As usual, before I travel, I check out properties on TripAdvisor. I'll have to admit, I was a little freaked out by all the horrible reviews of The Congress Plaza Hotel before I left for Chicago. I expected the worst, but honestly found the experience a bit delightful. Yes, it's a very old hotel - embrace the history. Yes, the bathroom was impossibly small - that's okay by me, I typically don't invite others into the bathroom with me anyway. The furniture was older (think period furniture) and I had to throw my shoulder into the door to unjam it upon entry. But the view, sigh - the view. Devine. Definitely get the lakeside upgrade - well worth it for another $10 or so. The bed was amazingly comfortable, and I appreciated the custom monogrammed bedding; even the wallpaper (albeit peeling). I ordered room service for both dinner and breakfast, and it was remarkably fast and adequate. Look, if you're expecting top shelf accommodations during your visit to the Windy City, stay at the Peninsula or somewhere newer and upscale. If you want to great value, a phenomenal view, and good service, don't shy away from the Congress Plaza Hotel. No, I didn't see any ghosts. That would have been icing on the cake and resulted in 4 stars from me!
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