Heading to Miami for Art Basel? Here’s what you should know

From December 1 to 5, the contemporary art elite will flock to South Florida for Art Basel Miami Beach and Miami Art Week, marking the first gathering since 2019.

In addition to the main Art Basel events at the Miami Beach Convention Center, anticipate a variety of sister art fairs, new museum exhibitions, and star-studded parties happening simultaneously. It’s a cultural experience unique to Miami, and we’re detailing everything you need to be ready, whether it’s your inaugural visit or your annual tradition.

This year will bring some changes, with strict COVID-19 measures in effect and certain fairs mandating proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test for entry.

What to anticipate at Art Basel

Art Basel Miami Beach transforms the entire convention center into a vibrant showcase, where hundreds of premier galleries present the works of over 4,000 artists to eager collectors with substantial budgets.

This year features special sections such as "Meridiens," dedicated entirely to monumental artworks including sculptures, installations, videos, and performances; "Positions," where galleries can spotlight individual artists’ unique projects; and "Nova," the go-to area for the latest works from emerging talents.

During the three-day event, Art Basel will also present 10 expert panel discussions covering topics like post-pandemic resilience, the booming NFT art market, and the necessity of reinventing museums.

Day passes start at $65, with discounts available for students and seniors. Attendees must also comply with COVID-19 protocols, which include presenting proof of vaccination, a negative COVID-19 test (within 48 hours for antigen tests or 72 hours for PCR tests), or evidence of recovery from COVID-19.

Masks are required inside the fair, regardless of vaccination status.

Top satellite events for art enthusiasts

Art Miami

Art Basel isn’t the only game in town — it’s not even the biggest. That title belongs to Art Miami (Nov. 30 to Dec. 5), now in its 31st edition, featuring over 140 galleries from across the globe lining Biscayne Bay in Downtown Miami. While it may not be as glamorous as Art Basel across the bridge, it attracts just as many collectors searching for Picassos, Chagalls, and Serras for their collections.

Day passes start at $55, with weekly options available for $100. Discounts for students and seniors are also offered. Attendees must provide proof of vaccination or a negative COVID-19 test result.

Pinta Miami

In Wynwood, Pinta Miami (Dec. 1 to 5) highlights both established and emerging Latin American and Hispanic artists. Now in its 15th edition, it will feature 60 galleries showcasing works from over 300 artists. Day passes begin at $25, with discounts available for students and seniors.

Design Miami

Back in Miami Beach, the 15th annual Design Miami (also Dec. 1 to 5) will take place alongside Art Basel. Galleries and studios from around the globe will exhibit furniture, lighting, and accessories ranging from the 20th century to the present. These museum-quality pieces aim to attract both private and public collectors. Day tickets start at $32, with weekly passes from $100, and discounts for students and seniors available.

Smaller art fairs

For art collectors on a budget, fairs like NADA Miami (Dec. 1 to 4; Tickets range from $45 to $55; discounts for students and seniors available), Scope Miami Beach (Nov. 30 to Dec. 5; Day tickets start at $40; VIP unlimited access from $150), and Context Art Miami (Nov. 30 to Dec. 5; Day tickets from $55; weekly passes starting at $100; student and senior discounts offered) are great alternatives, featuring emerging and mid-career artists.

Top Miami exhibitions during Art Basel

For those who see themselves as art enthusiasts rather than buyers, Miami's museums are joining the festivities. The Bass, located just a five-minute stroll from Art Basel, features a new exhibition opening on Nov. 29: Alex Israel x Snapchat, inviting visitors to engage with the art through augmented reality accessible on their smartphones. Five unique experiences relate to Israel's self-portraits.

During Art Week, admission includes guided tours of the museum's highlights. No proof of vaccination or COVID-19 tests are required for entry, but visitors must wear masks inside the museum.

In the Design District, the Institute of Contemporary Art Miami will unveil six exhibitions on Nov. 30. Highlights include the first U.S. museum showcase of drawings by Canadian Inuit artist Shuvinai Ashoona; paintings and sculptures by feminist artist Ellen Lesperance from Portland; a collection of found objects and cast sculptures by Harold Mendez, a first-generation American of Colombian and Mexican heritage; a new stairwell installation by Anthea Hamilton; a review of ICA's digital commissions from 2020 to 2021; monumental new works by New York-based artist Hugh Hayden; and the inaugural solo museum presentation by London artist Jadé Fadojutimi.

The Rubell Museum marks its second Art Week in its new location with fresh exhibitions from resident artists and new pieces by Natalie Ball, Kara Walker, and Yayoi Kusama. Currently, the museum features three installations by Kusama, including two infinity rooms and Narcissus Room, which showcases 700 stainless steel spheres cascading 200 feet through the museum's central gallery. Admission is free during Art Week, though there’s a $10 fee to access Kusama's infinity rooms.

Even hotels are showcasing their creativity. Faena is hosting large-scale installations and a sculpture by Argentinian artist Pilar Zeta, along with a site-specific installation by Barcelona artist Andrés Reisinger, marking the debut exhibition for Faena's Art Project Room.

