It’s not often that a new hotel comes to Princeton. In fact, Graduate by Hilton Princeton is the first new hotel in Princeton in nearly 90 years. Since opening in 2024, the hotel effectively doubled the number of rooms available to stay in the downtown area.
Entering Graduate by Hilton Princeton feels a lot like stepping into Hogwarts. The Gothic-inspired lobby – with its carved wood, towering bookcases, and orange-and-black floor tiles – feels both scholarly and magical. After a meticulous restoration of a 1918-era Colonial Revival dormitory, the hotel now blends historic architecture with modern comfort.
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Graduate Princeton features 180 guest rooms, 6,000 square feet of public space, and an on-site restaurant; all designed in the brand’s vibrant, hyper-local style. But even within the Graduate’s portfolio, the Princeton location stands out thanks to the town’s distinct culture and identity.
“Princeton is certainly unique in the Graduate brand,” says Michael Monarca, general manager of Graduate Princeton. “Not only are our town and university synonymous, but both are also known for excellence.”
That reputation extends beyond the campus. Of course, Princeton University is consistently ranked the number one university in America. But the town itself often lands on lists of the best places to live as well.
“Downtown Princeton is experiencing a renaissance,” Michael adds. “With several major projects completed recently — including our hotel, the restoration of the nearly century-old post office into Triumph Restaurant and Brewery, and the upcoming opening of the Princeton University Art Museum — the town’s culture and energy are stronger than ever. We’re proud to be right in the middle of it all.”
About Graduate by Hilton Princeton
Graduate Princeton showcases how the brand honors local stories and traditions. Every corner of the hotel includes nods to Princeton’s history, creating a sense of nostalgia and discovery.
Guests will find hidden details inspired by the campus arboretum, Albert Einstein, along with references to long-standing traditions such as Cane Spree, Cannon Green celebrations, football bonfires, the nude Olympics, and the superstition around FitzRandolph Gate.
“It’s almost impossible to spot them all,” Michael explains. “Even I continue to learn more over time. Walking the hotel with alumni is invigorating because they point out traditions I hadn’t recognized myself!”
The Heart of The Hotel
The lobby is the centerpiece of Graduate Princeton’s storytelling. Vintage reunion jackets line the bookcases, alongside references to Princeton’s storied eating clubs. A 30-foot carved wooden study table anchors the space, recalling the grandeur of the university’s historic libraries. With its mix of charm and comfort, it feels like Princeton’s living room: a place to study, gather, and connect.
On the far end of the lobby sits Ye Tavern, Graduate Princeton’s signature restaurant and bar. By day, the space buzzes with students studying over coffee and local professionals meeting for casual catch-ups. By night, it transforms into a social event space. Three evenings a week, the lobby hosts live music, giving local artists a platform to entertain friends, neighbors, and visitors.
Weekends bring another rhythm with parents checking in or out after visiting their young scholars. The mix of locals, travelers, and university life makes Graduate Princeton feel like a true part of the community.
Visit Graduate by Hilton Princeton at 10 Chambers St in Princeton. (See them on Google Maps.) To learn more:
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All Photos: © Andrew Frasz | Camron NY (Provided by Graduate by Hilton Princeton)
