Anchoring the western entrance to downtown Tucson, the Hotel Congress, built in 1919 to serve railroad passengers, is the hub of the city’s recent revitalization. Operating as a budget hotel, it attracts young globe-trotters. Although the place is utterly basic, the lobby has loads of southwestern elegance. Guest rooms remain true to their historical character, with antique telephones and old radios, so don’t expect anything fancy (such as TVs). Most bathrooms have tubs or showers, but a few have both. The classic little Cup Cafe is just off the lobby (think Edward Hopper meets Gen X), as is the tiny Tap Room bar. At night, the hotel’s Club Congress is a popular (and loud) dance club (pick up earplugs at the front desk).