A Local’s Guide to Staying at The Graduate Richmond

I haven’t written about Richmond as often as I’ve written about other places, but it’s my city—my home. I recently attended a wedding just outside the city, and thought it was the perfect opportunity for a staycation. Not that I ever really need a reason or excuse for any kind of getaway.

Once upon a time, I was a makeup artist, and I did a wedding that made The Graduate by Hilton their home base while getting ready. I remember thinking it was such a charming property, so when I decided on my weekend staycation, I already knew where I’d end up.

As a local, I can tell you that it’s in an ideal location and in close proximity to any and everything you may want to do in the city. VCU’s campus is a one minute walk, the Institute for Contemporary Art is just across the way, Altria Theater is a five minute walk, the Virginia Museum of Fine Arts is a short drive, and there are many outstanding restaurants within reach. If you’re considering a stay, this is your sign to say yes. If you need a little more convincing, then keep reading.

Check In + The Lobby

This may have been because I was a child, but when we used to travel as a family and check in to hotels, it always seemed like a lengthy process to me. Now as an adult, I’m almost never at the counter more than five minutes, especially at a Hilton property. I also feel that hotels are much better decorated now than they were then. It’s the purposeful choice in patterns, colors and furniture for me.

The Graduate by Hilton is just fun. It takes itself seriously, but not too seriously. With chalkboard walls you can actually write on, board games, books, and community tables, and both a rooftop bar plus breakfast served daily in the lobby, you’ll feel you can relax as soon as you arrive.

The Room

I arrived to my room after a long day of moving, and at a hotel, I always hope to land in a soft bed where white sheets and fluffy pillows will swallow me up. That’s exactly what I got at The Graduate by Hilton. I closed the striped curtains, which I happen to love, took a very satisfying hot shower in an adorable bathroom, and let the tiredness roll off my shoulders. The room felt both spacious and intimate, and I didn’t feel like there was anything missing that I absolutely needed.

Preparing for the wedding was easy, with an iron for my dress, magnifying vanity mirror in the bathroom, plenty of space to spread all of my toiletries and cosmetics out, and full length mirror to double check my final look.

I love details like the Broad Street train car print in the bathroom and the rotary phone on the desk. Those are small things you don’t think will make a difference in your stay, but they add the right amount of character to a room that makes it feel almost like home.

Valet Parking

The Graduate by Hilton only has valet parking—there is no self park option—which I very much appreciated for this stay. After several days of strenuous work and a good amount of driving, it was nice to feel catered to when my car was brought around and great to pass my car off to someone else each time I returned. What I loved most about valet parking here was that the process was done seamlessly on my phone. Fifteen minutes before I needed my car, all I had to do was press a button. The screen showed what place I was in the queue, when the valet was “hustling for my vehicle,” and I could easily tip once it was brought to me. It doesn’t get any easier.

Places to Eat

I’m always sure to tell everyone that my city is a food city. There are so many excellent places to eat and for whatever cuisine you may have a taste for, we have a restaurant. Allow me to share some favorites.

ZZQ Texas Craft Barbeque

10 minute drive

I will tell you now this is a very coveted place, and unfortunately, you cannot make a reservation. The wait is well worth it, but I recommend arriving as soon as they open. You’ll probably find there is already a line outside. That’s how much people love ZZQ. If you try going later in the day, you may find they’re already sold out of most menu items. If you’re able to get in, I recommend both the pulled pork sandwich and the brisket. You’ll also want to try the jalapeño mac and cheese and the buttermilk potato salad. There is no need for drawn out descriptions; it’ll be some of the best barbeque food you’ve ever had, and you can thank me later.

Kismet

10 minute drive

If you’re into Indian food, then you may consider trying Kismet, a modern Indian restaurant just down the road on Broad Street. I personally loved the tangy sweet potato, the tandoor grilled lamb chops, and both the goat cheese and garlic naan. Parking is limited in the area and now paid, so this may be a time you use Rideshare.

L'Opossum

4 minute drive

If you’re looking for something unique to have for dinner, L’Possum is one of my best recommendations. This small unsuspecting building is a modern french restaurant with a playful, constantly changing menu full of delicious surprises. If you plan to try it, you may want to make a reservation well in advance, as it can be difficult to get one last minute. As for what I ordered, I had the Les Escargots a la Ham Biscuit, Fabergé Egg Bedazzled with Caviar and Dill Cured Salmon, Filet Mignon of Beef “Swellington,” and Lavender-Limoncello Creme Brulee. I would give a 10/10 rating on everything, and I can assure you, you won’t be disappointed.

Sugar Shack Donuts

5 minute drive

My final recommendation is for dessert because it’s always good to have something sweet in your back pocket. When I want a treat, this is where I go. Many of the donuts are vegan, if that’s your thing, and even if it isn’t, the most important thing to know is that every donut i’ve had here is amazing.

As a bonus, if you care for handcrafted ice cream, you may want to consider Gelati Celesti that is also not a far drive from the hotel.