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Freehand Chicago

4.0 star property
4-star Art Deco hotel near Chinese Consulate

Choose dates to view prices

Photo gallery for Freehand Chicago

Cocktail bar
Interior
Cocktail bar
Interior detail
Reception

Reviews

8.0 out of 10
Very good

Popular amenities

  • Bar
  • Room service
  • Pet friendly
  • Housekeeping
  • 24/7 front desk

Explore the area

Map
19 East Ohio Street, Chicago, IL, 60611
  • Michigan Avenue
    ‪3 min walk‬
  • Water Tower Place
    ‪8 min walk‬
  • Merchandise Mart
    ‪11 min walk‬
  • Chicago, IL (ORD-O'Hare Intl.)
    ‪24 min drive‬

Room options

View all photos for Private Quad

Private Quad | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Private Quad

7.8 out of 10
Good
(9 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Beds

View all photos for Private Female Quad

1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Private Female Quad

  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Beds

View all photos for Bed in Shared Quad Dorm

1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Bed in Shared Quad Dorm

7.8 out of 10
Good
(51 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Queen

Queen | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Queen

8.0 out of 10
Very good
(51 reviews)
  • 155 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

View all photos for King

King | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

King

  • 185 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Premium Private Quad

Premium Private Quad | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Premium Private Quad

9.0 out of 10
Wonderful
(4 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 4
  • 4 Twin Beds

View all photos for Premium King

Premium King | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Premium King

7.6 out of 10
Good
(5 reviews)
  • 185 sq ft
  • City view
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 King Bed

View all photos for Bed in Shared Quad Female Dorm

1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Bed in Shared Quad Female Dorm

8.4 out of 10
Very good
(22 reviews)
  • 225 sq ft
  • Sleeps 1
  • 1 Twin Bed

View all photos for Premium Queen

Premium Queen | 1 bedroom, premium bedding, in-room safe, blackout drapes

Premium Queen

8.6 out of 10
Excellent
(10 reviews)
  • 165 sq ft
  • Sleeps 3
  • 1 Queen Bed

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About the neighborhood

Chicago

Central Chicago getaway .You'll be steps from Chinese Consulate and within a 10-minute walk of Holy Name Cathedral with a stay at this Downtown Chicago hotel. Ronald McDonald House near Lurie Children’s and Northwestern Memorial Hospital are also within half a mile (1 km).

What's nearby

  • Michigan Avenue - 3 min walk - 0.2 miles
  • Northwestern Memorial Hospital - 6 min walk - 0.4 miles
  • Water Tower Place - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Chicago Riverwalk - 8 min walk - 0.5 miles
  • Merchandise Mart - 11 min walk - 0.6 miles

Getting around

  • Grand Station (Red Line) - 2 min walk
  • Millennium Station - 14 min walk
  • Chicago O'Hare Intl. Airport (ORD) - 36 min drive

Restaurants

  • ‪Eataly - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Shake Shack - ‬2 min walk
  • ‪Weber Grill Restaurant - ‬1 min walk
  • ‪Joe's Seafood, Prime Steak & Stone Crab - ‬3 min walk
  • ‪Quartino Ristorante - ‬2 min walk

About this property

Freehand Chicago

4-star Art Deco hotel near 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 center, 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 is multilingual
  • Storage area for luggage
  • Tour and ticket information
  • Fireplace in lobby
  • ATM
  • Elevator
  • No smoking on site
  • Water dispenser
  • Bar or lounge
  • Coffee shop
  • Dining venue
Freehand Chicago offers 217 air-conditioned accommodations with safes and hair dryers. Beds feature premium bedding. Guests can surf the web using the complimentary wireless Internet access.

Bathrooms include showers. Business-friendly amenities include phones along with free local calls (restrictions may apply). Hypo-allergenic bedding and irons/ironing boards can be requested. Housekeeping is provided daily.

Languages

English, Spanish

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Property amenities

Family friendly

  • Laundry facilities
  • Snack bar/deli

Internet

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

Parking and transportation

  • Self parking on site (USD 49 per night; includes in/out privileges)

Food and drink

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

Things to do

  • 24-hour gym

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
  • Elevator
  • Grab bar near toilet
  • Low-height counter and sink
  • Raised toilet seat
  • Wheelchair accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible (may have limitations)

Room amenities

Bedroom

  • Blackout drapes
  • Hypo-allergenic bedding
  • Premium bedding

Bathroom

  • Hair dryer
  • Private bathroom
  • Shower
  • Towels provided

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
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 lbs 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.

Property 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 49 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 each accommodation.

Property Registration Number 60611, 60611, Hotel License

We should mention

  • Up to 3 children 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

How close is Freehand Chicago to the airport?

Freehand Chicago is 13.2 mi (31-min drive) away from the Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) airport, the closest popular airport to the property.

How much does it cost to stay at Freehand Chicago?

As of Jul 12, 2025, prices found for a 1-night stay for 2 adults at Freehand Chicago on Jul 21, 2025 start from $130.49, excluding 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.

Does Freehand Chicago have an airport shuttle?

Airport shuttle services are not available at Freehand Chicago.

How close is Freehand Chicago to the beach?

This hotel is a short 14-minute walk from Ohio Street Beach and 1.3 mi (7-min drive) from Oak Street Beach. Don't forget your sunscreen!

