Graduate by Hilton Opens First Alabama Hotel Steps From Auburn University

Graduate by Hilton has opened its first Alabama location in Auburn, a city renowned for its legendary sports and college culture. Located steps from Auburn University, the property spans nearly 140,000 square feet with 177 guest rooms across five floors, 10,000 square feet of meeting and event space, and two signature food and beverage offerings: The War Eagle Supper Club, an indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant that pays tribute to its namesake, and Bo Jackson’s Beans, a coffee shop, community gathering place, and cocktail bar created in partnership with professional sports legend, Auburn University alumni, and Heisman Trophy winner, Bo Jackson.

“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, Global Lifestyle Brands, 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.” 

The interior design choices at Graduate Auburn, AL invite guests to immerse themselves in the town’s 187-year history and embrace local traditions steeped in over a century of American football culture. Throughout the hotel’s public spaces and guest rooms, visitors will find subtle nods to the university and traditions of the town, all designed in the brand’s characteristic locally inspired style. Every detail is thoughtfully curated for an authentic experience that is undeniably Auburn. 

Behind the reception desk, a custom installation showcases a football field with a soaring eagle – a reference to the beloved pre-game tradition where the crowd chants the ‘War Eagle’ battle cry as an eagle soars across the field before kickoff. Created in partnership with Auburn University legend and celebrated two-sport professional athlete, Bo Jackson’s Beans is located adjacent to the reception desk, offering a café and full-service bar, with a myriad of breakfast and lunch options, as well as a collection of signature cocktails. Located mere steps from where Jackson’s illustrious sports career began at Auburn University in 1982, Bo Jackson’s Beans features design elements that pay tribute to his legacy. A hand-carved wood statue of Bo Jackson anchors the back bar with barstools that proudly display his football jersey number, 34. 

“It was never about whether we wanted to be in Auburn, but always about finding the right site,” said Ben Weprin, founder, Graduate Hotels and CEO of AJ Capital Partners. “Every Graduate starts with the same foundation—research, tradition, and culture—but each outcome is totally different. For Auburn, the result is the physical manifestation of what it means to be an Auburn Tiger. From Bo Jackson’s legacy to the storied traditions of student life on and off campus, like The War Eagle Supper Club, you will feel the magic the second you walk in the door.”

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Facing Bo Jackson’s Beans in the lobby, guests will find a designated communal workspace open to visitors, locals, and students alike. The design features mismatched textiles, and block-printed walls, along with sport-themed custom chandeliers made from footballs, baseball bats, and gloves that nod to the sports Bo played professionally. The large communal table, a staple in all Graduate properties, includes thoughtfully designed light fixtures and comfortable seating, making for a practical and stylish area for study and collaboration.

In the guest rooms, an eclectic mix of gingham, stripes, and floral patterns in the Auburn University color palette take center stage. Each element thoughtfully pays homage to celebrated Auburn traditions, such as eagle-inspired sconces that reference the “War Eagle” battle cry and custom headboards depicting an oak tree as a nod to the age-old tradition where fans would “roll” or TP trees around Toomer’s Corner following an Auburn football win. A tribute to Auburn’s mascot comes in the form of tiger-print bolster pillows. Meanwhile, a lamp on the credenza commemorates the legendary “Bo Over the Top” play by Bo Jackson during the Iron Bowl – foregrounding one of Auburn’s most iconic athletic moments. Guest bathrooms feature custom orange and navy hexagonal tiles and wallpaper portraying local staples and Alabama folklore hand-drawn by artist Taylor Rushing.

Located on the hotel’s roof, The War Eagle Supper Club is an indoor-outdoor rooftop bar and restaurant that blends Auburn University’s history with a modern and lively dining atmosphere. This space is a reimagined version of the town’s longstanding War Eagle Supper Club – a local restaurant and venue founded more than 60 years ago where generations of Auburn students gathered for live music and late-night entertainment. Its infamous motto “Cold Beer Hot Rock Expect No Mercy” is prominently displayed above the central bar.

As guests enter The War Eagle Supper Club they are welcomed into a nostalgic and intimate setting that captures the essence of Auburn’s storied past. Warm paneling and intricate details like adorned stained glass and cast brass accents pay homage to the yesteryear of its namesake. 

Graduate Auburn, AL will also bring back a replica of the iconic “slush bus” – a repurposed school bus that for years was used to transport students home from late nights at the War Eagle Supper Club; a ride home which was widely considered a rite of passage for generations of Auburn students.