Miami Beach’s Art Basel is one of the most highly-anticipated events of the year. Having just wrapped up its 17th year, Art Basel Miami Beach saw groundbreaking creative work, star-studded parties and luxury real estate fit for art connoisseurs. Miami Beach-based real estate powerhouse team, The Jills, took us on a highlight tour of Art Basel, showcasing the must-see places, events and homes during the whirlwind five days of Art Basel.
Day 1—A Tour of the Design District
The best spot to kick off Art Basel is the Design District. Featuring over 130 high-end boutiques, restaurants, galleries and more, the space is growing daily.
“I love the Design District because it’s not just shopping, you can see art sprinkled all throughout the district,” said Hillary Hertzberg.
The Design District is perfect for enjoying the many celebrity-chef restaurants, trendy spaces and cultural experiences.
Day 2—Art Immersion at Wynwood Walls
A stop at Wynwood Walls on Day two offered visitors a glimpse at the newly developed district. The famous mural walls feature over 85,000 square-feet of wall space with over 20 countries represented by more than 90 artists. At Art Basel, several different artists revealed pieces at the mural wall.
Jill Hertzberg toured the Wynwood Walls and interviewed one of the founders of Wynwood, Joey Goldman, who explained the idea behind the Walls and gave his insight into the current real estate values in the area.
“It’s so incredible that artists are given the opportunity to paint whatever they want, however they want, and everyone gets to see it, appreciate it and get to know them,” said Jill Hertzberg.
The place to be is the Wynwood Walls Artist Dinner and VIP Party, with over 200 people attending the dinner and over 1,500 people crowding the after-party.
Day 3—Relax in Luxury at the Design District
For a more relaxing day, the Design District offers gorgeous restaurants and more can’t-miss events. Swan and Bar Bevy is a brand-new restaurant where Drake and Lenny Kravitz have been spotted. Owned by Pharrell and David Grutman, the pet-friendly, open-air tropical oasis is a great lunch stop.
After lunch, Miami Beach visitors had the chance to check out the Vernissage and Convention Center, Art Miami and Objets Nomades at Louis Vuitton.
“This is a global event and we’re so thrilled that Miami has become one of the most exciting centers of the world,” said Jill Eber.
Day 4—Snag Luxurious Interior Designs in Wynwood and the Design District
A day of interior design inspiration was best enjoyed at Wynwood and the Design District. Stopping by the Plant the Future exhibition, visitors were treated to the Healing Cave, a multi-media installation that explores and exhibits the power of mother nature’s innate energy.
The Design District offered a great spot for take-home items, gifts, furniture and home accessories. Visitors enjoyed Armani Casa for some of the most exclusive and unique home décor pieces.
“Miami has become a major destination, and what better place to come and furnish your home than in the Miami Design District,” said Felise Eber.
Day 5—Unwind with Unique Food and Drinks in Wynwood
The Wynwood Yard was the best spot to wrap up the days-long show. Featuring food of all types, bars and lively nightlife, the Wynwood Yard is known for its events, food trucks and street art.
Danny Hertzberg recommends taking a Wynwood foodie tour to test out new cuisines, breweries and browse the many murals lining the streets of the District. His number one recommendation? 1-800 Lucky, a 10,000-square-foot food hall in the style of an Asian market. Featuring seven different vendors, two bars and a karaoke lounge, the space is a local favorite.
For a closer glimpse at The Jills Art Basel highlight tour, follow and view The Jills’ Instagram page.
