Freehand Chicago
Freehand Chicago, 19 E Ohio St, Chicago, IL 60611, United States
Gumo's take
Freehand Chicago is a budget-friendly, bohemian-chic hostel in a vintage building, ideal for travelers seeking a social and affordable stay in downtown Chicago. It features a lively bar and cafe, and its location is a major draw, offering easy access to the city's attractions. While the property has a unique, artsy vibe and some guests praise the friendly staff, many reviews highlight recurring issues with cleanliness, outdated rooms, and inconsistent service. It suits budget-conscious travelers who prioritize location over luxury.
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Research this stayHow guests rate it
- Location
- 89
- Facilities
- 65
- Staff & Service
- 68
- Room Comfort & Cleanliness
- 52
What guests love
- Strong location in downtown Chicago, within walking distance to major attractions and public transport.
- Lively bar and cafe with a social atmosphere, praised for its charm and drinks.
- Some guests highlight friendly and accommodating staff, particularly in front desk and bar areas.
Worth knowing
- Recurring complaints about cleanliness, including mold, stains, and unclean rooms or bathrooms.
- Outdated and poorly maintained rooms, with issues like broken heating, poor lighting, and uncomfortable beds.
- Inconsistent and sometimes rude service at the front desk, with reports of unresponsiveness to complaints.
- Noise and safety concerns, including loud bars, thin walls, and incidents of guests feeling unsafe.
Amenities
- Wi-Fi (free)
- Wi-Fi in public areas
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- Kid-friendly
- Parking (extra charge)
- Self parking (extra charge)
- Accessible
- Accessible parking
- Accessible elevator
- Air conditioning
- Private bathroom
- Bathtub in some rooms
- Shower
- Restaurant
- Bar
- Table service
- Breakfast (extra charge)
- Front desk (24 hour)
- Baggage storage
- Concierge
- Self-service laundry
- Elevator
- Wake up calls
- Housekeeping
- Fitness center (free)
- Elliptical machine
- Treadmill
- Weight machines
- Free weights
- English
- Mandarin
- Spanish
Common questions
Is Freehand Chicago a good option for budget travelers?
Yes, Freehand Chicago is a budget-friendly hostel ideal for travelers seeking an affordable stay in downtown Chicago, though it offers a more basic and social experience rather than luxury accommodations.
What are the main concerns guests have about Freehand Chicago?
Guests frequently report issues with cleanliness, outdated and poorly maintained rooms, and inconsistent service at the front desk, including some instances of unresponsiveness or rudeness.
What are the advantages of staying at Freehand Chicago?
The hostel has a strong downtown location, is within walking distance to major attractions, and features a lively bar and cafe with a social atmosphere, along with some friendly and accommodating staff.
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