Hotel, arboretum and gardens

The Forum Hotel, Tahija Arboretum & LaCross Botanical Gardens

Experience a dynamic learning hub, collaboration and wellness on the vibrant Darden School Grounds:

  • The Forum Hotel is an inviting boutique oasis featuring thoughtfully designed interiors and diverse food and beverage options. Indoor and outdoor event spaces provide captivating settings for connection and reflection.
  • Nearby, the Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens offer tranquility, beauty and wellness with a pond, a restored stream and inviting walking trails.

We invite you to be a part of our history at this pivotal moment by considering the unique opportunity to name these remarkable spaces in our new LaCross Botanical Gardens and Tahija Arboretum. Several spaces have already been reserved, but many exciting locations remain available.

Naming Opportunities

Conference Center for Executive Education and Lifelong Learning

The Forum Hotel at UVA Darden School of Business

The Forum Hotel's state-of-the-art conference center.

The Aspen Bar

The Forum Hotel Bar

The Forum Hotel's vibrant lobby bar. Gift of the Altec/Styslinger Foundation.

Oak Board Room

The Forum Executive Boradroom

A strategic meeting space for high-level discussions. Formally named the Hugin Family Executive Board Room after Robert J. Hugin (MBA '85) & Kathleen Hugin.

L'Orangerie

L'Orangerie at The Forum Hotel

Includes adjacent terrace. An intimate and serene space adjacent to The Forum Hotel's main dining room, offering stunning garden views.

The Good Sport

The Good Sport

A neighborhood bar offering expertly crafted cocktails, local brews and upscale bar fare.

The Agora

The Agora

The Forum Hotel's central atrium.

The Grove Ballroom

The Grove Ballroom

A versatile space for gatherings, accommodating up to 800 people.

Sloney's Porch

Sloney's Porch

An outdoor dining space. Gift of the Class of 1993 in memory of Michael B. Slone (MBA '93).

The Forum Hotel Right Wing

The Forum Hotel Right Wing

An entire wing of The Forum Hotel.

The Forum Hotel Left Wing

The Forum Hotel Left Wing

An entire wing of The Forum Hotel.

The Washington Room

Washington Room

A private meeting space named after George Washington. Gift of The Adair B. Newhall (MBA ’09) & Kathryn Newhall Family.

The Grove Ballroom Terrace

Ballroom Terrace

A space outside of The Grove Ballroom offering a natural backdrop for events.

The Bruner Case Study

The Bruner Case Study

The Forum Hotel's library. Gift of Darden Alumni, Colleagues, and Friends in honor of Robert F. Bruner: University Professor, Distinguished Professor of Business Administration, Dean Emeritus, Financial Economist, Author, Best-Selling Case Writer, Award-Winning Teacher, and Member of the Darden Faculty, 1982-2023.

Check out this video tour of Bruner Case Study.

Socrates Classroom

Socrates Classroom

A tiered classroom. The Socratic method has inspired the development of the case method at Darden and the transformational learning experience for thousands of Darden students and alumni. Gift of Steven C. Voorhees (MBA '80; Paren '14) & Celia H. Voorhees.

Atrium Wing Lobby

Atrium Wing Lobby

A comfortable gathering point in front of and leading to The Grove Ballroom.

The Lyceum

The Lyceum

A versatile flat classroom, encouraging active participation and collaboration.

The Academy

The Academy

A versatile flat classroom, encouraging active participation and collaboration.

C-Suite Terrace

C-Suite Terrace

A hospitality suite offering spectacular views. Gift of the Altec/Styslinger Foundation.

Event Lawn

Event Lawn

An outdoor space for events accommodating up to 480 people.

Aspen Bar Terrace

Aspen Bar Terrace

An outdoor terrace with picturesque views. A gift of the Altec/Styslinger Foundation.

The Connection Bridge

The Connection Bridge

A scenic pathway spanning the arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens. Gift of Steven C. Voorhees (MBA '80; Parent '14) & Celia H. Voorhees.

 

The Foyer

The Foyer

An elegant gathering spot at the main entrance of The Forum Hotel.

Casa '88

Casa 88

An intimate wine cellar housing a curated collection of fine wines. A gift of Martina Hund-Mejean (MBA '88) and Bruno J. Mejean.

Brielle DuFlon Art Installation

Brielle DuFlon Art Installation

An art installation in The Forum Hotel's central atrium reflecting the beauty of Virginia's native flora.

Hospitality Suite

Hospitality Suite

A versatile space located on the hotel's second floor, ideal for small meetings and events.

Fireplace

Fireplace in the Lobby

An inviting fireplace between The Forum Hotel's lobby and the Bruner Case Study.

Residential Wing Alcove Lounges (6)

Residential Wing Alcove Lounges (6)

Cozy nooks within the overnight guest areas of The Forum Hotel.

