Well… according to me anyways. I visit Miami quite often, usually once or twice a year. It is an easy and affordable “long weekend” trip for a northeastern like myself who gets sick of the cold. I was really excited to explore the Wynwood Art District and attend the exhibit parties during Art Basel. I would recommend checking it out at some point. Art Basel is a huge art festival celebrated in Miami. Although there are "Art Basel" events on South Beach and the Convention Center, I suggest the Lynwood District. The tickets for the other events aren't worth it. You can bounce around different events and galleries in the Wynwood District for free. I obviously went to "invite only" events through my blog but there is still a ton going on in Miami during Art Basel.
Gallery Hop at the Wynwood Art District
Gianna and I bopped around to different art galleries at the Wynwood Art District the majority of the days we were in Miami. There is so much to explore. Although with traffic is it a bit far from South Beach, it is so worth it. It is also very easy to park and walk to where there are tons of art festivities, food trucks, and bars (which happen to be on every block).
The Miami Project
The Miami Project features artists from all over the world. My favorite piece was made from a chemical reaction creating crystal formations. If you attend The Miami Project Gallery, make sure you have at least a few hours to really take in all the art.
Surface Magazine Party
One of my favorite events during Art Basel weekend has to be the Surface Magazine Party. They were celebrating their Art Issue with Kanye West on the cover. We were greeted by a red carpet leading to a dome on the beach. Inside the dome was a DJ and projected images on the ceiling. It was insane. One of the sponsors for the event was Mercedes Benz.
The CJ Henry Art Exhibit
My favorite art exhibit was the CJ Henry private party. The event took place in a private mansion on the water. It was breathtaking. She creates her art pieces in such fine detail that they look like photographs! It was beyond amazing. My favorite drawing was the wrapped riffle.
Dinner at the Versace Mansion
One place you have to check out if you are in Miami is the Versace Mansion. Former home of Gianni Versace, the Versace Mansion has been converted into a hotel and restaurant. The pasta dish is amazing. If possible ask to be seated outside near the pool. Be mindful while taking photos by the pool. The dinner tables are set up right by the pool and the servers think people taking photos makes a scene. I kid you not! I had to take my shots in under 20 seconds. Quite annoying but it is still worth going. The mansion also features a medieval themed bar.
