Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago
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Summary of reviewsThe Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago garners significant praise for its outstanding location on Michigan Avenue, providing guests with easy access to iconic attractions like Grant Park, Lake Michigan, Millennium Park and several cultural sites. The convenience of nearby public transportation and a multitude of dining and shopping options make it an ideal choice for tourists. The historic architecture and the preserved charm of the building, balanced with modern amenities, add another layer of allure to the hotel.
The breakfast experience receives mixed feedback. On the positive side, guests note good, delicious food and generous portions, particularly appreciating the breakfast cafe and room service. However, some find the options limited and expensive with issues in service and food quality occasionally marring the experience.
Dining at the hotel also sees a blend of reactions. Some guests enjoy the delicious and inexpensive food with commendations for great customer service and the appealing hotel bar and restaurant. On the other hand, limited menu options, early restaurant closures and service issues detract from the overall dining experience for some.
Rooms at the Congress Plaza Hotel are appreciated for their spaciousness, cleanliness and beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the cityscape. Yet, the age of the hotel shows in its outdated decor and occasional maintenance issues, including HVAC problems, thin walls and awkward room layouts.
Cleanliness is another area of varied feedback. Many guests highlight the clean and well-maintained rooms and common areas, but there are frequent mentions of issues like dirty carpets, outdated bathrooms and inconsistent housekeeping.
The staff at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago receive both praise and criticism. Friendly and helpful bell staff, efficient housekeeping and attentive front desk personnel are commonly praised. However, some guests have encountered indifferent or outright rude staff members, reflecting inconsistent service quality.
The free wifi sees mixed reviews. While some guests find the signal strong and reliable, others struggle with connectivity issues and slow speeds with a few unhappy about the paid wifi after 24 hours.
The gym, though present, falls short for some guests due to its small size, non-functional equipment and ventilation issues.
Parking at the hotel gets consistent criticism for being expensive and inconvenient. Although there is a nearby parking garage, the high cost and logistical challenges, such as lack of valet services and in-and-out privileges, annoy many guests.
For families, the hotel is considered accommodating with spacious family rooms and a safe, welcoming atmosphere. However, there are suggestions for better noise control and the addition of a family lounge.
Nightlife around the hotel is vibrant with plenty of late-night bars and dining options, making it attractive for those looking to enjoy Chicago's night scene.
Lastly, the beds receive varied but generally positive reviews with many guests finding them comfortable and suitable for a restful stay.
Categories
The breakfast experience receives mixed feedback. On the positive side, guests note good, delicious food and generous portions, particularly appreciating the breakfast cafe and room service. However, some find the options limited and expensive with issues in service and food quality occasionally marring the experience.
Dining at the hotel also sees a blend of reactions. Some guests enjoy the delicious and inexpensive food with commendations for great customer service and the appealing hotel bar and restaurant. On the other hand, limited menu options, early restaurant closures and service issues detract from the overall dining experience for some.
Rooms at the Congress Plaza Hotel are appreciated for their spaciousness, cleanliness and beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the cityscape. Yet, the age of the hotel shows in its outdated decor and occasional maintenance issues, including HVAC problems, thin walls and awkward room layouts.
Cleanliness is another area of varied feedback. Many guests highlight the clean and well-maintained rooms and common areas, but there are frequent mentions of issues like dirty carpets, outdated bathrooms and inconsistent housekeeping.
The staff at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago receive both praise and criticism. Friendly and helpful bell staff, efficient housekeeping and attentive front desk personnel are commonly praised. However, some guests have encountered indifferent or outright rude staff members, reflecting inconsistent service quality.
The free wifi sees mixed reviews. While some guests find the signal strong and reliable, others struggle with connectivity issues and slow speeds with a few unhappy about the paid wifi after 24 hours.
The gym, though present, falls short for some guests due to its small size, non-functional equipment and ventilation issues.
Parking at the hotel gets consistent criticism for being expensive and inconvenient. Although there is a nearby parking garage, the high cost and logistical challenges, such as lack of valet services and in-and-out privileges, annoy many guests.
