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Lobby, Freehand Chicago in Chicago (IL)
Freehand Chicago
Shared lounge/TV area, Freehand Chicago in Chicago (IL)
Interior view, Freehand Chicago in Chicago (IL)
Interior view, Freehand Chicago in Chicago (IL)
Fitness center, Freehand Chicago in Chicago (IL)
Freehand Chicago

Removed from saved list

8.6

Excellent

497 reviews

497 reviews

Housekeeping31
Food & Dining2
Breakfast2
See map
See map

9.5

Exceptional

Location rating score

Exceptional location - Inside city center
Popular neighborhood
Exceptional for walking
Walkable places
Tree Studio Complex
70 m
P.O.S.H
80 m
Pistachios
130 m
600 N Michigan Theaters
180 m
After-Words New and Used Books
180 m
Popular landmarks
The Magnificent Mile
380 m
360 Chicago Observation Deck
780 m
Cloud Gate
1.1 km
Millennium Park
1.2 km
The Art Institute of Chicago
1.4 km
Closest landmarks
North Bridge Self Park
50 m
Crunch Fitness
60 m
Grand Plaza Parking
120 m
Excalibur
250 m
The Shops at North Bridge
260 m

Freehand Chicago

19 East Ohio Street, River North, Chicago (IL), United States, 60611 - See map

Get your trip off to a great start with a stay at this property, which offers free Wi-Fi in all rooms. Strategically situated in River North, allowing you access and proximity to local attractions and sights. Don't leave before paying a visit to the famous Millennium Park. Rated with 3 stars, this high-quality property provides guests with access to restaurant and fitness center on-site.

Highlights

Hygiene Plus

Located in heart of Chicago (IL)

Front desk [24-hour]

Excellent room comfort & quality

100 meters to public transportation

This property has self-selected and self-certified the following hygiene measures.Learn more
Safety Features
Staff trained in safety protocol
See all amenities
Preventative Equipment
Hand sanitizer
Sterilizing equipment
Health and Medical
First aid kit
Doctor/nurse on call
Facilities

Front desk [24-hour]

Pets allowed

Car park

Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!

Fitness center

Check-in/out [express]

Luggage storage

Cash withdrawal

Your dates are popular among travelersUsers are booking a place in Chicago (IL) every 1 minutes on Agoda.com
Value for money8.6
Distance to city center0 miles
Location rating9.5
Nearest airportMidway International Airport (MDW)
Distance to airport14.9 km

Rooms available at Freehand Chicago

Excellent
Room comfort & quality

9

Penthouse
...
  • Room size: 84 m²/904 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 1 queen bed and 4 single be...
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Deluxe Queen
...
  • Room size: 15 m²/161 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 1 queen bed
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Superior Queen
...
  • Room size: 14 m²/151 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 1 queen bed
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Superior King
...
  • Room size: 16 m²/172 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 1 king bed
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Deluxe King
...
  • Room size: 17 m²/183 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 1 king bed
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4-Bed Female Dormitory Room
...
  • Room size: 21 m²/226 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 4 single beds
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Private Quad
...
  • Room size: 21 m²/226 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 4 bunk beds
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Private Premium Quad
...
  • Room size: 21 m²/226 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 4 bunk beds
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Bed in Female Quad
...
  • Room size: 21 m²/226 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 1 single bed
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Bed in Quad
...
  • Room size: 21 m²/226 ft²
  • Outdoor view
  • 1 single bed
Enter dates to see prices

Frequently asked questions

Does Freehand Chicago offer dry cleaning services?

Yes! Freehand Chicago features dry cleaning service that is available all throughout your stay, ensuring that you're always looking your finest in your favorite outfit. Please contact the property for more information.

Are there ATM on-site at Freehand Chicago?

Yes! The benefits of staying at Freehand Chicago include an on-site ATM, providing visitors with easy access point for cash withdrawal and remaining worry-free throughout your vacation.

What interesting attractions are nearby Freehand Chicago that are in walking distance?

