Auburn, Alabama, now has a university-themed Graduate hotel you can book with Hilton points
If you hear people chanting "bodda getta" or "war eagle" from Hilton's newest Graduate hotel, don't worry: It's all by design.
Graduate by Hilton Auburn AL in Alabama is now open. The Auburn-themed hotel is a treat for Tigers fans old and new, whether you're going to the big game or just need a comfortable (and fun) place to rest your head while passing through.
Related: Graduate Hotels officially joins Hilton Honors
Right near the university, Graduate Auburn has 177 guest rooms, two bars and restaurants, a coffee shop and event spaces. Its interior design concept focuses on the town of Auburn, its 187-year history and the deep football traditions that come with the university. (For example, a football field is the centerpiece behind the check-in desk.)
Rooms at Graduate Auburn feel decadent, Southern and over-the-top in a way that is distinctly Graduate. References to the university include eagle sconces, tiger-print bolster pillows, "War Eagle" pennants and oak trees on the headboard — a subtle nod to the tradition of "rolling" nearby trees with toilet paper to celebrate a win (college, you know?!).
Guests can enjoy a caffeine fix or a creative cocktail at Bo Jackson's Beans, a cafe and bar dedicated to Auburn football and baseball star Bo Jackson. Behind the bar, a hand-carved wood statue of the athlete makes for a great photo op.
On the roof, the indoor-outdoor restaurant and bar called War Eagle Supper Club is a modern take on an establishment that's been a community staple for over 60 years but closed in 2015. Open for drinks, dinner and weekend brunch, this collegiate-themed supper club is sure to be a crowd-pleaser.
"Auburn is centered around one of the South's largest universities, so we were constantly inspired by the incredibly engaged alumni network and the even stronger football fan base in town," said Kevin Osterhaus, president of global lifestyle brands at Hilton. "Our goal was to create a space that pays tribute to Auburn's people, culture, and the enduring legacy that makes this place truly special for guests, students, and alumni alike."
Graduate Hotels was an unexpected — but welcome — addition to the Hilton family, announced earlier this year. With a collection of hotels in major university towns in the U.S. and the U.K., these hotels give Hilton Honors members a unique lifestyle brand to visit. Some highlights include a Dolly Parton-themed hotel in Nashville and an island hotel in New York City.
How to book Graduate Auburn
Cash rates at Graduate Auburn start as low as $155 per night with the Hilton Honors discounted rate, though most nights through the end of the year sit closer to $200 per night. Award availability is mostly around 55,000 Hilton Honors points per night, though lower rates are available here and there.
Since the property is opening in the middle of football season, you might be psyched to book a room for game day. Unfortunately, the hotel is already booked solid for the rest of the season.
With the Hilton Honors American Express Surpass® Card, you could actually stay for a weekend at Graduate Auburn by earning 130,000 Hilton Honors bonus points after spending $3,000 on purchases in the first six months of card membership. There is an annual fee of $150 (see rates and fees).
Related reading:
- Hilton's Graduate brand has a new Ivy League locale
- 7 insights I learned from Hilton executives on new brands, partnerships and hotel innovations
- The 20 best Hilton hotels in the world
For rates and fees of the Hilton Honors Surpass, click here.
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