For families, the hotel is considered accommodating with spacious family rooms and a safe, welcoming atmosphere. However, there are suggestions for better noise control and the addition of a family lounge.
Nightlife around the hotel is vibrant with plenty of late-night bars and dining options, making it attractive for those looking to enjoy Chicago's night scene.
Lastly, the beds receive varied but generally positive reviews with many guests finding them comfortable and suitable for a restful stay.
Historic Hotel
Opened in 1893 as the Auditorium Annex, this hotel was built to accommodate visitors to the World's Columbian Exposition, with its architecture designed to harmonize with Louis Sullivan's Auditorium Building. It notably featured the first air-conditioned hotel ballroom in America, the Gold Room.
Haunted Hotel
Congress Plaza Hotel is certainly not for the faint of heart. The elevator regularly stops at floor 8, even when the button has not been pressed, while on floor 12 one of the doors has been barred from the outside for no apparent reason. A gloved hand has been seen sticking out of a wall and it is believed to belong to a construction worker who was buried behind it. Also, the ghost of a homeless person who was murdered at the hotel is also reported seen around its premises.
Hotel near Golf Courses
Hotel for Honeymoon
Family Friendly Hotel
Hotel near Nightlife Spots
Business Hotel
Accessible Hotel
Hotel with Gym
3-Star Hotel
Guest Reviews
The Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago boasts an outstanding location, placing guests in the heart of the Windy City. Situated right on Michigan Avenue across from Grant Park, the hotel offers easy access to many of Chicago's key attractions. Guests can enjoy picturesque views of Lake Michigan, Millennium Park and the iconic Buckingham Fountain from the comfort of their rooms. The hotel's proximity to major sights like Soldier Field, the Art Institute of Chicago, the Shedd Aquarium and Cloud Gate makes it an ideal choice for tourists.
Traveling to and from the hotel is a breeze with convenient public transportation options including nearby train stations and bus stops, making it easy to explore the city or commute to the airport. Visitors appreciate the hotel's central position, which allows them to walk to a variety of restaurants, shops and cultural venues in downtown Chicago.
The Congress Plaza Hotel also caters well to event-goers with its close location to popular venues and festivals, making it a perfect spot for attending concerts, marathons, graduations and more. History enthusiasts will find value in the hotel's historic architecture and preserved charm, paired with modern amenities. Overall, the location of the Congress Plaza Hotel is frequently highlighted as its most notable feature, providing both convenience and breathtaking views in the bustling city center.
The breakfast experience at Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago has received mixed feedback from guests. On the positive side, many found the breakfast to be good, delicious and tasty with some guests mentioning generous portions and great service. The breakfast cafe was described as pretty good and accessible and room service breakfast was noted for its taste and cost. Free breakfast received high praise and some guests enjoyed the breakfast buffet.
However, there were also several criticisms. Many guests felt the breakfast options were limited and expensive with some describing the buffet as not worth the price. Issues with food quality, such as cold or inedible items, were mentioned. Service was another point of contention with some guests experiencing slow service and incorrect orders. Additionally, a few reviews mentioned the restaurant's limited operation hours and dated environment.
In summary, while there are positive aspects of the breakfast at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago, such as good food and service for some, it's clear that inconsistency and cost issues are frequent concerns.
Dining at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago presents a mix of experiences. On the positive side, some guests found the restaurant to be amazing with great customer service, while others highlighted that the food was both delicious and inexpensive. The hotel bar and restaurant are noted for being nice and some guests appreciated that the bars remain open late for post-evening outing refreshments. Additionally, the cleanliness and comfort of the rooms were praised and room service received commendations for excellent food.
However, there are notable areas for improvement. Many guests found the restaurants lacking in options and closing early, creating inconvenience. The bar's limited selection of routine liquors and the absence of draught beers were also points of contention. Service issues such as long wait times, incorrect orders and slow staff were frequent complaints. Guests also reported that some food was served cold or lacked flavor and there were instances of poor service, including rude comments from staff.
