Name: Graduate by Hilton Evanston
Address: 1625 Hinman Ave, Downtown Evanston, Evanston, Illinois, United States of America, Evanston, Cook County, US
Price range: $179–$873 per night
Rating: 8.4

What guests think

Graduate by Hilton Evanston draws praise for its charming, historic, college-themed vibe and a walkable location near Northwestern, the lake, and downtown, while repeated complaints focus on chronic elevator problems and occasional service or maintenance hiccups.

Guests like the cozy rooms, unique decor, and pleasant front porch and bar. However, rooms can be small or noisy, and some report heating or A/C issues and housekeeping gaps. Parking and valet can be slow or tricky, and coffee options are limited or inconvenient. Expect a character-filled stay with some trade-offs typical of a historic property.

Facilities

Cleanliness

Rooms

Service

Location

Dining

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Facilities

Chronic elevator outages or a tiny, slow lift create access challenges, with multiple reviews noting ADA concerns. Positives include a cozy bar/restaurant, a popular front porch, and limited or slow valet with street parking that can be tricky.

Related guest reviews

6

Ana

May 20, 2024

·

Stayed 3 nights

All was great except the elevator who was broken. The staff is great.

8

Brian

Oct 8, 2023

·

Stayed 3 nights

First time since it became the Graduate. Really like what they did to renovate the rooms and hotel in general. Staff is super friendly and helpful. Unfortunately the main elevator was not working and the service elevator requires an employee to operate. That’s very inconvenient. I hope they repair or replace the elevators soon.

2

Kristin

Dec 6, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Cancelled my reservation due to the elevator being out of service. The elevator has been out of service for THREE months. I don't know why they are taking reservations when they can't honor them. The Graduate used to be my favorite hotel in Evanston. That is no longer the case. Completely unacceptable to let someone walk into the hotel at 7pm expecting to find their room ready. Also there was no one to help with my luggage (two suitcases plus two backpacks and three shopping bags.

10

Marcelle

Aug 1, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This place is just FUN! The decor and vibe are just right for the neighborhood and made our visit to tour Northwestern University completely delightful. It is super close to downtown and also just a short (less than 5 minutes) walk to Northwestern. The staff are wonderful and the property is historically beautiful. NOT handicapped accessible: lots of weird steps up/steps down in lobby, SMALL elevator (seems like it might have been the dumb waiter in a former life). Clean rooms and common areas, complimentary bike share, front porch with lots of rockers.

10

Gillian mary

Apr 22, 2023

·

Stayed 5 nights

The staff were friendly and helpful .The elevator was out of order but I was given a room on the 2nd floor and my case was taken up for me and down again when I left so had no problems with that .Loved my room and bathroom ,decorated to a high standard. Thank you for an enjoyable stay .

2

Mike

Mar 30, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

No elevators

4

Sarah

May 21, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Elevator situation is ridiculous at this hotel, third time staying here this year and mainly stay bc of location, hotel needs work and not as good as other Graduates- fix up!

6

Wendy

Aug 6, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

This Graduate Hotel is centrally located and stylish, but not without issues. Check-in was delayed due to an absent front desk clerk. The one tiny elevator was cramped, and our room door wouldn’t open without a weird pull before a hip shove. We only figured this out after a call to maintenance and another ride up and down the elevator. The biggest frustration was the lack of usable outlets, especially by the bed. We had to unplug a lamp in the far corner of the room just to charge our phones.

10

Keys

Jul 1, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The Graduate is our first choice when visiting Evanston. Please, please, please improve elevator situation. It’s the only draw back for us.

6

Susan

Oct 23, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The elevators were not working Saturday evening. This is a constant issue at this hotel and I don’t want to be walking up and down 5 flights of stairs.

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Cleanliness

Rooms and bathrooms are generally described as clean, but housekeeping can be inconsistent, with occasional missed service or restocking. A few maintenance-related cleanliness issues appear, like slow drains or edges needing vacuuming.

Related guest reviews

10

Sarah

Jun 1, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Convenient, clean, good value, nice sized rooms

10

Meghan

Nov 25, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The room was clean and great! We enjoyed our stay very much!

10

Kurt

May 17, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great location! The staff was friendly and helpful. The room was nice and clean. I will stay here again in the future.

