Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago

Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago Overview

First Impressions

Walking up to the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago on South Michigan Avenue, you can’t help but notice the classic architecture — this place has been part of the Chicago skyline since 1893, and honestly, it shows in the best possible way. The lobby feels grand without being intimidating, with those high ceilings and vintage details that remind you this three-star hotel has seen more than a century of travelers pass through its doors. I mean, there’s something pretty cool about staying somewhere that’s witnessed so much history.

Location That Actually Matters

Here’s the thing about this hotel’s location — it’s ridiculously good. You’re literally across from Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain, which means Millennium Park (and that famous Bean sculpture) is just a quick walk north. The Art Institute is practically next door, and you can easily stroll to Navy Pier or catch a show in the Theater District. What I really appreciate is how walkable everything feels from here — you’re not stuck taking expensive Ubers everywhere because most of the major attractions are within reasonable walking distance.

The Room Experience

The rooms are… well, they’re what you’d expect from a historic property that’s been thoughtfully maintained. My room had decent space (not huge, but workable for a few nights), and the windows offered solid views of either the park or the city depending on which side you’re on. The beds are comfortable enough, though the real charm is in those little vintage touches — the old-school radiators, the high ceilings, details that newer hotels just can’t replicate. The bathrooms are clean and functional, if not particularly modern.

Dining and Amenities

The breakfast situation is pretty straightforward American fare — nothing fancy, but it gets the job done if you’re looking to fuel up before a day of sightseeing. There’s a restaurant on-site that serves decent food, though honestly, with Chicago’s incredible dining scene right outside your door, you might want to explore the neighborhood instead. The hotel does have parking available, which is actually a big deal in this part of the city where street parking can be a nightmare.

Why Guests Love It

Look, this is a solid three-star property that doesn’t pretend to be anything more. What it offers is character, history, and an absolutely unbeatable location at a price that won’t destroy your travel budget. Couples seem to particularly love staying here — probably because you can walk to romantic spots like the lakefront or catch a sunset over Lake Michigan from Grant Park. The staff has always been helpful when I’ve stayed, and there’s something satisfying about being in the thick of everything downtown while still having a quiet retreat to return to at night.

Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago Accommodations

Reviews of Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago

• Jennifer from Australia (8/10)

  Location is brilliant, rooms were quiet spacious and comfortable

• Patrick from United Kingdom (8/10)

  Good location, next to Millennium Park and easy to reach by bus or rail. Staff service is excellent.

• Gurmeet from United States (8/10)

  It was convenient to be around the downtown.

• Dib from Canada (7/10)

  The stuff are so nice
  Location is very good

• Buck from United States (8/10)

  Great location! Comfy bed. Great Lake view.

• Anthony from United States (8/10)

  Location and ambience

• Lori from United States (8/10)

  Location and price were excellent. Staff were all really friendly and helpful.

• Paulo from Switzerland (7/10)

  The hotel is in a great location and it's within walking distance of the main attractions in the city. The room is spacious and it's suitable for families. Our room had a view of Grant Park which was very nice.

• David from United States (7/10)

  Location

• Janet from Canada (7/10)

Facilities