Opened in April on the University of Virginia campus, Kimpton’s The Forum Hotel is a study in both Jeffersonian-era architecture and state-of-the-art design. Its parklike setting, tucked between UVA’s law and business schools, includes a serene 5-acre botanical garden complete with an amphitheater, waterfall, bridges and walking paths with native and global-themed plantings.
Inside, the contemporary decor includes plenty of cozy seating areas. The navy-blue-walled library room, “The Case Study,” has cognac-colored leather sofas, a long working table and built-in shelves displaying a selection of intriguing books, including Annie Leibovitz’s Wonderland.
The hotel’s 198 guest rooms and 10 suites feature comfortable beds and a chair (or sofa), minibar with local treats, yoga mat and an LED smart TV. If you neglected to pack something, a “Forgot It? We’ve Got It!” list includes everything from a cellphone charger to a curling or straightening iron, lint rollers and more.
Complimentary coffee and tea are served each morning in the lobby living room (or enjoy your cup from a plump-cushioned chair on the adjacent balconies overlooking the gardens).
Don’t miss social hour, held each evening, for a glass of wine or beer and a savory snack (complimentary). The hotel’s craft beer bar, The Good Sport, serves brews and a delicious smashburger. Birch & Bloom, a steak and seafood restaurant, offers seasonal menus that draw from Virginia’s orchards, vineyards and farms.
While dogs are tolerated at many hotels, The Forum all-out welcomes them, with plenty of space for pooches in the outdoor dining areas, plus an in-room dog bed, food and water bowls (no extra charge) and complimentary dog treats for the duration of your stay. Order a “barkuterie” board at Pups on the Patio night (Mondays).
Rates begin at $289 per night and include the complimentary use of bikes, binoculars and bird-watching materials.
Kimpton’s The Forum Hotel, 540 Massie Road, Charlottesville, Virginia; 434-365-2600