IT’S ALWAYS GAMEDAY AT GRADUATE

Flying marshmallows. High-stepping tuba players. Rowdy railroad cars that don’t leave the station. College football is chock-full of wacky gameday traditions — perfect for inspiring our hotel designs. Here’s how we bring some of those campus rituals to life.

Graduate Ann Arbor

Does the phrase “Marshmallow Wars” mean anything to you? It might sound more like a recess activity than a student-section rallying cry, but this now-banned University of Michigan tradition involved students hurling marshmallows at each other during games at The Big House. Good news for Maize + Blue fans everywhere: the legend lives on in our Graduate Ann Arbor guest room art.

Graduate Berkeley

You’ll find many nods to the storied Cal v. Stanford rivalry at Graduate Berkeley, even in the men’s restroom. Lovingly referred to as “The Big Game,” these two West Coast titans have faced off almost every year since 1892. Stanford currently leads the series, making this particular design extra-special for the Cal faithful.

Graduate Columbia

Seasoned fans don’t tailgate under tents in Columbia, South Carolina, they hit the Cockaboose Railroad. Right by Williams-Brice Stadium, these 22 converted railroad cars come alive on Saturdays in the fall — whether the Gamecocks are playing next door or on the road. Catch a glimpse of our take on a custom caboose in Graduate Columbia’s guest rooms.

Graduate Columbus

Every Buckeye knows why they call TOSU’s marching band “The Best Damn Band in the Land.” One of the few collegiate all-brass and percussion bands in the country, they’re well-known for their innovative formations, script writing and flawless performances. Equally innovative, the custom chandelier in our Graduate Columbus lobby, made of silver trombones, tubas and other marching band instruments.

We’re just scratching the turf’s surface here – visit all 35+ Graduate Hotels to experience these traditions for yourself.