"How did it strike you on arrival?Backpackers get a serious upgrade at this hotel near the Magnificent Mile, where thrift is a virtue and good design doesn't have to be expensive. Socially minded throughout, from the dorm-like room options to the lobby filled with laptop toters. What’s the crowd like?Thrifty globe-trotters with a thing for design. The good stuff: Tell us about your room.The bunk rooms can fit up to four, but the private rooms are thrifty finds with lots of kicky touches: colorful throw rugs, textile wall hangings, and pillows. A wooden credenza doubles as a desk, and for a bargain hotel the rooms have seriously large TVs. We’re craving some deep, restorative sleep. They got us?Platform bed is nice. How about the little things, like mini bar, or shower goodies. Any of that worth a mention?Nice retro-looking clock radio with an audio input to broadcast your own music. Please tell us the bathroom won’t let us down.Nice bathroom with wood wainscoting and Argan bath products. Maybe the most important topic of all: Wi-Fi. What’s the word?Good signal and free. Anything stand out about other services and features? Whether it’s childcare, gyms, spas, even parking—whatever stuck with you.Broken Shaker cocktail bar is a draw for guests and locals, with flea-market-find décor that channels the tropics and lots of soft lighting. Café Integral has you covered for breakfast and lunch, and some mighty fine coffee anytime. What was most memorable—or heartbreaking—about your stay?Heartbreaking is trying to get to the bar on the weekends, but hang in there. Bottom line: worth it, and why?Good fun at a reasonable rate in this normally pricey River North location makes the Freehand a find." - Elaine Glusac
