Disappointed with the Graduate Providence – Not What It Used to Be
I’ve stayed at the Graduate by Hilton in Providence more than half a dozen times over the last five years—this used to be my go-to spot. Sadly, my recent stay over the July 4th weekend in a King Suite was a real letdown and not reflective of what should be one of the top five most expensive properties in the city.
From the moment I entered the room, the issues began. The door was sticking so badly in the frame that I had to push hard just to get inside. Inside, the dresser drawers wouldn’t stay shut because of an uneven floor—one leg of the dresser had been shimmed with a cardboard Graduate Hotels coaster. The couch cushion was pulled and frayed, and the carpet had visible lint and threads.
The bathroom was worse. A large tile was missing from the shower frame, exposing construction adhesive and gaps. The shower door didn’t close properly and had a loose handle. The outdated jacuzzi tub looked like it hadn’t been cleaned in a while and needed attention before I’d consider using it.
Other gripes:
• Only 2 ice machines in an 18-floor building, with no room directory to help you find them (you have to call the front desk).
• The gym was tiny and outdated—not sure what the resort fee is really covering.
• The iron was missing its water fill cover—something small, but in a room at this price point, details matter.
I used to love staying here, but this suite—and the hotel overall—felt neglected and run down.