Art Basel Miami 2025: The Ultimate Guide

Art Basel Miami Beach remains one of the most anticipated art events in the world, and 2025 looks to be no exception. If you’re planning to attend, this guide is your all-in one source for everything you need—when to go, how to get tickets, where to stay, what to see beyond the show, and strategies to make the most of Miami Art Week.

What is Art Basel Miami Beach & Miami Art Week

• Art Basel Miami Beach is the U.S. edition of the globally famous Art Basel fairs. It features an international gathering of galleries, artists, collectors, curators, and art lovers with modern & contemporary art of all kinds: painting, sculpture, photography, installation, digital art, etc.
• It acts as the anchor event of Miami Art Week, a broader collection of satellite fairs, gallery shows, public art installations, parties, and cultural events around Miami & Miami Beach.

Dates & Venue

• Location: Miami Beach Convention Center, 1901 Convention Center Drive, Miami Beach, FL 33139.

What to Expect — Exhibitors, Sectors & Highlights

• Over 250-280 galleries from 30-40+ countries will be exhibiting. Works from thousands of artists — emerging, mid-career, and established.
• Several curated sectors within the show:
  • Galleries – the core booths showing established galleries and major works.
  • Meridians – large scale works, often monumental or architectural in ambition.
  • Nova – new works created in the last three years.
  • Positions – solo presentations by emerging galleries/artists.
  • Survey, Kabinett, Magazines, Conversations – for installations, thematic exhibitions, art talks/panels, etc.
• Public art, large-scale installations also spill outside the Convention Center; art activations around Miami Beach & the city.

Tickets & Pricing

Below are the ticket options and pricing (subject to change). Tickets should be bought beforehand if possible; onsite tickets may be limited.

Logistics & Planning Tips

• Best days & times to attend:
  • Friday is often slightly less packed than Saturday.
  • Arriving early (at opening) helps avoid the biggest crowds.
  • Afternoon (~2-4 pm) on Sunday is usually quieter.
• How to get around:
  • Stay close to Miami Beach or South Beach if your priorities are the main show and beach walks.
  • Use public transportation, ride-shares, or event shuttles. Traffic will be heavy around the Convention Center and along the main corridors.
  • Plan for walking: many satellite events are across different neighborhoods (Wynwood, Design District, downtown).
• Accommodations:
  • Hotels in Miami Beach are ideal for proximity, but may also carry premium pricing during Art Basel.
  • For a balance, stay slightly further out (e.g., close to the beach but not exactly at the epicenter) or in adjacent neighborhoods.
• What to wear / bring:
  • Comfortable shoes: big show, lots of walking.
  • Layers: indoor venues can be cold; outside events and evenings may get cooler.
  • Bag or tote: you’ll gather flyers, catalogs, maps.
  • Water, sunglasses, sunscreen—if moving between outdoor exhibits.

Other Events & Fair Listings to Explore

While the main show at the Convention Center is the core, these satellite shows, galleries, museums, public installations, and parties are part of the full Art Basel Miami or Art Week experience:

• Design Miami – collectible design fair usually held in conjunction with Basel, across from or near the main show
• Art Miami – another big fair in downtown / along Biscayne Bay
• NADA, UNTITLED, SCOPE, Aqua Art Miami, etc. – emerging art fairs and pop-ups
• Galleries in Wynwood, the Design District, and in Miami Beach often schedule special shows or extended hours
• Museums: look out for special exhibitions at PAMM (Perez Art Museum Miami), The Bass, etc.

What’s New / What to Watch in 2025

• The fair continues to expand its representation of global galleries and emerging artists. Expect more immersive and experiential installations, digital art, and possibly augmented reality / virtual reality components.
• Public art continues to grow as part of the fair’s footprint outside the main venue.
• Increased interest in sustainability and eco-conscious art. Some of the programming may reflect environmental themes.

Cost Expectations & Budgeting

Here are things you should budget for:

• Ticket price(s) as above.
• Travel to/from Miami + local transport (ride shares / shuttles).
• Lodging: expect elevated prices during this week. Book well in advance.
• Food & drinks: high-end restaurants and parties often charge premium.
• Side events / parties: many are invitation-only or require tickets. Some are free or low-cost.
• Art purchases (if you’re shopping): galleries often accept high-end payment, but there are smaller galleries for more modest budgets.

