Graduate by Hilton Tempe

I was happy to come back after staying here a long time ago. The front desk staff were friendly, and since our room was ready when we arrived in the morning, they let us check in early. That was convenient and much appreciated. The room’s on the small side, but the beds were clean and really comfortable. I enjoyed the outdoor pool and jacuzzi in the sunshine. The shower has a fixed wall head, so a handheld one would be a nice addition. Water pressure and temperature were excellent. It’s a pleasant, comfortable hotel, and I’d be glad to stay again when I’m back in Tempe.

I travel every week, so I really appreciated how the front desk handled a room change I needed. They took care of it in spades. I’ve stayed at the Graduate many times over the years for work and love it. The rooms are clean and serviceable, most have balconies, and the location near the university is hard to beat. It works well for longer stays too, with a TV, HDMI, and convenient outlets. The restaurant downstairs could stay open later, but the bar and food spot by the pool is great until 10 most nights. There’s cute outdoor seating and fire tables. Thanks to the team.

Three stars feels generous. The staff were polite and the bed was comfortable, but that’s about it. Don’t count on much from the food, there are much better choices outside. I’d been here one night of a three-night stay and housekeeping still hadn’t come, even though it’s supposed to clean daily. My friend in the room next door did get her room cleaned. I asked for a double queen room and was told that was fine. But the key wouldn’t work. I went up and down the elevator three separate times over it, only to be told the room wasn’t actually available. This has been my most inconvenient stay to date.

The location was great, walkable and safe. Tyler and another gentleman at the front desk were so kind and accommodating. They gave us plenty of recommendations during our stay for the Fiesta Bowl.