Overall, while the quality of food at times was good, the inconsistent service and limited menu options left several guests dissatisfied.
The Congress Plaza Hotel in Chicago has received varied feedback regarding its rooms. Many guests appreciated the spaciousness and cleanliness of their accommodations, noting sizeable and recently renovated rooms with beautiful views of Lake Michigan, Grant Park and stunning cityscapes. The bathrooms in some rooms were also praised for their cleanliness and size.
However, the hotel’s age is evident, as numerous reviews highlighted the outdated and worn decor, which includes old carpets, chipped paint and musty smells. Guests often described the rooms as tired and in need of significant updates, including fixtures and furnishings. Some rooms had issues with heating, cooling and noise insulation with comments about uncontrollable room temperatures and thin walls. Room layout and furniture placements were occasionally found to be awkward or cramped, adding to the discomfort.
Despite the historic charm of the building, which some guests found appealing, the older elements were seen as less charming by others who felt the hotel required more thorough maintenance. Basic amenities such as microwaves and better lighting were noted as missing, contributing to a rather basic and dated experience.
While the location on Michigan Avenue and the availability of beautiful lake views were consistent highlights, the overall consensus suggests that the Congress Plaza Hotel could benefit greatly from refurbishments to enhance the guest experience and bring the rooms up to a more modern standard.
At the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago, there are varied opinions about the beds, but comfort levels often come up as a standout feature. Many guests found the beds comfortable with some describing them as very comfortable, super comfy and supportive. The beds are frequently mentioned as being big and spacious, which adds to the comfort for many. Cleanliness also seems to be a recurring positive point with guests appreciating the housekeeping standards.
However, there were several mentions of the beds being too firm or even hard with some guests finding them quite stiff and uncomfortable. The firmness of the mattresses is a consistent theme, which might not suit everyone's preference. The pillows received mixed reviews as well with some finding them too thin, lumpy or hard and there were occasional comments about the lack of sufficient pillows in the room.
Overall, while many appreciated the comfortable and clean beds, others found the mattresses and pillows too firm for a restful sleep. Adjustments to personal preferences may be necessary for a better sleep experience here.
The Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago has received mixed reviews regarding its cleanliness. Many guests appreciated the clean rooms, describing them as spacious, comfortable and well-maintained. The overall cleanliness of the hotel was frequently highlighted with some reviewers noting the pleasant smell and spotless surroundings. The hotel lobby and common areas were often mentioned as being clean and tidy.
However, several guests raised concerns about specific cleanliness issues. Complaints included dirty carpets, outdated bathrooms and dust in various places. Some pointed out more severe problems, like mold, bugs and even cockroaches. Housekeeping services appeared inconsistent with some rooms not being cleaned daily and others missing thorough cleaning.
Additionally, while some appreciated the polite housekeeping staff and the general upkeep, others felt that the hotel needs a major cleaning overhaul and refurbishment. Issues like musty smells in hallways, poorly vacuumed carpets and outdated furnishings contributed to a less favorable experience for some guests.
Overall, while the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago earns praise for its clean rooms and common areas, it also faces significant criticisms related to its maintenance and cleanliness, indicating a need for more consistent and comprehensive cleaning practices.
The Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago has received a myriad of feedback regarding its staff, demonstrating a mixed bag of experiences from its guests. On a positive note, the bell staff and housekeeping were often praised for their friendliness and efficiency. Many guests found the front desk and concierge to be attentive, informative and polite, notably mentioning personnel like Steve the security guard for his delightful demeanor. The bar staff also earned commendations for their service with the bartender receiving high marks for crafting fantastic drinks.
Several reviews highlight the staff's willingness to go above and beyond with particular note of their helpfulness and welcoming nature. The general consensus reflects that many staff members, including doormen and bellhops, exhibited a kind and accommodating attitude. Guests appreciated the prompt responses to their requests with the housekeeping team often lauded for their punctuality and thoroughness.
