Quick Highlights:
- Our #1 ranking best college hotel is Washington Duke Inn – Duke, Durham, North Carolina, followed by Ivy Court Inn & Suites – Notre Dame, South Bend, Indiana.
- Unique hotels near colleges offer above-and-beyond services for visitors.
- Hotels embrace university culture with tailgating, transportation, and nearby dining.
- Many hotels have won awards and provide special services like spas and concierge.
Parents, alumni and visitors of universities who don’t want a cookie-cutter hotel experience, look no further. Below is a list of 50 unique hotels with above-and-beyond services and accommodations, all in close proximity to some of the country’s best colleges and universities.
University visitors want to stay somewhere that truly embraces university culture. From on-campus hotels, to boutiques that allow pre-game tailgating in their parking lots, this list has it all. Many of these establishments offer complimentary transportation to and from university events and are within walking distance of shopping, dining and nightlife. These hotels reject the “just a place to sleep” mentality, offering a memorable experience for every visit.
Our selections were based on the following criteria:
• Ratings from AAA, Forbes Travel Guide and TripAdvisor• The little things that make an experience great, like in-room microwaves and safes, bathrobes and complimentary newspapers• Facilities, such as fitness and business centers, dining options and parking access• Proximity to university campuses and activities• Involvement with university culture
If you are looking for a fabulous hotel, then look no further than our Top College Campus Hotels.
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Duke University
This hotel and golf course is conveniently located on the campus of Duke University. The hotel has received AAA’s Four-Diamond Award numerous years and hosts three restaurants, including the Fairview Dining Room which has been acknowledged by AAA and Forbes for its locally-grown ingredients and seasonally-inspired cuisine. The 18-hole golf course, which was listed in Golfweek’s “Top Ten Golf Courses in North Carolina,” is open to all. Guests can participate in group or private lessons led by a handful of PGA professionals. The inn also offers a full-service bar, business center with computer and printer, fully equipped fitness center, 3-mile jogging trail and indoor pool and Jacuzzi for guests to enjoy.
Accommodations:• Access to Duke Faculty Club with an outdoor pool, tennis and basketball courts• Complimentary daytime valet service, $10 overnight valet service and free parking• Mini bar• Digital safe• Hair dryer and bathrobes• Premium cable channels• Complimentary weekday newspaper• Nespresso coffee maker• Turndown service and same-day laundry• Private transportation to the airport• Complimentary transportation to all Duke University campuses and the Ninth Street entertainment district• Wireless Internet access and a desk and workstation
Notre Dame University
You will find Ivy Court Inn & Suites right across the street from the Notre Dame campus. During Notre Dame football season, the hotel hosts pre-game radio broadcasts and invites guests to tailgate in the parking lot or on the lawn. A fireplace, wraparound porch and freshly baked cookies help guests wind down after a day of excitement.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Cable TV• Microwave, refrigerator and coffee maker in every room• Hair dryer• Complimentary USA Today newspaper• Free parking• Print services• Guest computer and printer• Rent bikes for $10/day
University of Virginia
Recipient of AAA’s Four-Diamond Award and the official hotel for the University of Virginia, the Boar’s Head is a one-stop spot for staying, dining and playing. The resort’s Birdwood Golf Course offers an 18-hole golfing experience with an incredible view of the Blue Ridge Mountains. Boar’s Head was recognized by Tennis Magazine as the #1 Tennis Destination in the Mid-Atlantic region, and offers 26 courts and professional instruction for players of all ability levels. In addition to taking advantage of the resort’s sports club, swimming pools and bike rentals, guests can relax at the spa, and enjoy a Four-Diamond dining experience at the resort’s restaurant. Special membership rates are available for UVA staff, faculty, alumni and parents of current students.
