Freehand Chicago

4.0 star property
Art Deco hotel with a restaurant, steps from Chinese Consulate

Photo gallery for Freehand Chicago

Cocktail bar
Interior detail
Interior
Reception
Cocktail bar

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Pet-friendly
  • Free Wi-Fi
  • Air-conditioning
  • Gym
  • Parking available
The current price is AU$111
includes taxes & fees
8 Feb - 9 Feb

Explore the area

View map
19 East Ohio Street, Chicago, IL, 60611
  • Place, Michigan Avenue
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Place, Northwestern Memorial Hospital
    ‪6 min walk‬
  • Place, Water Tower Place
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Airport, Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.)
    ‪24 min drive‬

Room options

Private Quadruple Room, 4 Twin Beds

7.8 out of 10
Good
(11 reviews)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Premium bedding
Designer toiletries
  • 21 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Single Beds

Shared Dormitory, 1 Single Bed (Co-Ed Dorm with 4 Beds)

7.8 out of 10
Good
(66 reviews)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Air conditioning
Heating
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Premium bedding
Blackout curtains
Private bathroom
Hairdryer
  • 21 sq m
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Single Bed

Shared Dormitory, 1 Single Bed (Female Dorm with 4 Beds)

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(29 reviews)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Air conditioning
Heating
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Premium bedding
Blackout curtains
Private bathroom
Hairdryer
  • 21 sq m
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Single Bed

Classic Queen Room (Private)

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(78 reviews)

Highlights

Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Premium bedding
Designer toiletries
  • 14 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

King Room

Highlights

Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Premium bedding
Designer toiletries
  • 17 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Queen Room (Private)

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(13 reviews)

Highlights

Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Premium bedding
Designer toiletries
  • 15 sq m
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

Premium Room, 1 King Bed

7.6 out of 10
Good
(5 reviews)

Highlights

Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Premium bedding
Blackout curtains
Separate bedroom
  • City view
  • 17 sq m
  • 1 bedroom
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

Premium Private Quadruple Room, 4 Twin Beds

8.8 out of 10
Excellent
(5 reviews)

Highlights

Separate sitting area
Air conditioning
Heating
Free cots/infant beds
TV
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Blackout curtains
Premium bedding
  • 21 sq m
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Single Beds

Queen Room

  • Sleeps 2

King Room

  • Sleeps 2

Quadruple Room, Women only

Highlights

Air conditioning
Heating
Hypo-allergenic bedding
Premium bedding
Blackout curtains
Private bathroom
Hairdryer
Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Single Beds

Premium King Room

  • Sleeps 2

Premium Queen Room

  • Sleeps 2

Private Quadruple Room

  • Sleeps 4

Bed In Shared Quad

  • Sleeps 1

Bed In Female Shared Quad

  • Sleeps 1

Private Female Quadruple Room

  • Sleeps 4

Private Premium Quadruple Room

  • Sleeps 4

Bed In 4 Beds Mixed Dormitory

  • Sleeps 4

Bed In Shared Quad Dorm

  • Sleeps 1

Penthouse Suite

  • Sleeps 6

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About the area

Chicago

Freehand Chicago puts you in the heart of Chicago, steps from Chinese Consulate and within a 10-minute stroll of Holy Name Cathedral. Highlights at this Art Deco hotel include a restaurant, a 24-hour gym and a bar/lounge. .Broken Shaker serves local cuisine. Additionally, you'll find free Wi-Fi in public areas, a gym and a coffee shop/cafe. There's also the convenience of self parking. .Sights within a 10-minute walk of this 4-property class Downtown Chicago hotel include Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s and Northwestern Memorial Hospital.