Despite these positive reviews, there are notable areas of concern. Some guests reported encounters with unresponsive or indifferent staff, particularly at the reception and bar. A few described their interactions with certain staff members as rude or unfriendly. Issues such as a lack of proper training, the temporary nature of some front desk staff and a general sense of disinterest were also mentioned.
While many guests experienced exceptional service, the variability in staff behavior underscores the inconsistent customer service at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago. Overall, the hotel staff received mixed reviews with many instances of warmth and helpfulness tempered by occasional lapses in professionalism and attentiveness.
The wifi experience at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago has been a mixed bag, but there are positive aspects that stand out amidst some criticisms. Some guests reported that the free wifi had a very strong signal and worked well for most of their stay, making it suitable for business travelers and general use. The internet was described as always strong by a few with a strong wi-fi signal being highlighted. For others, however, the internet was unstable with connectivity issues, slow speeds and difficulties in reaching customer service for resolution. Some felt that the wifi was inconsistent, not connecting or requiring re-setting and noted that paid wifi after 24 hours was an inconvenience. While there were instances where guests found the wifi worked as needed or quite well during their stay, others had less favorable experiences with poor or unresponsive connections.
The gym at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago has received mixed feedback from guests. While some praised it as a good and even great gym, others noted significant issues. Many guests commented on the small size of the gym and found it to be inadequate with some describing it as a joke due to non-functional or broken equipment. Access to the gym facilities was problematic for a few guests and the lack of proper ventilation and water were common complaints. Despite these issues, the presence of a fitness suite is acknowledged, but it's clear that improvements are needed to meet guests' expectations fully.
Guests at Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago have consistently mentioned that parking at the hotel is quite expensive and often a hassle. The cost for parking typically ranges from $46 to $65 per day, which many find excessive. Unfortunately, there is no free parking available and valet services are not always functioning, adding to the inconvenience. Despite having a parking garage nearby, it is not directly connected to the hotel, requiring a short walk which some find troublesome.
Some guests have noted that valet teams, when available, are helpful and pleasant, but the overall parking process can be confusing and poorly organized. There are mentions of alternative public parking options nearby, though these also come at a steep price. A few reviews highlight a lack of in-and-out privileges, meaning guests are charged each time they take their car out and bring it back, further adding to the cost and frustration.
While the parking is conveniently located close to the hotel, the high expenses and limited availability often lead to disappointment among guests. There have been suggestions that a deal or discounted rate for hotel guests would be beneficial, particularly in light of pre-pandemic practices where such discounts were offered. Overall, while the hotel is well-situated, the parking situation leaves something to be desired for many travelers.
Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago presents itself as a highly accommodating destination for those traveling with family, notably teenagers. Families have ample choice with offerings like family suites and family room accommodations that provide lovely views and enough space for everyone to feel comfortable. The hotel's atmosphere is praised for being family-friendly, making it an ideal spot for family gatherings, reunions or holidays. Guests have commented on feeling safe during their stay, which is crucial for a worry-free family trip. While there are some suggestions for better managing noise levels by possibly designating a family wing, the overall experience remains pleasant and conducive to family enjoyment. The venue lacks a family lounge, but it compensates with a welcoming environment, ensuring a memorable visit for families.
The Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago is situated in a lively area with access to various bars, restaurants and a club. Guests generally found the nightlife to be vibrant with bars open late, allowing for late-night drinks upon returning to the hotel. Although some reviews mention disruptive behavior in the halls during the night, these were considered outliers and not the fault of the hotel. While opinions on the availability and quality of nearby restaurants varied, the overall atmosphere for bar-going and nightlife received positive remarks.
Located in a prime area of Chicago, the Congress Plaza Hotel offers an affordable stay that appeals to budget-conscious travelers. As a three-star hotel, it meets reasonable expectations without showcasing luxury. The historic lobby presents a welcoming atmosphere, contrasting with the dated and worn appearance of the rooms, which would benefit from renovations and a bit of love.
Despite being an old building with outdated rooms, the hotel provides good value for the price, especially compared to other downtown options. Guests enjoy a comfortable stay at a lower cost, ideal for short visits or events such as graduations. The accommodation is practical for those seeking affordability in a central location.