Accommodations:• Three swimming pools, including a heated, 6-lane, 25 meter pool• Fitness classes, seasonal hot ballooning, personal training, golf and tennis instruction available• Balcony or patio• Fireplace• Bathrobe and hair dryer• Writing desk, wireless Internet and cable TV• Mini-refrigerator
University of Vermont
The only independent, all-suite hotel in the Burlington area, Green Mountain Suites offers unique amenities, including a fully equipped kitchen, living room and separate bedroom(s) in each suite. The hotel provides a Fireside Breakfast each morning and a Fireside Reception each weeknight with drinks and dinner offerings. Guests have access to the exercise facility, fire pit and barbeque courtyard and indoor swimming pool and Jacuzzi. Those visiting the University of Vermont can also take advantage of the daily complimentary shuttle.
Accommodations:• Coffee maker• Daily newspaper available• Valet services• Safe deposit boxes available• Wireless Internet
Dartmouth College
Staying true to Ivy League tradition, this boutique hotel adds a sophisticated touch to the traditional hotel experience. Hanover Inn is a recipient of the AAA Four-Diamond award for its superb accommodations and customer service. Guests may dine at the Hanover’s PINE restaurant for American food and relax at the full-service spa. The 108 guest rooms that make up this establishment feature blackout drapes, flat screen TVs and New England-style décor.
Accommodations:• Bathrobe, hair dryer, in-room safe• Refrigerator• Wireless Internet• Complimentary newspaper• Pass to nearby fitness center• Hair dryers• Dry cleaning services• Eco-friendly
University of Texas at Austin
This AAA Four-Diamond-rated establishment includes all of the basic luxuries of a small boutique hotel, including complimentary wireless Internet, curated mini bars, luxury bed linens and complimentary bathrobes. The 24-hour fitness room allows guests to stay active during their stay. For meals, visitors can take advantage of Goodall’s Kitchen, the hotel’s American-style dining facility. Hotel Ella is located just six blocks to the east of the University of Texas at Austin, also within walking distance of the Pease District Park, Shoal Creek walking trail and the Blanton Museum of Art. Also nearby are the shops, dining and nightlife of 6th Street, as well as Austin City Hall, the Alamo Drafthouse and various museums and outdoor recreation activities. Hotel Ella offers a complimentary car service to destinations within a 3-mile radius of the establishment.
Accommodations:• In-room laptop safe• Hair dryer• Electric car charging station• Custom skin and natural body care products• Complimentary local newspaper• Valet parking
Arizona State University
Tempe Mission Palms is recognized in TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame and has received AAA’s Four-Diamond Award. The hotel offers a workout facility, rooftop heated swimming pool and tennis and basketball courts, two Jacuzzi spas and a business center. Daily airport transportation is also provided. Arizona State University’s Tempe campus is a short walk away, as is Mill Avenue with access to various shops and restaurants.
Accommodations:• Valet service• In-room coffee and tea service• Wireless Internet• In-room spa services
University of North Carolina
Located on the campus of the University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, this inn has received a Four-Star rating from Forbes and the Four-Diamond Dining Award from AAA for its Crossroads Chapel Hill restaurant. Most overnight packages include breakfast, lunch or dinner at the dining facility. The hotel offers a fully equipped fitness center and a complimentary shuttle to UNC’s Finley Golf Course. Nearby, visitors can check out Franklin Street’s dining, nightlife and shopping, as well as the Research Triangle Park, the Memorial Hall Performing Arts Theater and the Ackland Art Museum.
Accommodations:• Complimentary local transportation• Valet parking• Turndown service• Dry cleaning• USA Today newspaper available in lobby• In-room coffee and tea
Auburn University
A quick walk from Auburn University and Auburn’s bars and restaurants, this hotel offers two ballrooms, a café and the Ariccia Trattoria restaurant and bar where guests can enjoy live jazz music. Guests can also take advantage of the pool and fitness center.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Microwave and fridge• Coffee maker• Electric car charging station• AAA Four Diamond hotel• 2024 Tripadvisor Travelers’ Choice Award
Ohio State University
Located on the Ohio State University campus, this establishment is a popular stop for alumni and visitors of the university. The Blackwell was rated #1 in Columbus by U.S. News & World Report, is on Forbes’ list of Four-Star rated hotels, and has received TripAdvisor’s Certificate of Excellence for five consecutive years, earning it a spot on TripAdvisor’s Hall of Fame. Onsite, the Blackwell offers 24-hour business and fitness centers, a fireside lobby lounge and a restaurant and bar.
