As part of its comprehensive housing strategy, Syracuse University today announced it has selected Graduate by Hilton as the brand partner for its upcoming development of a full-service hotel on University Avenue. The hotel is expected to open in the fall of 2027. Today’s announcement follows the University’s conversion of the former Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel & Conference Center into Orange Hall and builds on the University’s acquisition of the Hotel Skyler Syracuse, part of Hilton’s Tapestry Collection.
Graduate by Hilton is a lifestyle brand made up of 35 hand-crafted hotels that reside in dynamic, university-anchored towns across the U.S. and U.K. Each hotel is created with a focus on local history and nostalgia—from the design touchpoints to the culinary experiences—capturing the unique spirit of each university and reflecting the cultures and traditions of the communities they are located within.
“Graduate is an ideal partner in helping us bring to life a distinctive and dynamic space that authentically represents the Syracuse University experience,” says Brett Padgett, senior vice president and chief financial officer. “This collaboration will create a vibrant hub for both our campus and the broader Syracuse community, offering a welcoming destination during key moments like Orange game days, reunions, graduations, campus visits and beyond. We’re thrilled to work together to build a space that reflects the unique spirit and character of Syracuse University.”
“Syracuse University is the perfect partner as we continue the Graduate tradition of delivering collegiate-inspired hospitality to vibrant academic communities,” says Kevin Osterhaus, president, global lifestyle brands, Hilton. “Like the University, Graduate values lifelong learning and connection, and we are confident this hotel will become a beloved destination for visitors, locals and fans alike.”
The planned hotel will feature approximately 200 rooms, on-site parking, a full-service, three-meal restaurant and event space. A rooftop bar and lounge will offer stunning views of campus, creating a space for both hotel guests and members of the Central New York community to gather. The new hotel will be situated across from the University Avenue Garage, at the corner of University Avenue and Harrison Street.
“We are excited about the potential of this new hotel to enhance the overall experience for our campus community while providing a much-needed venue for visitors and events in the area,” says John Papazoglou, senior vice president and chief operations officer. “This development highlights how Syracuse University is advancing its strategic goals while contributing to the vibrancy of the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County.”
The University has engaged The Hardy Group to serve as project manager, with DLR Group selected as designer and LeChase serving as construction manager. The University is in the process of selecting a third-party operator for the hotel.
About Syracuse University
Syracuse University is a private research university that advances knowledge across disciplines to drive breakthrough discoveries and breakout leadership. Our collection of 13 schools and colleges with over 200 customizable majors closes the gap between education and action, so students can take on the world. In and beyond the classroom, we connect people, perspectives and practices to solve interconnected challenges with interdisciplinary approaches. Together, we’re a powerful community that moves ideas, individuals and impact beyond what’s possible.
About Graduate by Hilton
Graduate by Hilton is a lifestyle brand of hand-crafted hotels that reside in dynamic university-anchored towns in the United States and United Kingdom. Each hotel brings stories and traditions to life through one-of-a-kind experiences, which authentically reflect the unique spirit of each community they are located within. Founded in 2014 by Adventurous Journeys (“AJ”) Capital Partners and acquired by Hilton in 2024, Graduate’s portfolio consists of 35 open hotels across the US and UK. Learn more about Graduate by Hilton at Stories From Hilton and follow the brand on Instagram.