Graduate by Hilton Madison

Pros and Cons to this property This was my first stay here. I have seen this hotel in searches before but the price was always higher than what I could get another decent hotel for. This time I was staying on a Sunday night before a campus tour so the price was lower and I went for it, namely for the location. The pros: Location! It’s only a 5 min walk to the union to sit by the water. Easy access to state street too. Rooms and lobby had really cute decor and touches. I did notice the lobby was mostly filled with college kids studying, this might be off putting to some guests, but I actually felt it was nice for the hotel to not kick these kids out. Room had hot water and comfortable beds. Small in room fridge too. The cons: No self park, but valet was quick, never waited more than 5 mins to get my car. The room had no security latch on the door, which was surprising. You also don’t need a key card to go up in the elevator. Also, the beds were SO loud. Like loud sheets and whatever topper they have on the bed, there was no turning over undetected. Bathroom is small and needs some work for a Hilton but it was clean. I would probably stay here again for the location, but I’ve also stayed at similar or nicer hotels in Madison for the same or less money.

Always a joy to be at The Graduate Madison We’ve been coming to the graduate Madison since our daughter was a freshman. She is now a senior. Love this place. Definitely willing to pay more to be here. Book in advance… they fill up quickly. Getting smiles from the staff is an added bonus… especially Norris at the valet.

Smelled like a frat house We have stayed at other Graduate Hotel locations that were very nice (ex: East Lansing). I hate to say it, but this one felt like “lipstick on a pig.” Yes, the decorating is gorgeous, but it is located in a very old building that must have allowed smoking for many, many years. You can smell the smoke in the lobby, in the elevators, in the hallways, and especially in the rooms. I was hoping we would get used to it, but nobody slept well (as we tried to sleep with covers over our heads to avoid the smell). In addition, the bathrooms are tiny and in desperate need of renovation. The shower is tiny and felt like the bathroom on an airplane (where you desperately try to avoid touching the walls), the sink was tiny (no counter space), and the shower pan and tile were dirty/stained. There was a dirty/moldy ceiling fan above the shower (see photos). Finally, this is the only hotel I have ever stayed at (in my entire life) that did not have a security latch on the door.

Thoroughly unimpressed This was my first time to Madison and was referred to this place by a friend. I guess I thought for $400 in the end, the room should have been larger and nicer. The Cafe staff was unaware of what the hotel offers for breakfast packages and the gal at the front desk did not know either. The cafe staff tried to argue with me at first and then acted awkwardly the rest of the time. The parking is overpriced and there was a red(blood?) spot on one of the pillows. We were thoroughly unimpressed and won't be staying there again. Thank you.

2024 RNC Convention NM Delegation The Graduate Madison is top notch hotel. The staff is amazingly professional, attentive, and considerate. The hotel is based in a great shopping and restaurant district. The hotel itself is a gem of a place with uniquely decorated rooms and the best coffee spot in the lobby and the best rooftop food and drinks. I would highly recommend the stay!