10

Daniela

Jun 23, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Excellent location, nice room, very clean and pleasant

6

Jutta

Aug 23, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

Elevators were out of order. Bathroom cleanliness with issues. Staff was reluctant to reimburse because of inconvenience, they offered drink vouchers that are part of Expedia perks anyway

10

Kevin

Mar 23, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Friendly helpful staff, excellent breakfast, nice location, clean/ quiet/ comfortable stay. Thank you to all at the Graduate!

8

Jamie

Jun 18, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The property is very charming. Nestled right in a lovely neighborhood and close to the lake. Parking is only $35/day valet or atreet parking. Tons of great restaurants amd coffee ahops within walking distance. Room was spacious. The carpet was in need of a vaccum around the edges. And we thought it was strange there was no fan in the bathroom. Only other downfall was the very small and often times slow elevator. Overall a great property for the price.

10

Teddi

Dec 1, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

We love the graduate hotels but we left for a full day from 9 am- 9 pm amd came back to rooms that had not been cleaned by housekeeping 👎👎👎

10

Alhousseini Abdoulaye

Apr 16, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Clean bathroom and room. Good Valet service. But the receptionist on duty on Sunday April 14th around 16 hours needed to be more professional greeting guess. Other than that I enjoyed my stay at Graduate Hotel. Thanks.

4

Anisah

Jun 27, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Unfortunately I did not enjoy my stay at this quaint hotel. No one had mentioned you do not housekeeping unless you specially request. This is not a 4 star hotel. At best a 3 star hotel. Even though I did ask for them to come it stayed unkept. The front desk is really nice but unfortunately this hotel is like stepping into the 70s and not in a way you want. The headboard being against the wall of the door is perfect so you can hear all the doors open and close through the hallway. Just weird. The breakfast was expensive and honestly not good at all. I was dissatisfied a lot by that thinning it would be a highlight. If chef can’t fry an egg without cooking the yolk, they probably shouldn’t be frying the eggs. The exterior is charming but other than that I will pass on this location since would rather have housekeeping and good breakfast daily. Unfortunate though bc I wanted to like it. The street it’s on it’s adorable.

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Rooms

Rooms feature characterful, college-themed decor; many find them cozy and comfortable, with some spacious layouts and occasional lake views. Downsides include small layouts, noise from halls or elevators, and recurring heating or A/C control problems.

Related guest reviews

10

Sean

Sep 26, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great hotel. Great vibe. Rooms are small. Elevator is small. Great location to campus, downtown Evanston, the lake and the El.

8

Tyler

Jul 15, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

I love staying at The Graduate in Evanston. The rooms have a cool decor and the hotel maintains the history of the building it's in. It's honestly like walking back in time in a good way. After staying here a couple times, I would love for the TV casting to be more reliable and a bigger main elevator that is ADA compliant. Getting to any of the elevators and up or down in them is honestly a hassle. They're the smallest elevators I've ever seen in a hotel and to get to them you have to drag your bags up a couple random stairs. Not sure how it's ADA compliant at all. You have to be able bodied to get into the elevator. Other than that, the staff I've interacted with are great. The front doormen / valets are on it. And there's a cool bar & restaurant I'll have to check out next time I visit.

10

Aaron

Dec 18, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The room was amazing. Lake view with a fireplace (non functional). Great service and location for my wife's graduation ceremony from Northwestern. Our 2nd stay there and we love it.

6

Laura

Sep 20, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Everything was fine except the thermostat in the room. It was set to 68 (on cool) and the controls did not work, so I couldn't adjust it. I contacted the front desk twice about it. Once I was told they could bring a heater to my room - what?! And make the cold air blow more to keep it at the 68 setting that couldn’t be changed?! The second time I was told they would send a technician to check/fix it right away. If they did so while I wasn’t in the room, nothing changed. The thermostat controls never worked during my stay and the room stayed cooler than needed/comfortable, particularly at night.

6

coco

Feb 18, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The room is old and small .

8

Troy

Jul 28, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

The location and property itself is great. My minor issues is that there is not an ice machine so I had to constantly ask the staff for ice. Our bed could also be replaced at this point. The walls are definitely not soundproof but for the most part it was quiet.

6

Yuxi

Jun 28, 2024

·

Room decor: 7.5/10 -- very good Bed sheets: 5/10 -- average Cleaning service: 7/10 -- good Noise: 3/10 -- very bad; had to wear headphones to go to sleep Front desk service: 3/10 -- bad; a fire alarm went off when I was having a Zoom meeting, which they did not let me know prior Internet speed: 6/10 -- good Overall: All good except when it comes to noise. I can hear everything from upstairs, downstairs, next door, and on the corridor. Could not fall asleep without earphones on. I'd be really cautious of staying at Graduate if you're also sensitive to noise.

