Graduate by Hilton has opened its first Texas location in Dallas, situated in Highland Park across from Southern Methodist University (SMU). The hotel features 93 guest rooms, an outdoor pool and terrace, event spaces, and a Tex-Mex style restaurant called Los Charros Smokehouse.
Parker Henderson, brand leader for Graduate by Hilton, commented on the significance of the new opening. “Introducing the Graduate brand to Texas—one of the country’s largest and most dynamic markets—is a major milestone for us,” Henderson said. “A Graduate in Dallas’s Highland Park was a natural fit, as the property brings our collegiate-inspired hospitality to a neighborhood that reflects our core values of lifelong learning. It also kickstarts the brand’s Texas expansion with another property slated to open in Austin.”
Henderson added, “A Graduate in Dallas’s Highland Park was a natural fit, as the property brings our collegiate-inspired hospitality to a neighborhood that reflects our core values of lifelong learning.”
The project is led by AJ Capital Partners, which restored the former Lumen Hotel while keeping its original mid-century architecture. The redesign includes local design elements such as tanned leather and velvet sofas, cowhide ottomans, shearling armchairs, and handwoven textiles. The hotel’s public-facing layout is intended to foster connections with both guests and locals.
Ben Weprin, founder of Graduate Hotels and CEO and founder of AJ Capital Partners, described the motivation behind bringing the brand to this area. “Bringing a Graduate to Texas—particularly in the heart of Highland Park, one of Dallas’ most storied neighborhoods—has been a longtime goal,” Weprin said. “This is a community full of character, tradition, and creative energy, and we’re honored to bring this project to life in a way that reflects all of that through design, storytelling, and the nostalgic traditions that live on at SMU.”
Design features include a vintage postcard above the reception desk referencing Exall Lake and wild mustang carvings paying tribute to SMU. The lobby also includes star-shaped pendant lights and native plants.
Los Charros Smokehouse serves Tex-Mex dishes alongside Texas barbecue favorites. Its decor draws inspiration from Mexican horsemen known as los charros as well as local ranch culture.
Guest rooms are designed with mid-century modern influences using red, white, and blue color schemes along with custom artwork referencing SMU. Bathrooms retain original tilework enhanced with new accents.
Graduate Dallas participates in Hilton Honors loyalty program benefits for members booking directly through Hilton channels.
Guests can now reserve rooms at Graduate by Hilton Dallas.
