Originally built to accommodate visitors to the World?s Columbian Exposition in 1893, the guest rooms and suites of the Congress Plaza Hotel are truly spacious by today?s standards. There are a total of 850 guest accommodations, including 36 deluxe suites, many of which overlook the beautiful waters of Lake Michigan.The Congress Plaza Hotel?s convenient downtown location commands a spectacular view of Grant Park and Buckingham Fountain. It also provides easy access to the Art Institute of Chicago,Millenium Park, Orchestra Hall, and Sears Tower; all within walking distance. The downtown business district, shopping, and restaurants, as well as downtown theaters, museums and universities are just steps away. For convention attendees, we are a short cab ride from McCormick Place Convention Center (1.5 miles) and Navy Pier (1 mile). high speed internet in guest rooms $9.95 + tax for 24 hrs. wireless internet in the lobby $7.50 for 24 hours. Smoking rooms are based on availabilty at check in. Movies on demand in all guest roomsStrike info. one union, local 1 hereiu is on strike. The hotel services and conditions have never been better. all hotel services continue to operate without any interuption.