Congress Plaza Hotel

Hotel with 2 restaurants, steps from Columbia College Chicago

Choose dates to view prices

Where to?

Dates

October 2025

November 2025

Junior Suite, City View | Living area | TV

Standard Suite, 1 King Bed, Lake View, Lakeside | Hypo-allergenic bedding, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace

Overview
Rooms
Location
Policies

Very good

Popular amenities

Breakfast available
Room service
Housekeeping
24/7 front desk
Bar

Explore the area

520 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, IL, 60605

Place, Art Institute of Chicago
‪8 min walk‬
Place, Millennium Park
‪9 min walk‬
Place, Grant Park
‪16 min walk‬
Airport, Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.)
‪25 min drive‬

Room options

Hypo-allergenic bedding, in-room safe, desk, laptop workspace

Standard Room, 1 King Bed, Lake View

Very good

251 sq ft
Lake view
Sleeps 3
1 King Bed

Standard Suite, 1 King Bed, Lake View, Lakeside

Excellent

538 sq ft
1 bedroom
Lake view
Sleeps 3
1 King Bed

Standard Room, 1 King Bed

Good

278 sq ft
Sleeps 3
1 King Bed

Standard Room, 2 Double Beds

Good

237 sq ft
Sleeps 4
2 Double Beds

Standard Room, 2 Double Beds, Lake View

Very good

251 sq ft
Lake view
Sleeps 4
2 Double Beds

Family Suite

Good

538 sq ft
Sleeps 6
1 King Bed and 2 Double Beds

Accessible Standard Room, 2 Double Beds

Good

251 sq ft
Sleeps 4
2 Double Beds

Queen Room, Interior View

Very good

194 sq ft
Sleeps 3
1 Queen Bed

Junior Suite, City View

1 bedroom
City view
Sleeps 2
1 King Bed

About the neighborhood

Chicago

Located in Downtown Chicago, Congress Plaza Hotel is next to popular attractions like Columbia College Chicago and Museum of Contemporary Photography. This 870-room hotel has 2 restaurants along with conveniences like free in-room WiFi and a gym.

What's nearby

Buckingham Fountain - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
Art Institute of Chicago - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
Millennium Park - 9 min walk - 0.5 miles
Grant Park - 16 min walk - 0.9 miles
Chicago Riverwalk - 19 min walk - 1.0 mile

Getting around

Chicago Van Buren Street Station - 2 min walk
Harrison Station - 5 min walk
Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) - 37 min drive

Restaurants

‪Epic Burger - ‬4 min walk
‪Fontano's Pizza and Subs - ‬3 min walk
‪The Lounge At Congress Hotel - ‬1 min walk
‪Kitty O'Sheas - ‬3 min walk
‪Lao Sze Chuan - ‬4 min walk

About this property

Congress Plaza Hotel

Hotel with 2 restaurants, steps from Columbia College Chicago

Guests of Congress Plaza Hotel enjoy a gym, free WiFi in public areas, and meeting rooms. Self parking is offered for USD 62.00 per night. Multilingual staff at the front desk are standing by 24/7 to help with concierge services, luggage storage, and securing valuables. Additional amenities include conference space, a business center, and express check-out.

Guests can expect TVs with cable channels, along with free WiFi and wired Internet. Bathrooms offer deep soaking tubs, hair dryers, and free toiletries. Other standard amenities include sitting areas, refrigerators, and coffee makers. Housekeeping is available on request.

Recreational amenities at the hotel include a fitness center.

The recreational activities listed below are available either on site or nearby; fees may apply.

Similar properties

Free WiFi
Restaurant
Air conditioning
Housekeeping

$113 nightly

Nov 4 - Nov 5

Total with taxes and fees

Property amenities

Internet

Available in all rooms: Free WiFi and wired internet
Available in some public areas: Free WiFi and wired internet

Parking and transportation

Uncovered self parking on site (USD 62 per night)

Food and drink

Weekend full breakfast available 6:30 AM to 11:00 AM for a fee: USD 16 to 23 for adults and USD 12 to 18 for children
2 bars/lounges
2 restaurants
A coffee shop/cafe

Restaurants on site

Tavern Tap
Tavern Tap

Things to do

Bicycle storage
Gym
Shopping

Family friendly

In-room refrigerator

Conveniences

24-hour front desk
ATM
Gift shop/newsstand
Guidebooks
Hair salon
Luggage storage
Safe at front desk
Vending machine

Guest services

Change of bedsheets (on request)
Change of towels on request
Concierge services
Dry cleaning/laundry service
Housekeeping (daily)
Multilingual staff
Porter/bellhop
Wedding services

Business services

50,000 square feet of conference space
Business center
Meeting rooms

Accessibility

If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
Assistive listening devices
Elevator
Hand-held showerhead
Smooth flooring in room
Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)
Wheelchair-accessible business center
Wheelchair-accessible gym
Wheelchair-accessible lounge
Wheelchair-accessible path of travel
Wheelchair-accessible public washroom
Wheelchair-accessible registration desk
Wheelchair-accessible restaurant

