Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago Exterior photo

Key details

About the Hotel

520 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, 60605

Steps from Millennium Public Park

Very good

7.1

7.6

/10

3.3

Loved by Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago guests

Comfortable beds

Friendly staff

Clean rooms

Great location

Beautiful building

"Loved that it was across the street from lollapalooza."

Jennifer from United States

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"The lobby and bar are very grand, updated, and beautiful."

Aj from United States

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"The location of the hotel is perfect for walking and with some nice places and restaurants not far from there."

Rocco2006

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Rooms with Views

Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago offers rooms with views of Grant Park, Buckingham Fountain, Lake Michigan, or Willis Tower. Each room includes a flat-screen TV, coffee maker, and ironing facilities. Some suites feature a large living room with a sofa and desk. The Business Class Lakeview King has a work desk and chair.

Dining Options

Rafael's serves American classics and seasonal chef specialties for lunch and dinner. The Gazebo offers a made-to-order breakfast, including the 'Congress Glam Slam' special with eggs, bacon, sausage, and pancakes. The Congress Lounge provides city views, leather seating, and cocktails.

Leisure & Entertainment

The hotel is steps from Navy Pier's 17-story Ferris Wheel and The Loop's restaurants. Guests can attend concerts at Symphony Center or explore Millennium Park's gardens. Nearby attractions include the Museum of Science and Industry and the Art Institute of Chicago.

Location & Transportation

Congress Plaza Hotel is in Chicago Loop, adjacent to Grant Park and the Magnificent Mile. It's a short walk to Navy Pier, the Chicago Theatre, and Skydeck Chicago. The area has restaurants serving global cuisine and easy access to public transport.

Services & Events

The hotel has 50,000 square feet of event space, including the Gold Room for receptions. Business travelers can request a Lakeview King with a work desk. Staff provide personalized service for exploring Chicago's attractions, from museums to Lake Michigan's trails.

“The location directly across from Millennium Park places guests in the heart of Chicago's attractions. While the historic building shows its age in some aspects, the Gold Room and event spaces retain a unique charm. For travelers prioritizing location and event access over modern amenities, it's a solid choice.”

Grace WhitmanContent & Editorial Director at Familyhotels

Location: Perfect

9.1/10Review score

View our interactive map

Highlights from guests

Room FeaturesSpacious Comfort

Our room was huge! We loved the plush covers and the complimentary water. The large closet was also a plus.

Jessica from United States

Review on

DiningBreakfast Mystery

My son ordered scrambled eggs, and I ordered the full breakfast. His eggs ended up costing more! The minimum charge surprised us.

Mike from Canada

Review on

BedroomPillow Problems

Bring your own pillows! The decorative velvet pillows were pretty but not comfy for sleeping.

Karen from England

Review on

Choose from a variety of room types

Choose from a wide variety of rooms designed for families, including double rooms, family suites, and rooms with breakfast included

King Room
2 persons
220 sq. feet
1 King-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Queen Room
2 persons
130 sq. feet
1 Queen-size bed
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details
Double Room Two Double Beds
2 persons
270 sq. feet
2 Double beds
Air conditioning
Bathtub
room details

Show all rooms

Availability and pricing for your selected dates

Book your family’s getaway in a snap with up-to-date availability and pricing!

Facilities

Each family-friendly hotel provides top-notch amenities for an unforgettable stay with your loved ones

Facilities: Nice

6.9/10Review score

General

No smoking on site
Wi-Fi
Car park
Handicap parking
Safe deposit box
24-hour reception
Express check-in/ -out
No pets allowed
Rooms/ Facilities for disabled
24-hour security
Luggage storage
Allergy-free rooms
Lift
ATM/Cash machine
Barber shop
Vending machines
Smoke detectors
Fire extinguishers
Key access

Sports & Fitness

Fitness centre

Services

Room service
Housekeeping
Dry cleaning
Shops/Commercial services
Welcome drink

Dining

In-room breakfast
Restaurant
Bar/ Lounge area

Business

Business centre
Meeting/ Banquet facilities
Fax/Photocopying

Children

Cots
Children's buffet

Room features

Air conditioning
Heating
Sitting area
Tea and coffee facilities
Dining table
Ironing facilities

Bathroom

Free toiletries

Media

Flat-screen TV
AM/FM alarm clock

Room decor

Carpeted floor

Dining Onsite

At Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago, guests can indulge in memorable dining experiences, from hearty breakfasts to delightful dinners. With its inviting settings and focus on contemporary American cuisine, these dining options provide a taste of both local authenticity and comfort.

Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago Restaurant photo

Rafael's Restaurant

American

Ambiance

A casual dining spot that radiates warmth and comfort, featuring a welcoming atmosphere for all guests.

Key Offerings

Enjoy a diverse menu that highlights classic American fare, complemented by creative seasonal specialties for lunch and dinner.

Reservation

Recommended.

Open for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.

Congress Lounge

American

Ambiance

An intimate gathering space with city views, comfortable leather couches, and a cozy vibe at the corner of Michigan and Congress Avenues.

Key Offerings

Perfect for unwinding with craft cocktails while watching your favorite shows on flat-screen TVs.

Reservation

Not needed.

Hours vary.

Congress Plaza Hotel Chicago Location

520 South Michigan Avenue, Chicago, 60605

Map view

City landmarks

Park

Millennium Park

4700 ft

Museum

The Art Institute of Chicago

5100 ft

Aquarium

Shedd Aquarium

1.7 mi

Art object

Cloud Gate

4100 ft

Harbour

Navy Pier

1.4 mi

Landmark

Skydeck Chicago

4600 ft

Landmark

The Rookery Building

3300 ft

Landmark

Willis Tower

4600 ft

Theatre

CIBC Theatre

3200 ft

Fountain

Buckingham Fountain

1.1 mi

Theatre

The Chicago Theatre

4300 ft

Museum

The Field Museum

3.0 mi

Landmark

360 Chicago Observation Deck

1.6 mi

Museum

Chicago Cultural Center

3200 ft

Park

Maggie Daley Park

4600 ft

Park

Grant Park

4100 ft

Nearby

Event hall

Symphony Center

1400 ft

Library

Harold Washington Library Center

1300 ft

407 S Dearborn St

Old Colony Building

1700 ft

431 S Dearborn St

Manhattan Building

1500 ft

Museum

Museum of Contemporary Photography

400 ft

Restaurants

Thai Spoon And Sushi

800 ft

601 S Wabash Ave Wabash Ave. & Harrison St.

Mercat a la Planxa

900 ft

638 S Michigan Ave Renaissance Blackstone Chicago Hotel

Himalayan restaurant

900 ft

606 S Wabash Ave

Caffe Baci

1000 ft

332 S Michigan Ave Ste 100

Buddy Guy's Legends

1300 ft

700 South Wabash Avenue

Chicago Hilton

1000 ft

720 South Michigan Avenue

Kitty O'Sheas

1200 ft

720 S Michigan Ave

Explore Chicago

Local Highlights

Millennium Park

18 minutes' walk

A vibrant public space known for its iconic Cloud Gate sculpture and lush gardens, hosting various events and concerts throughout the year.

The Art Institute of Chicago

19 minutes' walk

Home to an impressive collection of artworks, this renowned museum also features stunning architecture and special exhibitions year-round.

Navy Pier

25 minutes' walk

A lively waterfront destination with entertainment, dining options, and scenic views, perfect for families and couples alike.

Shedd Aquarium

4-minute drive

One of the largest aquariums in the world, featuring diverse marine life and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages.

Biking along Lakefront Trail

25 minutes' walk

A scenic trail perfect for biking, jogging, and walking, showcasing beautiful views of Lake Michigan and the Chicago skyline.

Lurie Garden

13 minutes' walk

A peaceful urban oasis featuring native plants and seasonal flowers, ideal for relaxation or a quiet afternoon stroll.

Cafecito

3 minutes' walk

Offers a casual atmosphere with a focus on Cuban-inspired dishes, including delicious sandwiches and coffee options.

Epic Burger

5 minutes' walk

A casual eatery famous for its gourmet burgers and sustainability, providing vegan options and local ingredients.

The Chicago Cultural Center

12 minutes' walk

A stunning venue for free art exhibitions, performances, and community events, featuring a beautiful Tiffany dome.

