A conference-goer from Portugal, a graduate student and a businessman were among the first guests to check in when the $13.2 million Hyatt Place opened March 17 on campus land.

The four-story, 75-room hotel, just east of the new Conference Center, is part of the campus’s new “front door” and is visible from Interstate 80. The convenient accommodations are expected to be a boon for the campus’s conference business, said Mary Hayakawa, executive director of real estate services for UC Davis.

For example, the hotel housed some of the 65 people attending the March 21-25 Wine Executive Program, presented by the Graduate School of Management and the Department of Viticulture and Enology.

Fairfield-based Presidio Companies, the hotel’s developer and Hyatt franchise operator, holds a long-term ground lease.

The hotel is the 149th to open under the Hyatt Place brand, which Hyatt describes as “casual hospitality in a well-designed, high-tech and contemporary environment.” Davis architect Aubrey Moore adapted the Hyatt’s design to the location.

Each room includes one king or two queen beds and a sectional sofa-sleeper; a small refrigerator; a 42-inch, flat-screen, high-definition television, and a panel by which guests can connect laptop computers and other personal media devices to the TV.

Free wireless Internet is available throughout the hotel, and guests can print from their computers to a printer in the lobby. The lobby area also features two computer stations.

The hotel includes 1,200 square feet of meeting space, an outdoor pool, fitness room, and complimentary parking and local shuttle service.

The hotel offers food and beverages around the clock in the lobby and lounge areas. A continental breakfast is complimentary for guests.

Guneet Bajwa of Presidio Companies said that while published room rates are $209 a night, the rate for university affiliates is about $169, and additional discounts will be available.

Public tours: April 17 (Picnic Day)

Grand opening: May 7