Accommodations:• Complimentary airport transport• Wireless Internet• Coffee maker• Weekday newspaper• Hair dryer• Turndown service• In-room safe
Kansas State University
The Bluemont Hotel is adjacent to Kansas State University campus, within walking distance of the Aggieville shops and restaurants. The hotel offers a business center, complete with a printer and copier. Active guests can also enjoy the heated pool and 24-hour fitness center with free weights, treadmills and elliptical machines. The Bluemont Hotel has also partnered with Green Apple Bikes for the first bike share program in Manhattan. Guests may use the rental bikes for free.
Accommodations:• Complimentary breakfast• Internet service• Same-day dry cleaning• Safety deposit boxes• Pet friendly
Columbia University
Nestled on a quiet, tree-lined street, Hotel Belleclaire is in a perfect location for guests who desire a relaxing environment with quick access to local attractions and businesses. Within 4 miles of the establishment are 11 schools, including Columbia University (2 miles), Fordham University (.9 miles) and New York University (3.9 miles). This hotel offers a media lounge with arcade games, mac computers and a printing station for boarding passes. A 24-hour fitness center is also available.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Daily newspaper• Overnight shoeshine
Yale University
A lifestyle hotel located right by Yale University’s Art Campus, this establishment features a gallery of art created by Yale art and architecture students and a library of books by Yale authors. The hotel offers a 24-hour Lobby Café and a fitness center, as well as complimentary tickets to the university’s athletic events, stage productions and concerts.
Accommodations:• Leather chair and reading lamp• Pet-friendly• Wireless Internet• Complimentary passes to the Payne Whitney Gym located on the Yale campus
University of Missouri
Within short walking distance of The University of Missouri’s Columbia campus and a number of restaurants, stores and bars, this full-service, boutique hotel is the perfect choice for visiting parents and alumni. The establishment features a business center and a Grand Ballroom for special events. Eco-friendly touches such as glass cups, recycling programs, automatic faucets, and the use of eco-friendly cleaning products help minimize your footprint during your stay.
Accommodations:• Same-day dry cleaning/laundry service• Quiet hours from 11 p.m. – 9 a.m.• Valet services• Work desks, clock radios, Keurigs, laptop safes and iPod sound systems in every room• Wireless Internet• Turndown service
University of Washington
Located just down the street from University of Washington, this hotel is the perfect choice for parents and alumni attending university events. The hotel offers a fitness center with cardio equipment and free weights, and guests can also enjoy the 27-mile Burke Gilman Trail runs nearby. Available eateries include the hotel’s Post Alley Café or its District Lounge restaurant. Parking here is $20 per night and wireless Internet is complimentary. Explore the town by bike which can be borrowed from the front desk. Pets can stay for $75 per night.
Accommodations:• In-room safe• DVD players and clock radios• Wireless Internet
University of Iowa
Located on the University of Iowa campus, Iowa House offers visitors of the university a convenient place to stay with quick access to ISU sporting events, eateries, and the wellness center. Access to the wellness center is free to guests of the hotel, and includes use of the lazy river and rock wall. The hotel offers guestrooms with scenic views of the Iowa River. Special rates are available for Hawkeye fans during home football games.
Accommodations:• Free parking• Daily breakfast• Wireless Internet
University of Kansas
The Oread is the Jayhawk fans’ first choice for lodging in Lawrence, with plenty of accommodations and a great location: just one block away from KU’s memorial stadium and a short walk from Massachusetts Street’s many boutique shops and restaurants. The hotel has a fitness center and multiple onsite restaurants and bars, including the Cave nightclub.
