Graduate by Hilton has made its highly anticipated Texas debut with the opening of Graduate Dallas in the historic Highland Park neighborhood. Designed to celebrate the energy of Southern Methodist University (SMU) and the charm of Texas traditions, the 93-key hotel is the latest milestone for the fast-growing lifestyle brand. Guests are greeted with an experience that merges mid-century modern architecture, ranch-inspired interiors, and the playful collegiate touches for which Graduate Hotels are known.
The property’s arrival marks a strategic step in Graduate by Hilton’s expansion into Texas, with another location planned in Austin. The Dallas location offers a mix of vibrant social spaces, local design nods, and a culinary program that reflects the bold flavors of the state. With an emphasis on connection—both to the neighborhood and the university—the hotel aims to be a hub for travelers and locals alike.
A Design That Honors Dallas Heritage
Graduate Dallas is a thoughtful reimagining of the former Lumen Hotel, developed and designed by AJ Capital Partners. Its mid-century geometric façade has been preserved while interiors were fully transformed to reflect the spirit of Texas ranch life and SMU pride. Guests encounter warm, tactile finishes: tanned leather seating, velvet sofas, cowhide ottomans, and shearling armchairs that encourage a sense of homey comfort. Handwoven textiles and locally inspired artwork tie the property to the culture of Dallas and its storied university community.
Upon entering the lobby, visitors are immediately immersed in local history and nostalgia. A large-scale vintage postcard of Exall Lake, a classic Dallas leisure spot, serves as a centerpiece above the hand-carved reception desk. The desk itself celebrates SMU with a galloping herd of wild mustangs. Star-shaped pendant lights, custom millwork, and potted native cacti complete the welcoming scene, bridging the line between indoor and outdoor aesthetics.
To foster social interaction, the hotel incorporates communal spaces that appeal to students, professionals, and leisure travelers. A long wooden table doubles as a coworking and gathering area, while a coffee counter in the lobby encourages casual meetups. By positioning the lobby as a public-facing hub, the property cultivates a genuine connection to the Highland Park neighborhood.
Los Charros Tex-Mex Smokehouse: A Culinary Tribute
The property’s signature restaurant, Los Charros Tex-Mex Smokehouse, draws inspiration from the colorful world of Mexican horsemen, known as charros, celebrated for their bold attire and equestrian heritage. This influence flows through the restaurant’s design and menu, marrying Tex-Mex flavors with the deep smoky essence of Texas barbecue.
Inside the restaurant, guests find an industrial-meets-rustic environment with reclaimed wood, patinated corrugated steel, and design elements that echo the hotel’s lobby. A striking ceiling mural, inspired by handwoven textiles, hangs over a communal dining table painted in a vivid red finish. Saddle-style stools line the bar, reinforcing the cowboy spirit that defines much of the property’s aesthetic. Lighting is a key element, with punched tin sconces and custom bolo-tie light fixtures that reflect the essence of Texas ranch culture.
- Menu highlights feature smoked brisket tacos, house-made tortillas, and charro bean sides.
- Tex-Mex staples meet barbecue classics, offering a unique duality of flavors.
- Communal dining encourages a social atmosphere reflective of the brand’s collegiate ethos.
Guest Rooms That Celebrate Texas Spirit
The 93 guest rooms at Graduate Dallas are designed as intimate retreats that blend mid-century modern elements with a spirited Texas personality. A red, white, and blue palette pays homage to both state and country, while grass cloth wallcoverings and navy-striped upholstered beds set a polished tone. Playful touches abound, including custom pillows embroidered with nods to SMU traditions and locally inspired artwork that brings the city’s culture indoors.
Bespoke design details define the in-room experience. Ceramic bedside lamps and lounge chairs upholstered in bluebonnet-inspired fabrics infuse a sense of place. Bathrooms retain original tilework, now enhanced with bold blue accents and horse-print wallpaper, providing a nod to the equestrian motifs that run throughout the property.
For travelers loyal to Hilton, the property is integrated into the Hilton Honors program, allowing guests to earn and redeem points, enjoy flexible payment options, and access member perks such as exclusive discounts and complimentary standard Wi-Fi. The Hilton Honors mobile app further enhances the stay with digital tools designed for convenience and personalization.
Event Spaces and Community Engagement
Beyond guestrooms and dining, Graduate Dallas offers versatile event spaces that make it a natural gathering place for celebrations, corporate functions, and university-related activities. Flexible meeting rooms and an outdoor terrace with a pool provide options for both intimate and larger gatherings. These areas are complemented by the property’s public design ethos, which encourages locals to treat the hotel as a communal space.
The outdoor pool and terrace serve as an oasis for relaxation, accented by greenery and offering views of the neighborhood. Guests can enjoy a laid-back afternoon or host private events in a setting that balances urban sophistication with a distinctly Texan backdrop.
| Feature | Highlights |
|---|---|
| Hotel Rooms | 93 rooms with mid-century and Texas-inspired interiors |
| Dining | Los Charros Tex-Mex Smokehouse featuring barbecue and Tex-Mex cuisine |
| Event Spaces | Flexible meeting rooms, outdoor terrace, and pool area |
| Design Elements | Vintage postcards, mustang motifs, handwoven textiles, and native cacti |
| Loyalty Program | Hilton Honors with member-exclusive perks and flexible booking options |
With its arrival in Highland Park, Graduate by Hilton introduces a hotel that is more than just a place to stay—it’s a curated experience of Texas hospitality, university culture, and nostalgic design. By blending social spaces, bold flavors, and a deep connection to local heritage, Graduate Dallas sets the stage for future openings across the Lone Star State, starting with Austin on the horizon.
