BY KAT BRAZ
PHOTOS PROVIDED
The historic Purdue Memorial Union, built in 1924 as a memorial to students who served in World War I, has stood faithfully while generations of Boilermakers, visitors and residents whirl by. The Union Club Hotel was added in 1929 and began as a small 60-room affair to meet the need for guest lodging. Even after several additions, the iconic landmarks look basically the same on the outside as they did 100 years ago. Here lies the rub, nay, the sweet surprise. What was old inside is now made new in every way, every excellent way, that it bears a revisiting.
The Union Club Hotel
at Purdue University is part of Marriott’s distinctive Autograph Collection. Only 200 independently owned boutique hotels in the world carry that distinction, which denotes being the best in upscale, luxurious accommodations. It is the first student-run hotel in Marriot’s Autograph Collection. Famed hotelier Bruce White, former Purdue trustee and founder and chairman of the industry-leading hotel company White Lodging, gifted $30 million to Purdue in 2018 to launch the modernization of the historic property, which reopened in 2020. His gift transformed the Union Club Hotel into a world-class destination, while also providing a learning laboratory environment with training and internships for Purdue hospitality students.
The décor in the guest rooms, lobby and restaurants in the redesigned hotel’s interior reflects the spirit of Purdue’s legacy of innovation and celebrated alumni. Classy, curated collections of Purdue memorabilia and symbolism, the black and gold color scheme, and historic books and photographs stimulate the senses, while the signature scent throughout adds another sensory layer to the experience. The beautiful furnishings and surroundings send welcoming messages to guests who unmistakably know they have arrived in Boilermaker Country.
Voted as 2024’s Travel and Leisure Magazine Top 500 Hotels in the World by readers’ ranking, the Union Club was the only university hotel that made the list. Only 200 winners came from the United States; it was the only one in Indiana on the list. The four-star hotel’s 182 rooms fill quickly during sports and commencement weekends. However, you can still enjoy the Union Club Hotel’s excellent restaurants and new spa facilities without an overnight stay.
8Eleven Modern Bistro
A stellar tribute to space flight and its command pilot and Purdue alumnus Neil Armstrong, the 8Eleven was named after two of his NASA space missions, Gemini 8 and Apollo 11. Star-studded seasonal ingredients inspire the restaurant’s delicious American and French favorites. The drinks menu includes an impressive collection of premium and reserve list spirits, wines by the region, and seasonal cocktails. Enjoy breakfast, lunch, brunch, dinner or dessert for a memorable dining experience created by Executive Chef Jack Mahoney. 8Eleven is the ultimate dining destination for celebrating special occasions, to wow clients or job candidates or to indulge in dining and customer service excellence. Reservations recommended. For hours and reservations: 8elevenbistro.com
Boiler Up Bar
Treat yourself to Purdue’s most refined cocktail lounge. Boiler Up Bar honors treasured traditions and iconic alumni in a relaxing, sophisticated atmosphere. Enjoy a rotating selection of draft and local craft beers, small-batch bourbons and whiskeys or classic cocktails. The Signature Old Fashioned is a fan favorite. Nosh on tastefully prepared appetizers and drinks before or after the game or with friends after work. Open daily: 11 a.m.-12 a.m.
Leaps Coffee
Surpassing coffee chain establishments by leaps and bounds, Leaps Coffee is all about connecting with its customers through delicious coffees, teas, smoothies, made-in-house pastries and sweet treats. Talented baristas brew beautiful morning and afternoon respites every day in the Union Club Hotel. Enjoy Free Cookie Thursday with the purchase of a drink, or a half-priced pastry from 5-6 p.m. every day with a beverage purchase. Open daily: 7 a.m.-6 p.m. ★
Discover the hidden gems throughout the Union Club Hotel and Purdue Memorial Union. Bowling, e-sport gaming and restaurants abound. See the events calendar to attend cooking classes, concerts, films and much more. Purdue hospitality extends beyond the campus to touch all who visit its treasures. For more details visit: union.purdue.edu/events
