Syracuse Sun

Syracuse University has announced its selection of Graduate by Hilton as the brand partner for a new full-service hotel to be developed on University Avenue, slated to open in the fall of 2027. The decision is a part of the University's wider housing strategy following its conversion of the former Sheraton Syracuse University Hotel into Orange Hall and its acquisition of Hotel Skyler, a Tapestry Collection hotel by Hilton.

Graduate by Hilton is recognized for its lifestyle brand, featuring 35 hotels situated in university-centered towns across the US and UK. The brand focuses on celebrating local history and nostalgia, incorporating these elements into the hotel design and culinary offerings to capture the essence of each university's community.

“Graduate is an ideal partner in helping us bring to life a distinctive and dynamic space that authentically represents the Syracuse University experience,” said Brett Padgett, Syracuse University's senior vice president and chief financial officer. “This collaboration will create a vibrant hub for both our campus and the broader Syracuse community, offering a welcoming destination during key moments like Orange game days, reunions, graduations, campus visits, and beyond. We’re thrilled to work together to build a space that reflects the unique spirit and character of Syracuse University.”

Kevin Osterhaus, president of global lifestyle brands for Hilton, shared enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “Syracuse University is the perfect partner as we continue the Graduate tradition of delivering collegiate-inspired hospitality to vibrant academic communities. Like the University, Graduate values lifelong learning and connection, and we are confident this hotel will become a beloved destination for visitors, locals, and fans alike.”

The upcoming hotel will consist of approximately 200 rooms, on-site parking, and a full-service restaurant serving three meals a day. Additionally, it will include event space and a rooftop bar and lounge with scenic views of the campus. The site will be located across from the University Avenue Garage at the corner of University Avenue and Harrison Street.

John Papazoglou, senior vice president and chief operations officer, expressed optimism about the project, “We are excited about the potential of this new hotel to enhance the overall experience for our campus community while providing a much-needed venue for visitors and events in the area. This development highlights how Syracuse University is advancing its strategic goals while contributing to the vibrancy of the City of Syracuse and Onondaga County.”

The University has appointed The Hardy Group as the project manager, with DLR Group as the designer and LeChase as the construction manager. They are currently in the process of selecting a third-party operator for the hotel.

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