My family and I stumbled upon this hotel while delivering my nephew to the University of South Carolina in the beautiful city of Columbia. As my brother was reliving his alumni years at U.S.C. we spotted the Graduate Columbia Inn at U of SC. Turns out there are 20 other Graduate properties located on University campuses around the country and internationally.  I hope to feature more of these properties on my blog. Each one is distinct in their design and themed around the campus where they are anchored.  

Graduate Columbia, is located directly across from the main campus horseshoe. It dates back between 1905-1910. The architect's diamond signature can be found in the original window panes.  The last owner of the home, Mrs.Black, saved the property from becoming a parking garage. In the 1970’s it was listed on the National Registry for Historic Places. If you’re lucky you might even catch a glimpse of her during your stay. At 98, she still stops by the inn from time to time. 

The main house has three large guest rooms and a 775 sf Bridal suite. The remaining rooms are built in the adjacent wings. In August of 2019 Graduate Columbia opened its doors following a 15 million dollar refurbishment. 

As you enter the lobby you’re  welcomed by the intermingling floral, stripes, and plaid patterns ….It somehow works.  You feel happy in its surroundings. There are common areas throughout the main floor including the library that retained its turn of the last century decor and original woodwork. The library can also be closed off and transformed into a board room. The butterfly room is a lounge lined with comfy couches and inviting chairs. Listen closely and you can almost hear the conversations of sports fans gathered around the mahogany bar in “The Trophy Room”.

Each guestroom evokes texture, patterns and color that reflect the University and the State of South Carolina down to the last detail. Even the carpeting throughout the hotel signifies the Carolina bird. Gamecock fabric adorns the headboards of luxury queen sized beds. Carolina tartans line the windows. Local artwork of famous graduates, such as country singer Darius Rucker,  and gamecock fans adorn the walls. The victory call “Oot Oot'' is carved out in the lamp base on the end tables. We were surprised to find out this is the renowned call by Gamecocks biggest baseball fan Bill Golding.  

Graduate Columbia offers pet friendly rooms, complimentary bike rentals and free parking.  They have special packages for game weekends and other events. Groups and corporate guests are welcomed. What an imaginative and unique place to host a gathering.  There are two meeting rooms currently operating at 50% plus a terrace area. In addition there are two reception areas: The Carolina room (100 guests) and The Palmetto Room (50 guests). 

A stay at the Graduate Columbia will, no doubt, deliver an amazing trip. Imagine attending a college football game followed by a stay at the Graduate Columbia Inn. 

You can’t help but feel inspired and part of the University when you stay at the Graduate Columbia.  “Oot Oot Go GameCocks!”