We actually travelled in January 2019 and used the Congress as our base for a few days in Chicago. For such a grand and historic hotel, I was surprised to see the prices to be as competitive as they were but then reading the online reviews, I could see that they were decidedly mixed. The reception area and welcoming hall really are splendid and speak of an ornate and historic building in the heart of the Windy City - incredibly impressive. But once up into the lifts and along the corridors towards our room, you could see the failings of this hotel. Some of the basics just need some good old fashioned TLC. But then it is a big old building and that will require a lot of TLC! But it wouldn't take so much decorating and care to really lift the quality of the upstairs to match the downstairs. Our room was absolutely fine. Plenty of space but again, missing those little finishing touches of class. But then, with a view looking out over Lake Michigan, we really couldn't complain too much!!…
This hotel is in a great location near Grant Park, Millenium Park, Magnificent Mile, RIverwalk.....all within walking distance. Room was very clean, beds were firm, bathroom spacious enough, beautiful lobby. I loved the historical story behind its changes during the years. Walls were not real soundproof and we had to call security at 4:00am due to loud argument next door which continued the next night, but not as late. Felt safe in hotel.
Days after I had checked out and left they charged me twice more without notifying me as to why. Thankfully, my card company caught that it wasn't me and deemed it fraudulent, canceling my card. When I called the hotel to ask what the charges were for they claimed that there was evidence of smoking in my room. I've never smoked a damn day in my life. I offered them photos of the room that I had taken to prove that I left it as is. They wouldn't accept my evidence claiming they had their own "evidence" and told me to dispute the charges with my company. I imagine they do this to their customers often as there was never any kind of notification that they charged me after I had checked out or why. The whole situation seems like a scam.
We stayed at this hotel because it was considerably cheaper than the others in it’s location. Upon arrival we were notified that the parking was $40 per night. You also can’t use your car without paying another $40 parking charge. The stairs were destroyed and smelled awful. The room was very nice and spacious with a tiny bathroom.
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