Freehand Chicago is one the most beautiful hostels in which you can stay on this continent. It is located in a beautiful old building, in a busy, vibrant area of the city.
The Location
Freehand is located in an interesting area near the center of the city. It's close to public transportation and very accessible from the airport. There is also street parking available, as well as paying parking lots nearby. The hostel is close to a few important parks, as well as many restaurants, bars, and coffee shops. There are also a few decent grocery stores within walking distance.
Rooms and Bathrooms
The rooms are large and aside from the sleeping pods where the beds are located, there is also a nice, comfortable sitting area. The sleeping pods are spacious and comfortable and closed with curtains. The bedding is clean and comfortable and the pods are equipped with little headlamps and charging outlets. There are nice, large wooden lockers that can accommodate a fairly large backpack or suitcase. The only downside to the room in our opinion is that the window opens to an indoor parking garage, so there is no view and the air quality is potentially dubious.
The bathrooms, both en suite and the shared ones throughout the hostel, are beautiful and clean. There is enough room in the near the showers to keep clothing away.
Common Spaces
The common spaces downstairs are beautiful and very spacious. There are many very comfortable sitting areas, and people often use them. This is a large hostel, and there are always people sitting in the common area. It wouldn't be difficult to meet people if you wish to, and the hostel organises activities to facilitate socializing.
The kitchen area gets a little cramped in the morning, as it is not very large and the free breakfast attracts many guests. It is also the one part of the hostel that doesn't look great, although it is also kept clean.
Summary
Overall, Freehand is an excellent hostel in a very central, busy area, easily accessible by public transport. We would recommend it to anyone looking for a budget accommodation as it offers not only a place to sleep but also gorgeous decor and nice opportunities to meet other travelers.
A True Boutique Hostel
#1 Top Rated Hostel in Chicago
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How is Freehand rated?
Freehand Reviews
The Hostelz.com Review - Genuine, independent review you can trust.
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Monica
Hostelz.com Staff Reviewer
Published on Sep 15, 2019
Location and Contact
Location
• Public Transit ($) If you're flying into O'Hare, take the Blue line train into the city 19 stops to Jackson. Transfer to the Red line towards Howard at Jackson and take it 3 stops to Grand. Head north on N. State toward W. Ohio and turn right onto E. Ohio, we're located just down the street on the right. The fare is $5. If you're flying into Midway, take the Orange line towards Loop 7 stops to Roosevelt. Transfer to the Red Line towards Howard. Take it 5 stops to Grand. Head north on N. State toward W. Ohio and turn right onto E. Ohio, we're located just down the street on the right. The fare is $2.50.
• Go Airport Express ($$) Go Airport Express offers daily, door-to-door service to/from O'Hare and Midway. They begin operations during the early morning hours and depart approximately every 10 to 15 minutes from each terminal. The average fare is $32. To contact Go Airport Express, call 1-888-284-3826 or visit their website.
• Taxi ($$$) There are Taxi Stands at the lower-level curb front (outside of baggage claim) at each terminal. Fares are based on traffic conditions, but an average fare from Hare or Midway to downtown Chicago is $35-45.
Map
Address: 19 E Ohio Street, River North, Chicago, Illinois, USA
Freehand is listed on the following booking sites:
Hostelworld Booking.com Not listed at HostelsClubFreehand is part of the hostel chain Freehand Hotels
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Phone Number:
+1 312 994 2651
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Facilities and Amenities
Couples
Bedsheets
Towels
Wi-Fi in Lobby/Commons
Airport Pickup
Bike Rental
City Tours
Lockers in Lobby
Luggage Storage
Parking
24 Hour Security
ATM
Air Conditioning
Bar
Cable TV
Clothes Dryer
Elevator/Lift
Evening Entertainment
Food/Restaurant
Hair Dryers
Hot Showers
Laundry
Live Music/Performance
Movie Library/Rental
Nightclub
Wheelchair Accessible
Reception Hours: 24 Hours
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