Graduate by Hilton Cincinnati

The hotel offers a truly unique and memorable stay, distinguished by its quirky, colorful, and whimsical decor that delights guests of all ages. This signature feature creates an uplifting and fun atmosphere, making it an excellent choice for families seeking an engaging environment, college visitors due to its proximity to the university, and sightseers exploring local attractions like the zoo. Guests consistently highlight the hotel's cleanliness, comfortable accommodations, and the generally friendly service. For those planning a visit, it's advisable to be aware of the additional parking charges and to check the operating hours of on-site dining options to ensure they align with your schedule.

Facilities & Amenities
While the hotel does not feature a swimming pool, a point noted by several guests, it compensates with other well-regarded amenities. A well-equipped fitness center, complete with Peloton bikes, is available for guests to maintain their routines. The parking garage beneath the hotel is frequently praised for its convenience and ease of access, though it comes with an additional charge. Most rooms offer Wi-Fi, though some guests reported occasional connectivity issues. Some rooms include a mini-fridge, a welcome addition for many, but the absence of a microwave in rooms is a common observation. Guests also mention the availability of ice machines, though some found them difficult to locate or access.

Cleanliness & Room Comfort
Guests generally commend the cleanliness of the rooms, often describing them as well-maintained and tidy. The beds are consistently praised for being exceptionally comfortable, ensuring a restful night's sleep. The unique decor within the rooms, mirroring the hotel's overall whimsical theme, is a significant highlight for many. However, some guests reported issues such as stained linens or carpets, and a few noted a musty smell or humidity in their rooms. While most found the rooms quiet, some experienced noise levels from neighboring rooms or occasional sirens due to the hotel's proximity to hospitals. A recurring comment concerns the small bathrooms, with some guests also mentioning issues like dirty bathroom floors or low water pressure in showers.

Dining & Food Quality
The hotel features on-site restaurants, Fiona's and Poindexter, which receive positive feedback for their food quality and delicious offerings, including fresh and tasty options. Many guests appreciate the convenience of having these dining choices readily available. Breakfast options are generally well-received, though it is not complimentary and some guests noted issues with slow service or limited coffee availability in the morning. The bar service at Fiona's is frequently highlighted for its friendly and attentive staff, who are praised for crafting excellent drinks. However, some guests expressed disappointment that coffee is not freely available in the lobby and must be purchased, often with only a single packet provided in the room.

Location & Accessibility
The hotel boasts a highly convenient central location, particularly for those visiting the University of Cincinnati and the Cincinnati Zoo, both of which are within easy walking distance. Its proximity to several hospitals, including Cincinnati Children's Hospital and University Hospital, makes it an ideal choice for medical visitors. Guests find it easy to access downtown areas via a short drive or ride-share services. The parking garage is a significant advantage, offering convenient and secure parking with in-and-out privileges, though it is a paid service. While the immediate vicinity is generally considered safe, some guests noted the presence of sirens due to the nearby medical facilities.

Staff & Service
The hotel's staff consistently receives high praise for their friendliness, helpfulness, and attentive service. Guests frequently highlight the quick check-in process and the staff's willingness to accommodate requests, contributing to a very positive overall experience. Many reviews commend the customer service provided by various team members, noting their pleasant demeanor and knowledge of the hotel and local area. While the majority of feedback is overwhelmingly positive, a few guests reported isolated incidents of less attentive service, particularly at the bar during busy times, or communication challenges during unexpected events like power outages.

Additional Information
Guests should be aware that the hotel operates with a no daily housekeeping policy unless specifically requested, which some travelers found surprising. A deposit is typically required upon arrival, which is refunded after check-out. The hotel maintains a pet-friendly policy, accommodating guests traveling with animals. Some guests experienced elevator issues, including slow service or out-of-order elevators, which occasionally led to inconvenience. There were also isolated reports of reservation issues, such as prepaid bookings being cancelled or overcharged, requiring guests to rebook or seek refunds. The hotel does not offer a lobby store for convenience items, and some guests noted the absence of a microwave in their rooms.