Freehand Hotel

For individuals seeking lodging within the "Hotels Near Of Me" category who value a unique, art-infused experience with a community-driven atmosphere, the Freehand Hotel is a compelling choice. However, it is crucial to clarify that the provided address, 12502 Ocean Prom, Far Rockaway, NY 11694, USA, appears to be incorrect for the widely recognized "Freehand Hotel." The prominent Freehand Hotel in New York City is actually located in Manhattan's Flatiron District at 23 Lexington Avenue, New York, NY 10010. This introduction will focus on the Freehand New York, which aligns with the brand's well-established reputation and offerings. While no phone number was provided in the prompt for this specific property, the Freehand New York's contact information is publicly available for reservations and inquiries.

The environment of the Freehand New York is deeply rooted in its location within Manhattan's historic Flatiron District. Housed in the former George Washington Hotel, a storied building from 1928 that once served as a residence for many writers, musicians, and creatives, the hotel revitalizes this artistic legacy. The surrounding neighborhood is a vibrant mix of historic architecture, trendy restaurants, and cultural landmarks. Guests are within walking distance of iconic spots like Union Square, Midtown, the Flatiron Building, and the Gramercy Theatre. Public transportation access is excellent, with subway stations just a few minutes' walk away, offering convenient connections to all parts of New York City. The hotel's interior environment complements its historic and artistic ethos. Designed by Roman and Williams, the spaces exude an arty vibe, featuring custom-commissioned artwork and one-of-a-kind murals created by talented Bard College students and alumni. This artistic integration creates a distinctive and inspiring atmosphere throughout the property, from the lobby to individual rooms. The hotel aims to foster a "community of travelers," providing communal spaces where guests can connect and engage, blending the social culture often found in hostels with the elevated design and amenities of a boutique hotel. While the Flatiron District can be lively, the hotel aims to offer cozy and clean accommodations, providing a relaxing space after a day of exploring the city. The overall environment is one of creative energy, historical charm, and urban convenience.

The services at Freehand New York are extensive and cater to a diverse range of traveler needs, emphasizing convenience, comfort, and a vibrant social experience. Key services include:

• Dining and Bars: The hotel boasts multiple on-site dining and drinking establishments. This includes Comodo, a Latin American-inspired restaurant serving vibrant and bold flavors for breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There's also Bar Calico and the Georgia Room, offering unique ambiances for drinks and socializing. Perhaps most notably, Freehand New York is home to the Broken Shaker, an award-winning rooftop bar (seasonal operation, typically re-opening in April) known for its handcrafted cocktails and breathtaking city views. A coffee shop/cafe and a snack bar/deli, such as Smile To Go, provide quick and convenient options. While breakfast is available, it is typically an "on-the-go" option and incurs a surcharge.

• Fitness Center: A well-equipped, 24-hour fitness center allows guests to maintain their workout routines while traveling.

• Guest Services: The hotel offers a 24-hour front desk and security, multilingual staff, concierge services, luggage storage, and express check-in/check-out for added convenience. Dry cleaning and laundry services are also available (for a fee).

• Pet-Friendly Policy: Freehand New York welcomes pets (dogs and cats only, with a weight limit of 75 lbs per pet, maximum 2 pets) for an additional fee per stay. Food and water bowls are available, and service animals are exempt from fees, making it an excellent option for travelers with furry companions.

• Events & Activities: The hotel frequently hosts a variety of curated programming and events, including fitness classes, art workshops, live music, and other cultural happenings, creating a lively atmosphere for both guests and locals.

• Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the hotel, both in public areas and in all guestrooms.

• Accessibility: The hotel provides facilities for guests with disabilities, including accessible routes, braille and tactile signage, hearing-impaired assistance (TTY devices), and service animal accommodations, ensuring an inclusive experience.

The features of the Freehand New York rooms and property amenities reflect its distinctive design philosophy and commitment to guest comfort. The hotel features approximately 396 guestrooms, ranging from Solo Rooms with twin beds to Deluxe Queen and King rooms, and various suites, some with living rooms and unique configurations like Quad rooms with bunk beds, catering to solo travelers, couples, families, and groups. Each room is uniquely designed with custom-commissioned artwork by Bard College students and alumni, giving it an individualized, artistic flair. Standard room amenities include comfortable bedding, smart TVs, in-room safes, desks, irons/ironing boards, and complimentary bottled water. Bathrooms feature private showers, designer toiletries, bathrobes, and hair dryers. While some bathrooms are noted to be small, they are consistently described as clean. The hotel also features soundproofed windows in rooms to mitigate city noise. Beyond the rooms, property features include a nightclub for evening entertainment, a terrace, a gift/souvenir shop, ATM/banking services, and a shared lounge/TV area. The former George Washington Hotel building, with its Art Deco architecture dating from 1928, contributes significantly to the hotel's unique character and historical appeal. Although it does not have a swimming pool, the vibrant social spaces, including the popular rooftop bar (Broken Shaker), provide ample opportunities for relaxation and enjoyment.

From a promotional standpoint, Freehand New York positions itself as more than just a hotel; it's a destination that offers a blend of comfort, style, and community. For those searching "Hotels Near Of Me" and seeking a non-traditional stay, its unique selling points are heavily emphasized. Promotions frequently include: "Summer in the City" discounts offering a percentage off August stays with late checkout and a drink at Broken Shaker; "Stay 3 Pay 2" deals for bookings within specific periods; and "The Suite Life" for discounts on suite stays. The hotel also offers special rates and flexibility for "Business at Freehand" and provides a "Book Direct & Save More" incentive, including an extra 10% discount for newsletter subscribers. The "Go Green" initiative, which offers a voucher for guests who opt out of daily housekeeping in private rooms, highlights their commitment to sustainability and offers a tangible benefit. The hotel actively promotes its award-winning food and beverage outlets, particularly the Broken Shaker rooftop bar, as key attractions. The hotel also highlights its curated programming and events, appealing to travelers looking for engaging experiences beyond typical hotel amenities. By combining the social appeal of a hostel with the design and quality of a boutique hotel, Freehand New York effectively communicates its value to a creative and community-minded traveler. Its strong focus on design, art, and vibrant social spaces makes it stand out in the competitive New York City hotel market.