100% renewable energy
14 floors
3 buildings
At least 80% lighting from LEDs
Banquet hall
Built in 1893
Smoking not allowed

Room amenities

Bedroom

Bedsheets provided
Blackout drapes
Hypo-allergenic bedding

Bathroom

Deep soaking bathtub
Free toiletries
Hair dryer
Private bathroom
Shower/bathtub combination
Towels provided

Entertainment

TV with premium cable channels

Food and drink

Coffee/tea maker
Limited room service
Refrigerator
Restaurant dining guides

Air conditioning (climate-controlled)
Desk
Eco-friendly toiletries
Iron/ironing board
Laptop workspace
LED lighting
Phone
Recycling
Safe
Separate sitting area

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: anytime

Early check-in subject to availability

Early check-in fee: USD 49.00

Minimum check-in age: 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon

Late check-out subject to availability

Late check-out fee: USD 59.00

Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

Service animals exempt from fees

Children and extra beds

Children 17 years old and younger stay free when using existing bedding
Rollaway/extra beds are available for USD 25.0 per day

Property payment types

Important information

Fees

You'll be asked to pay these charges at the property:

Deposit: USD 25.00 per night

These are all of the charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

These fees and deposits will be charged at check-in, check-out, or the time of service.

Fee for full breakfast: approximately USD 16 to 23 for adults, and USD 12 to 18 for children
Uncovered self parking fee: USD 62.00 per night
Early check-in fee: USD 49.00 (subject to availability)
Late check-out fee: USD 59.00 (subject to availability)
An in-room refrigerator is available for an additional fee
Rollaway bed fee: USD 25.0 per day

This list may not be comprehensive. Fees and deposits might not include tax and are subject to change.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy

Government-issued photo identification and a credit card, debit card, or cash deposit may be required at check-in for incidental charges

Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed

The name on the credit card used at check-in to pay for incidentals must be the primary name on the guestroom reservation

This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash

Safety features at this property include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards

Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property

Check-in: 3:00 PM
Check-out: noon
Minimum check-in age: 18

The front desk is open 24 hours a day, and checking out is easy with express services. Driving? This property offers parking (fees apply).

We should mention

Details about charges, deposits, or other important information:

This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business, or profession.
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary depending on the property's policy.
A cash deposit, credit card, or debit card for incidental charges, as well as a government-issued photo ID, may be required at check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in and can't be guaranteed. Certain requests may come with additional charges.
This property accepts credit cards, debit cards, and cash.
The credit card used at check-in for incidentals must be in the name of the primary guest who made the reservation.
Onsite safety features include a carbon monoxide detector, a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector, a security system, a first aid kit, and window guards.

Additional information about polices, regulations, and more:

Registered guests are the only ones allowed in guestrooms.

Property is also known as

Congress Hotel

Congress Hotel Plaza

Congress Plaza

Congress Plaza Chicago

Congress Plaza Hotel

Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago

Hotel Congress Plaza

Plaza Congress Hotel

Congress Hotel Chicago

Congress Plaza Hotel Hotel

Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago

Congress Plaza Hotel Hotel Chicago

Frequently asked questions

Is a free cancellation option available at Congress Plaza Hotel?

Congress Plaza Hotel offers free cancellation on some room rates. To learn more, take a look at the cancellation policy on Orbitz.

How much does it cost to stay at Congress Plaza Hotel?

As of Oct 4, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Congress Plaza Hotel on Nov 2, 2025 start from $144.58, excluding taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

What's there to see near Congress Plaza Hotel?

This hotel is situated in Downtown Chicago within a 10-minute walk of Millennium Park, State Street, and Art Institute of Chicago. You'll also find Michigan Avenue and Lake Michigan less than a mile away.

Will I be able to park at Congress Plaza Hotel?

Yes, uncovered parking is offered for USD 62.00 per night. Bicycle parking is also available for guests.

Does Congress Plaza Hotel include a casino on the premises?

No, Congress Plaza Hotel doesn't have a casino.

Is there an indoor pool at Congress Plaza Hotel?

No, there is no indoor pool at this hotel.

What amenities will couples enjoy at Congress Plaza Hotel?

Couples will appreciate amenities at this hotel, including a soaking tub and free Internet access in each guestroom with some featuring lake views.

Does Congress Plaza Hotel have a hot tub?

No, this hotel doesn't have a spa tub.

Does Congress Plaza Hotel feature a restaurant that includes a breakfast menu?

Yes, Congress Plaza Hotel has 2 restaurants, and serves a full breakfast on weekend mornings for a surcharge.

Does Congress Plaza Hotel allow pets to stay for free?

No, pets aren't allowed at Congress Plaza Hotel though service animals are welcome.

Are there connecting rooms at Congress Plaza Hotel?

No, this hotel doesn't feature connecting guestrooms.