What's nearby

  • Michigan Avenue - 3 min walk - 0.3 km
  • Northwestern Memorial Hospital - 6 min walk - 0.6 km
  • Water Tower Place - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Chicago Riverwalk - 8 min walk - 0.7 km
  • Merchandise Mart - 9 min walk - 0.8 km

Getting around

  • Grand Station (Red Line) - 2 min walk
  • Millennium Station - 13 min walk
  • Chicago O'Hare International Airport (ORD) - 45 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Eataly - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Bally's Casino - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Chipotle Mexican Grill - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Shake Shack - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Weber Grill Restaurant - ‬1 min walk

About this property

Freehand Chicago

Art Deco hotel with a restaurant, steps from Chinese Consulate
There's a restaurant on site, as well as a coffee shop/cafe and a snack bar/deli. You can enjoy a drink at the bar/lounge. WiFi is free in public spaces. A 24-hour fitness centre, multilingual staff, and tour/ticket assistance are also featured at Freehand Chicago. For a fee, parking is available.

This Art Deco Chicago hotel is smoke free.

  • 1 building
  • 217 guestrooms or units
  • 17 levels
  • Built in 1927
  • Deli
  • Dry cleaning
  • Self-service laundry
  • Front desk (24 hours)
  • Express check-in
  • Express check-out
  • Staff members are multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • ATM
  • Lift
  • No smoking on site
  • Water dispenser
  • Bar or lounge
  • Coffee shop
  • Dining venue
Freehand Chicago offers 217 air-conditioned accommodations with a safe and a hairdryer. Beds feature premium bedding. Guests can surf the web using complimentary wireless Internet access.

Bathrooms include a shower. Business-friendly amenities include telephones along with free local calls (restrictions may apply). Hypo-allergenic bedding and an iron/ironing board can be requested. Housekeeping is provided on a daily basis.

Similar properties

Property amenities

Internet

  • Available in all rooms: Free WiFi
  • Available in some public areas: Free WiFi

Parking and transport

  • Parking on site (USD 64 per night; includes in/out privileges)
  • Limited on-site self parking

Food and drink

  • A bar/lounge
  • A coffee shop/cafe
  • A restaurant
  • Snack bar/deli

Restaurants on site

  • Broken Shaker
  • Cafe Integral

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Snack bar/deli

Conveniences

  • 24-hour front desk
  • ATM
  • Laundry facilities
  • Luggage storage
  • Water dispenser

Guest services

  • Dry cleaning/laundry service
  • Housekeeping (daily)
  • Multilingual staff
  • Tour and ticket assistance

Accessibility

  • If you have requests for specific accessibility needs, please contact the property using the information on the reservation confirmation received after booking.
  • Assistive listening devices
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Lift
  • Low-height counter and sink
  • Raised toilet seat
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

More

  • 1 building
  • 17 floors
  • Art Deco architecture
  • At least 80% lighting from LEDs
  • Biodegradable coffee stirrers available
  • Biodegradable drinking straws available
  • Built in 1927
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • No plastic coffee stirrers
  • No plastic drinking straws
  • Smoke-free property
  • Vegan dining options
  • Vegetarian breakfast available
  • Vegetarian dining options
  • Water dispenser usage encouraged

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

Entertainment

  • Cable/satellite channels

Food and drink

  • Limited room service

More

  • Air conditioning
  • Bulk dispensers for toiletries
  • Eco-friendly toiletries
  • Free local calls
  • Heating
  • Iron/ironing board on request
  • LED lighting
  • Phone
  • Safe

Policies

Check-in

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; check-in end time: midnight
Early check-in subject to availability
Express check-in available
Minimum check-in age - 18

Check-out

Check-out before noon
Late check-out subject to availability
A late check-out fee will be charged
Express check-out available

Special check-in instructions

Front desk staff will greet guests on arrival at the property
For any questions, please contact the property using the information on the booking confirmation
Information provided by the property may be translated using automated translation tools
Guests booking the Standard Shared Dormitory rooms are only booking 1 bed per person, per night.

