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.