Miami Art Basel

How to visit Miami Art Basel

Art Basel Miami will be held in from December 2–4; like every year, this event will attract thousands of global art lovers to the mild climate of South Florida. 

Since its launch in 2002, its been a popular modern and contemporary art event. It has sister events in Basel (the original location) and Hong Kong. 

The last Miami Basel Art Fair was in 2019; 2020 was canceled due to the Coronavirus pandemic. Now, in 2021, it’ll be back and better than ever—in fact, last year’s cancellation is heightening the anticipation of the popular event. This year will also showcase NFTs—Non Fungible Tokens—alongside physical paintings, which is a big step for the art fair. 

Miami Art Basel Guide: Know Before You Go

I’ve put together a Miami Art Basel Guide so you can make the most of your time in Florida and see all the up-and-coming artists from around the world. 

An Overview of Art Basel

So, what exactly is Art Basel Miami, and why should you consider going? 

Art Basel is a huge art convention that will satiate your art appetite. This is a comprehensive international art fair with over 250 galleries from over 30 countries displaying works. With a total of seven themed sectors, there are a whopping 500,000 square feet of exhibition space to get lost in. Plus, there is a 600,000 square-foot Grand Ballroom in which you can experience larger-scale art projects. 

Here are some quick overview facts for your planning: 

Where: Art Basel is in the Miami Beach Convention Center. The address is 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, Florida, 33139. (Side note: you’ll need to show proof of vaccination or a negative Covid-19 test result to enter the event). 

When: Art Basel Miami Beach will be open to the public from Thursday, December 2–4. Early VIP access is November 30–December 1.

Tickets: Tickets for one-day entry start at $65—this year, you must buy them online. You can buy them here. 

Parking: Outside the Convention Center, you can get valet parking. There are also a variety of nearby public parking lots, garages, and street parking. 

More Information About Tickets

Tickets start at $65. For a pass that covers the whole event, you can purchase a four-day ticket for $165. Additionally, if you truly want the full experience, you can buy a $500 premium card, giving you access to any extras offered. For example, it gives you access to Art Basel Vernissage, an invitation-only viewing prior to the show’s official opening. You can also book some private tours as part of the premium card. 

Planning Your Itinerary for Art Basel Miami Beach 

​​Art Basel Miami Beach has five main sections: Galleries (artworks from galleries), Edition (editioned pieces), Nova (artworks from the last three years), Positions (specifically for emerging artists), and Survey (works created prior the year 2000). This year, the fair also presents 16 larger works in Meridians, 25 curated exhibitions in its Kabinett sector, and 10 moderated panels in its Conversations series. If you want to check out more information on these specific show sections, please see the Art Basel website. 

There’s no denying it is a ton of space to roam, but there’s no need to get overwhelmed. Before you go to Art Basel Miami, you can browse the floorplan and map out your must-sees prior to your visit. You might even consider planning out a route that works for you and your timeline. 

A great way to navigate Art Basel—especially if you are a bit unfamiliar with the event—is to take a guided tour given by a knowledgeable expert. 

Art Basel Versus Miami Art Week 

Take note: there is a difference between Art Basel Miami Beach and Miami Art Week, made all the more confusing since their dates coincide. So, when you’re browsing online, be sure to know which event you’re reading about. 

Art Basel is the specific fair held at the Miami Beach Convention Center, but Art Basel has spurred on creative events throughout Miami, both big and small. You can visit satellite fairs, happening parties, gallery opens around town, and other events during the week known as Miami Art Week. Art Basel is a must-see, but its also just the beginning of all of the arts and culture that Miami has to offer! Walkthrough Midtown, South Beach, Wynwood, or Downtown to view ephemeral public artworks, events, and large-scale installations. 

As part of Miami Art Week, there’s loads of parties, receptions, and events to check out. Just browse online—many of these events are ticketed, so best plan ahead. 

The City of Miami Beach normally offers a free shuttle to and from certain art events throughout the week. Additionally, you can take advantage of the free Miami Beach trolley, which has four loops navigating the area to get around Miami. You can also take the metro to get around quickly.

More Information to Know Before You Go 

Miami Basel is a huge art fair, so as such you can expect to do a fair bit of walking. Plan accordingly by wearing comfortable shoes and planning your itinerary ahead of time. Also, if you are bringing along young ones, be sure to check out the playroom “Art Kids” run by Miami Children’s Museum to make your weekend go as smooth as possible for everyone. 

You can view additional Art Basel Events here. 

So, what are you waiting for? Experience the fun, action-packed week by going to Art Basel and experiencing all that Miami Art Week offers! At the end, it’s one of the best events Miami has to offer