While residing at Freehand Chicago, kick start your holiday by discovering the nearest points of interest that are within walking distance to the property which include Pistachios, 600 N Michigan Theaters, and After-Words New and Used Books.

Is a refundable security deposit expected upon check-in at Freehand Chicago?

Freehand Chicago expects a security deposit upon check-in. This deposit is fully refundable upon check-out and subject to a damage inspection of the accommodation. Please contact the property for more information, or log into your Agoda account and contact the property through Agoda's direct message chatbox.

How many rooms does Freehand Chicago have?

Freehand Chicago has a total of 215 rooms.

What payment options are supported at Freehand Chicago?

Enjoy the convenience of easy payment at Freehand Chicago which supports up to 7, with payment card options consisting of UnionPay, Visa, MasterCard, American Express, and Discover Card.

What is the average rating that past Solo travelers' have given to Freehand Chicago?

Past solo travelers that have stayed at this property have given Freehand Chicago an average rating of 8.6. You can look up more detailed customer reviews and feedback by filtering for a specific type of verified travelers down in the review section.

What is the typical rating that past Couples' have given to Freehand Chicago?

Verified couple travelers that have stayed at this property have given Freehand Chicago an average rating of 7.8. You can look up on more descriptive customer critiques, and comments by filtering for a specific type of verified guest travelers down in the review section.

What is the average rating that verified Families with older children have given to Freehand Chicago?

Past families with older children that have stayed at this property have given Freehand Chicago an average rating of 8.3. You can look into more comprehensive customer reviews and feedback by filtering for a specific type of verified travelers down in the review section.

What do local travelers think about Freehand Chicago?

Past local visitors that have stayed at this property have given Freehand Chicago an average rating of 7.7. You can look up on more descriptive customer reviews, and feedback for this property down in the review section.

What is the closest train, metro, or bus station to Freehand Chicago?

The closest train, metro, or bus station is Cicero Railway Station, 10027.29 m away from Freehand Chicago.

See map

Explore the neighborhood

What people love about Freehand Chicago

  • 10

    Exceptional
    Cleanliness

    "Great location atmosphere cleanliness and wifi Small rooms but still worth it"

    krystal

    |

    May 9, 2022

  • 10

    Exceptional
    Cleanliness

    "Clean, new facilities."

    Kara

    |

    June 6, 2021

  • 10

    Exceptional
    Location

    "Hotel location is amazing"

    Margie

    |

    October 28, 2022

Property ranking|Compared to 487 Chicago (IL) properties
See all rankings
Room comfort score
9/10
Location score
9.5/10
Value for money score
8.6/10
Service score
8.6/10
Better than
99
%
of Chicago (IL) properties
Better than
98
%
of Chicago (IL) properties
Better than
97
%
of Chicago (IL) properties
Better than
96
%
of Chicago (IL) properties
Overall rating:

8.6

Excellent
497 reviews
Cleanliness
8.6
Facilities
8.1
Location
9.5
Read all reviews >
What travelers say they love:
Good location and a good price.
LILIVEN from Philippines
Family with older children
More about Freehand Chicago

More about Freehand Chicago

Freehand Chicago

For travelers who want to take in the sights and sounds of Chicago (IL), Freehand Chicago is the perfect choice. Its convenient location right in the city center allows you more time to see all that Chicago (IL) has to offer.
Enjoy all that Freehand Chicago has to offer! Free internet access provided within the hotel keeps you connected throughout your stay. Exploring Chicago (IL) is made even more convenient with the taxi services available at the hotel. For those driving their own car, parking is available for guests.
Always get the assistance you need with front desk services including concierge service, express check-in or check-out, luggage storage and safety deposit boxes. Cold evenings are even better than warm ones, when you can cozy up at the hotel's fireplace. For longer stays or whenever you need it, the laundromat, dry cleaning service and laundry service keep your favorite travel outfits clean and available. Feel like doing nothing? Available services like room service and daily housekeeping let you get the most out of your time at the Freehand Chicago.
For health reasons, smoking is not permitted anywhere inside the hotel.