Lyric Opera of Chicago

10-minute drive

Offers world-class opera performances with a rich season lineup, ideal for both opera enthusiasts and newcomers.

Tips on navigating the city

City Centre
Chicago 16 min · 4300 ft
Airports
Midway International (MDW) 23 min · 9.5 mi
Chicago O'Hare International (ORD) 46 min · 18.8 mi
Train
Van Buren Street Station 4 min · 1000 ft
Underground
Harrison 4 min · 1000 ft
Harold Washington Library-State/Van Buren 5 min · 1400 ft
Bus
Bus stop 2 min · 400 ft

Get access to exclusive early booking discounts for your family’s upcoming getaway

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Property information and rules

Check-in

from 15:00-23:59

Check-out

until 12 pm

Internet

Wireless internet is available in the entire hotel for free.

Breakfast

You can start your day with a full breakfast, which costs USD 31.95 per person.

Children & extra beds

Maximum capacity of extra beds in a room is 1.

Pets

Pets are not allowed.

Languages

Spanish, Hindi

Number of floors:

Number of rooms:

871

Former name

Congress Plaza Hotel

Family-focused reviews and ratings

Read feedback from other families who have stayed to ensure you make the right choice.

Review summary

Based on recent reviews

The Congress Plaza Hotel boasts an amazing location, steps away from Cloud Gate and within walking distance of Grant Park, Millennium Park, and other key attractions, with bus stops right in front and train stations nearby for easy access, including direct lines to the airport. Guests often appreciate the spacious rooms, some featuring fantastic views of the park and lake. The hotel's restaurant has been complimented for its excellent food. While some guests have mentioned that the hotel shows its age in areas like hallway carpets, many find it a worthwhile stay for its prime location and access to Chicago's best.

Review score

Based on 4 verified reviews

8.5 /10

Great

100%

Recommend

Location

9.1/10

Staff

7.9/10

Facilities

6.9/10

Value for money

7.0/10

Pros

Good location

Comfortable bed

Wonderful view

Centrally located

Terrific breakfast

Cons

Small room

Unfriendly staff

Early check-in

based on 3462 reviews

3/5

edwin from united kingdom

Single

king room

3 nights in November 2025

Reviewed: January 02, 2026

8/10

solid stay downtown

functional coffee maker firm mattress accessible elevator historic lobby

the room was well-equipped with a functional coffee maker. the beds had firm mattresses. i noticed the hotel offers accessible elevators. the historic lobby provides a unique atmosphere. it has ornate details, it's quite captivating.

the air conditioning unit was a bit noisy.

Location

9/10

the hotel is centrally located, providing convenient access to many nearby attractions. several restaurants and shops are within easy walking distance. public transportation options are readily available, allowing easy exploration of the surrounding areas.

0 Helpful

Olivia from United Kingdom

Family with children

King Room

3 nights in August 2026

Reviewed: October 25, 2025

9/10

great location coffee shop wonderful spray

the hotel is in a great location near many attractions i could easily walk to grant park from there the shower had a wonderful spray i found a really good coffee shop next door to the hotel

the walls seemed a bit thin i could hear noises from other rooms

0 Helpful

Martin from Germany

Business traveller

King Room

4 nights in June 2026

Reviewed: September 04, 2025

8/10

excellent food fast service

The restaurant provided excellent food. room service came fast. Waiters acted very friendly.

my room faced the parking lot.

0 Helpful

Paul from United Kingdom

Family with children

King Room Lake View Non-Smoking

3 nights in August 2026

Reviewed: August 28, 2025

9.0/10

historic building with amazing accessibility!

great location high ceilings complimentary water

location! it sat across the street from major events. rooms had nice, high ceilings, i really love it. the mini fridge had complimentary water, a nice touch i enjoy.

the curtains were hard to close all the way.

Rooms

9/10

the rooms were nice with high ceilings. it also had dental kits available. the bathroom included combs and i found that to be very useful for keeping my hair well.

Facilities

8/10

the building has beautiful historic architecture inside and out. the hotel provides convenient access to bus lines and trains, a plus when moving quickly across town.

Dining

10/10

there exists a selection of restaurants nearby the building. major sightseeing spots are in walking distance. many options of restaurants, shopping, and cafes make the location really great.

0 Helpful

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