Graduate by Hilton has opened its first Texas location in Dallas, blending signature collegiate flair with Texas-inspired style. The property combines mid-century architecture with Texas ranch elements for a distinctively local experience. Located only a few steps away from Southern Methodist University, the hotel offers 93 guest rooms, a terrace, a Tex-Mex style Smokehouse, and an outdoor pool.
Highlights
- Graduate by Hilton opens in Dallas, making it the brand’s first hotel in Texas.
- The hotel offers features like 93 guest rooms, an outdoor pool, and a terrace.
- Graduate Dallas is a participating property of Hilton Honors, the award-winning loyalty program across Hilton’s 24 world-class hotel brands.
A Strategic Expansion into the Lone Star State
The opening marks a key step in the brand’s Southern expansion. “Introducing the Graduate brand to Texas—one of the country’s largest and most dynamic markets—is a major milestone for us,” said Parker Henderson, brand leader, Graduate by Hilton.
“A Graduate in Dallas’s Highland Park was a natural fit, as the property brings our collegiate-inspired hospitality to a neighborhood that reflects our core values of lifelong learning. It also kickstarts the brand’s Texas expansion with another property slated to open in Austin,” he said.
Design and Amenities: A Fusion of Styles
Graduate Dallas, a restoration of the former Hotel Lumen, was brought to life by AJ Capital Partners from Nashville. TDevelopers preserved the building’s original geometric mid-century architecture.
The space has taken inspiration from local design elements like tanned leather, shearling armchairs, handwoven textiles, and cowhide ottomans. A vintage postcard of Exall Lake hangs above the reception desk, nodding to one of Dallas’s historic leisure spots.
It features a striking herd of mustangs as a homage to the university nearby. The space is also decked with pendant lights and plants for a more inviting atmosphere.
Los Charros: Bold Flavors, Ranch Vibes
The hotel’s signature restaurant, Los Charros Smokehouse, offers a fusion of Tex-Mex and Texas barbeque traditions. The name honors los charros, Mexican horsemen celebrated for their ornate dress and bold spirit.
The restaurant reflects the Los Charros spirit in both its design and menu. The rustic-industrial setting features patinated steel, reclaimed wood, and a ceiling mural inspired by handwoven rugs.
At the center, a communal dining table painted with a bright red color anchors the space. Saddle-style bar stools nod to classic Texas ranch life.
Guest Experience and Hilton Honors Program
Graduate Dallas is a part of Hilton Honors, an award-winning loyalty program made for its 24 global hotel brands. Members who book directly through Hilton channels can enjoy some exclusive perks.
Members can use a flexible payment slider to combine Points and cash when booking their stay. It also includes an exclusive member-only discount and complimentary Wi-Fi. The Hilton Honors mobile app also offers many benefits that members can enjoy.
The restoration of the former Hotel Lumen reflects the brand’s expanding presence in Texas.
