Graduate Columbus

Everything was expensive and it was just not family friendly. We did not expect the room to be so compact. For two adults and two kids (ages 9 & 10) we just could not get comfortable. We ended up cancelling our reservation and moving to a hotel that provided two queen beds at a significantly lower rate.

We stayed here for one night for a concert, and had our kids and two dogs with us. We were so happy that the hotel is pet friendly. Upon check-in, we received a welcome bag with dog treats and waste bags. There was a small area behind the hotel where our dogs could relieve themselves, and Goodale Park was a lovely 15 minute walk away. Our room was a bit small for the four of us plus our dogs, but if we didn’t bring our dogs, it was an okay size. The lighting in the room is too dim and outlets are in strange locations. We did enjoy the bathroom amenities — they smelled fresh. Front desk staff and valet was really friendly. The location is in a cute neighborhood with tons of restaurants, bars, and boutique shops. We were in town for a concert, and the arena was a 15 minute walk away. The Shake Shack is attached to the hotel, which was so convenient for a quick dinner. We did try the Homage Bar. I like the concept and decor (70s-90s Midwest theme), but the service was subpar (bartender was mostly on their phone). Their drinks and food were basic but tasty: we got BLTs and Old Fashioneds. The breakfast selection the next morning wasn’t really impressive — it’s a continental breakfast but you pay for each selection à la carte. Overall we enjoyed the theme, decor, location, front desk service, and pet friendliness of the hotel. Next time though we will visit as a couple or sans pets. Thank you Graduate Columbus!

Staff person at the front desk upon our arrival was very unfriendly snd unwelcoming. We had our small dog with us and she seemed very put off by this. We chose the hotel because it was dog friendly. She emphasized “do not leave your dog alone in the room” as if we were children to be scolded. We’re 60. I will not be back because of the welcome we received. The Junto also takes pets, so we will stay there the next time we’re in town to visit our daughter. We also stayed at the Cincinnati Graduate and our entire experience was delightful. Valet staff on the other hand were very friendly and very helpful. One valet waited for me outside as I looked for something in my car. He did not want me to be in The parking lot alone.

This is our second visit to The Graduate in the past year. We brought our kids and grandkids to a exhibit at The Columbus Museum of Art and for eating in great restaurants.

Pros: Location on Short North Cons: Majority of staff are college kids who don’t care. Valet parking only, well they take your keys, you pay $35 and watch them park your car 15 feet away from the valet stand in the small parking lot. When I did need my car I had to interrupt the valet person and the front desk staff who were texting together to ask the valet to please just give me my keys I had requested 15 minutes earlier. Rooms are smaller than dorm rooms. Rooms are dark. The noise from the hallway was a lot because there was a 1.5 inch gap between the floor and the door similar to a dorm room. Staff were more interested in their phones and guests were just an annoyance to them. Over priced and not reflective of the superior experience the website describes. I had every intent to talk to the manager however the manager at the desk when we were checking out displayed the same behaviors of the staff the previous evening…guests are just an annoyance.

This is a fun hotel for those with kitschy sensibilities. The rooms are smaller than average, and that made it a little tight for three people, so families may want to opt for the larger family suite options. The area is more suitable for the young and/or hip than those with small children, though. The Short North is a hot spot that has been revitalized in the last few decades, and it has lots of chic dining options and shopping for those interested in night life and foody fun.