Located in the heart of Chicago’s downtown Loop district, the Congress Plaza Hotel is a grand hotel that has been a landmark of the city since 1893. With its grand architecture and ornate furnishings, the hotel exudes an aura of elegance and sophistication. However, beneath the glamour and prestige, the hotel has a darker side – a reputation for being one of the most haunted hotels in America.
The Congress Plaza Hotel has a long and fascinating history that dates back over a century. Originally named the Auditorium Annex, the hotel was built to complement the nearby Auditorium Theatre, which was designed by famous architect Louis Sullivan. The hotel was an instant hit with the city’s high society and became a popular destination for politicians, entertainers, and other notable figures.
However, over the years, the Congress Plaza Hotel has also gained a reputation for being a site of tragedy, violence, and death. It is said that the spirits of former guests and employees still roam the halls of the hotel, leaving visitors with a sense of unease and foreboding.
One of the most famous ghost stories associated with the Congress Plaza Hotel is that of the “woman in red.” Legend has it that a woman wearing a red dress was murdered in one of the hotel’s guest rooms and that her ghost still haunts the room to this day. Guests who have stayed in the room have reported hearing strange noises, feeling cold spots, and even seeing the ghostly apparition of the woman in red.
Another popular ghost story associated with the Congress Plaza Hotel involves the ghost of a young boy. The boy is said to have drowned in the hotel’s pool and his ghost is said to haunt the area to this day. Guests who have visited the pool area have reported hearing the sound of splashing water and feeling cold spots, even when no one else is around.
Other reported paranormal activity at the Congress Plaza Hotel includes the sound of ghostly footsteps in the hallways, the feeling of being touched by unseen hands, and the appearance of ghostly apparitions in mirrors and reflections.
Despite its reputation as a haunted hotel, the Congress Plaza Hotel remains a popular destination for tourists and travelers from all over the world. Whether you believe in the paranormal or not, there is no denying the hotel’s rich history and unique atmosphere. From its grand architecture and ornate furnishings to its ghostly legends and lore, the Congress Plaza Hotel is a fascinating destination that is sure to leave a lasting impression.