6 AVAILABLE

Hotel Suites (9)

Corner Suite

Luxurious suites with breathtaking views.

5 RESERVED/4 AVAILABLE

Hotel Rooms (188)

Hotel Room

Comfortable guestrooms designed for ultimate relaxation.

188 AVAILABLE

Tahija Arboretum

Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens

A sanctuary showcasing exceptional trees and shrubs. The gift of the Tahija family.

 

LaCross Botanical Gardens

LaCross Botanical Gardens

A dynamic green space of unique plants with tranquil water features. Gift of David M. LaCross (MBA ’78) & Kathleen O. LaCross.

 

Pond

Pond and Stream

A tranquil aquatic oasis in the middle of the Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens.

 

Stream

LaCross Botanical Gardens Stream

A tranquil aquatic oasis in the middle of the Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens.

 

Camellia Promenade

Camelia Promenade

A communal space outside of The Forum Hotel. A gift of the Altec/Styslinger Foundation.

The Forum Amphitheater

Class of 1987 Outdoor Amphitheater

A tiered outdoor ampitheater in an idyllic setting. Gift of the Darden Class of 1987.

 

Council Ring

Witch Hazel Council Ring

A space for open-air meetings under a green canopy.

 

Alumni Gateway

Alumni Gateway

An entrance to the Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens by C. Ray Smith Alumni Hall from Duffy Boulevard.

Arrival Gardens, Allées and Upper Grounds Entrances

Arrival Gardens, Allées and Upper Grounds Entrances

Elegant entrances welcoming visitors with curated gardens.

 

Gateway and Promenade

Gateway and Promenade

An entrance to the Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens through the side of The Forum Hotel from Duffy Boulevard.

Law Gateway

Law School Gateway

An entrance to the Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens from the UVA Law School from Nash Drive.

Benches (20)

Arboretum Bench

Benches have been placed strategically throughout the gardens to allow people to sit and enjoy the beauty of nature.

 

Lower Tahija Arboretum Trails

Tahija Arboretum

A network of paths winding through stunning flora and fauna.

 

Japanese Garden

LaCross Botanical Gardens - Japanese Garden

A tranquil retreat encapsulating traditional Japanese aesthetics.

 

Chinese Garden

LaCross Botanical Gardens - Chinese Garden Gate

Showcasing diverse and vibrant native Chinese plants.

 

International Edibles Garden

LaCross Botanical Gardens - Edible Garden

Featuring edible plant species from around the globe.

International Garden

LaCross Botanical Gardens - International Garden

Showcasing a variety of exotic plant species from around the globe.

Magnolia Garden

Magnolia Garden

Dazzling with fragrant blooms and lush foliage.

 

Prehistoric Plants Garden

Prehistoric Plants Garden

A unique space filled with ancient plant species.

 

Spicebush Bramble

Spicebush Bramble

A garden teeming with aromatic plants and bushes.

 

Thomas Jefferson Garden

Thomas Jefferson Garden

Reflecting Jefferson's love of horticulture and natural beauty. Gift of Donald E. Morel, Jr., Ph.D.. (TEP '97) & Lauren Morel.

 

Viburnum Garden

LaCross Botanical Gardens - Viburnum Garden

A year-round interest with vibrant blooms and autumnal hues.

 

Connection Bridge

The Connection Bridge

Linking the Darden Parking Garage to The Forum Hotel via the Tahija Arboretum and botanical gardens. A gift of Steven C. (MBA '80; Parent '14) and Celia H. Voorhees.

 

Upper Tahija Arboretum Trails

Upper Arboretum Trails

A network of paths winding through stunning flora and fauna.

 

Lower Foot Bridge

Lower Foot Bridge

A picturesque crossing spanning a waterway.

 

The Carl Mason Franklin Footbridge

The Carl Mason Franklin Bridge

A physical and symbolic link across the lush landscapes. Gift of Morris S. Smith Foundation and trustees Sterling, Larry and Mei Franklin.

 

Spring Ephemeral Walk

Walking trails

Showcasing ephemeral blooms, changing with each spring.

 

Wooden Footpaths

Wooden Bridges

Quaint passages subtly blending with the surrounding greenery.

 

Azalea, Kalmia and Rhododendron Knoll

Azalea, Mountain Laurel & Rhododendron

Showcasing a spectacular collection of azaleas, kalmia and rhododendrons.

 

Fern Glade

LaCross Botanical Gardens - Fern Glade

A testament to the quiet beauty of our oldest plants.

 

Sassafras Hill

Sassafras Hill

An aromatic spot with sassafras trees.

 

Pinetum and Redbud Glen

Pinetum and Redbud Glen

A symphony of scents, textures, and colors, featuring pines and redbuds.

 

Beech Promenade

LaCross Botanical Gardens - Beech Promenade

A tranquil grove with towering beech trees.

