Hotel Capstone Converting To Graduate By Hilton

TUSCALOOSA, AL — A well-known hotel on the University of Alabama campus is set for a major transformation.

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Hilton, Capstone Hotel LTD and Jackson Hospitality Services announced Friday that Hotel Capstone will convert into Graduate by Hilton Tuscaloosa, bringing the lifestyle hotel brand to the city for the first time.

Jackson Hospitality Services said the conversion is expected to be completed in 2027.

The company says the project will feature a complete redesign by Andrew Alford Creative, introducing Graduate by Hilton’s signature design style that blends storytelling, local history and collegiate nostalgia.

Andrew Alford, who designed the first 35 Graduate hotels nationwide, will lead the Tuscaloosa project.

“We’re very excited to move forward with rebranding the hotel to a Graduate by Hilton,” said Cory Jackson Jr., president of Jackson Hospitality Services. “As the university’s growth continues and the needs in the Tuscaloosa market change, we’re thrilled to evolve and elevate the property in response.”

Planned upgrades include significant changes to the hotel’s restaurant and bar offerings, including the addition of a poolside bar.

Officials said the conversion will preserve the hotel’s premier location while incorporating the Graduate brand’s emphasis on local culture and design.

University of Alabama President Peter J. Mohler said the rebranded hotel will enhance the campus experience for visitors.

“Graduate by Hilton Tuscaloosa will enhance the way the University welcomes guests to campus and further extend the unrivaled Alabama experience,” Mohler said. “The hotel will serve as the front door for many campus guests and will create a welcoming environment while spotlighting UA’s unique culture and community.”

Plans for the conversion include a comprehensive design refresh highlighting Tuscaloosa’s history, athletic success and local traditions, while maintaining the hotel’s walkable access to campus academic and athletic facilities.

Dining, meeting and event spaces will also be updated to align with the Graduate by Hilton lifestyle brand.

Parker Henderson, brand leader for Graduate by Hilton, said Tuscaloosa is a natural fit for the expanding hotel brand.

“We are excited to pay homage to The University of Alabama through our distinctive design and provide the community with a memorable food and beverage experience,” he said.

Once open, Graduate by Hilton Tuscaloosa will participate in the Hilton Honors loyalty program, offering members booking benefits, discounts and access to digital tools through the Hilton Honors mobile app.

The announcement also follows Hilton’s acquisition of the Graduate Hotels brand, part of the company’s broader expansion in the lifestyle hotel market focused on university-anchored communities.

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