First of all, if you choose to stay here it is probably because you don't want to pay the crazy prices of the 'upscale' downtown options. Don't expect the same experience if you are not willing to pay for it! Is the Congress old? Yes! Is its quality less than the Hilton down the street? Yes again! Is it a heck of a lot cheaper? Yes! Keep things in perspective and you will probably find your experience to be better than those who are giving low reviews.
I have stayed at the Congress several times, mostly for business. This last trip, however, was with my family during a short vacation. I will admit I was nervous about bringing my wife and kids to the Congress. It is not as fancy as other local options and I have had my share of 'interesting' experiences there. Price considerations won out in the end and we booked our room.
Upon arrival we were upgraded to a two bedroom corner suite (without asking!) that offered a wonderful view of the city. It was quiet and clean even if dated. The linens were nice and the usual hotel room fare was present-coffee maker, iron, flat screen tvs (one in each room). There was also a large walk-in closet with a safe. There were ample electric outlets for all our gadgets.
Among the best things about the Congress are the price and the location. We had the valet park our car and never used it during the length of our stay. We walked or used a public transportation pass for everything we did. The location of the hotel allowed us to walk to several of the museums and there are bus stops everywhere. Navigation from the Congress is no problem. The lower price of the room compared to the other similarly located hotels was great.
Is the Congress worthy of 5 stars? Not by a long shot. Service can be spotty. The decor and upkeep is sub par. Dining options are limited and overpriced. They have an unfriendly internet access policy ($10 plus tax per day for wired access in the room and another $7.50 plus tax for wireless in the lobby). What they do offer in price, location, and a clean place to sleep is worth 3 stars, however.
If you are considering the Congress you should determine what you are willing to sacrifice for the lower cost. If you want the best accommodations in Chicago then go somewhere else. If you want a decent, affordable place to sleep while you explore the city then the Congress may well be for you.
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