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Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Bad
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jared S. of Mi USA on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jul-2007 The Hotel was Sub Par, The front desk asked us if we wanted non smoking and booked us in a smoking room anyways so we had to switch once we figured out why the hallways smelled so bad...random people in the hall ways, knocking on doors. The front desk was not very helpful with complaints or other information
Pros:	Its Downtown
Cons:	Remodeling
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jose Z. of Oceanside of CA USA on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jul-2007 This hotel is the most overpriced hotel that I have ever stayed in. The rooms looked like they belonged to a seedy motel more than the hotel that I was sold on. Online travel websites needs to investigate the hotels that they take for their website
Pros:	The lobby
Cons:	The rooms are atrocious
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Bonnie M. of on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Hotel was very dated and shabby. Needs major renovations. Convenient location, but you will hear the train depending on the room location. Staff was very friendly.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	overall updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Beth W. of Kenosha of WI US on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 I have never been afraid for my safety in a hotel until we stayed here. There were other patrons on our floor who were fighting and throwing things out in the hallway with alot of yelling, screaming and door slamming until well after midnight. Several calls to the front desk resulted in no response at all. Between the noise in the hallway and the train noise every 20 minutes we didn't get much sleep but at 8:45am the housekeeping staff were banging on the door wanting to know if they could come in and clean. Staying here was a nightmare.
Pros:	There isn
Cons:	everything, especially the staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by terry c. of indianapolis of in usa on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Best buy downtown, needs new furnishings, staff very helpful, needed to change reservation to handicapped room and no problem, close to everything, recommend for traveler who does not want to spend a lot of money for a short period of time and does not expect a new table or chair in their room. Security on site
Pros:	price
Cons:	furnishings
Recommended For:	Families Business

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by tom a. of raleigh of nc usa on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 Sorry. Poorly maintained. Absolutely no reason to recommend this hotel for any reason. Extra charges on your bill for absolutely everything. They are quite used to complaining guests and you are waisting your time. See if the Y has a room.
Pros:	exit door
Cons:	absolutely everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Terrie H. of of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 The hotel is located near shopping, resturants, and theaters. It is older hotel in need of remodelling in the rooms. The bathrooms lacked adequate space for toiletries. I had to let the hot water run for 10 minutes before it warmed. Rooms were clean and comfortable mattress and pillows. Worth the price of the stay.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	room interior
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Jul-2007 - Overpriced

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Bad
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Average

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jose Z. of Oceanside of CA USA on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jul-2007 This hotel is the most overpriced hotel that I have ever stayed in. The rooms looked like they belonged to a seedy motel more than the hotel that I was sold on. Online travel websites needs to investigate the hotels that they take for their website
Pros:	The lobby
Cons:	The rooms are atrocious
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Bonnie M. of on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Hotel was very dated and shabby. Needs major renovations. Convenient location, but you will hear the train depending on the room location. Staff was very friendly.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	overall updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Beth W. of Kenosha of WI US on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 I have never been afraid for my safety in a hotel until we stayed here. There were other patrons on our floor who were fighting and throwing things out in the hallway with alot of yelling, screaming and door slamming until well after midnight. Several calls to the front desk resulted in no response at all. Between the noise in the hallway and the train noise every 20 minutes we didn't get much sleep but at 8:45am the housekeeping staff were banging on the door wanting to know if they could come in and clean. Staying here was a nightmare.
Pros:	There isn
Cons:	everything, especially the staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by terry c. of indianapolis of in usa on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Best buy downtown, needs new furnishings, staff very helpful, needed to change reservation to handicapped room and no problem, close to everything, recommend for traveler who does not want to spend a lot of money for a short period of time and does not expect a new table or chair in their room. Security on site
Pros:	price
Cons:	furnishings
Recommended For:	Families Business