Tips for Getting the Most Out of the Fair

1. Plan ahead. Review the exhibitor list in advance, mark your must-see galleries/sectors.
2. Schedule smartly. Don’t try to see everything – choose sectors or neighborhoods by theme or artists you follow.
3. Make time for the unexpected. Some of the best experiences are in satellite shows or public art, not always the main halls.
4. Network. Collector previews, conversations panels, VIP events can be opportunities to meet artists, curators, or insiders.
5. Prepare for sensory overload. Pace yourself — the days are intense.
6. Capture memories & details. Collect maps, catalogs. Take photos where allowed.

Sample Itinerary

Here’s a suggested 3-day schedule for someone attending Art Basel Miami 2025 with limited time (3 days):

FAQs

Do I need to get tickets way in advance?
Yes. General admission tickets often sell out, VIP & First Access even earlier. Booking ahead gives better ticket price and better access.

Is Art Basel just for collectors / art professionals?
No. While collectors and professionals are central, Art Basel is for anyone who loves art, culture, design, or just unique experiences. Many parts of the fair and side events are open, affordable, or free.

How to avoid the biggest crowds?
Go early. Attend on Friday or Sunday. Weekdays preview / first-choice days are less crowded. Use timed tickets if available.

What about parking & traffic?
Traffic will be heavy in Miami Beach and along causeways into South Beach. Parking is expensive and limited. Use shuttles, public transit, or ride-shares when possible.

Sales Launch Announced for 72 Carlyle Miami Beach Residences

The long-anticipated 72 Carlyle Miami Beach Residences officially launched sales last night with a VIP broker event, marking the debut of one of Miami Beach’s most exciting new preconstruction projects. Developed by Lefferts with architecture and interior design by acclaimed Italian designer Piero Lissoni, the tower will rise 20 stories and feature 134 luxury residences and penthouses. Completion is currently estimated for Q4 2028.

Project Overview

72 Carlyle is set to become a new landmark in North Beach, soaring 250 feet above the shoreline and offering sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean, Biscayne Bay, and nearby waterfront parks. With its modern architecture and sophisticated interior design, the development promises to bring the elegance of the Italian Riviera to Miami Beach.

Residences & Starting Prices

72 Carlyle Miami Beach will offer a collection of one-, two-, and three-bedroom residences, along with a limited Penthouse Collection. According to the newly released 72 Carlyle price list:

• One-bedroom residences start at $1,116,500
• Two-bedroom residences start at $1,630,225
• Three-bedroom residences start at $3,874,500

Each home is thoughtfully designed with expansive private terraces, floor-to-ceiling glass, Italian cabinetry, imported stone finishes, and Gaggenau appliances. Select residences include outdoor wet bars and wine storage, while the penthouses feature soaring ceiling heights and wraparound glass walls. See 72 Carlyle Miami Beach floor plans.

Amenities & Lifestyle

72 Carlyle will offer more than 45,000 square feet of curated amenities by Piero Lissoni, including a resort-style pool with cabanas, spa with treatment rooms, sauna, steam rooms, Technogym fitness studio, yoga and Pilates studios, wine cellar with chef’s kitchen, co-working lounge, music and library rooms, and a landscaped sky terrace with panoramic views of the ocean, Intracoastal, and Miami skyline.

Miami Beach Location

Located at 600 72nd Street in Miami Beach, 72 Carlyle sits just steps from the ocean and minutes from Surfside, Bal Harbour Shops, and the Faena District. Residents will enjoy both a serene coastal lifestyle and easy access to some of Miami’s premier dining, shopping, and cultural destinations.

With its prime location, elegant design, and full suite of luxury amenities, 72 Carlyle Miami Beach condos are expected to attract strong interest from both local and international buyers. Contact us today at [email protected] if you have an interest in reserving a unit.

