Freehand Chicago

Freehand Chicago at 19 E Ohio Street is a design-led hostel and hotel in River North, Illinois, a short walk from Michigan Avenue and the Magnificent Mile. It offers dorm beds and private rooms, which allows budget travelers and couples to share the same property. The hotel is known for its in-house cocktail bar, Broken Shaker, and for shared spaces that combine a lounge, a communal kitchen, luggage storage and 24-hour reception. Wifi is provided throughout. Prices run from about $45 for a dorm bed to $259 for a private room, a wide range reflecting the mix of accommodation types. The location is within walking distance of the Chicago River, Navy Pier and Oak Street Beach, and the Grand Red Line stop is close. River North's restaurants, galleries and nightlife surround the property, so guests have many dining options. The Freehand brand's design aesthetic favors plants, warm woods and social spaces, which attracts younger travelers, solo visitors and groups. Compared with traditional hostels, the property has a boutique feel, and its bar draws local visitors as well as guests. Noise from the bar and surrounding nightlife can be noticeable on weekends, so light sleepers may prefer a private room on a higher floor. The kitchen offers a way to reduce food costs in an expensive neighbourhood, and the staff run a relaxed, social service style suited to independent travelers. From O'Hare, the Blue Line to Clark/Lake and the Red Line to Grand reaches the area in roughly 50 minutes, and rideshare takes about 30 to 40 minutes. Nearby attractions include the Museum of Contemporary Art, the Chicago Riverwalk, Navy Pier and the shops of the Magnificent Mile. The hostel suits visitors who want a social setting without sacrificing privacy, since private rooms offer a quieter option while dorm guests can use the shared lounge and kitchen.