Dining and things to do

Each morning you can start the day with a delicious in-house breakfast offered at Freehand Chicago. Don't start your vacation days without your morning coffee, available every morning in the café. A number of great dining options at the hotel assures that you'll always have convenient and delicious choices. A great night out couldn't be easier! Enjoy a fun evening without traveling outside at the bar.
At any time of the day or night, you can serve yourself a snack at the hotel's vending machines. Are you a great cook? Make your own meals in-house at the hotel's shared kitchen.
Fill your days with the array of activities and facilities offered at Freehand Chicago. Burn off you vacation calories with a quick visit to the hotel's fitness facility. Family time on relaxed evenings is easy with the hotel's shared lounge and TV area.


Around the property

An array of attractions are a must-see while visiting Chicago (IL). A great museum trip can be had at The Art Institute of Chicago located 1.4 km away, with local art that provides a sense of the region. Be sure to visit Cloud Gate located 1.1 km away, an item on every checklist of those who travel to Chicago (IL). Be sure to stop by Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower located 1.6 km away, one of the most famous of all local landmarks.


Reasons to stay here

Find incredible value for money here, which is ranked better than 97% of the city's accommodation.
Guests who stayed at this hotel have scored it higher than 98% of accommodations in the city.
According to guests who stayed here, this hotel's room comfort is rated higher than 99% of other accommodations in Chicago (IL).

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Amenities and facilities

Excellent
Facilities

8.1

Most talked about facilities

Housekeeping

19 mentions

Food & Dining

6 mentions

Breakfast

4 mentions

View

1 mention

Languages spoken
  • English
  • Spanish
Accessibility
  • Wheelchair accessible
Internet access
  • Free Wi-Fi in all rooms!
  • Internet
  • Internet services
  • Wi-Fi in public areas
Things to do, ways to relax
  • Fitness center
  • Nightclub
  • On-site entertainment
Cleanliness and safety
  • Anti-viral cleaning products
  • Body thermometer
  • Breakfast takeaway service
  • Cashless payment service
  • Daily disinfection in all rooms
  • Daily disinfection in common areas
  • Doctor/nurse on call
  • First aid kit
  • Hand sanitizer
  • Hotel room service app
  • Hot water linen and laundry washing
  • Hygiene certification
  • Individually-wrapped food options
  • Physical distancing of at least 1 meter
  • Protective screens in common areas
  • Room sanitization opt-out available
  • Rooms sanitized between stays
  • Safe dining setup
  • Sanitized kitchen and tableware items
  • Staff trained in safety protocol
  • Sterilizing equipment
  • Temperature check for guests and staff
Dining, drinking, and snacking
  • Bar
  • Breakfast [continental]
  • Coffee shop
  • Happy hour
  • Restaurants
  • Room service
  • Shared kitchen
  • Vending machine
Services and conveniences
  • Air conditioning in public area
  • Cash withdrawal
  • Concierge
  • Contactless check-in/out
  • Daily housekeeping
  • Dry cleaning
  • Elevator
  • Facilities for disabled guests
  • Fireplace
  • Heating in public area
  • Invoice provided
  • Ironing service
  • Laundromat
  • Laundry service
  • Luggage storage
  • Meeting/banquet facilities
  • Safety deposit boxes
  • Smoke-free property
  • Smoking area
For the kids
  • Family room
Access
  • CCTV in common areas
  • CCTV outside property
  • Check-in/out [express]
  • Fire extinguisher
  • Front desk [24-hour]
  • Non-smoking rooms
  • Pets allowed
  • Safety/security feature
  • Security [24-hour]
  • Smoke alarms
Getting around
  • Car park [charges apply]
  • Car park [nearby]
  • Taxi service

Food and dining

Breakfast options
  • American
  • Continental
  • Vegetarian
Restaurants on site
Broken Shaker
  • Cuisine: American, Local
  • Menu: Buffet
Cafe Integral
  • Cuisine: American, Local
  • Menu: Buffet