Miami Beach Breaks Ground on $29.4M Pedestrianization of Drexel Avenue

The City of Miami Beach has officially broken ground on the highly anticipated Pedestrianization of Drexel Avenue, a $29.4 million capital improvement project that will transform the corridor into a vibrant public space. Designed to enhance walkability and connectivity, the project will feature a small amphitheater, expanded seating, lush landscaping, and improved pedestrian access that better links Lincoln Road to some of Miami Beach’s most important cultural and civic destinations, including the New World Center, Miami Beach Convention Center, Pride Park, and Soundscape Park.

Stretching from Lincoln Lane South to Lincoln Lane North, Drexel Avenue will be converted into a pedestrian-only zone, eliminating vehicular traffic in favor of wide sidewalks, new hardscape areas, modern lighting, and lush green spaces. Construction will also include critical infrastructure upgrades such as storm drainage, paving, irrigation, and improved traffic signals. Once complete, the corridor will not only create a seamless pedestrian experience but also strengthen the connection between Lincoln Road and key landmarks such as The Fillmore Miami Beach and the future Grand Hyatt Convention Center Hotel.

One of the highlights of the redevelopment is an amphitheater-style performance space inspired by the Miami Modern (MiMo) aesthetic, paying tribute to the legacy of architect Morris Lapidus. This new venue will provide flexible space for public gatherings, performances, and cultural programming, adding a fresh dimension to Lincoln Road’s role as Miami Beach’s iconic pedestrian mall. Additional upgrades include new café-style seating areas designed to support local businesses and encourage outdoor dining, further enhancing the area’s appeal to residents and visitors alike.

The Drexel Avenue pedestrianization is part of the broader Lincoln Road Redevelopment Project, a multi-phase initiative designed to reimagine Miami Beach’s most famous retail and entertainment district. With construction expected to take roughly ten months, the project is slated for completion by May 2026, setting the stage for a new era of pedestrian-friendly urban design. City officials emphasize that these improvements will boost the neighborhood’s economic vitality while preserving Lincoln Road’s historic character and enhancing its position as a world-class destination for shopping, dining, and cultural experiences.

For Miami Beach residents, businesses, and tourists, the redevelopment represents more than an infrastructure upgrade—it signals a renewed commitment to creating people-first spaces that prioritize walkability, sustainability, and community engagement. As work progresses, the pedestrianization of Drexel Avenue is poised to become a defining feature of Miami Beach’s urban landscape, offering a dynamic new gateway to the cultural heart of the city.

Aman Residences Miami Beach Goes Vertical: A New Era of Ultra-Luxury Begins

As of mid‑August 2025, vertical construction has officially commenced on the highly anticipated Aman Residences Miami Beach, marking a pivotal moment for luxury real estate in the Faena District.

A Bold Move from Ground to Sky

Located at 3425 Collins Avenue, the project has cleared critical early stages including piling, excavation, soil stabilization, and foundation—including a two-level underground parking structure using advanced Deep Soil Mixing and Triple Soil Mixing methods. These engineering feats laid the groundwork for vertical build-out to begin in earnest.

Building Up and On Schedule

• The new 18‑story residential tower, designed by acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, is set to rise in tiered, scalloped form.
• Construction is configured at a brisk pace—one floor every two weeks—with a top-off expected in early 2026 and full delivery slated for 2027.

Harmonizing Design Heritage & Contemporary Luxury

The development blends historic preservation with avant‑garde design:

• The adjacent Versailles Hotel, a restored Art Deco icon, will house 56 Aman‑branded hotel rooms, with interiors by longtime Aman collaborator Jean‑Michel Gathy of Denniston.
• The 22 private residences in Kuma’s tower will exemplify minimalist elegance—fluid indoor-outdoor transitions, Japanese-inspired materials, and a nod to Miami’s Art Deco roots.

Regulatory Milestone Achieved

• The FAA has issued crucial height clearances: up to 252 feet above ground (255 feet AMSL), with earlier partial clearance of 227 feet (230 feet AMSL) for areas near flight paths. These approvals are valid through April 2026.
• These clearances remove regulatory roadblocks, allowing unimpeded vertical progress.

Prestige, Momentum & Market Implications

• According to Alan Chun, COO of OKO Group, starting vertical work “builds on Aman’s record-setting residential sell-out” and positions Miami Beach as a prime destination for design, wellness, and luxury living.
• Industry analysts note the potency of marrying heritage, visionary architecture, and branding in generating early market confidence and premium pricing.