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by tom a. of raleigh of nc usa on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 Sorry. Poorly maintained. Absolutely no reason to recommend this hotel for any reason. Extra charges on your bill for absolutely everything. They are quite used to complaining guests and you are waisting your time. See if the Y has a room.
Pros:	exit door
Cons:	absolutely everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Terrie H. of of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 The hotel is located near shopping, resturants, and theaters. It is older hotel in need of remodelling in the rooms. The bathrooms lacked adequate space for toiletries. I had to let the hot water run for 10 minutes before it warmed. Rooms were clean and comfortable mattress and pillows. Worth the price of the stay.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	room interior
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Jun-2007 - Chicago

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Good

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Bonnie M. of on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Hotel was very dated and shabby. Needs major renovations. Convenient location, but you will hear the train depending on the room location. Staff was very friendly.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	overall updating
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Beth W. of Kenosha of WI US on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 I have never been afraid for my safety in a hotel until we stayed here. There were other patrons on our floor who were fighting and throwing things out in the hallway with alot of yelling, screaming and door slamming until well after midnight. Several calls to the front desk resulted in no response at all. Between the noise in the hallway and the train noise every 20 minutes we didn't get much sleep but at 8:45am the housekeeping staff were banging on the door wanting to know if they could come in and clean. Staying here was a nightmare.
Pros:	There isn
Cons:	everything, especially the staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by terry c. of indianapolis of in usa on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Best buy downtown, needs new furnishings, staff very helpful, needed to change reservation to handicapped room and no problem, close to everything, recommend for traveler who does not want to spend a lot of money for a short period of time and does not expect a new table or chair in their room. Security on site
Pros:	price
Cons:	furnishings
Recommended For:	Families Business

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by tom a. of raleigh of nc usa on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 Sorry. Poorly maintained. Absolutely no reason to recommend this hotel for any reason. Extra charges on your bill for absolutely everything. They are quite used to complaining guests and you are waisting your time. See if the Y has a room.
Pros:	exit door
Cons:	absolutely everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Terrie H. of of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 The hotel is located near shopping, resturants, and theaters. It is older hotel in need of remodelling in the rooms. The bathrooms lacked adequate space for toiletries. I had to let the hot water run for 10 minutes before it warmed. Rooms were clean and comfortable mattress and pillows. Worth the price of the stay.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	room interior
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Jun-2007 - Big Ghetto Hotel

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Terrible
Facility Quality:	Terrible
Activities:
Entertainment:	Terrible
Quality of Service:	Good

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Beth W. of Kenosha of WI US on Jul-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 I have never been afraid for my safety in a hotel until we stayed here. There were other patrons on our floor who were fighting and throwing things out in the hallway with alot of yelling, screaming and door slamming until well after midnight. Several calls to the front desk resulted in no response at all. Between the noise in the hallway and the train noise every 20 minutes we didn't get much sleep but at 8:45am the housekeeping staff were banging on the door wanting to know if they could come in and clean. Staying here was a nightmare.
Pros:	There isn
Cons:	everything, especially the staff
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by terry c. of indianapolis of in usa on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Best buy downtown, needs new furnishings, staff very helpful, needed to change reservation to handicapped room and no problem, close to everything, recommend for traveler who does not want to spend a lot of money for a short period of time and does not expect a new table or chair in their room. Security on site
Pros:	price
Cons:	furnishings
Recommended For:	Families Business

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by tom a. of raleigh of nc usa on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 Sorry. Poorly maintained. Absolutely no reason to recommend this hotel for any reason. Extra charges on your bill for absolutely everything. They are quite used to complaining guests and you are waisting your time. See if the Y has a room.
Pros:	exit door
Cons:	absolutely everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Terrie H. of of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 The hotel is located near shopping, resturants, and theaters. It is older hotel in need of remodelling in the rooms. The bathrooms lacked adequate space for toiletries. I had to let the hot water run for 10 minutes before it warmed. Rooms were clean and comfortable mattress and pillows. Worth the price of the stay.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	room interior
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Jun-2007 - acceptable

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Average
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Average