Customer service appears lacking with issues like unreturned calls and rooms left untidy over extended stays. Additionally, the free WiFi service is limited to one device per 24 hours, which some guests found inconvenient. Nevertheless, those who do not require extensive amenities find the hotel satisfactory for its pricing, noting it as a decent option within the three-star category.
The Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago is highly regarded by business travelers for its strategic location and functional amenities. Positioned in the downtown area and close to the commercial district, it provides a significant advantage for those attending trade shows and business meetings. The proximity to public transportation and notable business hubs makes it an ideal spot for professionals.
Guests appreciated the various business facilities available, including a well-equipped business center, reliable meeting and conference rooms and convenience-enhancing amenities like a business lounge and business floor. The presence of shared workspaces and spacious desks in rooms caters well to those needing to work during their stay.
Security at the hotel is notably stringent, adding a level of comfort for guests. The hotel's location near the business district offers a quick walk to nearby meetings and conference venues, further adding to its appeal for business travel.
However, a minor point of contention was the quality of the Wi-Fi, which some found unreliable for business purposes. Despite this, the overall offerings make the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago an excellent choice for business travelers due to its accessibility, business-friendly services and convenient downtown location.
The Congress Plaza Hotel in Chicago stands out for its strategic central location, making it a convenient option for guests with disabilities. Its proximity to key city highlights, such as popular attractions, restaurants, food outlets and shopping areas, ensures that guests have easy access to essential amenities and entertainment options. The hotel boasts fully accessible rooms and has handicap assistants available on-site, offering a sense of reassurance for disabled guests.
Accessibility extends to nearby transportation options with the metro and bus stops close by and parking facilities available. The location is particularly advantageous for events like marathons with guests citing it as perfect for the purpose. Additionally, the underground parking nearby aids in easy commutes.
However, the navigation within the hotel could be challenging due to the presence of old-fashioned elevators and items related to ongoing construction. Overall, while the hotel is partially accessible, its advantageous location and available accessibility features make it a viable option for guests with disabilities.
In the heart of bustling Chicago, the Congress Plaza Hotel stands as a testament to a bygone era, blending historic elegance with the charm of yesteryear. Opened in 1893, this grand old building on Michigan Avenue is steeped in history and adorned with ornate decor that will transport you back in time. Guests have consistently noted the hotel's rich historical significance, a factor that is palpable from the Art Deco charm and classic architecture to the traditional atmosphere that imbues the lobby, hallways and rooms.
The Congress Plaza has preserved its beautiful old-world feel with elements like the stunning historic staircase and the Gold Banquet Room, adding impressive touches to its storied past. The lobby is particularly noteworthy for its elegant and grand appearance, evoking a sense of grandeur that adds to the overall ambiance of the hotel. While some reviews mention that the building is aging and could use a bit of tender loving care, the hotel's historical significance and the nostalgia it invokes more than make up for any signs of wear and tear.
Many guests appreciate the old-fashioned charm and traditional style, describing it as a classic hotel reminiscent of historical landmarks. The architecture, fixtures and interior design exude a historic feel, making the experience of staying here akin to stepping into a different era. The storied history of the hotel is fascinating to many, making their stay at the Congress Plaza a memorable one.
It’s a hotel that not only offers beautiful views over Lake Michigan and proximity to Grant Park but also houses a narrative of Chicago's past within its walls. Whether it’s the historically significant lobby or the venerable bathrooms that seem to have aged gracefully, every corner of this hotel tells a tale. For history enthusiasts and those who cherish vintage elegance, the Congress Plaza Hotel offers a unique and enchanting stay, full of character and historical charm.
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Location
Traveling to and from the hotel is a breeze with convenient public transportation options including nearby train stations and bus stops, making it easy to explore the city or commute to the airport. Visitors appreciate the hotel's central position, which allows them to walk to a variety of restaurants, shops and cultural venues in downtown Chicago.
