Graduate By Hilton Columbia, S.C.

I stayed here four times in a year while my daughter was at USC. Service was average, with disengaged bar staff and tables left uncleared, though the front desk handled check-in and checkout well. Our last visit, with our dog, was the worst hotel experience we've had, and we're Diamond members and Aspire Hilton card members. We were put in a handicap accessible room, which had lower beds, a lower toilet, and a shower with a plastic curtain. The restaurant was disappointing, as expected. We checked in after 5, but there were no sheets because the hotel was booked. That wasn't our problem. Sarah, the Rooms Director (?), emailed after our complaint to say we were in the wrong. The front desk then called us to take our dog out of the room and around town because of one complaint. When I said that was a ridiculous suggestion, staff discussed how rude I was and heckled about whether to charge my card $75 or $150 for a noise violation. My college-aged kids were in the lobby waiting for us, and staff didn't know they could hear. They said they could evict us if “someone” complained a second time, and mentioned making up a complaint because of my attitude. I asked for a manager, who never contacted me, and called the Hilton honors line three times. Sarah wouldn't call despite three requests, through the front desk, Hilton honors, and email. She wrote that my dog was a problem and so was my attitude toward the front desk. The fee was removed after I told Hilton my son had recorded the conversation and posted it to Snapchat, as 18 year olds do. At least I had proof of how we were treated. Thanks to the Hilton honors help desk for sorting it out. I'll never stay here again and wouldn't recommend it, especially with a pet. They don't like pets and should make it a pet-free hotel.

The location is right across from campus, and I still like the old brick building, its porches and balconies, and the imaginative decor. We've stayed four times over the past six years, back when it was FKA The Graduate. Now it's The Graduate by Hilton, and it feels much more corporate than boutique, with prices up and less friendliness than before. Hilton owns the other two nearby hotel options and two or three more down the street, so it has most of a monopoly. A three-night stay cost $1200 on a weekend with no special event, plus “incidentals.” Parking alone was another $45, though it used to be free. Even Motel 6 has free parking and morning coffee. Here, coffee is $5 with no refills. When I asked to see the room before checking in, the receptionist said Hilton policy doesn't allow that. I don't think it's even a contract if you ask and can't see the room. The room itself isn't anything special. Nice place and good location, but way overpriced.

Shelby and Devin took great care of the food and drinks, and the evening went smoothly. My organization held a happy hour at the Graduate, and even with other events on the property, we had a lovely patio that felt private and comfortable. It was a fantastic event, and I'd absolutely host another gathering here.

We had a great time at the Trophy Room bar at Graduate Hotel on the campus of the University of South Carolina. Taylor and Tom were fantastic bartenders and treated us right. A great place to stop for a drink after work.