An Art-World Insider’s Guide to Miami

A lejandra Rossetti here, reporting from sunny and exciting Miami! I moved down to this palm-tree haven two and a half years ago as the head of global business development for Miami, and I never looked back. Miami is becoming the most dynamic destination for people across the US and Latin America. New restaurants, a vibrant contemporary art scene and what can I say …constant sunshine has everyone smiling and in a good mood!

Below is my list of things to see and do in Miami – and be sure to check out my colleague David Rothschild’s guide to nearby Palm Beach.

The Four Seasons Hotel at the Surf Club is absolute refinement. In bustling South Beach, the boutique Esmé Hotel on historic Española Way offers a welcome respite after a day at the convention center.

Thomas Keller’s Surf Club is set within a polished jewel box of a dining room. Mr. Mandolin at the Vagabond Hotel in the historic MiMo District is spectacular. And LT Steak & Seafood, located in the historic beachfront gem that is the The Betsy Hotel, offers live jazz on the promenade off iconic Ocean Drive. Fun fact: Don’t miss The Betsy Orb, an egg-shaped sky bridge over the back alley – it’s a phenomenal work of public art.

The Juan Carlos Maldonado Art Collection (JCMAC) is an unmissable institution dedicated to geometric abstraction. And The Wolfsonian at Florida International University is a brilliant art and design museum in the Art Deco District.

I make a point of parking underneath the Design District Plaza so that I can walk right into Buckminster Fuller’s Fly’s Eye Dome (by accessing it through the broad circular staircase in its interior).

The Design District is an enclave of the best international boutiques set in the most sophisticated architecture. I make a point of heading to MRKT Deux since this minimalist boutique tends to have fun, limited-edition artist collaborations.

After shopping, I treat myself to an affogato served in heavy, leaded crystal at Baccarat Boutique B Bar and Lounge overlooking the dome and Sou Fujimoto’s Palm Court.

The Champagne Bar at the Surf Club offers cozy lounge seating around a stunning emerald-green bar set within a palm court – it’s pure glamour.

The Design Store + Coffee Bar at The Wolfsonian is wonderful, as is Edicola Mags and Coffee at the Instituto Marangoni.

ZeyZey is a great family-friendly venue with craft cocktails and natural wine, and the Boiler Room is a traveling party pop-up that frequently visits Miami. 

Just open your eyes! Miami is a high-low feast for the senses.

Location

Miami