 

Tulip Poplar Thicket

Tulip Poplar Thicket

A thicket bursting with vibrant tulip poplars.

 

Space Status Cost
The Forum Hotel and Conference Center
Featured Spaces
Conference Center for Executive Education and Lifelong Learning Available $5,000,000
The Aspen Bar Reserved $5,000,000
Oak Board Room Reserved $3,000,000
L'Orangerie Reserved $2,500,000
The Good Sport Available $2,500,000
The Agora Available $2,000,000
The Grove Ballroom Available $2,000,000
Sloney's Porch Reserved $1,000,000
The Forum Hotel Right Wing Available $500,000
The Forum Hotel Left Wing Available $500,000
The Washington Room Reserved $500,000
The Grove Ballroom Terrace Available $200,000
Academic Spaces
The Bruner Case Study Reserved $1,000,000
Socrates Classroom Reserved $750,000
Atrium Wing Lobby Available $500,000
The Lyceum Available $500,000
The Academy Available $500,000
Outdoor Spaces
C-Suite Terrace Reserved $1,000,000
Event and Meeting Spaces
Event Lawn Available $1,000,000
Aspen Bar Terrace Reserved $200,000
Arrival Points
The Connection Bridge Reserved $500,000
The Foyer Available $500,000
Hospitality
Casa '88 Reserved $500,000
Brielle DuFlon Art Installation Available $250,000
Hospitality Suite Available $250,000
Fireplace Available $250,000
Residential Wing Alcove Lounges (6) Available $75,000
Guest Rooms and Suites
Hotel Suites (9) Available $75,000
Hotel Rooms (188) Available $25,000
Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens
Featured Spaces
Tahija Arboretum Reserved $5,000,000
LaCross Botanical Gardens Reserved $5,000,000
Aquatic Oases
Pond Available $750,000
Stream Reserved $750,000
Communal Spaces
Camellia Promenade Reserved $750,000
The Forum Amphitheater Reserved $500,000
Council Ring Available $250,000
Arrival Points
Alumni Gateway Available $1,000,000
Arrival Gardens, Allées and Upper Grounds Entrances Available $750,000
Gateway and Promenade Available $500,000
Law Gateway Available $250,000
Benches (20) Reserved $10,000
Varietal Thematic Gardens
Lower Tahija Arboretum Trails Available $500,000
Japanese Garden Reserved $500,000
Chinese Garden Reserved $250,000
International Edibles Garden Reserved $250,000
International Garden Available $250,000
Magnolia Garden Available $250,000
Prehistoric Plants Garden Available $250,000
Spicebush Bramble Available $250,000
Thomas Jefferson Garden Reserved $250,000
Viburnum Garden Available $250,000
Walks and Trails
Connection Bridge Reserved $500,000
Upper Tahija Arboretum Trails Available $250,000
Lower Foot Bridge Available $250,000
The Carl Mason Franklin Footbridge Reserved $250,000
Spring Ephemeral Walk Available $150,000
Wooden Footpaths Reserved $10,000
Woodlands and Clearings
Azalea, Kalmia and Rhododendron Knoll Available $250,000
Fern Glade Available $250,000
Sassafras Hill Available $250,000
Pinetum and Redbud Glen Available $250,000
Beech Promenade Available $150,000
Tulip Poplar Thicket Available $150,000

*All naming and naming levels subject to UVA approval

Plant a Tree at Darden

Join us in enhancing the beauty of the Tahija Arboretum and LaCross Botanical Gardens that encircle the Forum Hotel with the addition of 1,300 trees including dogwoods and eastern redbuds. At a contribution of $10,000, you can have the unique opportunity to name a tree. It's a perfect way to honor your graduating class, favorite faculty member, fellow student, a loved one or even an organization with a dedicated grove of trees.

Map of Tahija Arboretum & LaCross Botanical Gardens
  1. Camellia Promenade
  2. The Forum Amphitheater
  3. Event Lawn
  4. Lower Foot Bridge
  5. The Connection Bridge
  6. Alumni Gateway
  7. Gateway and Promenade
  8. Law Gateway
  9. The Carl Mason Franklin Footbridge
  10. The Grove Ballroom Terrace

 

  1. Japanese Garden
  2. Chinese Garden
  3. Viburnum Garden
  4. Prehistoric Plants Garden
  5. International Edibles Garden
  6. Magnolia Garden
  7. Thomas Jefferson Garden
  8. Pond
  9. L’Orangerie Garden
  10. International Garden
  1. Riparian Garden
  2. Spring Ephemeral Walk
  3. Tulip Poplar Thicket
  4. Stream
  5. Beech Grove
  6. Fern Glade
  7. Azalea, Kalmia and Rhododendron Knoll
  8. Spicebush Bramble
  9. Conifer Walk
  10. Council Ring
  11. Sassafras Hill

Be a part of Darden’s fulcrum moment.