Get ready, queens—next month, South Beach is about to get a whole lot artier (and gayer) when Art Basel Miami Beach takes over from December 5–7. This annual art extravaganza pulls in around 80,000 visitors and racks up a cool half-billion in sales. But let’s be real, you’re not just there for the jaw-dropping artwork; you’re there for the scene.
To survive the whirlwind of fairs, parties, and poolside mingling, you’ll need more than just a ticket. Here’s your essential packing list to conquer Art Basel like a pro.
When and Where to Find the Action
First things first: the main event unfolds at the Miami Beach Convention Center from December 5–7, 2025. If you’re fancy enough to snag an invite to the exclusive preview, you’ll get a first look on the afternoon of December 4. For everyone else, the doors swing open to the public on Friday, December 5.
Remember, tickets are only sold online. There’s no box office, so plan ahead and grab your entry from the official Art Basel website before you even think about packing.
What to Bring to Slay the Day (and Night)
1. A Guide to the Fairs (Because You’ll Get Lost)
Every year, new satellite fairs pop up to complement the main event at the Convention Center. With hotspots now stretching to Wynwood and downtown Miami, you’ll need a game plan. For schedules, prices, and rideshare-friendly addresses, the Miami New Times guide is your bible.
And you absolutely cannot miss Art Gaysel, the “Queerest Art Fair” on the block. Held at the iconic gay-owned Hotel Gaythering on Lincoln Road, it showcases over 30 LGBTQIA+ artists from around the world. It’s a must-see.
2. Shoes That Won’t Betray You
Leave the flip-flops at home. Seriously. Art Basel demands a dressier vibe, even by the pool, where slip-on espadrilles are the bare minimum. You’ll be bouncing between fairs, food, your hotel, and parties all day in 80-degree weather, so stylish, comfortable shoes are non-negotiable.
3. A Power Bank (and an Energy Bar)
Your phone is your lifeline for navigating the fairs, summoning Ubers, and documenting every fabulous moment. While charging stations exist, they’re usually occupied or broken. Pack a power bank to avoid a dead battery disaster. And while you’re at it, stash an energy bar or two in your bag. Art may nourish the soul, but it won’t fill your stomach.
4. Statement Sunglasses
We’re not talking basic wayfarers. You need frames that scream “architectural.” Sometimes, a killer pair of sunglasses and the right attitude are all you need to breeze past the velvet rope at a party you definitely weren’t invited to.
5. An Open Mind
Art Basel isn’t just about buying and selling; it’s about soaking up new perspectives. Challenge yourself to explore unfamiliar artists and mediums. You might just discover your next obsession. Strike up conversations with other attendees—you never know who you’ll meet.
Don’t Just Look at Art—Live It
This year, Art Basel is collaborating with Airbnb to offer immersive, locally-led experiences that go beyond the gallery walls. If you’re quick enough to RSVP, you could score a spot in:
- The Art of Curation with Kelly Wearstler
Step inside the creative world of one of Elle Decor’s A-List designers. Learn how to build your design vocabulary, refine your intuition, and see how art and space influence each other. Includes a VIP pass to Art Basel Miami Beach. - Private Tour: Jack Pierson’s “The Miami Years”
Join artist Jack Pierson at The Bass for an intimate walkthrough of his new solo show exploring Miami’s 1980s queer nightlife and its lasting cultural impact. Includes a VIP pass to Art Basel Miami Beach. - Inside Art Basel: Exclusive Director’s Preview
Go behind the scenes with Art Basel’s own Bridget Finn for an insider’s look at the fair before it opens to the public. Get special insights, early access, and a coveted pass to the Collector’s Lounge.
Navigating the Chaos: How to Get Around
Miami traffic during Basel week is a special kind of hell. Luckily, you have options beyond surge-priced rideshares.
- Free Water Taxis: These shuttles run between Miami Beach and the mainland every 15 minutes, offering a scenic escape from the causeway gridlock.
- Shuttle Services: Air-conditioned buses zip between key venues and satellite fairs, making it easy to hop from the convention center to Wynwood. Check schedules or ask your concierge for pickup spots.
- Ride-Shares & Scooters: Uber and Lyft are still reliable, but for short hops, electric scooters can be a fun alternative—just maybe not after a frozen daiquiri.
Beyond the Main Event: Other Must-See Art
The whole city becomes a canvas during Basel week. Don’t miss these cultural highlights:
- Pérez Art Museum Miami: Check out José Parlá’s evocative murals.
- Institute of Contemporary Art, Miami: Get lost in Lucy Bull’s vibrant abstractions.
- The Bass Museum: See Rachel Feinstein’s fantastical sculptures.
Smaller galleries in Wynwood and Little Haiti also host special installations, turning every block into an adventure.
Now Go Forth and Basel, Baby
And there you have it, folks! Your ultimate survival kit for a rockin’ time at Art Basel. Pack light, pack smart, and most importantly, pack your enthusiasm. Remember, this event is a vibrant canvas of creativity, where unexpected conversations, new inspirations, and undiscovered passions await around every corner. So keep your eyes wide, your phone charged, and your mind open!