasonal delicacies at the Garden House, seasonal cocktails at the Garden Bar and afternoon tea in the Garden Room.
The Randolph Hotel
Nestled mere steps away from the University of Oxford campus, The Randolph Hotel offers 151 rooms over four floors, complete with two restaurants and a spa. Guests at this property should check out the bohemian library-inspired bar called The Snug, which boasts plush red upholstery, dark wood, bold floral walls and moody lighting. For a traditional English tea experience, head to The Drawing Room, a colorful and brightly patterned space serving scones, sweets and other savory options.
Out West
Berkeley
Located only a hair’s breadth away from Telegraph Avenue and the University of California’s campus, the 144-room hotel blends the school’s unique history with a creative interior. Guest rooms are decorated in the unmistakable shades of the Golden Bears’ yellow and blue palette. Coupled with the wood detailing and plaid fabric patterns, it’s a Berkely paradise. Be sure to dine at Henry’s, a neighborhood landmark brought in, serving Cal-classic dinner and drinks.
Tucson
Paying homage to the University of Arizona, the hotel is set in the heart of downtown, near the Arizona stadium. The 164 rooms feature calming sunset colors of pink, orange and purple, with desert details such as cacti lamps, pops of green and rustic wood elements. The Moonstone is the hotel’s shining star — quite literally considering it offers a rooftop bar with stunning views of Mount Lemmon and Tucson under a brightly lit night sky.
Other Properties
More locations include Eugene (University of Oregon), Palo Alto (Stanford University), Seattle (University of Washington) and Tempe (Arizona State University).
In the Northeast
Princeton
Newly opened in August, Princeton is the most recent addition to the collection and was built in one of the university’s former dormitories. The converted space features 180 rooms over five floors, beautifully finished with Ivy-League touches such as dark leather couches, stately chairs and furnishings — the lobby wall even mimics a historic library. Ye Tavern is the hotel’s sole restaurant, and the property is located on Nassau Street, directly opposite the campus.
New Haven
Embodying everything that makes Yale University special, New Haven has it all. Starting with its prime location downtown on Chapel Street, the 72 rooms and two restaurants are bubbling to the brim with blue décor and decorations honoring school icons such as Handsome Dan, Mory’s Cups and Harkness Tower. Matching the old-school, mysterious vibes of the university, Old Heidelberg bar offers delicious drinks in a cavernous space, made inviting by the welcoming glow of warm lighting.
Other Properties
More locations include Annapolis (U.S. Naval Academy), New York (Cornell Tech), State College (Penn State University), Storrs (University of Connecticut) and Providence (Brown University, Johnson and Wales University, Providence University and Rhode Island School of Design).
Down South
Chapel Hill
Like the fall season and pumpkin spice, the University of North Carolina goes hand in hand with its iconic baby blue color — and there’s plenty of it here. With 69 rooms, the property offers a more intimate feel, made even cozier by the accented white detailing and pops of leather furnishings. Paying homage to the Tarheels’ athletic success, The Trophy Room restaurant is open for gametime, serving comfort food with an upscale twist.
Knoxville
Similar to UNC’s trademark blue, the University of Tennessee is synonymous with Volunteer orange. The bright color is threaded throughout even the smallest of details, with dark wood and shades of blue transforming the space. 112 rooms spanning seven stories make up the hotel, though the best part may be Saloon 16, a bar and restaurant made in partnership with Peyton Manning — it’s even decorated with his own personal memorabilia! The hotel is located on The Strip near the campus and Neyland Stadium.
Other Properties
More locations include Auburn (Auburn University, opened Sept. 5), Charlottesville (University of Virginia), Columbia (University of South Carolina), Fayetteville (University of Arkansas), Nashville (Vanderbilt University), Oxford (University of Mississippi) and Richmond (Viriginia Commonwealth University).
In the Midwest
Madison
A block from State Street and the University of Wisconsin’s campus, the 72-room hotel offers the best of the state. Including touches of cardinal red throughout the décor and guest rooms, the Midwest look is completed with curd throw pillows. Visitors can try some classic Wisconsin staples, such as beer brats, burgers and cheese curds, at Camp Trippalindee, a laid-back summer camp restaurant.
Ann Arbor
Celebrating the University of Michigan, the impressive 204 rooms feature splashes of navy and yellow gold throughout, finished off with luxurious wood detailing. While the hotel mainly honors the university, it also commemorates the community’s thriving art and political scene with the lobby’s design. Guests wanting to kick back and relax with a drink should check out the Allen Rumsey Cocktail Lounge, which offers classic drinks and a hearty Midwestern menu. The hotel sits one block from campus for all the guests’ convenient needs.
Other Properties
More locations include Bloomington (Indiana University), Cincinnati (University of Cincinnati), Columbus (Ohio State University), East Lansing (Michigan State University), Evanston (Northwestern University), Iowa City (University of Iowa), Lincoln (University of Nebraska) and Minneapolis (University of Minnesota).
Learn more about Hilton Hotels, Resorts, and All-Inclusives.
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