10

Ginnie

Nov 1, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Wonderful, large room. Beautiful view of the lake. Comfy bed. Great shower.

10

Dawn

Sep 29, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

What a fun place to stay! Room was spacious, service was excellent, and we loved the front porch! Just a few suggestions.....better coffee in the rooms The instant coffee didn't work for us. And pillows were too stiff, but other than that...so much to like! Would definitely return!

8

Heather

Nov 10, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Staff was very nice. Beds were painfully springy and hard. One room had a heater that wouldn't come on but they brought a space heater which over heated and the windows would not open nor central unit air come on. Other than that the place is beautiful and neighborhood nice.

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Service

Staff are frequently praised as friendly, helpful, and welcoming, though some guests report slow responses, understaffing, or occasional rudeness at the front desk or bar.

Related guest reviews

8

Steven

Jun 25, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Amazing boutique hotel location in the middle of Evanston - easy walk to the Northwestern. Very helpful service.

4

Rachel

Sep 25, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

The service was terrible. I had to make each request several times. I was given a room next to a broken elevator making a beeping sound. My room had to be changed for this reason at 2 AM. The person making the change was unkind about it and refused to take responsibility. It was one of the worst hotel stays I've ever had. Very disappointing, as I was exhausted and had looked forward to a comfortable room.

8

Danielle

Jul 14, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

My stay at the Graduate by Hilton in Evanston, was nice. Although I found service to be a little lackluster. Nick, at reception was very pleasant, however not having enough staff made for long lines, and unanswered calls. The hotel is located in a quiet residential area, steps alway from the beach. Unfortunately, we were unable to receive housekeeping service due not having adequate staffing. Towels and toiletry requests were granted, again wait times were long. The porch offered rocking chairs for seating, which I found cute, as well as reminiscent of the south.

8

douglas

Oct 18, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

The staff was very attentive, helpful, and courteous

10

Richard

Aug 25, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

I’m not remembering names, but the ladies working Friday evening and Saturday morning were the nicest front desk hotel employees I’ve ever encountered. Absolutely perfect stay.

10

Marilisa

Dec 26, 2025

·

Stayed 5 nights

The rooms are comfortable. The staff is so very pleasant. Breakfast is good. The bar is great!

10

Kevin

Mar 23, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Friendly helpful staff, excellent breakfast, nice location, clean/ quiet/ comfortable stay. Thank you to all at the Graduate!

10

Erin

May 14, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful property and rooms. Most of the staff were friendly and helpful but the two people during Saturday check-in were not friendly nor welcoming.

10

Patrick

Sep 11, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Chandler was a gift. He went the extra mile to resolve a booking problem, not of Hilton creation. He gives Hilton a good name. It would be in your best interest to do what ever is necessary to keep him. My I suggest a bonus and/or a promotion.

8

Christopher

Jul 1, 2024

·

Stayed 9 nights

Staff was very friendly and helpful. Housekeeping was somewhat inattentive but not so much that we wouldn’t stay again. Single elevator seemed to inconvenience guests a bit.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Location

Exceptionally convenient for Northwestern, the lakefront, and downtown Evanston, in a quiet residential area with easy walks to restaurants and shops.

Related guest reviews

10

Sean

Sep 26, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

Great hotel. Great vibe. Rooms are small. Elevator is small. Great location to campus, downtown Evanston, the lake and the El.

10

Susan

Apr 11, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

The building and rooms are beautifully decorated and comfortable, The hotel is located in the center of Evanston within easy walking distance of the lakefront parks and beaches, the northwestern campus, and the core of downtown Evanston. Excellent bar and restaurant in the hotel - but there are also dozens of eateries close by.

10

Lauren

Feb 19, 2023

·

Stayed 2 nights

Graduate Evanston is a great option for when you're visiting Northwestern. It's close to campus and has a lot of character. Very cute and comfy room. Nice staff, too

10

Tanya

Nov 9, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Beautiful rooms that are close to the lake and about 15 minutes from the train (CTA Purple line). It's a nice quiet escape north of Chicago.

10

Kara

May 13, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Location to campus is key. And the front porch is a lovely place to sit and people watch

10

Michael

Oct 20, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

I was pleasantly by the condition of the Hotel. An amazing hotel for the price, obviously make sure to book well in advance if your stay coincides with NW University events. The rooms are quaint with high quality furnishings. The hotel is also located walking distance from anything you might want to do during your stay!