Location

19 East Ohio Street, River North, Chicago (IL), United States, 60611
Exceptional
Location

9.5

Airports
  • Midway International Airport (MDW)
    14.9 km
  • O'Hare International Airport (ORD)
    24.9 km
Public transportation
  • Grand/State Subway Station
    100 m
  • Chicago
    480 m
Hospital or clinic
  • Northwestern Memorial Hospital
    520 m
Shopping
  • Water Tower Place
    680 m
Convenience store
  • 7 Eleven
    160 m
Cash withdrawal
  • ATM on-site

What's nearby

Popular landmarks
  • The Magnificent Mile
    380 m
  • 360 Chicago Observation Deck
    780 m
  • Cloud Gate
    1.1 km
  • Millennium Park
    1.2 km
  • The Art Institute of Chicago
    1.4 km
  • Skydeck Chicago - Willis Tower
    1.7 km
  • Navy Pier
    1.8 km
  • Shedd Aquarium
    2.9 km
  • Wrigley Field
    6.6 km
  • Museum of Science and Industry
    11.9 km
Nearby landmarks
  • North Bridge Self Park
    50 m
  • Crunch Fitness
    60 m
  • Tree Studio Complex
    70 m
  • P.O.S.H
    80 m
  • Grand/State Subway Station
    100 m
  • Grand Plaza Parking
    120 m
  • Pistachios
    130 m
  • 600 N Michigan Theaters
    180 m
  • After-Words New and Used Books
    180 m
  • Jazz Record Mart
    180 m
Distances shown are straight-line distances on the map. Actual travel distances may vary.

Property policies

Children and extra beds

Extra beds are dependent on the room you choose. Please check the individual room capacity for more details.

All children are welcome.

Children 0-1 year(s)
Must use an extra bed
If you need an extra bed, it will incur an additional charge.
Guests 2 years and older are considered as adults
Must use an extra bed which will incur an additional charge.
Others
  • A security deposit of USD 25 for shared room, USD 50 for private room and USD 200 for penthouse is required upon check-in for charges or damages during the stay and will be refunded upon departure.
  • When booking more than 5 rooms, different policies and additional supplements may apply.

Some helpful facts

Check-in/Check-out
  • Check-in from15:00
  • Check-out until12:00
Getting around
  • Distance from city center0 miles
  • Travel time to airport (minutes)45
Extras
  • Breakfast charge (unless included in room price)15 USD
  • Daily Internet/Wi-Fi fee0 USD
The property
  • Non-smoking rooms/floorsYes
  • Number of bars/lounges1
  • Number of floors17
  • Number of restaurants2
  • Number of rooms 215
  • Year property opened1927
  • Most recent renovation2015
Parking
  • Daily parking fee39 USD

Property announcements

Please note the total reservation may not exceed 8 rooms as additional charges apply for group bookings. Please note guests booking from Chicago zip codes (60---) are not permitted in dormitory rooms. Guests are required to show a photo identification and credit card upon check-in. Please note that all Special Requests are subject to availability and additional charges may apply.

Reviews of Freehand Chicago from real guests

Provided by verified guests of Agoda
8.6
Cleanliness8.6
Facilities8.1
Location9.5
Room comfort and quality9.0
Service8.6
Value for money8.6
High score for Chicago (IL)
Rating
9+ Exceptional (108)
8-9 Excellent (28)
7-8 Very Good (27)
6-7 Good (6)
<6 Below Expectation (16)
Time of the year
Mar - May (31)
Jun - Aug (52)
Sep - Nov (62)
Dec - Feb (40)

Show reviews that mention 

Showing 185 verified guest comments
12345
10.0
Exceptional
Kara from Switzerland
Solo traveler
Bed in Female Quad
Stayed 2 nights in June 2021

Great hostel ****”

Clean, new facilities. I really loved the linens: bath towel PLUS big bath sheet along with sheet set, comforter, and fluffy pillow. The dorm beds are sturdy with privacy curtains. Housekeeping changes towels and garbage daily, just leave them outside your door. Front desk staff were fabulous. The lobby is a super cool hang out spot. Coffee bar is on point and food is available on site. What's not to like? This is my new go to spot for a quick visit to Chicago.