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by terry c. of indianapolis of in usa on Jun-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jun-2007 Best buy downtown, needs new furnishings, staff very helpful, needed to change reservation to handicapped room and no problem, close to everything, recommend for traveler who does not want to spend a lot of money for a short period of time and does not expect a new table or chair in their room. Security on site
Pros:	price
Cons:	furnishings
Recommended For:	Families Business

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by tom a. of raleigh of nc usa on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 Sorry. Poorly maintained. Absolutely no reason to recommend this hotel for any reason. Extra charges on your bill for absolutely everything. They are quite used to complaining guests and you are waisting your time. See if the Y has a room.
Pros:	exit door
Cons:	absolutely everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Terrie H. of of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 The hotel is located near shopping, resturants, and theaters. It is older hotel in need of remodelling in the rooms. The bathrooms lacked adequate space for toiletries. I had to let the hot water run for 10 minutes before it warmed. Rooms were clean and comfortable mattress and pillows. Worth the price of the stay.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	room interior
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

May-2007 - flop house

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Terrible
Facility Quality:	Terrible
Activities:
Entertainment:	Terrible
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by tom a. of raleigh of nc usa on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 Sorry. Poorly maintained. Absolutely no reason to recommend this hotel for any reason. Extra charges on your bill for absolutely everything. They are quite used to complaining guests and you are waisting your time. See if the Y has a room.
Pros:	exit door
Cons:	absolutely everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Terrie H. of of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 The hotel is located near shopping, resturants, and theaters. It is older hotel in need of remodelling in the rooms. The bathrooms lacked adequate space for toiletries. I had to let the hot water run for 10 minutes before it warmed. Rooms were clean and comfortable mattress and pillows. Worth the price of the stay.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	room interior
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

May-2007 - Short stay in Chicago

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Terrie H. of of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 The hotel is located near shopping, resturants, and theaters. It is older hotel in need of remodelling in the rooms. The bathrooms lacked adequate space for toiletries. I had to let the hot water run for 10 minutes before it warmed. Rooms were clean and comfortable mattress and pillows. Worth the price of the stay.
Pros:	staff
Cons:	room interior
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

May-2007 - The Pit

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Len L. of on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 This is a hotel to be avoided at all costs. The staff is surley, inattentive and simply don't care. The hotel, which they say is being refurbished, is a shambles, the rooms are dirty and the installation of a flat screen television isn't the answer for a place that looks like it should be torn down completely. Pay a little more and avoid this hotel. There are too many other options. It makes a stay in a wonderful city highly unpleasant.
Pros:	nothing
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

May-2007 - Tread carefully

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Bad
On-Site Dining:	Average
Facility Quality:	Average
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Average

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ollie M. of Plano of TX USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I've stayed at this hotel on two occasions. The first was associated with a convention in 1995. The rooms, although small, were adequte and well-priced. The most recent stay was a few days ago--in early May, 2007. Frankly I've never stayed in a hotel room that had bare, unpainted molding throughout the room. The rooms were a MAJOR disappointment but were comfortable, temperature-wise.
Pros:	Price; location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

May-2007 - cheap stay

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Brian S. of Burnsville of MN USA on May-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2007 I would probably not stay here again because everthing we like to do in Chicago is on the North side of Michigan Avenue and this Hotel is on the South side of Michigan Avenue. But over all the room was very large and clean. It was outdated but clean and all the hotel staff were very accomadating. If we needed a cheap place to stay I would choose this hotel again. P.S At first I was worried because of all the bad reviews I read but try it once and judge for yourself its really not that bad.
Pros:	cheap
Cons:	rooms are very out dated but they are changing it
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Apr-2007 - locatio location location

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by claudia S. of FL Orange on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 The Hotel is well located, it is at a walking distance to the Millennium Park, The Art Institute and the Loop. That by far is it?s best feature. The hotel is old and could use some renovating, however it is clean and has a friendly staff.
Pros:	very well located
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Apr-2007 - Creepy

