The Party Side of Art Basel Miami

December in Miami means it's time for Art Basel. A four-day extravaganza (Dec. 6 to 9) of the world's leading art galleries and highbrow collectors descends on the city for a nonstop soiree of dealmaking and decadence. Already known as a party city, Miami comes alive with a pumped-up social scene of velvet ropes and hush-hush guest lists. Here is a closer look at where this year's elite should be resting their heads, securing seats and dancing the night away.

The Art of Sleeping

Hotels book up months in advance and close their otherwise open lobbies and beaches for private parties hosted by collectors like Jeffrey Deitch. With a Cipriani Hotel in the works and Gansevoort South slated for a February '08 opening, the city's hotel scene is more varied than ever. Regardless of whether you're a first-time collector or regular on the Christie's auction floor, these are the addresses that really matter.

The Raleigh
Party Central. Andre Balazs' beach landmark should be the first call when looking for a reservation. The power hub of Art Basel elite, the hotel's pool area is a who's who of gallery owners and art connoisseurs who book up suites a year in advance.