Where is the closest airport to Congress Plaza Hotel?

The closest major airport to Congress Plaza Hotel is Chicago Midway Airport (MDW), which is 12 mi away (26 minutes by car). Another top airport is Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD), which is located 18.9 mi away (37-minute drive).

Are there rooms with balconies at Congress Plaza Hotel?

No, there aren't any guestrooms with balconies at Congress Plaza Hotel.

Does Congress Plaza Hotel host weddings?

Take advantage of the wedding venue at Congress Plaza Hotel if you plan to say "I do" during your trip.

Congress Plaza Hotel Reviews

8.0

Very Good

8.2/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.6/10

Amenities

7.2/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.6/10

Eco-friendliness

8/10 Good

Brooke

Business traveler

Sep 18, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Could use more front desk staff. Quite a line formed behind me

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

6/10 Okay

Kim

Sep 8, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

Disliked: Property conditions & facilities

Bathroom light switch in room was broken, and bathroom sink dripped all night long.

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

8/10 Good

Anna

Business traveler, Traveled with partner

Sep 8, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

It’s an old hotel but the rooms are nicely renovated. The location is the best!! Walkable distance to most attractions, close to public transportation, restaurants and shopping.

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

2/10 Terrible

Spencer

Sep 6, 2025

Stayed 1 night in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Arik Avaneszadeh

Sep 6, 2025

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Mark

Traveled with group

Sep 4, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Great spot to see the city

Stayed 7 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Elizabeth

Aug 25, 2025

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Fernando

Business traveler, Traveled with partner

Aug 22, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Good

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Paul

Traveled with partner, Traveled with family

Aug 22, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Only cleans every other day. View epic. Comfy and clean

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dan

Aug 19, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

I have stayed here numerous times over the years. It is an historic property and a great value. The park across the street is wonderful and it is a reasonable walk to my favorite Chicago style pizza on Ohio street.

Stayed 3 nights in Aug 2025

10/10 Excellent

thomas andrew

Aug 14, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

Overall convenience

Stayed 4 nights in Aug 2025

4/10 Poor

Larita

Traveled with group

Aug 11, 2025

Liked: Staff & service

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities

I like that it was DT, but the area was not close by any good restaurants. The hotel is really old and smelled old too.

Stayed 2 nights in Aug 2025

2/10 Terrible

Sarina

Traveled with partner

Aug 4, 2025

Liked: Staff & service

Disliked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities

This property doesn’t have individual air controls, but rather it is controlled by the property. Every room is the same temperature and it was so hot in our room. The bathroom tile is outdated, and the tub was scuffed in several places with black marks. The noise from the street below was so loud, definitely not noise cancelling windows. Disappointed with this property

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

4/10 Poor

Teresa

Traveled with family

Aug 2, 2025

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities

Do not stay here. First of all, paid for a lake view room, didnt get one and when I asked i was told there are none available, with no offer of reimbursement. The walls are so thin I literally heard the conversations of my neighbors. One day, our toilet was overflowing and after 2 calls and over an hour I had to go down to the front desk to inquire and use the restroom. There is no wi-fi and just overall really run down.

Stayed 6 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Andrew

Traveled with group

Jul 28, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities

A/C wasn’t all that cold or powerful but was to be expected in an old building. Very clean, staff was friendly, and it’s a great location across from Grant Park. Beautiful, old building!!!

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Timothy

Traveled with family

Jul 25, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service

So, yeah. It's a gorgeous, historic landmark on Chicago's famous Michigan avenue. 100 years ago presidents stayed there. The lobby is stunning. But, time is a cruel mistress. The Congress is in need of a facelift and interior cleansing. The bar is pretty much on bar with a small town airport bar, in spite of its nice woodwork. They tried to sell us $5 a bottle Woodbridge red wine that had been sitting around for ages and had turned to vinegar. But, why the 4 stars? Everything was great for our trip. The hotel is walking distance to Soldier field. The parking behind the hotel was easy and convenient. And the room was clean and quiet (apart from the maids knocking on our door at fricking 8 am and then coming back at 9:30 with a key while we were still in bed. (talk to her, please) 11th floor. Jeez. Also, the four stars includes a comfortable bed, soft pillows, and the staff being awesome (except for the early bird maid).

Stayed 2 nights in Jul 2025

10/10 Excellent

Thomas, Fishers

Jul 25, 2025

Stayed 1 night in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Perry

Traveled with group, Business traveler

Jul 24, 2025

Disliked: Staff & service, amenities

The hotel was not what I expected or planned. It had limited resources or amenities.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025

6/10 Okay

Gabriel

Jul 18, 2025

Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

8/10 Good

Anna

Traveled with family

Jul 15, 2025

Liked: Cleanliness

The hotel is an old property, but the bedrooms were nicely renovated. The location is the highlight... nice views, close to everything, walkable distance to downtown and the lake.

Stayed 3 nights in Jul 2025