Accommodations:• Mini refrigerator• Wireless Internet• Tanning• Valet parking• Hair dryer
Flagler College
The historic building is located a short walk away from Flagler College campus and a number of restaurants and attractions, including St. George Street. Other area attractions include the Guana River State Park, St. Augustine Cemetery, the Coquina Lighthouse and St. Augustine’s Alligator Farm, in addition to various beaches, ghost tours and historic churches. The establishment sits on a charming, tree-lined street. Inside, guests enjoy elegant décor in a relaxed environment. The inn provides full gourmet, two-course breakfasts daily.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Parlour with complimentary wine, cookies and healthy snacks• Hair dryer and bathrobe• In-room heating and AC unit• Free parking
University of Michigan
Weber’s Boutique Hotel offers guests an onsite restaurant with an extensive menu and nightly entertainment, as well as an indoor salt water pool, sauna, whirlpool spa, 24-hour fitness room, business center and the Cabana Café. Runners and walkers can also take advantage of the nearby Dolph Park and Nature Area trail.
Accommodations:• Business desk• Refrigerator and coffee maker• Hair dryer• Pinball arcade, table tennis and pool table• In-room safe• Complimentary newspaper• Same-day dry clean service• Electric vehicle charging station
Washington and Lee University
Located in Shenandoah Valley, this boutique inn features a lively piano bar, beautiful scenery and close proximity to the Virginia Military Institute, Washington and Lee University, shopping and restaurants. Nearby, visitors can also enjoy recreational activities such as hiking, kayaking, white water rafting and skiing.
Accommodations:• Walk-in shower, hair dryer and bathrobe• Wireless Internet• Complimentary continental breakfast• Daily coffee and afternoon refreshments• Complimentary newspaper• In-room safe
Vanderbilt University
Downtown Nashville is the place to be for great entertainment, shopping and restaurants. This boutique hotel is located in the middle of it all, and is a quick walk away from Vanderbilt University. Guests enjoy full access to the establishment’s 24-hour business center, fitness center with cardio machines, resistance equipment and free weights, onsite spa services and its 1808 Grille and Bar.
Accommodations:• Courtesy transportation within a three-mile radius of the hotel• In-room laptop safe• Complimentary shoeshine• Valet laundry service• 24-hour valet parking
Denison University
30 minutes east of Columbus, nestled along the western end of the Appalachian Plateau, is Denison University and the Granville Inn. The inn was built in 1924 and uniquely has a grand ballroom and two dining options, including the award-winning Oak Room with chef-inspired cuisine.
Accommodations:• 24-hour front desk service• Complimentary bathrobe• Hair dryer• Upgraded bath products
Stanford University
Koi-filled lagoons, gardens with tropical landscaping and Dinah’s poolside restaurant provide guests with a unique experience while visiting Palo Alto. Complimentary transportation to Stanford University is included for guests, in addition to business and fitness centers and an outdoor heated swimming pool. The hotel is California Green Certified for its commitment to eco-friendly hospitality. Awe-inspiring statues and beautiful paintings from around the world can be spotted throughout the establishment.
Accommodations:• High-speed wireless Internet• In-room coffee makers, refrigerator and safe• Complimentary newspaper• Free parking• Cable TV• Complimentary shuttle service within 5 miles of the hotel
New York University
Located in downtown Brooklyn, Nu Hotel is an ideal place to stay for visitors of New York University. The hotel offers 93 loft-like rooms with hardwood floors, modern furniture and chalkboard walls. The hotel is equipped with a 24-hour fitness center complete with cardio equipment, a punching bag and free weights, vintage bike rentals, onsite bar and lounge, shipping center and daily complimentary continental breakfasts.