Reviewed June 06, 2021

See room deals

10.0
Exceptional
Margie from United Arab Emirates
Solo traveler
Bed in Quad
Stayed 4 nights in October 2022

Exceptional”

Staff are very friendly esp Dana, Demitrius, Ashly and the staff in cafe were very helpful and accommodating, i will recommend Freehand hotel because their service are exceptional. Hotel location is amazing

Reviewed October 29, 2022

See room deals

Thank you for your review, Robert! We look forward to welcoming you back again soon. Freehand Chicago

Responded June 03, 2023
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
Kara from Switzerland
Solo traveler
Stayed 1 night in March 2020

Great beds!”

The bed and bedding were really cozy, and I appreciate the privacy curtain. There was plenty of room for carry ons in our four-bunk room. The lobby was pretty chic and comfortable, with lots of room to hang out. I was impressed with how nice Freehand was considering the reasonable rates. I will definitely come back.

Reviewed March 15, 2020

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thank you so much for sharing your feedback with us Kara! We are glad to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us! We look forward to you staying with us again at The Freehand!

Responded April 23, 2020
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
Hiroto from United States
Group
Private Quad
Stayed 1 night in November 2022

Good for sightseeing in Chicago”

This plase is good for staying for sightseeing in Chicago.

Reviewed November 12, 2022

See room deals

Thank you for your review, Robert! We look forward to welcoming you back again soon. Freehand Chicago

Responded June 03, 2023
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
dudi from Indonesia
Solo traveler
Bed in Quad
Stayed 3 nights in February 2020

Great value for downtown area”

Pros : Staff friendly, fast check in fast check out, free strong WiFi, linen is clean, towel provided, hairdryer available. Cons : bed curtains need to be cleaned and maintained, room carpets needs to be vacuum.

Reviewed February 05, 2020

See room deals

Thank you for sharing your experience with us. We will definitely address all of your concerns.

Responded April 24, 2020
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
krystal from United States
Couple
Private Premium Quad
Stayed 1 night in September 2021

Amazing!”

Great location atmosphere cleanliness and wifi Small rooms but still worth it

Reviewed May 10, 2022

See room deals

10.0
Exceptional
Riana from Canada
Solo traveler
Stayed 1 night in February 2020

Great place!”

Was here only for 12 hours and it was a great experience! Clean and has a great decor. Bed was comfy, I overslept! My roommate was a bit dirty and left plates on the table but it was fine as I was there only for a day. Kitchen is well equipped and location is perfect! Highly recommend!

Reviewed February 08, 2020

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We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us Riana. We look forward to you staying with us again.

Responded April 24, 2020
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
Jonathon from United Kingdom
Solo traveler
1bed (shared room/wc 4 pax)
Stayed 1 night in April 2020

Faultless. ”

Left a review already, but since I booked twice, I'll say it again: Excellent! There is no point on looking for specific details in hope you might find something negative. Trust me, everything was perfect, bathrooms, WiFi, yes, yes yes - perfect.

Reviewed April 20, 2020

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Thank you for sharing your experience with Johnathan! We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us and we were able to accommodate you! We look forward to you staying with us again!

Responded April 23, 2020
Freehand Chicago
9.6
Exceptional
Kaitlin from Canada
Solo traveler
Stayed 1 night in January 2020

Ideal home base for solo female travellers”

Comfy, clean and secure rooms in an ideal location. The variety of room options can accommodate your needs, whether you want to meet people in a dorm or relax quietly in a private room. The dorms have lockers large enough to fit my 40L backpack and privacy curtains on the bunks. The staff were super friendly and helpful. And the location is perfect for exploring downtown Chicago.

Reviewed February 12, 2020

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Thank you for sharing your experience with us, Kaitlin. We appreciate your feedback. We look forward to you staying with us again.

Responded April 24, 2020
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
Alexander from United States
Solo traveler
Bed in Quad
Stayed 2 nights in September 2022

Top Hostel”

All you can wish for in a modern hostel.

