A Hostel for Today’s Traveler

A lush, tropical destination just steps from the beach, an award-winning bar serving some of the best craft cocktails around and a restaurant focusing on fresh, local ingredients. This probably doesn't sound like any hostel you've experienced, right? Budget travelers, millennials and locals will find all of these things at Freehand Miami, an eclectic hostel/hotel tucked away on a side street in the trendy Mid Beach neighborhood, just blocks from South Beach.

Freehand is housed inside a 1930s Art Deco-era building, which was previously the historic Indian Creek Hotel. It offers shared and private accommodations, so guests can choose their desired type of stay depending on their comfort level and budget. There are 82 rooms with 292 beds, including bunk-style beds with bathrooms inside the room. There are also 48 rooms that are hostel-style, which means they can be shared with people you know, or don't know. For travelers who want more privacy, you can book one of 33 private rooms that also includes a private bathroom.

Hostel Rooms & Amenities

The interior of Freehand Miami was designed by Roman + Williams, giving off a bohemian vibe with global decor like colorful Afghan throws, Turkish tapestries and walls dotted with art created by locals. While the lobby is always a hub of activity with travelers meeting, chatting and planning their days, the backyard courtyard is the centerpiece of Freehand Miami. Surrounded by palm trees, vines and other tropical plants, you'll feel worlds away from the bustle of Miami Beach. Find a seat in one of the brightly colored chairs or a wooden bench to read or relax while listening to the trickle of a fountain. Or grab a cocktail and settle into comfortable chairs that line a secluded, leafy path. At the pool, sun yourself, and strike up a conversation with locals and travelers from all over the world. The best part? You're likely to meet someone with an interesting travel story, or a local with great tips on what to do/see while in town. Guests also have access to complimentary bikes so they can explore the area at their leisure.

Hostel Restaurants & Craft Cocktails

At Freehand Miami, the superstar of the property is the Broken Shaker. By sundown, the courtyard hums with a mix of travelers and locals sipping handcrafted cocktails and conversing under the hand-strung garden lights. Explore the diverse street food-inspired menu and try delicious concoctions like Burning to Shine, a unique adult beverage with Ron Zacapa, Kronan Swedish Punsch, Disaronno Amaretto, mango puree, and fresh lime topped with Angostura bitters. In-the-know locals ask for the Cocoa Puff Old Fashioned, made with bitters, sugar and whiskey-washed Cocoa Puffs.

At 27 Restaurant & Bar, guests can indulge in creative plates and drinks for dinner and during Sunday Brunch. Using the freshest local ingredients grown in the on-site garden, this hostel has curated a delicious dinner menu. We recommend making a reservation. The Eagle Room at 27 Restaurant and Bar sits above the restaurant and is open in the evenings to host a living room dance party with craft cocktails and music.

At Freehand Miami, you're free to have the best vacation, or night out, that fits your personal style.

By: Melina Martinez-Echeverria | May 06, 2022