Honey and I spent the weekend at Graduate Auburn for Sigma Chi Family Weekend, and I couldn’t wait to share the details. If you’re looking for a stay that screams War Eagle in every nook and cranny, this is it!
Let’s start with the biggest win:
📍 Location, location, location!
We parked the car Friday afternoon and didn’t touch it again until departure. We walked everywhere… John’s apartment, restaurants, bars, shopping, the fraternity house, Jordan-Hare… it truly does not get more convenient.
Arrival + First Impressions
Here’s where things got… chaotic.
There’s no covered drop off and only a few designated valet spots carved into one of the busiest roads in town. On a game-day weekend? Whew. Cars were triple parked, blocking traffic, and one lonely valet was doing her best to keep up. There are no bellmen, so we hauled all of our bags – weekend luggage, cooler of food for John, plus my cruise luggage – on our own.
Speaking of the valet… I got up early to get some quiet work done and found the valet sprawled out and snoozing on the lobby couch. A man came down eventually needing to get something from his car and had to wake him up. Bless. Game days are exhausting for everyone! :-)
Once inside, the lobby is an absolute delight, buzzing with game-day excitement, decked out in perfect Auburn nostalgia.
Rooms – Tiny But Terrific
Our room was cozy (read: tight) but oh my goodness, it is adorable. Creative. Collegiate. Clever. I took about 4,000 photos. If I had a house in town or at Lake Martin? I’d decorate it exactly like The Graduate vibe. It’s clean, comfy, and full of personality.
Food + Drink
Bo Jackson’s Beans
This lobby cafe serves up great coffee and great food, with a long line. Imagine two sleepy college kids in charge of the caffeine needs of the entire hotel. Worth the wait, just give yourself time!
War Eagle Supper Club Rooftop
On Friday before game day they opened at 5PM. We waited in a short line and were seated quickly. They don’t take reservations for some peak game day weekend seating so getting there at opening was key. They offered excellent drinks, delicious appetizers, darling atmosphere.
We returned for lunch on Sunday with John in tow. It was tasty but not a must-repeat with so many other amazing options in town.
Pricing & Service Reality Check
This is not a luxury hotel… but on game day weekend, it absolutely has a luxury price tag. The vibe is fun, the decor is perfection but the execution just isn’t always there.
Would We Stay Again?
✅ Yes… but not on a premium weekend. If the price drops below $300/night, ideally closer to $200, it’s a darling option with a winning location.
Where I Do Recommend in Auburn
🏆 The Laurel Hotel & Spa
My #1 choice. True luxury, impeccable service, exclusive perks when booked through me thanks to my relationships onsite. Please please please contact me to book your stay here!
✨ The Hotel at Auburn University
Dependable, walkable, and the service far outpaces The Graduate.
💛 TownePlace Suites Auburn
A great game day choice! Clean, comfortable, reliable – we’ve stayed twice and will definitely return. A solid option when convenience and value are key.
And now…the funniest twist of all:
I’m typing this very post from Graduate Knoxville where the experience has been… shall we say… consistent.
If you’re planning a college visit, a game weekend, or a getaway to visit your favorite Tiger, I’d love to help! Booking with me never costs more than booking direct, and I’ll make sure your stay comes with all the extras you deserve.
War Eagle and happy travels, friends!
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Thank you for your honesty. I have been looking at Hilton’s Graduate hotel line and they seem so unique. I’m glad that you shared your experience with the pros and cons.
I have heard many people mention they can her the music from the bar next to the hotel. If you haven’t you need to stay at the Opelika Marriott. It is on the Robert Trent Jones golf course and has a spa. They have a gorgeous outdoor pool area with a bar that is great in warmer months.
I really do want to check out Opelika! It’s on ou rlist!