4.6 (11,501 Reviews)

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

520 S Michigan Ave • Chicago, IL 60605
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Exterior view of the hotel from the streets of Chicago.
Exterior view of the hotel at night.
Elegant banquet room.
King bed inside a room with view of the lake.
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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
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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.
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Promotional Images (29)
Exterior view of the hotel. Marble bathroom with show and tub combination. The long reception desk with polished wood and gold trim, marble floors, and small cherubs near the queue barriers. Two beds with a nightstand and lamp inside a room with city view. A pool table inside a restaurant on property.
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The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center Reviews

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PanarielloFamily
Hebron, Kentucky
"Great location, poor everything else"
TripAdvisor user rating 3.0 out of 5
Reviewed July 14, 2025 NEW
Fantastic location, affordable price... However, it would have been worth paying a little more to go elsewhere. My back is still killing me from the rock hard mattress. The rooms are old and the plumbing is not the best either. Services seemed to lack as employees seemed to do the least amount possible to get you in and out. Next time we visit we will spend a bit more and go to the north end.
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674erickav
"Definitely haunted"
TripAdvisor user rating 3.0 out of 5
Reviewed July 07, 2025 NEW
The hotel is big and comfortable. However, I experienced screaming in my ear, windows being knocked on the 12th floor, drawers opening by themselves, and other objects moving. I felt watched all the time.
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760elina
"Affordable hotel"
TripAdvisor user rating 5.0 out of 5
Reviewed July 03, 2025 NEW
Nice and clean, comfortable beds. The view from our room on eight floor was stunning. Location couldn’t have been better.
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NorthStar200158
Peoria, Illinois
"No temperature control. Too hot to sleep well."
TripAdvisor user rating 2.0 out of 5
Reviewed June 23, 2025 NEW
Unfortunately, our recent experience at Congress Plaza was deeply uncomfortable. I understand the evening we were there, the temps were out of control. We visited June 21st with checkout on June 22nd. We spent all day at an outdoor festival and were looking forward to cooling down in our hotel room. Unfortunately, that didn't happen. It was so warm inside of our "lake view" room (that infact was NOT a LAKE view room, but rather just a Michigan Avenue view room due to its location). We could not get comfortable. We requested a fan three times before one showed up in our room (and we didn't get it until after 10pm). The fan made very little difference in the air temp of the room. There is no temperature control inside the room and the built in room fan was doing very little to provide a comfortable temp. I woke up in a puddle of sweat. This stay was probably one of my most uncomfortable hotel stays ever. I think, at bare minimum, with all the money this hotel makes, they could splurge for individual room AC units or atleast ceiling fans.
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robertalV1425MM
"Heating system"
TripAdvisor user rating 2.0 out of 5
Reviewed June 20, 2025 NEW
The room is clean and spacious with confortable beds however the heating system was a pain. The radiator in the room was from another age! The noise from it also kept me awake the whole night terrible!
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The Congress Plaza Hotel & Convention Center is located at 520 S Michigan Ave • Chicago, IL 60605
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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.

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