Eden Roc Miami Beach, designed by iconic architect Morris Lapidus, is collaborating with the Museum of Graffiti to unveil a new poolside mural by Stephen Palladino, celebrating the original 1950s mural that once adorned the hotel. The hotel is also offering a special Art Week Access package that includes a $100 resort credit and a daily cocktail hour exclusively for guests during Miami Art Week.

Where to celebrate during Art Basel

Indeed, Miami Art Week is a major affair with millions of dollars changing hands between collectors and galleries, but what sets it apart from more traditional cities is its vibrant see-and-be-seen atmosphere. This is where the city's resorts and clubs play a crucial role.

Many events are by invitation only, but here are some public options to consider: Wynwood Studios, the inaugural NFT art and music festival featuring four days of parties, including a Friday night performance by Diplo; a 20-hour marathon rave kicking off Saturday night and continuing into Sunday evening by Paradise Miami at Club Space; and DJ Circoloco's day-into-night party at Island Gardens, a must-see.

Where to stay during Art Basel

Don’t miss the Nautilus Pool and Cabanas at the Arlo Beach Hotel. (Photo courtesy of Arlo Hotels)

The top hotels near the main event venues fill up quickly, leaving last-minute planners with few options at steep prices, particularly if they're staying for the entire week.

At the time of writing, rooms were still available at these hotels during Art Basel — we excluded any properties that were fully booked for the duration of the event.

Best boutique hotels near Art Basel

Some of our preferred hotels close to the Art Basel excitement aren’t affiliated with major loyalty programs, so consider maximizing your cash purchases with cards like the Chase Sapphire Reserve (3x points) or the Chase Sapphire Preferred Card (2x points). Additionally, check if the property can be booked via Hotels.com.

Travelers should be particularly mindful of resort fees, which are common in Miami Beach.

Shelborne South Beach

One of the nearest beach hotels to Art Basel, it features a stylish pool and a chic Art Deco atmosphere throughout. Rooms are still available starting at $637 per night during the event, and you can find this hotel on Hotels.com.

Nautilus by Arlo

A lively beach resort next to Shelborne, making it a top contender for the closest beachfront accommodation. Rooms can still be booked during Art Basel, starting at $792 per night. This property is also listed on Hotels.com if you prefer that option.

Faena Hotel Miami Beach

Arguably the most glamorous hotel in Miami Beach, this will be a key hotspot for celebrities and affluent guests during Art Basel. If you're willing to spend $6,000 per night to stay here, consider booking through the American Express Fine Hotels & Resorts (FHR) program with The Platinum Card® or The Business Platinum Card® from American Express. This way, you'll receive a $100 property credit and daily breakfast for two, among other perks, to ease the expense.

The Goodtime Hotel

As one of the newest and most fashionable hotels in Miami Beach, this millennial pink resort is famed for its Instagram-worthy design and lively pool parties featuring local and renowned DJs. Created by Pharrell Williams and hospitality mogul David Grutman, it offers rooms starting at $740 per night, available for booking on Hotels.com.

There are still rooms available at Loews Miami Beach (a large, family-friendly resort located half a mile from Art Basel, perfect for those combining this trip with a family vacation) starting at $782 per night; as well as at the Betsey, a Miami Beach staple known for its vibrant art program and fantastic rooftop pool, with rates starting at $1,395 per night.

The best points hotels near Art Basel

Hyatt Centric South Beach

Located on Collins Avenue, Hyatt Centric South Beach Miami is about half a mile from the convention center. Expect to pay $648 per night or 20,000 World of Hyatt points for a stay here.

The Confidante Miami Beach

Book your stay at this Hyatt hotel, renowned for its retro vibe, for $649 per night. Note that award nights and points are not accepted at this property during Art Basel.

W South Beach

This Category 8 property is a large, vibrant hotel featuring extensive pool areas, located less than half a mile from Art Basel. A luxurious two-bedroom suite can be yours for $10,126 per night. Unfortunately, points cannot be used during Art Basel.

Royal Palm South Beach

This Art Deco beachfront hotel offers a laid-back atmosphere and is within walking distance of the convention center. Rates start at $781 per night or 240,000 points per night.

Miami Beach Edition

Competing with Faena for the best after-party scene, Miami Beach Edition is a glamorous, celebrity-favored resort just over a mile from Art Basel. Rates are rising, with cash prices around $2,718 per night, and a stay will cost you 100,000 points.

Gale South Beach, Curio Collection by Hilton

While the Hampton Inn Miami South Beach – 17th Street is fully booked during Art Basel, you can still use Hilton Honors points for a stay at the nearby Gale South Beach. Room rates for those dates begin at $810 or 80,000 points per night.

Bottom line

It's not too late to organize an unforgettable trip to Miami for Art Basel, but you'll need to move quickly (like, drop everything and make your plans now quickly). For more advice on booking your trip, check out our guide on how to get to Miami using points and miles. If you're open to exploring beyond Miami Beach for a different atmosphere—and certainly better prices—consider our guide to points hotels in Miami, which features a variety of options from budget to luxury across all major loyalty programs.

You can also travel around Miami in style with Blade helicopter transfers, which take you directly to Miami Beach from four airports, including Miami International (MIA) and Ft. Lauderdale Airport (FLL).