The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center – A Historic Chicago Landmark

520 S Michigan AveChicago, IL 60605
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Starting at
$171.95
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Room Offerings at The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center

About The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center

Overview

Situated on Michigan Avenue, The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center is a historic gem in downtown Chicago. With breathtaking city and lake views, elegant accommodations, and a prime location near Millennium Park, this hotel blends classic charm with modern convenience.

up to 4 people

Good To Know

  • Minimum age to check in is 18.
  • Located on Michigan Avenue, directly across from Grant Park and Millennium Park.
  • Within walking distance from the Buckingham Fountain, The Field Museum, the Shedd Aquarium, the Art Institute, and many shops and dining facilities.
  • Complimentary WiFi in rooms and throughout the hotel.
  • 24-hour fitness center.
  • Convenient access to public transportation, including the ‘L’ train and Metra stations.
  • Overnight self-parking is $58.00 per vehicle, per night. No in-and-out privileges. Fees are subject to change and applicable taxes.
  • Millenium Park - 0.7 mile
  • 360 Chicago - 1.7 miles
  • Skydeck Chicago - 1 mile

Property Amenities

  • 24 Hour Front Desk
  • Business Center
  • Elevator
  • Gift Shop
  • Handicapped Access
  • Meeting Facilities
  • Non-Smoking Rooms
  • Restaurant on Property
  • Wedding Services
  • Valet Parking
  • Concierge Services
  • Parking (surcharge)
  • Breakfast (surcharge)
  • Coffee Shop or Café
  • Dry Cleaning/Laundry Services
  • Smoke-free Property
  • Fitness Facilities (24 Hours)
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Description

Check-In: 3:00pm Check-Out: 12:00pm
Built in 1893 to host visitors of the World’s Columbian Exhibition, The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center is one of Chicago’s most historic hotels. Overlooking Grant Park and Lake Michigan, this iconic hotel offers a blend of old-world elegance and modern amenities. Guests can relax in spacious rooms featuring high ceilings, large bathrooms, and stunning city views. The hotel’s prime location on Michigan Avenue places visitors within walking distance of top attractions, including Millennium Park, the Art Institute of Chicago, and the Magnificent Mile.

From the gilded lobby ornately designed with blind arches, marble and chandeliers to impeccable service and classically decorated rooms and suites, a stay at the Congress Plaza Hotel has long been a symbol of luxury and privilege among executives, families and leisure guests seeking to explore the best the city has to offer.

With on-site dining options, a fitness center, and expansive meeting and event spaces, The Congress Plaza Hotel is perfect for both leisure and business travelers. Whether you are exploring Chicago’s lively downtown or attending a conference, this landmark hotel offers a distinctive and memorable stay.

Parking: Self-Parking is available at garage (PARK 1) afor $62.00 per day with no in-and-out privileges. SpotHero is available to offer alternative parking in nearby locations.

Pet Policy: Pets are not allowed. ADA-defined service animals are welcome.

Other fees: A $25 per night, per room, is required at check in.

All fees mentioned are subject to change without prior notice, and applicable taxes.

The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center Reviews

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HK608WI
Madison, Wisconsin
"No Refund and they don't care."
TripAdvisor user rating 1 out of 5
Reviewed November 17, 2025 NEW
Be careful in the bar. They will charge you for drinks that you never ordered. Then blame you for ordering them. The management will not refund you the money either. They just hang up on you everytime you ask.
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pablosT2777AR
Costa Rica
"Perfect location"
TripAdvisor user rating 5 out of 5
Reviewed November 16, 2025 NEW
Excellent location, confortable rooms, no problem at all. Good restaurant and the bar has good pizza. Prices reasonable. Recommended if you need to move in the city.
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corinas890
"Great location, but overpriced and disappointing room"
TripAdvisor user rating 2 out of 5
Reviewed November 16, 2025 NEW
The hotel has a great location in downtown Chicago. It is a beautiful Art Nouveau building with great stain glass and decor on the first floor. However, the rooms are overpriced and both the rooms and hallways are in poor condition and disappointing and could definitely use renovations to bring them to the required standard of quality.
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Orracle51
Gurnee, Lake County, Illinois
"better options elsewhere"
TripAdvisor user rating 3 out of 5
Reviewed November 03, 2025
Great location--close to events, restaurants, shopping. But the wing we were in (Buckingham) was very dated. Few plugs, super firm mattresses, tiny elevator, could hear noise from other rooms. But worse--no heat! The dial on the old register was missing and we had to ask them to send up a portable heater. This ic Chicago in November!
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samrath747
Dallas, Texas
"Pass this hotel for sure"
TripAdvisor user rating 2 out of 5
Reviewed October 23, 2025
Other than location and price, would not recommend to stay here, check in process , the staff was not friendly, almost a bother to them. Was not given a room facing the lake as requested. The hotel is old which is fine, but the sink and tub did not drain. No heat available till November . Requested a space heater and had to call 3 times before I received it.
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Frequently Asked Questions about The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center

Does Congress Plaza Hotel have a pool?

No. Congress Plaza Hotel does not have a pool.

Does the hotel offer free breakfast?

No. There are 2 onsite restaurants perfect for grabbing a quick bite to eat. Full breakfast is offered on weekends for a fee from 6 AM to 11 AM local hotel time.

Is there a fitness center?

Yes. Guests have access to a fitness center during their stay.

What are some historical sites nearby?

Garfield Park Conservatory is less than 5 miles away, Macy's on State Street is less than a mile away and The Rookery Building is approximately half a mile away.

Does Congress Plaza Hotel charge a resort fee?

No, Congress Plaza Hotel does not charge a resort fee, however, a deposit of $25 per night plus taxes is collected upon check in.

Is The Congress Plaza Hotel haunted?

The Congress Plaza Hotel is said to be the most haunted hotel in Chicago. Constructed in 1893, the hotel has a long history of a few of the most notable villains who stayed there. America’s first serial killer Dr. HH Holmes was a guest at the Plaza, as well as Al Capone. These and other spirits are believed to roam the halls and play creepy pranks.

Does the hotel offer accessible rooms and amenities?

Yes. Accessible features and amenities are available with accessible front desk, elevators, public entrances, meeting rooms, restaurants and accessible rooms. Should you have specific accessibility needs, please make a note of this on your reservation or contact the hotel's phone number on your confirmation email prior to arriving. Special requests are based on availability and not guaranteed.

What are the top things to do in Chicago near the hotel?

Nearby attractions include The Art Institute of Chicago, Navy Pier, and the Skydeck Chicago all within two miles from the hotel.