10

Timothy

Sep 6, 2024

·

Stayed 4 nights

Wonderful hotel in beautiful neighborhood that’s close to many great restaurants.

10

edward j.

May 29, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Great location. Easy access to Northwestern University campus and retail district. Cool hotel.

10

Beth

Jul 23, 2025

·

Stayed 3 nights

I loved it charm and character. Very nicely appointed.Wuiet and peaceful. It has a lovely porch sitting area with rocking chairs and tables. Great location. Easy walk to shops and restaurants Close to lake

8

Li

Jul 3, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Very good location near Northwestern University campus and Evanston downtown.

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Dining

On-site bar and restaurant earn frequent praise for tasty breakfasts, cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere, but several reviews cite overpriced or limited options and weak coffee. In-room coffee is often instant only.

Related guest reviews

8

CODY

May 28, 2025

·

Stayed 7 nights

This hotel has an intimate, relaxed, informal atmosphere. Staff is friendly and helpful. Restaurant and bar on premises is convenient; food is well prepared and tasteful. Rooms are individually appointed and spacious. Located in an upscale residential neighborhood.

10

Ashlee

Nov 18, 2023

·

Stayed 1 night

The bartender was not friendly and the coffee was terrible. Other than that this hotel was amazing! Safe, beautiful, unique and very clean. Would highly recommend.

8

Ross R

Sep 22, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Mostly really fine in every respect but the in-house restaurant food was below average and way overpriced.

10

Erskine

May 28, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great convenient location, restaurant has great food.

10

Natasha

Apr 3, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

A wonderful experience. The restaurant and bar were excellent.

10

Lee

Dec 21, 2025

·

Stayed 2 nights

Great food, friendly service

10

Marilisa

Dec 26, 2025

·

Stayed 5 nights

The rooms are comfortable. The staff is so very pleasant. Breakfast is good. The bar is great!

8

Diana

Apr 15, 2025

·

Stayed 1 night

Very pretty hotel, but a little heavy on Northwestern decor. If you are associated with northwestern I guess that could be fun. The TV was in an odd corner of the room- can’t lie in bed and watch. The biggest problem is the coffee situation- only instant coffee in the rooms, and no coffee in the lobby. That would help a lot especially if you don’t want to sit in the restaurant for breakfast.

4

Wayne

Jun 15, 2024

·

Stayed 2 nights

The food choices were awful. Dinner selection was a zero.

10

Andrew

Jun 13, 2024

·

Stayed 1 night

Fantastic. Location, setting, staff, room, restaurant, and bar were top- notch. I expect and always have a great stay at the Graduate Hotels.

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AI-generated summary based on recent guest reviews

Month	Average price
January	$107
February	$117
March	$137
April	$201
May	$268
June	$298
July	$244
August	$221
September	$275
October	$282
November	$153
December	$109

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
		1	2	3	4	5
6	7	8	9	10	11	12
13	14	15	16 $482	17 $390	18 $448	19 $438
20 $202	21 $263	22 $374	23 $479	24 $372	25 $289	26 $433
27 $179	28 $179	29 $188	30 $304

Su	Mo	Tu	We	Th	Fr	Sa
				1 $409	2 $873	3 $491
4 $190	5 $179	6 $179	7 $179	8 $313	9	10
11 $446	12 $179	13 $180	14 $201	15 $404	16 $441	17 $414
18 $213	19 $350	20 $368	21 $316	22 $410	23	24
25 $575	26 $196	27 $180	28 $180	29 $180	30 $179	31 $180

Select dates to see prices and availability

Monthly average prices

About this property

Location

Room options

Room, 1 King Bed

Room, 1 King Bed (Wet Bar)

Room, 1 King Bed, Corner

Room, 1 King Bed (Roll-In Shower)

Room, 2 Double Beds

Room, 1 Queen Bed (Home Alone Room)

Room, 1 King Bed, Lake View

Suite (Home Alone Suite)

Room, 1 Queen Bed

Room, 1 King Bed, Bathtub

Suite, 1 Queen Bed

Guest reviews

Very good

Who stays here?

What guests think

Property Policies

Check-in instructions

Security deposit

Good to know

Optional extras

FAQs about Graduate by Hilton Evanston

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Prices for upcoming dates