The Congress Plaza Hotel also caters well to event-goers with its close location to popular venues and festivals, making it a perfect spot for attending concerts, marathons, graduations and more. History enthusiasts will find value in the hotel's historic architecture and preserved charm, paired with modern amenities. Overall, the location of the Congress Plaza Hotel is frequently highlighted as its most notable feature, providing both convenience and breathtaking views in the bustling city center.
Breakfast
However, there were also several criticisms. Many guests felt the breakfast options were limited and expensive with some describing the buffet as not worth the price. Issues with food quality, such as cold or inedible items, were mentioned. Service was another point of contention with some guests experiencing slow service and incorrect orders. Additionally, a few reviews mentioned the restaurant's limited operation hours and dated environment.
In summary, while there are positive aspects of the breakfast at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago, such as good food and service for some, it's clear that inconsistency and cost issues are frequent concerns.
Dinner
However, there are notable areas for improvement. Many guests found the restaurants lacking in options and closing early, creating inconvenience. The bar's limited selection of routine liquors and the absence of draught beers were also points of contention. Service issues such as long wait times, incorrect orders and slow staff were frequent complaints. Guests also reported that some food was served cold or lacked flavor and there were instances of poor service, including rude comments from staff.
Overall, while the quality of food at times was good, the inconsistent service and limited menu options left several guests dissatisfied.
Rooms
However, the hotel’s age is evident, as numerous reviews highlighted the outdated and worn decor, which includes old carpets, chipped paint and musty smells. Guests often described the rooms as tired and in need of significant updates, including fixtures and furnishings. Some rooms had issues with heating, cooling and noise insulation with comments about uncontrollable room temperatures and thin walls. Room layout and furniture placements were occasionally found to be awkward or cramped, adding to the discomfort.
Despite the historic charm of the building, which some guests found appealing, the older elements were seen as less charming by others who felt the hotel required more thorough maintenance. Basic amenities such as microwaves and better lighting were noted as missing, contributing to a rather basic and dated experience.
While the location on Michigan Avenue and the availability of beautiful lake views were consistent highlights, the overall consensus suggests that the Congress Plaza Hotel could benefit greatly from refurbishments to enhance the guest experience and bring the rooms up to a more modern standard.
Beds
However, there were several mentions of the beds being too firm or even hard with some guests finding them quite stiff and uncomfortable. The firmness of the mattresses is a consistent theme, which might not suit everyone's preference. The pillows received mixed reviews as well with some finding them too thin, lumpy or hard and there were occasional comments about the lack of sufficient pillows in the room.
Overall, while many appreciated the comfortable and clean beds, others found the mattresses and pillows too firm for a restful sleep. Adjustments to personal preferences may be necessary for a better sleep experience here.
Cleanliness
However, several guests raised concerns about specific cleanliness issues. Complaints included dirty carpets, outdated bathrooms and dust in various places. Some pointed out more severe problems, like mold, bugs and even cockroaches. Housekeeping services appeared inconsistent with some rooms not being cleaned daily and others missing thorough cleaning.
Additionally, while some appreciated the polite housekeeping staff and the general upkeep, others felt that the hotel needs a major cleaning overhaul and refurbishment. Issues like musty smells in hallways, poorly vacuumed carpets and outdated furnishings contributed to a less favorable experience for some guests.
Overall, while the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago earns praise for its clean rooms and common areas, it also faces significant criticisms related to its maintenance and cleanliness, indicating a need for more consistent and comprehensive cleaning practices.
Staff
Several reviews highlight the staff's willingness to go above and beyond with particular note of their helpfulness and welcoming nature. The general consensus reflects that many staff members, including doormen and bellhops, exhibited a kind and accommodating attitude. Guests appreciated the prompt responses to their requests with the housekeeping team often lauded for their punctuality and thoroughness.
Despite these positive reviews, there are notable areas of concern. Some guests reported encounters with unresponsive or indifferent staff, particularly at the reception and bar. A few described their interactions with certain staff members as rude or unfriendly. Issues such as a lack of proper training, the temporary nature of some front desk staff and a general sense of disinterest were also mentioned.
