Overview
by Courtney Elko
Smack dab in the heart of gorgeous Ann Arbor, steps from restaurants, theaters, shops and from the University of Michigan’s campus, the Graduate Ann Arbor hotel is a prime piece of elegant real estate when visiting family members attending the university, going to a Wolverines game or just passing through with the kids.
Upon walking into the Graduate Ann Arbor, you’ll feel as though you’ve entered study hall instead of a hotel. The campus-theme décor and touches can be found throughout the hotel, which opened in 2016. There are rulers and chalkboards on the walls, and the giant 40-foot communal wood table in the lobby is surrounded by book shelves and cozy seats. Your room key looks like a college ID card and the “Do Not Disturb” sign is a college banner saying you’re studying and can’t be disturbed. These cute touches in a college town (the hotel is located next to the University of Michigan campus) do not go unnoticed and are a welcome design upgrade.
The guestrooms and suites are spacious and continue the old-school college theme with plaid blankets and cabinets that look like old library card catalogue cabinets. The onsite cafe and lounge are great places to grab breakfast or a snack throughout the day. Or grab one of the complimentary hotel bikes and pedal to one of Ann Arbor’s great nearby dining options. Pets are also welcome to stay here at no additional charge.
Families seeking to stay in style and be centrally located in Ann Arbor will enjoy a stay at Graduate Ann Arbor.
Our Editor Loves
- Central location in Ann Arbor
- Complimentary bicycle rentals
- Old-school college décor and touches
Family Interests
- Bicycling
- Golf
- Museum/Cultural
- Water Parks
Family Amenities
- Cribs
- Family Room 5+
- Free Wi-Fi
- Onsite Dining
- Refrigerator
Room Information
Find the Best Price for Your Stay
There are 204 guestrooms and suites in this 14-story building. Complimentary Wi-Fi can be found throughout the hotel. Pet-friendly rooms, with no additional pet fee, are available. Cribs are available upon request.
Guestrooms
The guestrooms feature a king or two queen beds and can sleep between two and four people. They feature a flat-screen television, docking station, mini-fridge, coffeemaker and a stand-up shower in the bathroom. The deluxe and premium guestrooms offer a bit more space and a small sitting area as well.
Suites
The spacious suites feature a king or two queen beds with a separate living room area that includes a sleeper sofa. They can sleep between two and six people. There is a flat-screen television in each room, docking station, mini-fridge, coffeemaker and a stand-up shower in the bathroom.
Reviews
by Kspeller
Visiting for a conference at the University of Michigan was lucky enough to stay at the Graduate. They’ve done a great job of making it look both trendy and traditional. Great attention to detail with the black boards, rulers decorating reception etc. Has a lovely relaxed atmosphere, people studying, working or buying coffee from the concession. We had a deluxe king room which was beautiful. Decked out in a ‘college’ theme, plenty of space, coffee machine, safe, hairdryer and decent toiletries. Perfectly clean and made up every day. We are in the restaurant, excellent burger, excellent service sitting by the pool table. Also spent some time at the bar, had some wonderful cocktails made by Tanya. Great stay, hopefully I’ll get to return one day.
by SFitzFallsChurch_VA
My tab was picked up by others, but it was, for me, a neat change from the old expensive blandness of the Campus Inn. I found the staff to be very friendly, and am puzzled by the complaints about cleanness. It seemed to have a young vibe, but also older regulars in the bar and restaurant. As an "older" Michigan alum, I LOVED a bathroom featuring Michigan sheet music. The decor of my room was sort of turn-of-the century dark frat, but better than motel bland. Used the coffee bar in the morning for a quick breakfast, though the Egg sandwich was not quick for someone in a rush. Can't beat the convenient location. No "business center" but staff was gracious about printing out something for someone who prefers that medium.
Family Activities
Complimentary Bikes
Free bicycle rentals are available at the Graduate so families can explore Ann Arbor in style. The complimentary bikes are available at the front desk, based on availability.
Loaner Headphones
No fear if your teen forgot his headphones, because the hotel offers a loaner pair just in case. Guests can borrow a pair of custom LSTN headphones from the front desk, based on availability.
Family Dining
Poindexter Coffee
This onsite café is located in the lobby and features more than coffee. This is a great stop for breakfast or lunch. Hot breakfast sandwiches are available, along with fresh salads, grilled cheese and tomato soup, smoothies, pressed juices and coffee drinks. The café is open from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.
Allen Rumsey Cocktail Lounge
Located just off the lobby, this retro lounge with green leather chairs and plaid booths serves cocktails and dinner. Some menu items include jambalaya, sandwiches, pasta, short ribs and more. A billiard table can also be found here. Food is served from 4 to 10 p.m. daily. The bar is open until midnight.
Planning & Tips
All About the Extras
- Pet Friendly
The whole family can stay at the Graduate, even your four-legged friends. Pets stay for free here AND they get their own pup perks, compliments of BarkBox. Guestrooms with pet guests will also feature a bowl and blanket, which are available for purchase to take home. - Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel. - Parking
Valet parking is the only parking option at the hotel and is an additional cost. - Fitness Center
Located on the third floor, the 24-hour fitness center offers cardio and weight machines.
The Best Time to Visit
Ann Arbor is a four-season vacation destination, with families visiting the area for college events throughout the year. The hotel is especially busy for graduation day at the University of Michigan.
Getting There
The Detroit Metropolitan Wayne County Airport is located about 40 minutes away, making it the most convenient airport for those visiting Ann Arbor.
Getting Around
The Graduate Ann Arbor is located in downtown Ann Arbor, which is a very walkable area with paved sidewalks and plenty of room for strollers. Families can walk to restaurants and shops when staying here. But a vehicle is needed to explore more of Ann Arbor and the areas surrounding it. Paid public parking is available throughout town.
For Parents
- Bar
Adults will love to have a nightcap at the Allen Rumsey Cocktail Lounge, located just off the lobby. There is also outdoor bar seating in the warmer months and a billiard table can also be found at the lounge. Food is served here from 4 to 10 p.m. daily. The bar is open until midnight.