Playboy Relocating HQ from Los Angeles to Miami Beach; Plans Glamorous New Playboy Club

Hold onto your sunscreen, Miami Beach! Playboy—yes, that legendary lifestyle icon—is packing up from L.A. and turning our sandy shores into its new global nerve center. This isn’t just a relocation—it’s a cultural jet-setter’s dream come true, poised to reshape our city’s vibe with entertainment, innovation, and electric energy. And now, the iconic brand has chosen the ultra-luxurious RIVANI Miami Beach as its new home base.

A Bold, Strategic Win for Miami Beach

Playboy, Inc. officially announced today (August 13, 2025) it will relocate its global headquarters from Los Angeles to Miami Beach. This move isn’t just cosmetic—it signals Playboy’s intent to anchor itself in one of America’s most dynamic, culturally vibrant, and business‑friendly cities.

For Miami Beach, that translates to high-paying jobs, new economic opportunities, and a renewed spotlight as a global hub for arts, entertainment, and lifestyle. City officials are thrilled, and so is Robert Rivani—the hospitality and real estate visionary behind RIVANI Miami Beach, a $100 million “Class X” office redevelopment located at 1691 Michigan Avenue, just steps from Lincoln Road. “Securing a top-tier, globally recognized company like Playboy underscores the level of prestige and energy we are bringing to RIVANI Miami Beach,” says Rivani.

Lobby Entrance | Credit: RIVANI

Why RIVANI? The Perfect Headquarters Fit

Designed by the award-winning Rockwell Group and inspired by Rivani’s hospitality experience, RIVANI Miami Beach blends five-star hospitality, curated wellness, and elevated design—setting a new benchmark for commercial office buildings in South Florida.

This penthouse space will give Playboy’s global team access to full-service concierge and valet, a world-class spa and fitness center, a meditation room, a living room-style lounge for meetings, an Omakase restaurant, a hidden speakeasy, and private event venues. The building’s lifestyle-driven approach aligns perfectly with Playboy’s own brand of luxury, exclusivity, and experience.

The Spectacular Playboy Club: Heritage Meets Cutting-Edge Hospitality

In addition to its high-profile move into RIVANI, Playboy is partnering with a top-tier hospitality company to develop a brand-new Playboy Club in Miami Beach.

• Expect a world-class restaurant and exclusive members-only enclave inspired by the legendary Playboy Mansion.
• Think modern luxury mingled with nostalgia: Playmate-inspired service, immersive ambiance, and members-only flair—all set against Miami Beach’s glittering nightlife backdrop.

Lobby | Credit: RIVANI

Next-Gen Content Creation Hub

Playboy’s RIVANI headquarters will also house state-of-the-art content studios designed for:

• Original podcasts
• Fashion and editorial photography
• Multimedia production
• And the expansion of its global creator network

RIVANI’s advanced infrastructure and luxury environment make it the ultimate creative hub—fusing business, entertainment, and lifestyle in one address.

A Milestone for Both Brands

This announcement also marks a turning point for Robert Rivani’s own company. Alongside Playboy’s arrival, Black Lion has officially rebranded as RIVANI, reflecting its evolution into a leader in lifestyle-driven commercial development. “Black Lion laid the foundation, and RIVANI is the evolution,” says Rivani. “We’re continuing to disrupt the industry with a timeless, elegant, and intentional approach.”

Speakeasy Corridor | Credit: RIVANI

Why This Matters Big Time for Miami

• Economic Windfall: Corporate HQs bring jobs, contracts, and attention. Miami’s gaining a global brand with serious staying power.
• Cultural Cred: Playboy’s move underscores Miami’s reputation as a global style and lifestyle capital—where bold meets beautiful.
• Tourism & Buzz: A new Playboy Club means major media exposure, influencer visits, and a fresh reason for travelers to flock here.
• Creative Capital: RIVANI strengthens Miami Beach’s position as a powerhouse for content creation.

