Freehand Miami

Freehand Miami is a design-led hostel and hotel on Indian Creek Drive in Miami Beach, and it is one of the more affordable places to stay in Miami Beach. Its rooms were designed by the New York studio Roman and Williams, and each one includes artwork commissioned from students and alumni of Bard College, which gives the property a creative, relaxed character.

The rooms include shared rooms with six beds, aimed at budget travellers, alongside other room types and suites for those who want more space. The outdoor terrace has a pool, and the hotel is the home of the Broken Shaker, a cocktail bar set in a brick-lined backyard that was named Best American Hotel Bar at the Tales of the Cocktail awards. Ray's is a second, more casual bar with a disco ball and a pool table, serving bar food from Friday to Sunday, and NOMAD'S runs a coffee and pastry service from 8am to 1pm on Friday, Saturday and Sunday.

Freehand suits solo travellers, backpackers, groups of friends and couples on a budget who still want style and a sociable atmosphere. Because the Broken Shaker draws locals and visitors in the evening, it is not the quietest place to stay, so families with young children may prefer a calmer hotel. Dogs up to 75 pounds are welcome for a fee.

The hotel publishes several useful practical details. There is limited valet parking at a special rate at the nearby AC Hotel by Marriott, and the hotel offers a complimentary Tesla service for local rides within a two-mile radius. Discounts are available for stays of three or more nights booked at least seven days in advance, and seasonal codes are sometimes offered on suites.

Even if you are not staying, the Broken Shaker is worth a visit for a cocktail in the backyard, ideally early in the evening before it fills up. If you are planning a longer stay, compare the shared rooms, other room types and suites carefully to find the right balance of price and privacy.

The hotel is at 2727 Indian Creek Drive, in Miami Beach. The Bass Museum of Art at 2100 Collins Avenue is within walking distance, and Lincoln Road is a little further south. Reservations can be made online or by phone on 305-531-2727.