Reviewed October 29, 2022

See room deals

Thank you for your review, Robert! We look forward to welcoming you back again soon. Freehand Chicago

Responded June 03, 2023
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
Yuxi from United States
Couple
Superior Queen
Stayed 2 nights in December 2021

really nice location”

cozy small room with friendly staff. Don't miss out there's a resort fee.

Reviewed May 15, 2022

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10.0
Exceptional
Jonathon from United Kingdom
Solo traveler
Bed in Quad
Stayed 2 nights in April 2020

Location unbeatable - Fab Art-Deco Interior! ”

No cons, however I booked during Covid so the price was rock-bottom. I'd never pay full, normal price though. The place was outstanding in every way.

Reviewed April 20, 2020

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Thank you, Johnathan. We hope to see you soon!

Responded April 23, 2020
Freehand Chicago
9.6
Exceptional
CHARLOTTE from United States
Couple
Superior Queen
Stayed 1 night in September 2020

Beautiful little gem in the heart of it”

Really liked our short stay here. Very convenient, and the remodel on the hotel (esp all the custom woodwork and lighting) is really beautiful and exceedingly well designed. Cozy meets island feel to the rooms. Only reason for the lesser star on facilities is because during the pandemic, unfortunately they cannot operate the cafe and lounge to full extent. We will definitely return when it's all open again! Try it out!

Reviewed October 06, 2020

See room deals

Thank you so much for your beautifully detailed review. We are happy to hear that you enjoyed your stay with us! We look forward to your next visit and hopefully you will be able to experience The Freehand in its entirety when you do come back to Chicago.

Responded October 29, 2020
Freehand Chicago
10.0
Exceptional
May from United States
Couple
Superior Queen
Stayed 1 night in September 2021

Great Place!”

The location is very convenient. Liked the ambiance

Reviewed October 05, 2021

See room deals

9.6
Exceptional
Sarah from Brazil
Solo traveler
Bed in Female Quad
Stayed 1 night in December 2021

Great Stay At Freehand”

The staff (especially Amanda and Woody), were genuinely wonderful human beings. I enjoyed the hostel and will likely return to stay.

Reviewed January 13, 2022

See room deals

9.2
Exceptional
Mei-Chun from United States
Solo traveler
Stayed 2 nights in January 2020

Comfortable bed and friendly staff”

It is so nice that the staff gave me an early checkin after taking a night bus. The bed is super comfortable although there is some dust. They have kitchen and laundry downstair. I put my food in the shared fridge, and I got stolen some food. Therefore, be mindful of your belongings. Overall, it is a good place to stay for a solo traveler.

Reviewed February 05, 2020

See room deals

We are happy to here we are able to accommodate you during your stay with us. We look forward to seeing you again at the freehand.

Responded April 24, 2020
Freehand Chicago
9.2
Exceptional
Andrew from United States
Solo traveler
Deluxe King
Stayed 3 nights in July 2022

Perfect Location”

Just off the Mag Mile, the Freehand was a great launching point for a few days in Chicago. While the rooms are quite small, the Freehand was the perfect place to crash.

Reviewed July 24, 2022

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10.0
Exceptional
Lewis from Singapore
Solo traveler
Stayed 6 nights in October 2019

Solo Traveller”

Great for backpackers.

Reviewed October 04, 2020

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We appreciate your feedback, Lewis. Thank you for sharing!

Responded October 29, 2020
Freehand Chicago
9.6
Exceptional
Anthony from United States
Couple
Superior King
Stayed 2 nights in October 2021

Smack dab in the thick of it.”

Great location.. walking distance to everything.

Reviewed October 04, 2021

See room deals

8.8
Excellent
amber from United States
Couple
Superior Queen
Stayed 3 nights in October 2021

Excellent”

reasonable price in Oct, the room was super small for two people but it had everything we need. Great view of the city and excellent location. Be aware they do charge a facility fee that is not advertised on their website or warned verbally beforehand.

Reviewed October 16, 2021

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