So, you’ve decided to dive headfirst into the glorious, chaotic spectacle that is Art Basel Miami Beach. Bless your heart. With the fair kicking off this Friday, Miami is about to transform into a sprawling canvas of art, parties, and fabulous people pretending to understand it all. If you’re trying to get ahead of the chaos, these Art Basel Miami tips will keep you grounded from the jump.
If this is your first time, you might be feeling a little overwhelmed. Don’t worry, we’ve got you. Navigating the scene can be tricky, but with our essential Art Basel Miami tips, you’ll be hobnobbing like a seasoned pro.
Here’s what not to do.
1. Don’t Just Stick to the Main Fair
Look, the main event at the Miami Beach Convention Center is a must-see, even if the price tags make your wallet cry. It’s a fantastic place for people-watching and maybe even spotting a celebrity or two. But darling, if you only stay there, you’re missing the point. The real magic happens at the satellite fairs. These smaller, often more interesting shows are where you’ll find the truly groundbreaking stuff. And for our chosen family, don’t you dare miss the queerest of them all: Hôtel Gaythering’s Art Gaysel. It’s where the real party’s at.
2. Don’t Expect to Walk into the Hottest Restaurants
So you thought you’d just casually drop into Carbone or Papi Steak for a post-fair dinner? Adorable. Unless you booked that table six months ago, you have a better chance of buying a Basquiat with pocket change. Ditch the trendy spots and embrace the local flavor. Miami is packed with incredible food that doesn’t require a reservation made during the last administration. Think ventanitas for a quick cafecito and pastelito, or explore the amazing food halls. Save the high-end dining for a less insane time of year.
3. Don’t Wear Heels During the Day
Seriously, just don’t. You’ll be walking. A lot. From gallery hopping in the Design District to trudging through the sand for a beachfront installation, your feet will be screaming. Save the stilettos for the nighttime parties (if you must) and stick to stylish-but-sensible footwear during the day. Think chic sneakers, loafers, or block heels. Nobody looks cute when they’re wincing in pain.
4. Don’t Forget to Look for Art Everywhere
Art isn’t just confined to gallery walls and convention halls this week. It spills out onto the streets, into hotel lobbies, and onto the beaches. Keep your eyes peeled for pop-up installations and public art projects. Many of Miami’s most fabulous hotels host their own mini-exhibits, most of which are free and open to the public. You never know what masterpiece you’ll stumble upon while on your way to grab a cocktail.
5. Don’t Get FOMO Over Invite-Only Parties
Art Basel is notorious for its exclusive, A-list parties where the velvet ropes are long and the guest lists are tight. Yes, you will see hordes of people left out in the cold. Will you be one of them? Probably. And that’s okay! Fretting about the parties you can’t get into is a waste of precious energy. Do your research, because there are tons of incredible events, DJ sets, and live shows that are open to the public. The real fun is in the adventure, not in trying to crash a party at the Faena.
Now go forth, enjoy the madness, and pretend you know exactly what that bizarre sculpture is supposed to represent. It’s all part of the fun.