Freehand Chicago
Hotel in Chicago
Highlights, description and the facilities guests use most.
A social, design-led stay blending hostel energy with boutique hotel comfort.
Freehand Chicago offers a hybrid stay that combines the structure of a hotel with the shared, social atmosphere of a hostel. Set in a restored building in River North, the property features a mix of private rooms and shared dorm-style accommodations, all designed with a creative, slightly eclectic aesthetic. Interiors balance vintage elements with modern touches, creating spaces that feel both relaxed and functional. The layout moves from a lively lobby into communal areas, workspaces, and room configurations that range from compact private rooms to shared setups. Guests can access on-site dining and a well-known cocktail bar, while shared spaces encourage interaction without overwhelming the experience. Amenities are designed to support both budget-conscious travelers and those seeking a more social stay, and clearly structured policies help maintain order across different room types.
This property has 2 on-site restaurants: Broken Shaker, and CafeStay in Chicago - Rooms for Every Budget
In every room: Air conditioning · Accessible bath/shower · Bath or Shower · Room with view
4 Single beds
225 ft²
The dormitory room provides air conditioning, a safe deposit box, as well as a private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. Rooms on the upper floors are reachable by elevator. The unit offers 4 beds.
1 Single bed
225 ft²
The dormitory offers a seating area to be shared with up to 4 total guests of the room, private bathroom, desk and air conditioning. It also includes free WiFi access. Each bed has individual dual outlets, reading light and is draped for privacy. Please note guests booking from Chicago zip codes (60---) are not permitted in dormitory rooms.
1 Single bed
225 ft²
This female dormitory offers a seating area to be shared by up to 4 total guests, private bathroom, desk and air conditioning. It also includes free WiFi access. Each bed has individual dual outlets, reading light and is draped for privacy. Please note guests booking from Chicago zip codes (60---) are not permitted in dormitory rooms.
1 King bed
186 ft²
This room features a private private bathroom, work desk and flat-screen TV. It also includes free WiFi access.
1 Queen bed, 4 Single beds
900 ft²
The spacious suite features air conditioning, a safe deposit box, as well as a private bathroom boasting a walk-in shower and a hairdryer.
1 Queen bed
166 ft²
This room features a private private bathroom, work desk and flat-screen TV. It also includes free WiFi access. The room offers a city view.
1 King bed
186 ft²
Featuring a private bathroom, the king room includes a mini-bar, flat-screen TV and cable. It also includes free WiFi access. The room offers a city view.
1 Queen bed
156 ft²
Please note the room type and bed type will be allocated upon check-in. It might be a higher room category but is subject to availability upon arrival.
4 Bunk beds
225 ft²
This quadruple room has a private private bathroom, air conditioning, work desk and seating area. It also includes free WiFi access.
4 Bunk beds
225 ft²
The quadruple room provides air conditioning, a safe deposit box, as well as a private bathroom featuring a walk-in shower and a hairdryer. The quadruple room features a tiled floor, a carpeted floor, heating and a flat-screen TV with cable channels. The unit offers 4 beds.
1 Queen bed
156 ft²
This room features a private private bathroom, work desk and flat-screen TV. It also includes free WiFi access.
Location, travel times, listing details and guest feedback
Freehand Chicago is in the Near North Side at 19 East Ohio Street. Grand subway station, Former Medinah Temple, Nickerson House, and Richard H. Driehaus Museum are a couple of minutes on foot. Rooms include setups with four single beds, a queen bed and four single beds, or four bunk beds.
Explore the best attractions, shopping destinations, and important places near Freehand Chicago.
59 amenities in 15 categories.
Check-in, check-out and house rules.
Explore Chicago
Located in River North, the hotel sits within walking distance of the Magnificent Mile, restaurants, galleries, and nightlife. The area is central, energetic, and well connected to public transit.
River North is lively and social, especially in the evenings. Expect restaurants, bars, and steady foot traffic throughout the day.
Check availability at Freehand Chicago and plan a social stay in River North.
Loved by Guests, Trusted for Excellence
It’s not a god place... Liked: Nothing Disliked: Dirty and old; the rooms smell of cigarettes and marijuana; there is no TV; the bathroom is extremely small and lacks hand towels; the elevator is old and "scary."
Exceptional Liked: Friendly staff - great location and awesome breakfast
Exceptional
Thank you Liked: People Disliked: Clean
It was a nicely located... Liked: Quiet nice Staff and very practical location for it's price. Disliked: In our original room, there was mold all over the bathroom and AC when we pointed it out to the staff, we were told, there is nothing they can do and that they are booked out. And suddenly when we got impatient and asked to see Management or someone that could approve of a Room change, there was a room free... It was kinda annoying but okey. The second room was better but the Windows were extremely poorly isolated and due to that the temps were quite annoying and the Sound of the streets were very loud.
Located near Freehand Chicago, you'll find an array of delightful dining and coffee spots to suit every taste. Whether you're in the mood for a quick snack or a leisurely meal, the nearby establishments provide a convenient and enjoyable dining experience during your stay in Chicago.
