Hilton Worldwide Holdings Inc. has announced an agreement to acquire the Graduate Hotels brand from Adventurous Journeys (AJ) Capital Partners for $210 million.
Stories From Hilton This strategic acquisition is expected to close by the second quarter of 2024, subject to customary closing conditions.
Graduate Hotels, established in 2014 by AJ Capital Partners, is a collection of boutique hotels located in university-anchored markets across the United States and the United Kingdom. The brand currently operates over 30 hotels, with properties situated near institutions such as the Yale University, Stanford University, and the University of Oxford. 
The Graduate Hotels brand is part of Hilton’s lifestyle portfolio, alongside Canopy by Hilton, Curio Collection by Hilton, Tapestry Collection by Hilton, Tempo by Hilton, and Motto by Hilton. Graduate by Hilton is the company’s 24th hotel brand.
Upon completion of the acquisition, Hilton plans to incorporate Graduate Hotels into its portfolio of lifestyle brands, which includes Canopy by Hilton, Curio Collection by Hilton, and Tapestry Collection by Hilton. This move aligns with Hilton’s strategy to expand its presence in the lifestyle hotel market, catering to travelers seeking unique and localized experiences.
Christopher Nassetta, President and CEO of Hilton, stated, “Adding Graduate Hotels to our portfolio of award-winning brands accelerates our expansion in the lifestyle space by pairing an existing much-loved brand with the power of Hilton’s strong commercial engine to drive growth.”
The acquisition of New Haven’s Graduate Hotel highlights the city’s growing appeal as a destination for travelers seeking both academic charm and cultural vibrancy.
Located steps from Yale University, the Graduate Hotel in New Haven has become a favorite for visitors looking to immerse themselves in the unique history and energy of the area. Hilton’s move to integrate this property into its portfolio reflects the city’s importance as a hub for boutique accommodations that cater to both locals and visitors alike.
