The Bass, set in Collins Park in Miami Beach, is a historic contemporary art museum that attracts art lovers with its impressive collection inside and out. Housed in an alluring 1930s art deco building designed by architect Russell Pancoast, the museum opened in 1964 to showcase the collection of John and Johanna Bass.

The Bass is the only museum dedicated to contemporary works in Miami with notable pieces such as Eternity Now by Sylvie Fleury and Miami Mountain by Ugo Rondinone on view in the sculpture garden. Inside, the galleries feature major exhibitions by influential artists in a wide range of media.

The Bass - one of the highlights of 11 Best Things to Do in Miami Beach and 10 Best Museums and Galleries in Miami (Read all about Miami here)

photo by Tamanoeconomico (CC BY-SA 4.0) modified

The Bass highlights

Following a 2-year, $12 million renovation, The Bass reopened in 2017 bigger and better than before with more exhibition space and a new educational facility, the Creativity Centre. Along with contemporary pieces, the permanent collection includes a range of works from European paintings to pieces from the Americas, Asia, and the Caribbean, including photographs and more.

Throughout the year, the museum also offers eclectic programming, including its Art After Hours series, which takes place on the third Thursday of every month, as well as workshops, teen and children’s camps, and Breakfast at the Bass.

Good to know when visiting The Bass

When exploring The Bass, visitors who want an in-depth look into the cultural organisation can access QR codes for unique experiences and enjoy virtual-reality and self-guided tours via their mobile devices.

Delving into all the art is bound to make you hungry. You'll find The Bass Café operated by Thierry Isambert featuring coffee, small plates, lunch dishes, and pastries. Be sure to pop into The Shop, featuring a curated collection of gifts and books, including artist editions and more. If time permits, The Bass is within minutes of the Miami Beach Library and the beach.

photo by Phillip Pessar (CC BY 2.0) modified

The Bass

Location: 2100 Collins Ave, Miami Beach, FL 33139, USA

Open: Wednesday–Sunday from noon to 5 pm (closed Monday–Tuesday)

Phone: +1 305-673-7530

This article includes opinions of the Go Guides editorial team. Hotels.com compensates authors for their writing appearing on this site; such compensation may include travel and other costs.

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