I had low expectations because it is a Hostel. HOWEVER, I liked this place more than the 4 star hotel I booked later!!! It is modern, clean and the people are very nice. The rooftop pool and bar are AMAZING! Would 100% stay here again.

Very little to complain about honestly. I guess the only thing I could say is that I was told there would be USB charging ports at the beds and there werent? But there were plenty of power outlets, so this was a non-issue.

Comfortable designer dormitory with like-minded international travellers. Easy transport to all of LA and near to art, fashion district, cafe, restaurants, supermarket and shopping malls. 30 mins Uber to the Hollywood sign around $28. I would stay again and great service!

The area could be sketchy at night. If you are not used to seeing the homeless and the smell of weed.

The hotel aesthetic is so nice the lobby is comfortable and inviting (minus the no outside food/drink signs) a great place to sip coffee or wait for your ride. The shared female quad is nice, I usually like the upper bunks but I’m glad I got a lower. There’s no shade covering for the lengthwise of the bed, the only shade covering is at the footbed which could make sense in a six or 8 person room. Idk why there isn’t a shade it can be easily added but that being said expect little privacy in your bed. The bed is comfortable, the blanket is one of those flannel covers hotels usually use in between flat sheets, very thin and best to bring another blanket or wear a sweatshirt if you run cold. Sheets were very white and very clean. No shampoo/soap/conditioner in the bathroom which was fine for me the room came with one towel, which was in the locker. Don’t forget your lock.

Liked the design of the room and the easy reach to plenty of amenities and things to see around DTLA. That shower was heavenly. The water pressure was incredibly good. A large CVS within walking distance and a very small convenience store across the street. They have a small ATM and essentials for whatever you may need.

The lack of window insulation meant you could hear everything happening outside - including all the firetrucks from the nearby fire department. They didn't seem to close entirely because of the locking system, so it was a bit cold during the night closer to the windows. Luckily, the AC was good. While the location was great, there were a lot of questionable people around the hotel - homeless or not. I'd say it's not the safest place out there, and I'm used to your average shady neighborhood. Otherwise, it's a great budget option!

This hotel was impressive on many levels except for the bar that was kind of a let down great rooftop views but they serve drinks in plastic tumblers which is just gross

The bar on the rooftop it needs more work

I looked forward to hiding away in my bunk. Make sure to bring ear plugs, just in case someone snores. The staff switched me to a all female room at arrival which was awesome. And my roomies were all quiet and nice, from all ends of the globe. I wish my towel had been changed one more time during the one week stay, and I wished for more towel hooks in the bathroom.

It is recommended to order transportation rather than walking to your destination, especially as it gets late in the day. Early in the morning I would walk past some sleeping homeless and some heating up their drugs. Some would yell profanity. Police worked on clearing the neighborhood at about 6 am. And the shops have private security guards all day.

Excellent staff behaviour (reception + housekeeping staff). Situated at a prime location in the city. There were music events and solo performances by various artists at the lounge region in some of the evenings that were accessible to all the residents. The basement has a gym and the rooftop has a pool which is accessible to the residents ( both of which are maintained by the staff). I would probably opt to stay here if visiting L.A. in the future.

The light switches on using a motion sensor. This might be a problem for other people sharing the room. Laundry facility would have been nice if planning for an extended stay. The bunk beds could have been more sturdy.

I had an amazing experience! From the moment I arrived, the atmosphere was welcoming and stylish. The hotel has a unique blend of boutique charm and social energy, making it perfect for both solo travelers and groups The rooms were clean, comfortable, and well-designed, with a cool, modern aesthetic. The staff was friendly and always ready to help with recommendations or anything I needed. The rooftop pool and bar were a highlight, with stunning views of the city, and a lively vibe The location is also perfect, right in downtown L.A., making it easy to explore nearby attractions. Whether you're looking for a chill stay or a social experience, Freehand is a fantastic choice. I’d stay here again

The kitchen offered downstairs could improve by offering cutlery and basic products to cook something like vegetable oil and pans.

The location is perfect with a CMV drugstore, supermarket and a Macy's all within a short walk. The hotel is beautifully decorated in a sympathetic style to its heritage. The Metro is a short walk away too. The rooftop bar is perfect and there's a bar and coffee bar in the foyer. We paid £650 for 5 nights for two over the new year which was exceptional. The room was large and comfortable with a lovely bathroom and the best shower ever. The water pressure was like having a jet wash every morning - really invigorating.

The bed was quite soft and low to the ground. We stayed at New Year and went to the Broken Shaker rooftop bar which was busy with non guests. Everyone was ordering cocktails which took ages for the staff to make and caused a long queue to form. Maybe next year give guests some priority reservation of a seat and have pre mixed cocktails on the menu.

I loved it so much that I prolonged 3 times and ended up spending 10 nights here. The location is excellent, in the heart of DTLA with all sights here in walking distance or the metro to Hollywood or Santa Monica reachable within 10 minutes. Several supermarkets, restaurants, coffee shops in close distance. Staff is friendly and supportive, Wlan is fast, swimming pool on the roof is great, 4-bed dorm is small but beds are big and offer enough privacy. In-dorm bathrooms were greatly appreciated. It feels more like a hotel, price is relatively high for a hostel.

Carpets in the room and bathrooms need a makeover.