Magic City was not filmed at an actual, existing hotel. Instead, its elaborate settings were meticulously constructed on sound stages to recreate the grandeur of a fictional Miami Beach resort.
The Fictional Setting: Miramar Playa Hotel
The acclaimed television series Magic City is set in 1959 Miami Beach, Florida, at a luxurious, period-perfect establishment known as the Miramar Playa Hotel. This opulent hotel serves as the central hub for the show's dramatic events, reflecting the vibrant, often turbulent, atmosphere of Miami's golden age. The Miramar Playa is depicted as a grand resort, embodying the elegance and allure of the era.
Where Was Magic City Actually Filmed?
Despite its appearance of being entirely shot on location in a lavish, historical resort, the reality of Magic City's production was quite different. The show's key interior locations, including its living rooms, bars, and elaborate suites, were not existing hotel spaces. They were purpose-built sets constructed on a stage.
The meticulous creation of these sets took an extensive amount of time and effort, with construction spanning nearly four months to achieve the desired period authenticity and luxurious feel. This approach allowed the production team complete control over the visual details, ensuring every element aligned with the 1959 Miami Beach aesthetic.
To illustrate the distinction between the show's setting and its filming methodology, consider the following:
| Aspect | Depicted In Show | Actual Production Method |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Hotel | Fictional Miramar Playa Hotel | No single existing hotel |
| Location Type | Luxury Miami Beach Resort (1959) | Custom-built sound stage sets |
| Interior Scenes | Authentic hotel rooms, bars, and lounges | Constructed living rooms, bars, and suites |
Why Custom-Built Sets?
Creating custom sets provided numerous advantages for Magic City. It ensured historical accuracy for a specific period that is challenging to find perfectly preserved in real-world locations. This method also allowed for greater creative freedom, enabling the designers to craft spaces that perfectly served the narrative and visual needs of the show without the constraints of existing architecture or the logistical challenges of filming in active luxury hotels. The result was an immersive viewing experience that seamlessly transported audiences to the glamorous world of 1959 Miami.