Does Freehand Chicago offer free breakfast?

Freehand Chicago does not offer free breakfast.

Is there a casino at Freehand Chicago?

No, there is no casino at this hotel, but Bally's Casino Chicago (1-min walk) is nearby.

What time is check-in at Freehand Chicago?

Check-in start time: 3:00 PM; Check-in end time: midnight.

Is there free parking at Freehand Chicago?

Free parking is not available at this hotel. Self parking is available for USD 49 per night.

Does Freehand Chicago have a pool?

Freehand Chicago does not have a pool.

Does Freehand Chicago have a restaurant?

Freehand Chicago is home to Broken Shaker, which features local cuisine and happy hour.

Does Freehand Chicago have a spa?

There are no spa services available at this hotel.

How close is Freehand Chicago to downtown Chicago?

Freehand Chicago is 1 mi away from Chicago.

Freehand Chicago Reviews

Reviews

8.0

Very Good

Rating 10 - Excellent. 928 out of 2059 reviews
Rating 8 - Good. 525 out of 2059 reviews
Rating 6 - Okay. 268 out of 2059 reviews
Rating 4 - Poor. 155 out of 2059 reviews
Rating 2 - Terrible. 183 out of 2059 reviews

8.0/10

Cleanliness

8.4/10

Staff & service

7.6/10

Amenities

7.6/10

Property conditions & facilities

7.8/10

Eco-friendliness

Reviews

10/10 Excellent

Zachary

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Best hostel in Chicago
Stayed 2 nights in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Zachary

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
It’s nice
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adicel

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

2/10 Terrible

PRENTICE

Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

4/10 Poor

PRENTICE

Business traveler
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The pictures provided of the property are misleading and inaccurate. Property is dingy and dusty, lighting is horrible, room security bad, plaster peeling and creating holes in ceiling
Stayed 1 night in Jun 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandon

Stayed 9 nights in Feb 2025

10/10 Excellent

Kelly

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Unique, convenient, comfortable, and the lobby smells amazing!! We had a really excellent stay.
Stayed 3 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Skylar

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
First time in a hostel; liked the female-only option
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Breanna

Business traveler, Traveled with partner
Liked: Staff & service
Disliked: Cleanliness, amenities
Hotel in an amazing area . We parked in the garage across the street and walked pretty much everywhere. As for the actual hotel, staff were very friendly. But I feel like the pictures put up on the booking are way more brighter an open than in real life. Our room was extremely dark, tight , fan did not work and there was a constant mildew smell. There’s no vents in the bathroom so after showering the room was just very muggy. Luckily our window opened but there was no screen. The hallways and elevator are also very dark and tight. If claustrophobic like myself I would not recommend. We stayed mostly outside of the hotel except to sleep. Please keep in mind most of your regular “hotel room amenities “ are not here either. So if you are needing a coffee maker, or even a fridge this wouldn’t be for you. But as I stated great location and staff.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

2/10 Terrible

Dennis

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

James

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
very nice and clean.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Verified traveler

Business traveler
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Im an glad that everything I saw online translated in the real world: costs and directions. Expedia has increased my trust with each successful trip.
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Durga

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Small space but clean and accessible spot
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Satya Praneeth

Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

6/10 Okay

Ivan

Disliked: Cleanliness
Stayed 2 nights in Mar 2025

10/10 Excellent

Phillip

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Stayed 1 night in Mar 2025

6/10 Okay

Meg

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service
Disliked: Property conditions & facilities

convenient but loud and needs some TLC

Second time I’ve stayed at the Freehand in two months and this time was disappointing. It is generally a great value and a comfy and cozy spot to stay, but a few things bummed me out this round: -the parking pass link from the website ended up charging almost double what it was to just buy an express pass directly for 48 hours ($98 thru Freehand vs $54 through iParkit). (Both included in and out privileges) -my room this time (214) had the weirdest sounds and paper thin walls. I could hear conversations through the vent, and neighbors in the hall and adjacent rooms were incredibly loud -room service started vacuuming the hall at 8am on Sunday morning -I love the soap and shampoo that’s provided! But the bathroom towels were beyond their prime, super frayed or stained - they can use a little TLC. -the staff was friendly, and Broken Shaker fish tacos were just fine!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Dwayne

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities, room comfort
Great experience! Love ❤️ the location! Right across the street from Ballys Casino! Had a great time!
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Adam

Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Walk in shower is a nice accomodation
Stayed 2 nights in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Advaith

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, property conditions & facilities
Great location, cozy room, but sofas had a few stains
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

8/10 Good

Alina

Traveled with group
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
The staff was very welcoming and helpful
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Brandon

Traveled with family
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Everything from arranging parking, to checking in was convenient and easy. The whole place was very clean and had a very nice atmosphere. Will definitely be staying again next time I visit that part of Chicago.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

TINA

Traveled with partner
Liked: Cleanliness, staff & service, amenities, property conditions & facilities
Easy access to the redline. Lots of things to do in the neighborhood. Staff was super. Very clean room. Definitely would stay again for longer.
Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Basem, Upper Darby

Stayed 1 night in Apr 2025

10/10 Excellent

Narida

Stayed 4 nights in Mar 2025