Booze on the Beach? Miami Beach Weighs Alcohol Pilot Program

Miami Beach is weighing a proposal that could change the city’s relationship with its iconic shoreline—by allowing alcohol sales directly on the sand. The City Commission is considering a one-year pilot program that would permit regulated sales of beer, wine, and cocktails at designated beachfront kiosks. If approved, the program would authorize Boucher Brothers, the city’s longtime beach concessionaire, to serve alcoholic beverages at specific areas between Fifth and 14th Streets, as well as at 21st Street, during set hours from 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily.

The proposal aims to bring a level of control and oversight to a practice that already occurs unofficially. While drinking alcohol on the beach is currently prohibited, enforcement has been inconsistent, and many beachgoers routinely bring their own beverages. City officials hope the pilot program could reduce the prevalence of unregulated alcohol consumption and curb the activities of unauthorized vendors, while also creating a new revenue stream from beachfront concessions.

According to a city memo, the proposed agreement would generate substantial revenue for Miami Beach. The city would receive 18% of alcohol sales revenue up to $5 million and 20% of revenue beyond that, with a minimum guaranteed payment of $250,000 annually. In addition, the proposal includes potential monetary contributions to the Miami Beach Bandshell, helping fund local cultural programming.

Supporters of the initiative argue that it offers a pragmatic solution to a longstanding issue. By permitting sales in a controlled environment with licensed staff and clearly defined hours, the city can manage beach drinking more effectively while offering a premium amenity to tourists. Opponents, however, worry that formalizing alcohol sales could reinforce Miami Beach’s party-town image—something city leaders have worked hard to rebrand in recent years. Critics have also voiced concerns about public safety, noise, and the potential for increased rowdiness in family-friendly areas.

The decision now rests with the City Commission, which is expected to vote on the pilot program soon. If it moves forward, city staff will be required to submit quarterly reports detailing the program’s impact, including safety metrics, business activity, and public sentiment. These evaluations will help determine whether the policy should be expanded, modified, or discontinued after the one-year trial period.

This pilot represents a broader shift in how Miami Beach approaches its evolving identity—balancing the demands of tourism with the quality-of-life concerns of residents. It also highlights the city’s willingness to test creative solutions in pursuit of both economic growth and improved public management. Whether this experiment becomes a permanent fixture remains to be seen, but it signals Miami Beach’s openness to reimagining how its world-famous shoreline can serve both visitors and the local community.

$28.5M Sale of Office Depot Site Signals New Chapter for Sunset Harbour

In a deal that underscores the rising commercial value of Sunset Harbour, the Office Depot at 1771 West Avenue in Miami Beach sold last month for $28.5 million in an all-cash transaction. The buyer, EOS Wellness Real Estate Miami LLC, acquired the 19,672-square-foot building—situated on a 25,000-square-foot lot—for approximately $1,449 per square foot, a price that reflects the area’s strong demand and investment appeal.

More than just a high-priced sale, the transaction is being viewed as a bellwether for the next phase of development in Sunset Harbour. With Office Depot being the last remaining big-box retailer in the neighborhood, the acquisition opens the door for significant redevelopment opportunities, likely centered around wellness, luxury retail, or mixed-use concepts. While the new owner has remained tight-lipped about future plans, the all-cash nature of the deal suggests a strategic and well-capitalized intent for the site.

The sale was brokered by Avenue Real Estate Partners and Jordan Karp, who highlighted the transaction as evidence of investor confidence in both Sunset Harbour and the broader Miami Beach commercial market. This confidence is backed by recent momentum in the neighborhood, where new projects like Eighteen Sunset at 1759 Purdy Avenue, a new Whole Foods at 1901 Alton Road, and upcoming mixed-use developments at 1790 and 1920 Alton Road are transforming the area into a modern urban village.

Over the past decade, Sunset Harbour has evolved from a sleepy waterfront pocket into one of Miami Beach’s most vibrant destinations, known for its trendy restaurants, fitness studios, and luxury condominiums. The $28.5 million Office Depot sale signals that the neighborhood’s transformation is far from over—and that prime development sites are commanding top dollar.