Accommodations:• Full-service mini bar• Complimentary wireless Internet• Guest parking• Shoe shine service
Kent State University
Adjacent to Kent State University, this hotel features the Nineteen 10 Restaurant and Lounge which specializes in Angus beef steaks and signature, university-inspired cocktails, like the Blue & Gold and the Kent Smash. Guests enjoy boutique-style rooms and a heated indoor salt water pool and spa.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Refrigerator and microwave• Coffeemaker with Starbucks coffee• Complimentary local and USA Today newspaper• $10/day parking
University of Pennsylvania
The first AAA Four-Diamond hotel in Central Pennsylvania, Carnegie Inn provides guest with a relaxing atmosphere and a superb dining experience at its Carnegie House Restaurant. Overnight packages typically include dining at the restaurant for two and a complimentary breakfast each morning of their stay. Guests of the inn also have access to a library with a fireplace and the award-winning spa. The hotel is located one mile from Penn State University campus.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Complimentary shuttle to the airport• Deep soaking tubs• Golf course views• Nightly homemade cookies
University of Southern Maine
This art-inspired inn takes pride in its vibrant décor and charm. The inn features art and sculptures throughout the building, a front lounge with plenty of seating for relaxing, as well as a parlour with games and a dining lounge. Various seafood restaurants and coffee shops are a few blocks away and Scarborough Beach is a short 20 minute drive from the establishment.
Accommodations:• Complimentary vegetarian breakfast• Individual room thermostat• Spa-quality robe• Wireless Internet• Wine glasses, cork screw, iron and hair dryer
Sewanee the University of the South
A warm, inviting establishment located just down the road from University of the South, the Sewanee Inn offers guests a boutique-style experience with elegant furnishings and thoughtful accommodations. Guests have access to nearby hiking trails, complimentary bicycles, Sewanee’s 9-hole golf course, a fitness center and a business center.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Complimentary coffee• Full-service lounge• Private transportation to the airport (cost varies)
Brown University
A boutique hotel near Brown University, Hotel Providence offers transportation to university visitors, free of charge. Classic novels and works of art can be spotted throughout the establishment, along with a grand staircase and elegant décor. The hotel offers a business center, full-service restaurant and a fitness studio with an available trainer.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• Valet parking• Concierge service• Turndown service• Laundry and dry cleaning services
Harvard University
Hotel Veritas sits on the edge of Harvard Square, five blocks from Harvard University. Tufts University (3 miles) and Boston University (1.5 miles) are also nearby. Visitors may attend performances at the American Repertory Theatre and Jose Mate’s Ballet Theater, both found within close proximity to the hotel. Nearby museums include the Harvard Museum of Natural History, Harvard Art Museum and the Peabody Museum of Archaeology and Ethnology. Guests who need to work during their stay can utilize the 24-hour business center.
Accommodations:• Wireless Internet• 24-hour concierge service• Complimentary Boston Globe newspaper• Same-day dry cleaning and laundry services• Electric vehicle charging stations• Airport transportation
Honorable Mentions
- Biddle Hotel & Conference Center – Indiana University, Bloomington, Indiana
- The Kendall Hotel – Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Cambridge, Massachusetts
- St. Julien Hotel – University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
- Vineyard Court – Texas A&M, College Station, Texas
- The Heldrich Hotel & Conference Center – Rutgers, New Brunswick, New Jersey
- Hotel Parq Central – University of New Mexico, Albuquerque, New Mexico
- Modern Hotel & Bar – Boise State University, Boise, Idaho
- Hotel Lombardy – George Washington University, Washington, D.C.
- Kellogg Hotel & Conference Center – Tuskegee University, Tuskegee, Alabama
- The Bradley Boulder Inn – University of Colorado, Boulder, Colorado
- The Cook Hotel and Conference Center – Louisiana State University, Baton Rouge, Louisiana
- Georgetown University Hotel and Conference Center – Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.
- Hotel Vandivort – Missouri State University, Springfield, Missouri