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Elizabeth M. of on Apr-2007 Stayed at the Property - Apr-2007 There are no words to explain this hotel. The first night we got there and saw the lobby I thought it was beautiful until we were sent to the North Tower 12th floor besides the fact that they were remodeling the room next to ours. Our room was full of dust and the toilet did not work properly. So we were put into a suite for that night which was okay, but the next day we were put into another room (South Tower) which was also just okay. You can hear EVERYTHING that goes on in the room next to us. I would never recommend this hotel to anyone.
Pros:	the lobby
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Mar-2007 - Pleasantly Surprised

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Average
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:	Good
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Good

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Ashley W. of PA United States on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 My fiancee and I were traveling on a budget. After reading the reviews I was nervous but I'm glad we decided to go with Congress Plaza. Staff was friendly and knowledgable, room was a good size, location was perfect and easy to get to local attractions we wanted to see. Only bad thing was AC wasn't too cold. Strikers were quiet and polite outside entrance. I highly recommend Congress Plaza Hotel.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Decor
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Mar-2007 - Bad service

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Eugene T. of San Mateo of CA on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 Could not get a smoking room. Was threatened with fine, if smoking in room. Didn't get wake up call.
Pros:	Restaurants
Cons:	Reception
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Mar-2007 - Hotel

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Lori V. of Orange City of IA 51041 on Mar-2007 Stayed at the Property - Mar-2007 The bathroom faucet was just a trickle. At one point, there was no water coming out at all.
Pros:	location
Cons:	bathroom faucet
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Feb-2007 - AMAZING

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Good
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:	Good
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Good

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Michelle K. of on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 Hotel was very helpful with early check in of large group. They were very accommodating and held our bags while we explored the city (arrived 3 hours early). Rooms were great sized and very clean. View was wonderful, the Sears Tower was right outside our window. Hotel was within walking distance of most attractions. We parked our own car and got it within 5 minutes. I would recommend this hotel to everyone.
Pros:	elegance
Cons:	dated interior room decorations
Recommended For:	Families Large Groups Students Active/Adventure Couples

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Feb-2007 - Fine for the price

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Rebecca L. of Minneapolis of MN USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Feb-2007 After reading the terrible reviews I was a little worried, but the price was right and location where we needed to be. This is truly an older "european style" hotel. It reminds me of a place I stayed in Paris. The rooms were a little old, dingy, musty, but huge. The bathroom was nice and really big. It was clean. The hallways did remind me of the hotel in the Shining, so a little spooky! But if you can't afford better this place does the job. I would stay there again.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Dec-2006 - The Shining

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Jaime K. of Scottsdale of AZ USA on Dec-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2006 As the bell captain was taking me to my room he said "this hotel reminds me of the movie 'The Shining.'" When I get in my room it smelled of old carpet deodorizer and it had 1 skinny little window that overlooked a courtyard with junk and you could see right into other rooms. It was very claustrophobic. The only good thing was they moved me to a decent room without a prob. It did look like "The Shining" Very noisy. Bartenders ignored you. Beds real hard.
Pros:	location
Cons:	smell
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Nov-2006 - this place is the pits

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Terrible
Facility Quality:	Terrible
Activities:	Terrible
Entertainment:	Terrible
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by john w. of atlanta of ga usa on Nov-2006 Stayed at the Property - Nov-2006 this is the most dissapointing stay ever. i knew there were problems and the strike but the food and bar are the worst ever. no service, no quality. it's not professionally run it';s not worth risking any money on an overnight stay of any kind.
Pros:	architecture
Cons:	everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Oct-2006 - Think before you book this hotel

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Terrible
Facility Quality:	Average
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by N. P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We choose this hotel because it was afforable and, semmingly, located near the famous N.Michigan Avenue. Although it is located on S.Michigan avenue, do not be mislead; it is a cab ride away from N.Michigan...not the seemingly short walk. In terms of the rooms, they were extremely small, painfully outdated, and not clean. The front desk attendants were impatient and unhelpful. The "steak house" left much to be desired. When we called to speak to a manager, the manager was indifferent. In summary, even if this is the best priced hotel in comparison, it is not a good use of your money.
Pros:	Our departure
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Oct-2006 - Worst Room Ever