For residents and visitors alike, the redevelopment of 1771 West Avenue will likely bring even more upscale retail, wellness offerings, and possibly residential or office space, further enhancing the live-work-play appeal of Sunset Harbour. And for investors, the deal affirms that this once-overlooked section of Miami Beach has fully emerged as a commercial hotspot with staying power.

Whole Foods to Open Second Miami Beach Location at 1901 Alton Road

Whole Foods Market is making waves in Sunset Harbour with bold plans for a four-story, roughly 40,000 square foot flagship store at 1901 Alton Road. This marks Miami Beach’s second Whole Foods—complementing the existing location just over a mile away—with a projected opening set for Fall 2026.

The site, which currently houses a Wells Fargo branch, was acquired by Crescent Heights/GFO Investments for approximately $15 million. It replaces the existing bank, yet continues to honor Wells Fargo’s presence through a new 4,000 square foot branch on-site. A major announcement—financing via a $54 million Ocean Bank construction loan—was made in June.

Designed by Studio MC+G with Oppenheim Architecture leading the façade, the development will feature 40,883 square feet of Whole Foods retail space, a new Wells Fargo branch, and a 271-space parking garage across the upper floors. Permitting is now underway, following design board approval in April 2024 for a similarly conceived project.

What shoppers can expect goes well beyond just groceries. Modeled on the recently opened Edgewater Whole Foods, the Sunset Harbour location will offer organic produce, local delicacies like Zak the Baker pastries, kombucha on tap, sushi, pizza bars, and a Cuban-style coffee station. The store will support over 130 Florida-based suppliers and stock more than 500 local products—all while maintaining Whole Foods’ high ingredient standards and Amazon One checkout conveniences.

Beyond groceries, this development strategically enhances Sunset Harbour’s evolving landscape. The added parking addresses longtime concerns in this dense urban corridor, while the mix of retail, dining, and banking services elevates pedestrian-friendly growth along Alton Road. Additionally, Whole Foods will extend community outreach through its “Nourishing Our Neighborhoods” program—donating to charities like The Caring Place, Urban Oasis Project, and Lotus House.

In summary, the new Whole Foods at 1901 Alton isn’t just another grocery store—it’s Miami Beach’s strategic investment in sustainable development and community enrichment. With construction on the horizon, this location is set to redefine shopping convenience, local food enthusiasm, and neighborhood vibrancy. Stay tuned as Sunset Harbour gets even greener.

A Sneak Peek at the New Delano Miami Beach: Redefining Luxury for 2025

Cain International and Ennismore have unveiled an exclusive first look at the highly anticipated renovation of the iconic Delano Miami Beach. Known for its rich Art Deco history and transformative impact on luxury hospitality, the Delano is set to make a grand comeback in late 2025. This partnership between the privately held investment firm and the lifestyle and hospitality company promises to honor the property’s storied heritage while infusing it with a fresh, modern allure.

The Delano Miami Beach has long been celebrated as a beacon of style and sophistication, and its revival is nothing short of extraordinary. The newly renovated property will feature:

• 171 Guestrooms and Suites: Combining timeless elegance with contemporary design to provide an unparalleled guest experience.
• Reimagined Rose Bar: A luxurious reinterpretation of one of Miami’s most iconic spots.
• Curated Retail Spaces: Thoughtfully designed to offer unique shopping experiences.
• New Beachfront Amenity Deck: Perfect for soaking up the Miami sun in style.
• Fourth-Floor Pool: Adding an elevated retreat with stunning views.
• Cutting-Edge Wellness Facilities: Designed to provide ultimate relaxation and rejuvenation.
• Restored Historic Details: Including terrazzo flooring and the signature hexagonal columns that pay homage to the property’s Art Deco roots.

This renovation not only redefines luxury in Miami Beach but also signifies a key moment in Delano’s global growth. Following the success of Delano Dubai, the Miami Beach reopening strengthens the collaboration between Cain International and Ennismore, setting the stage for future international projects.

The revival of the Delano Miami Beach is a testament to the enduring legacy of the property and its influence on luxury hospitality. As the countdown to the grand reopening continues, excitement is building among enthusiasts of design, history, and exceptional service. The partnership’s vision ensures that the Delano will once again become a must-visit destination, blending Miami’s vibrant culture with world-class luxury.