While many guests experienced exceptional service, the variability in staff behavior underscores the inconsistent customer service at the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago. Overall, the hotel staff received mixed reviews with many instances of warmth and helpfulness tempered by occasional lapses in professionalism and attentiveness.
Wi-Fi
Gym
Parking
Some guests have noted that valet teams, when available, are helpful and pleasant, but the overall parking process can be confusing and poorly organized. There are mentions of alternative public parking options nearby, though these also come at a steep price. A few reviews highlight a lack of in-and-out privileges, meaning guests are charged each time they take their car out and bring it back, further adding to the cost and frustration.
While the parking is conveniently located close to the hotel, the high expenses and limited availability often lead to disappointment among guests. There have been suggestions that a deal or discounted rate for hotel guests would be beneficial, particularly in light of pre-pandemic practices where such discounts were offered. Overall, while the hotel is well-situated, the parking situation leaves something to be desired for many travelers.
Family
Nightlife
3 Star
Despite being an old building with outdated rooms, the hotel provides good value for the price, especially compared to other downtown options. Guests enjoy a comfortable stay at a lower cost, ideal for short visits or events such as graduations. The accommodation is practical for those seeking affordability in a central location.
Customer service appears lacking with issues like unreturned calls and rooms left untidy over extended stays. Additionally, the free WiFi service is limited to one device per 24 hours, which some guests found inconvenient. Nevertheless, those who do not require extensive amenities find the hotel satisfactory for its pricing, noting it as a decent option within the three-star category.
Business
Guests appreciated the various business facilities available, including a well-equipped business center, reliable meeting and conference rooms and convenience-enhancing amenities like a business lounge and business floor. The presence of shared workspaces and spacious desks in rooms caters well to those needing to work during their stay.
Security at the hotel is notably stringent, adding a level of comfort for guests. The hotel's location near the business district offers a quick walk to nearby meetings and conference venues, further adding to its appeal for business travel.
However, a minor point of contention was the quality of the Wi-Fi, which some found unreliable for business purposes. Despite this, the overall offerings make the Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago an excellent choice for business travelers due to its accessibility, business-friendly services and convenient downtown location.
Accessible
Accessibility extends to nearby transportation options with the metro and bus stops close by and parking facilities available. The location is particularly advantageous for events like marathons with guests citing it as perfect for the purpose. Additionally, the underground parking nearby aids in easy commutes.
However, the navigation within the hotel could be challenging due to the presence of old-fashioned elevators and items related to ongoing construction. Overall, while the hotel is partially accessible, its advantageous location and available accessibility features make it a viable option for guests with disabilities.
Historic
The Congress Plaza has preserved its beautiful old-world feel with elements like the stunning historic staircase and the Gold Banquet Room, adding impressive touches to its storied past. The lobby is particularly noteworthy for its elegant and grand appearance, evoking a sense of grandeur that adds to the overall ambiance of the hotel. While some reviews mention that the building is aging and could use a bit of tender loving care, the hotel's historical significance and the nostalgia it invokes more than make up for any signs of wear and tear.
Many guests appreciate the old-fashioned charm and traditional style, describing it as a classic hotel reminiscent of historical landmarks. The architecture, fixtures and interior design exude a historic feel, making the experience of staying here akin to stepping into a different era. The storied history of the hotel is fascinating to many, making their stay at the Congress Plaza a memorable one.
It’s a hotel that not only offers beautiful views over Lake Michigan and proximity to Grant Park but also houses a narrative of Chicago's past within its walls. Whether it’s the historically significant lobby or the venerable bathrooms that seem to have aged gracefully, every corner of this hotel tells a tale. For history enthusiasts and those who cherish vintage elegance, the Congress Plaza Hotel offers a unique and enchanting stay, full of character and historical charm.
No, Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago doesn't have any pool.
No, a spa isn't available at Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago.
No, Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago doesn't allow dogs.
No, parking facilities aren't available at Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago.
Yes, Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago has a gym.
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