Access methods

Staffed front desk

Pets

  • Pets: USD 75 per pet, per stay
  • Only dogs are allowed
  • Maximum 1 (weight limit: 75 lb per pet)
  • Pets cannot be left unattended
  • Certain rooms only, restrictions apply
  • You can request a pet-friendly room by reaching out to the property at the number on the booking confirmation
  • Service animals are exempt from fees.

Children and extra beds

  • Children are welcome.
  • Kids stay free! Up to 3 children 1 year old and younger stay free when using existing bedding.
  • Rollaway/extra beds are not available.

Payment types

Important information

Fees

Guests will be asked to pay the following charges at the property:

  • Deposit: USD 50 per stay

We've listed all charges provided to us by the property.

Optional extras

The fees and deposits listed below will be charged at the time of service, check-in, or check-out.

  • Self-parking fee: USD 64 per night (in/out privileges)
  • Pet fee: USD 75 per pet, per stay
  • Service animals are exempt from fees
  • Late check-out is available for a fee (subject to availability)

This may not be a comprehensive list. Fees and deposits are subject to change and might not include tax.

You need to know

Extra-person charges may apply and vary depending on property policy
Government-issued photo identification and a credit card may be required at check-in for incidental charges
Special requests are subject to availability upon check-in and may incur additional charges; special requests cannot be guaranteed
This property accepts credit cards and debit cards; cash is not accepted
Only bookings from non-local guests are accepted; guests whose residence is within 50 mi (80 km) of the property will not be allowed to check in
Safety features at this property include a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit
Please note that cultural norms and guest policies may differ by country and by property; the policies listed are provided by the property
Charges for extra guests may apply and vary according to property policy.
A credit card for incidental charges and government-issued photo identification may be required upon check-in.
Special requests are subject to availability at the time of check-in. Special requests can't be guaranteed and may incur additional charges.
    This property is managed by a professional host. The provision of housing is linked to their trade, business or profession. This property accepts Visa, Mastercard, American Express, Discover, JCB International, Union Pay and debit cards. Cash is not accepted. Only bookings from non-local guests are accepted. Guests whose residence is within 50 mi (80 km) of the property will not be allowed to check in. For guests' safety, the property includes a fire extinguisher, a smoke detector and a first aid kit in all accommodation.

Property Registration Number 60611, 60611, Hotel License

We should mention

  • Up to 3 children aged 1 year old and younger stay free in the same room as the parent or guardian when using existing bedding.
  • Pets are welcome in certain rooms only; other restrictions apply (please see the Fees section for related charges). To make arrangements for your pet, contact the property directly at the number on your booking confirmation.
  • This property welcomes guests of all sexual orientations and gender identities (LGBTQ+ friendly).

Property is also known as

Freehand Chicago Hotel
Freehand Hotel
Freehand Chicago
Freehand
Freehand Hotel Chicago
Freehand Chicago Hotel
Freehand Chicago Chicago
Freehand Chicago Hotel Chicago

Frequently asked questions

What is the cancellation policy at Freehand Chicago?

Freehand Chicago offers free cancellation on select room rates. Check out the cancellation policy for more info.

How much does it cost to stay at Freehand Chicago?

As of 2 Feb 2026, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Freehand Chicago on 8 Feb 2026 start from AU$110.85, including taxes and fees. This price is based on the lowest nightly price found in the last 24 hours for stays in the next 30 days. Prices are subject to change. Choose your dates for more accurate prices.

Is parking available at Freehand Chicago?

Yep, Freehand Chicago has a self car park with in/out privileges for USD 64 per night. A self car park is also available, for a fee.

Are there any beaches close to Freehand Chicago?

Yep, Freehand Chicago is a short 14-minute walk from Ohio Street Beach.

What makes Freehand Chicago a romantic place to stay?

A lounge bar, plus premium bedding in the guestrooms, help set the scene for a romantic weekend at Freehand Chicago.

Is there a free airport shuttle available at Freehand Chicago?

No, Freehand Chicago does not offer an airport shuttle service.

Is there a bar or restaurant at Freehand Chicago?