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Bad
Facility Quality:	Bad
Activities:
Entertainment:	Terrible
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by A P. of Springfield of MO USA on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - Oct-2006 We stayed during the Chicago Marathon, knowing that we would pay a premium for the room. That was okay if the room was worth having. The non-smoking room reeked of smoke and dirt. We had the chance to move to a "really nice room" per the front desk clerk - but it was just as bad as the original. I would not suggest wasting your time or money on this terrible hotel. Just because it is old and needs reburbished doesn't make it bad. The rude front desk clerks and the filthiness of the establishment made it a very unpleasent stay.
Pros:	Lobby
Cons:	Everything
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Sep-2006 - you get what you pay for

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Bad
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Susan H. of Indianapolis of IN USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 Yes, it's old and charming but the heating/cooling system was archaic and noisy. The beds were truly awful and this is coming from a family that enjoys primitive camping! The bathroom was clean but old. You can't beat the location, however.
Pros:	location
Cons:	the rooms
Recommended For:	Active/Adventure

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Sep-2006 - I love this place

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Good
On-Site Dining:	Good
Facility Quality:	Average
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Excellent

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Dominic C. of mo united states on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I dont know what all the bad reviews are about ive never had a smelly room dirty sheets. Ive had the same experience time and time again, friendly staff clean room great location.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Nothing
Recommended For:	Families Business Students Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Sep-2006 - Great Hotel!

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Good
On-Site Dining:	Excellent
Facility Quality:	Good
Activities:	Good
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Excellent

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by J. M. of Kent of WA USA on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Sep-2006 I read so many negative reviews but decided to try this hotel anyway because it was so reasonable for the area and we were up for an adventure. This hotel is perfectly nice and we had a great time. Our room was clean and fresh smelling. The hotel is elegant and charming. The bathroom had beautiful marble floor and walls. The staff was polite and responded to every request quickly. The restaurants were very good but a little pricey. The Congress Hotel is a historic building in a great location and we would not hesitate to stay there again.
Pros:	Charm
Cons:	Slow Tub Drain
Recommended For:	Families Honeymoon/Romance Business Students Seniors Active/Adventure Couples Singles

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

May-2006 - Won't Stay Here Again

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Terrible
Facility Quality:	Terrible
Activities:	Terrible
Entertainment:	Terrible
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by David R. of Hillsborough of NC 27278-9700 on Feb-2007 Stayed at the Property - May-2006 The rooms at the Congress need major improvements. There's nothing but hard beds, small sized room, no views, and a very unfriendly staff. Spend more and stay at a better hotel--there are plenty to choose from in Chicago.
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Rooms
Recommended For:	Students

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Dec-2005 - Terrible Hotel..

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Terrible
On-Site Dining:	Terrible
Facility Quality:	Terrible
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Terrible

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Phillip P. of on Oct-2006 Stayed at the Property - Dec-2005 I've been to a lot of hotels traveling around America, and this one is by far the worst. They force valet parking so it makes it about 30 dollars to park, the shades in the room were broken, and the hotel looks like it's 100 years old. I'll NEVER go again
Pros:	Location
Cons:	Everything!!
Recommended For:

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples

Jan-2001 - the location is great

Satisfaction Ratings
Room Quality:	Good
On-Site Dining:
Facility Quality:
Activities:
Entertainment:
Quality of Service:	Average

Descriptive Property Review
Reviewed by Nanette P. of Detroit metro area of MI USA on Aug-2007 Stayed at the Property - Jan-2001 If you're looking for luxury, spas & pampering, this isn't the place. If you're looking for someplace clean and relatively inexpensive to stay while you explore Chicago, this IS the place. I stayed here (single mom) with my 9 yr old son with no worries. OK, the hallways are a bit spooky, but c'mon people-it was built in the last century! The sheets and towels were clean, the AC worked and our 2-bed non smoking room was larger than rooms I've had at chain hotels. I would absolutely stay here again!
Pros:	location
Cons:	carpeting in rooms
Recommended For:	Families Students Active/Adventure Couples