Graduate by Hilton Columbia, S.C.
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Hotel Details
Brand
Hilton
Location
Graduate by Hilton Columbia, S.C. · Columbia, United States
Expert Review: Graduate by Hilton Columbia, S.C.
Graduate by Hilton Columbia, S.C.: A Michelin Key Selected Blend of Collegiate Charm and Southern Hospitality
The Graduate by Hilton Columbia, S.C., a Michelin Key Selected property, consistently receives high praise for its vibrant design, exceptional location, and friendly service, offering a memorable stay that blends collegiate nostalgia with local Southern charm.
1. Overall Rating & Sentiment
The general consensus for Graduate Columbia, S.C. is overwhelmingly positive, with guests frequently leaving excellent reviews. It boasts an impressive overall rating of 9.1 on platforms like Agoda and an excellent 8.8 on Booking.com, with many guests rating their experience as a perfect 10. The hotel is often described as "super nice," "charming," and "beautiful," reflecting a high level of guest satisfaction.
2. Key Highlights
Guests consistently love several aspects of the Graduate Columbia, S.C.:
- Design: The hotel's unique and creative interiors, blending hometown history and Gamecock traditions with bold colors and patterns, are a significant draw. The "candy-floss pink reception" sets a fun tone.
- Location: Its prime spot directly on the University of South Carolina campus and close proximity to downtown, restaurants, and local attractions is frequently highlighted as a major advantage.
- Service & Staff: The staff consistently receives accolades for being friendly, helpful, personable, and attentive, contributing significantly to a welcoming atmosphere.
- Comfort: Comfortable beds and great showers are often mentioned, ensuring a relaxing stay.
3. Room Quality
The 116 elegant rooms at Graduate Columbia are noted for their cleanliness, comfort, and distinctive design. Guests enjoy the "super cute and eclectically decorated" spaces, featuring bright colors and bold graphics that reflect the hotel's collegiate theme. Rooms are equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, flat-screen TVs, refrigerators, tea/coffee makers, and free WiFi. Boutique-hotel touches like Malin + Goetz bath products are also appreciated. Premium bedding, pillowtop mattresses, and Egyptian cotton sheets contribute to a comfortable sleeping experience. However, some guests have noted that room sizes can be small.
4. Dining Experience
The hotel's on-site restaurant, The Trophy Room, offers a delightful culinary experience. It serves breakfast, lunch, dinner, and light fare. Guests have praised the "delicious food," with the BLT being a must-try. The cooked-to-order breakfast is available (for a surcharge), and the bar provides a "fun and unique atmosphere" for evening refreshments.
5. Service & Staff
The service at Graduate Columbia, S.C. is consistently rated highly, with staff performance earning an 8.9 rating on Agoda and a 9.1 for staff on Booking.com. Visitors frequently commend the "friendly staff," "attentive staff," and "helpful staff" for ensuring a memorable and extraordinary stay.
6. Location & Accessibility
Graduate Columbia boasts an "unbeatable" and "awesome" location, situated directly on the University of South Carolina campus. It offers easy access to a range of tourist attractions, restaurants, and downtown Columbia. Nearby landmarks include Trinity Episcopal Cathedral, South Carolina State House, and the African American History Monument, all within walking distance or a short drive. For Gamecocks football fans, the hotel is also conveniently located about two and a half miles from Williams-Brice Stadium. Columbia Metropolitan Airport is approximately a 20-minute car ride away. Parking is available, though charges may apply.
7. Value & Pricing
With an average room price of around $199, Graduate Columbia, S.C. is considered an upscale yet affordable option compared to the city's average hotel room price of $134. Kayak suggests that the cheapest deals can generally be found in December and August, with prices varying based on the day of the week. Many guests feel the price is reasonable and offers good value for the experience provided.
8. Common Complaints
While guest feedback is largely positive, some recurring issues have been mentioned:
- Room Size: A few guests have reported small room sizes.
- Cleanliness Issues: Occasional complaints have surfaced regarding cleanliness, particularly in bathrooms.
- Amenities: Some reviews have noted a perceived lack of amenities.
- Maintenance: Isolated incidents, such as a non-functioning exhaust fan and difficulty adjusting shower water temperature, have been reported.
- Late Night Snacks: One guest noted that late-night snack options were not available.
Sources
Points to Consider
- •While guest feedback is largely positive, some recurring issues have been mentioned:
- •Cleanliness Issues: Occasional complaints have surfaced regarding cleanliness, particularly in bathrooms.
Google Reviews
397 reviews
Recent Guest Reviews
Shaqueta Bownes
The Hotel absolutely looks like the picture. I enjoyed my stay. The hotel concierge staff was absolutely amazing. The location was in 5 minute distance from where I was going. The reason I am giving it 3 stars is because of the customer service received at the bar. We stood there for about 5 minutes. We weren’t greeted. So we went to establish where we would be seated, and then came back, at a sec...
Response from the owner
Hello Shaqueta, we're glad to hear you enjoyed the hotel and found our concierge staff amazing. We apologize for the service you received at the Trophy Room Bar. This issue is being looked into to ens...
Leigh Gibbons
I have stayed here several times the past year, but this time my room and bathroom was not as clean as it used to be. The bedding from the pillows down to the bed skirt was beyond wrinkled. The water. pressure is also low,. The weather is cold in Columbia and there is no heat on in the restaurant and lobby including the hallways which is not accommodating to a hotel guest. They allow students to...
Response from the owner
We are sorry to see your 3 star review. We set a high standard for our hotel, and we’re so sorry to hear that standard was not met for your stay. We would love to hear from you to learn more. Please s...
Nandiva Alexis
The location is secure and great for visitors, I stayed here twice and loved it. Central to the downtown area with lots of activities to do if traveling with a child. The hotel itself is beautifully decorated and I was stoked to finally get to stay here. If dining in, the wings are really good and the snack bar is top tier.
Response from the owner
Hello Nandiva, thank you for taking the time to leave us your review! We're glad you enjoyed your visit to Columbia. We appreciate you choosing Graduate and look forward to welcoming you back in the n...
Savannah Shepherd
I thought this hotel was SO cute and cozy. I arrived earlier then check in time due to my flight, about 10:30am. Was pleasantly surprised by the great lounge and cafe/bar area I could sit and work in, plus they had lots of outdoor seating. Coffee and food were good and the staff were all very kind. It was nice that the local students studied here too, definitely a lively space. This was my first t...
Response from the owner
Thank you for sharing your experience at Graduate Columbia, Savannah. We're thrilled to hear that our accommodation made a great impression during your first visit to South Carolina. We appreciate you...
Amy Alimohamed
The Graduate Hotel offers a unique, cozy and very comfortable environment. Enjoy a cup of coffee or your pick of many adult beverages to sip while sitting on the lovely large front porch. Grab a bite for breakfast, lunch or dinner in the dinning area.
Response from the owner
Thank you for the review, Amy! We appreciate your feedback and would love to have you stay with us again. We look forward to your next visit to Columbia!
Robert Daley
We had a great time at the Trophy Room bar at Graduate Hotel on the campus of the University of South Carolina! The bartenders were fantastic! Taylor and Tom did a great job! They know how to treat you right! If you want a great place to get a drink after work come here!
Response from the owner
Thanks for sharing your awesome experience, Robert! We’re stoked to hear that our team made your visit unforgettable with their exceptional service. Can’t wait to see you back soon! Safe travels!
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