Art Basel Miami Beach descends upon South Florida every December, transforming the city into a global art world epicenter. For one chaotic, exhilarating week, Miami becomes a collision of billionaire collectors, emerging artists, international celebrities, and culture enthusiasts trying to make sense of it all. The main fair at the Miami Beach Convention Center is just the beginning—dozens of satellite fairs, gallery openings, pop-up installations, and exclusive parties turn the entire region into an open-air museum.
Whether you’re a first-timer or a Basel veteran, planning is essential. Here’s everything you need to know to navigate Art Basel Miami Beach 2026.
The Essentials: Dates and Tickets
Art Basel Miami Beach 2026 runs December 4-7, with VIP preview days on December 3-4. General admission tickets typically run $75 for a single day or $120 for a multi-day pass. VIP access requires an invitation or partnership with participating galleries.
Purchase tickets in advance through the official Art Basel website—lines for on-site ticket purchases can stretch for hours, and some days sell out entirely.
Where to Stay: Hotels by Budget and Vibe
Accommodations during Basel week book up months in advance, and prices spike dramatically. Here’s the breakdown by budget and preference.
Luxury: Where the Collectors Sleep
Faena Miami Beach remains the crown jewel of Art Basel accommodations. The property hosts major programming throughout the week, including exhibitions, performances, and exclusive dinners. Expect rates starting around $1,200/night during Basel, but the access to on-site events and the celebrity-spotting opportunities justify the splurge for serious collectors.
The Setai Miami Beach offers a more understated luxury experience, with Asian-inspired design and three oceanfront infinity pools. The location at the quiet end of Collins Avenue provides respite from Basel chaos while keeping you minutes from the Convention Center. Rates hover around $900-1,100/night.
Four Seasons Surf Club in Surfside has become a Basel favorite since opening in 2019. The art deco landmark features programming curated specifically for the week, and the slightly removed location keeps it more exclusive. Plan on $1,000+ per night.
Mid-Range: Stylish Without the Sticker Shock
The Confidante Miami Beach offers boutique hotel charm with an ideal Mid-Beach location. The retro-meets-modern aesthetic photographs beautifully, and rates during Basel typically range $400-600/night—steep, but manageable.
Freehand Miami provides the best value-to-location ratio in South Beach. The hybrid hostel-hotel has private rooms starting around $250/night during Basel, and the on-site Broken Shaker bar is a legitimate nightlife destination.
Circa 39 offers clean, simple rooms in a restored art deco building steps from the beach. It lacks the scene of flashier properties, but Basel veterans appreciate the functional comfort after days of walking. Expect $300-450/night.
Budget: Creative Solutions
Let’s be realistic—“budget” during Art Basel is relative. The most affordable options include:
Airbnb in North Beach or Surfside: You’ll sacrifice walkability but save significantly. Book early, and budget for Ubers.
Brickell or Downtown Miami: Staying on the mainland means a commute, but hotels like Yotel Miami or citizenM Miami Brickell offer rates around $200/night with easy Metromover access to shuttle routes.
Stay with friends: If you know anyone in Miami, now’s the time to call in favors.
Satellite Fairs: Beyond the Convention Center
Art Basel is the main event, but the satellite fairs often offer more accessible, adventurous programming. Plan to visit at least two or three.
Design Miami
Located directly across from the Convention Center, Design Miami focuses on collectible design—furniture, lighting, objects. The quality matches Art Basel, and the programming includes talks and installations. Admission runs $30-40.
NADA Miami
The New Art Dealers Alliance fair showcases emerging galleries and artists, with price points that won’t require a second mortgage. Located in Ice Palace Studios in Wynwood, NADA offers a younger, more experimental energy. Many works sell for under $10,000.
Untitled Art
Held directly on the beach at Ocean Drive and 12th Street, Untitled emphasizes curatorial vision over commercial concerns. The tent setting with ocean views makes it one of the most pleasant fair environments. Admission is $30.
Scope Miami Beach
Now in its 24th edition, Scope attracts emerging contemporary galleries from around the world. The fair takes over the Scope Pavilion on Ocean Drive, with programming heavy on discovery and emerging markets.
Wynwood Walls and Galleries
While not technically a fair, the Wynwood Arts District goes into overdrive during Basel week. Galleries extend hours, new murals debut at Wynwood Walls, and the entire neighborhood becomes walkable party. Free to explore, though individual galleries may charge for special exhibitions.
Survival Tips
Wear comfortable shoes. You’ll walk miles each day across concrete floors.
Book restaurants now. Basel week reservations at top spots fill up weeks in advance. Make backup plans.
Pace yourself. Art overload is real. Build in breaks for beach time or pool naps.
Charge your phone. You’ll photograph everything, message constantly, and need Uber access.
Stay hydrated. Miami in December is warmer than you expect, and champagne at noon catches up with you.
Trust serendipity. Some of the best Basel experiences happen unexpectedly—a gallery opening you stumbled into, a conversation with a stranger at a hotel bar. Leave room for discovery.
The Bottom Line
Art Basel Miami Beach is overwhelming by design. But with strategic planning, comfortable shoes, and a willingness to embrace the chaos, it remains one of the most exciting weeks in the art world. Book your hotel, block your calendar, and prepare for sensory overload.
We’ll see you in December.
Dates, prices, and event details subject to change. Check official fair websites for the most current information.