Yep, they've got a lounge bar and an onsite restaurant that serves local cuisine. Pre dinner cocktails anyone?

What time are check-in & check-out at Freehand Chicago?

Check-in begins at 3:00 PM. Check-out time is noon.

Freehand Chicago Reviews

Reviews

8.0

Very good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 1250 out of 2737 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 663 out of 2737 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 382 out of 2737 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 199 out of 2737 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 243 out of 2737 reviews

7.8/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.4/10

Amenities

7.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Dean

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
This is the perfect place to stay. The Red Line station is 1 1/2 blocks away and is the key to public transportation in Chicago.
Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jorge

Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room felt neglected
Stayed 1 night in Nov 2025

10/10 Excellent

Jason

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities
Staff interactions were excellent in every aspect.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Hadaiya

Business traveller
Liked: Amenities, property conditions & facilities
Good vibes. It was my first time staying in a hostel. I liked being in downtown Chicago. Quadmates were quiet. There was a bit of staining on some furniture and a random empty water bottle somehow found its way into my bunk. But I enjoyed myself
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Melana

Travelled with partner
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The room was very small, the bed was uncomfortable and hard to get in to. The bed was blocked on one side due to it being fitted in the wall. There was no microwave or fridge. The rate was incredibly high for not having these amenities. The curtains were dirty and had stains all across. Not worth the money.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Zach

Business traveller
Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Being from Texas, Front bartenders were very friendly and nice. Every other employee especially front desk were very very rude and degrading when I was tryi g to check in and schedule another reservation. Will not recommend this hotel to my colleagues or anyone. Rude service. And I've been in the restaurant and hospitality industry for 27 years. They need a reality check.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

David

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kyah

Stayed 4 nights in Oct 2025

2/10 Terrible

Jacob

Disliked: Staff & service
Yeah my dates got booked wrong so I never even got to stay at the place and lost my money-- booked me for the 30th even though I know for CERTAIN i booked my stay for the 31st to the 2nd. I want my money back
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Kamryn

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Lisbeth

Liked: Cleanliness
Room was clean and stocked with bodywash, shampoo, handsoap. Staff were courteous.
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alexander

Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

John

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great place.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Erica

Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

brittani

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Beautiful place and discounted parking
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Alexander

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was really kind
Stayed 3 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelley Riley, Cedar Grove

Business traveller
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
I was so excited as I had never stayed in a hostel before. The men and ladies at the front desk were the BEST!! When I am back in Chicago this is where I'll stay. Room was the perfect size for me. The food and drinks were outstanding and the staff just made it all the more everything! Very personable and easy to talk to. Can't wait to visit again!!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Evan

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Good room good vibes kind staff
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Peter

Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
Great spot
Stayed 6 nights in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Johnathan

Disliked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

4/10 Poor

Carolyn

Business traveller
Disliked: Staff & service, property conditions & facilities
The lobby and bar were nice but the whole place is too dark overall. But I believe that’s the vibe they’re going for. Be aware that this place is basically a hostel with no customer service. I went in October. Room was freezing and you can’t control the temp so they gave me a space hearer. I did not delve into the reviews and I got what I paid for. Spend a little more and stay at CitizenM. You’re welcome.
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025

8/10 Good

Douglas

Travelled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, property conditions & facilities
It is not fancy, but the room was clean and quiet. The staff let us check in early and even brought me a fan. They were lifesavers as we were tired from our train trip and needed a little nap before an evening of fun! Close to stuff too! I recommend for the budget conscious traveler. Will stay again.
Stayed 1 night in Oct 2025

6/10 Okay

Yusuke, Brookline

Liked: Property conditions & facilities
Disliked: Cleanliness
Laundry for credit card
Stayed 7 nights in Oct 2025

10/10 Excellent

Bonita Lynne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Friendly and complimentary yummy snacks!
Stayed 6 nights in Sep 2025

10/10 Excellent

Patrick

Liked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Great stay!
Stayed 2 nights in Oct 2025