A Different Kind of Manhattan Stay
New York offers endless hotel choices, but Freehand New York stands out by blending style, creativity, and affordability in one location. Situated in the Flatiron District, it’s close to Midtown, Union Square, and Gramercy, giving guests quick access to Manhattan without being in the middle of the most chaotic tourist crowds.
For travelers looking for more than a standard hotel, Freehand provides a mix of comfort, design, and culture. It’s social, energetic, and creative – the kind of place where both first-time visitors and frequent travelers feel at home in New York City.
From Historic to Modern
The building originally housed the George Washington Hotel, a hub for artists, writers, and musicians. Freehand has transformed the space while preserving its artistic roots. The hotel combines historic architecture with modern, design-forward interiors that feel authentic, bold, and perfectly aligned with the city’s energy.
Every corner of Freehand reflects its creative heritage – from original detailing to contemporary furnishings – giving guests a sense that they’re staying somewhere unique, not just another generic Midtown hotel.
Why Stay Here?
- Central Location – Situated in the Flatiron District, walking distance to Union Square, Gramercy, and Midtown.
- Room Variety – Private rooms, shared accommodations, and suites for different budgets and needs.
- Creative Atmosphere – Artwork and design integrated throughout the hotel.
- Dining & Nightlife – Four unique venues onsite.
- Community Feel – A social environment that encourages connection with other travelers.
Freehand combines practicality and personality, making it ideal for leisure travelers, business visitors, and anyone looking to experience New York with an insider’s perspective.
Rooms for Every Traveler
Freehand’s accommodations are designed to suit a wide range of travelers:
- Shared Rooms – Bunk-style, affordable, and social, perfect for solo travelers or small groups.
- Standard Private Rooms – Comfortable spaces for couples, friends, or business travelers.
- Suites – Spacious rooms for larger groups or guests who want extra comfort.
- Creative Layouts – Certain rooms feature unique design elements for a fresh, inspiring experience.
The rooms focus on essentials: comfortable beds, functional layouts, and quiet spaces for rest after exploring the city. Guests appreciate that Freehand prioritizes what matters while keeping the experience stylish and memorable.
Food and Drink at Freehand
Freehand New York is more than a place to sleep – it’s a destination for food, drink, and nightlife. Each of its venues offers a distinct experience:
- Smile To Go – A café for coffee, breakfast, and grab-and-go meals. It’s perfect for starting the day, grabbing a quick bite before sightseeing, or using as a casual workspace.
- Broken Shaker – The rooftop bar is one of the hotel’s highlights, offering award-winning cocktails and sweeping views of Manhattan. It’s lively, creative, and a favorite spot for guests and locals alike.
- Bar Calico – This intimate cocktail bar has Southwestern-inspired drinks and a relaxed vibe, ideal for quiet evenings or after-work drinks.
- Georgia Room – Known for music, dancing, and bold design inspired by artist Georgia O’Keeffe, this vibrant space hosts events, live DJs, and social gatherings.
Whether you’re in the mood for morning coffee, a casual lunch, rooftop drinks, or late-night music and cocktails, Freehand has a venue for every moment. The variety ensures guests can enjoy the hotel without even leaving the building, while still being perfectly positioned to explore the city.
A Creative, Social Energy
What sets Freehand apart from standard hotels is the atmosphere. It’s a hub for travelers, locals, and creatives. Common areas, bars, and event spaces encourage social interaction, making it easy for guests to connect.
Whether it’s meeting people at Broken Shaker, working in Smile To Go, enjoying cocktails at Bar Calico, or dancing in the Georgia Room, Freehand transforms typical hotel experiences into social and cultural opportunities. Guests become part of the environment, not just visitors.
Exploring the Neighborhood
The Flatiron District provides the perfect balance of central location and local charm. From Freehand, guests can walk to:
- Madison Square Park – A few blocks away, ideal for coffee, lunch, or outdoor relaxation.
- Flatiron Building – Iconic New York architecture and a favorite photo spot.
- Union Square – Shopping, dining, and the famous Greenmarket.
- Gramercy Park – A historic neighborhood offering classic New York charm.
- Midtown – Times Square, Bryant Park, and Broadway are just a short subway ride north.
- Downtown – East Village, SoHo, and the Lower East Side are easily reached by train.
This location allows travelers to enjoy the city without being trapped in the busiest tourist areas while still offering quick access to iconic landmarks.
Transportation Made Simple
Freehand is well-connected to all of Manhattan and beyond:
- Subway Access – Multiple lines nearby, connecting Uptown, Downtown, and Brooklyn.
- Penn Station – Around 10 minutes by subway or taxi for Amtrak and regional trains.
- Grand Central Terminal – Quick subway ride for Metro-North access.
- Airports – Easily reachable by train, bus, or taxi.
The hotel’s connectivity makes exploring the city or venturing outside Manhattan simple and stress-free.
Who Should Stay at Freehand?
Freehand appeals to a wide range of travelers:
- Solo Travelers – Shared rooms for affordable, social stays.
- Couples – Private rooms and suites near excellent dining and nightlife.
- Groups of Friends – Flexible layouts and lively common spaces.
- Business Travelers – Central location with café workspaces and easy transit options.
- Creatives – A design-focused hotel offering inspiration and cultural energy.
Its combination of affordability, style, and community makes it especially popular with younger travelers and those seeking a more immersive New York experience.
Guest Highlights
Visitors consistently praise:
- Design – Art-filled interiors that make the stay memorable.
- Food & Drink – Onsite options from coffee to rooftop cocktails.
- Atmosphere – Lively, social, and full of energy.
- Location – Convenient and central without being overwhelming.
- Value – Affordable shared rooms alongside stylish private options.
More Than a Hotel
Freehand isn’t just accommodation; it’s a destination. Between Smile To Go, Broken Shaker, Bar Calico, and Georgia Room, guests can enjoy breakfast, cocktails, music, and nightlife without leaving the property. Local New Yorkers also frequent the venues, enhancing the community and social vibe. The hotel is flexible enough to cater to different budgets, styles, and schedules, while remaining a hub of creativity and social connection.
Smarter Travel in New York
Many Manhattan hotels are either too corporate or basic. Freehand bridges the gap:
- Stylish design, inspired by art and culture
- Flexible accommodations for solo travelers, couples, and groups
- A social, community-driven atmosphere
- Central location that balances convenience with local character
It’s an ideal choice for travelers who want both authenticity and ease.
