Magna, Utah, is a small town with a big personality. Located just west of Salt Lake City, this town may not be famous, but it sure looks like it should be. Its Main Street looks like something right out of a movie—and sometimes it actually is.
But there’s more to Magna than good looks. The town is using technology, local pride, and old-fashioned charm to make a bright future while honoring its past.
A Town Built on Copper and Dreams
Magna started as a mining town. It was first called Pleasant Green, but that changed in 1906 when the Utah Copper Company opened a mine nearby. Workers came for jobs, and a real town began to grow.
Main Street started taking shape with one- and two-story brick buildings. These buildings were simple, sturdy, and full of character. They were made in a style called “Commercial Style,” common in the early 1900s.
One of the most famous spots is the Empress Theatre, built in 1916. It was a fancy place for miners and their families to enjoy plays and movies. Today, it still runs thanks to local groups like OnStage Ogden and the Empress Youth Theatre.
“The Empress is more than a building—it’s a heartbeat,” says Preservation Utah.
Lights, Camera, Magna!
Because Magna looks like “anytown USA,” it’s a popular spot for movies and TV shows. The Disney Channel filmed parts of Andi Mack and Dadnapped here. The town has also been seen in shows like Touched by an Angel.
According to Virginia Pearce of the Utah Film Commission, “It’s got that classic look—wide streets, old shops, and a real small-town feel.” These film projects also bring in money. Just filming Andi Mack added over $8 million to the local economy, says KSL.com.
The Earthquake That Brought Change
In March 2020, a 5.7 magnitude earthquake shook Magna. No buildings fell, but many were damaged. Instead of giving up, the town saw an opportunity to rebuild better and smarter.
They teamed up with tech company ESRI and the Greater Salt Lake Municipal Services District (MSD) to create a Digital Twin of Main Street. This high-tech model shows what every building looks like and helps plan future upgrades—like adding a second story or better lighting.
Technology Meets Tradition
The Digital Twin works like a 3D video game map but for real life. It helps people see how changes will look before they happen. On the Historic District Revival Plan site, anyone can see plans for things like:
- A new skate park
- Housing above shops
- Better traffic flow
“You don’t have to imagine it—we show you exactly what’s coming,” said a city planner on ESRI.com.
Historic Status Brings New Help
In 2021, Magna’s Main Street was added to the National Register of Historic Places. This status brings tax credits and grants that help building owners repair and restore old buildings.
Groups like Preservation Utah and Utah Main Street support these projects. Magna is now focused on mixed-use zoning—where people live above stores or offices. This setup works great for young professionals, artists, and retirees who want everything nearby.
Locals Are All In
Locals are proud of their Main Street. On Niche.com, one resident shared:
“There’s nowhere else like Magna Main Street—there’s a bar, dentist, church, and library all on the same block.”
Events like Magna Arts Festival, Harvest Days, and holiday parades keep the community spirit alive. Thanks to feedback from the Digital Twin, Copper Park now has areas for pickleball, skating, and more.
Magna as a Model for the Future
Magna is showing that even a small town can do big things. By mixing history, community, and new tech, it’s becoming a model for others.
| Strategy | Impact |
|---|---|
| Historic Preservation | Tax credits and tourism |
| Digital Twin Technology | Smart planning and transparency |
| Mixed-Use Zoning | More housing and business opportunities |
| Community Events | Stronger local pride and engagement |
| Transit Improvements | Easier trips to Salt Lake City |
Conclusion
Magna, Utah, is more than just a pretty Main Street—it’s a town full of heart, history, and innovation. Locals are working hard to preserve their past while building a bright, modern future. With help from tech tools, local events, and strong community support, Magna has become a place where stories are made—on and off the screen.
Whether you’re enjoying a show at the Empress Theatre, sipping coffee at Colossal Bean, or watching a film crew at work, you’ll see why this Main Street feels like something straight out of a movie—but for locals, it’s just home.
FAQ’s
1. Why is Magna, Utah’s Main Street popular with filmmakers?
Magna’s Main Street has a classic small-town feel with wide streets and old buildings, making it perfect for filming. Movies like Andi Mack and TV shows like Touched by an Angel have been shot here.
2. How did the 2020 earthquake affect Magna?
While the earthquake caused some damage to buildings, it was an opportunity for the town to rebuild smarter. They created a “Digital Twin” of Main Street to plan future improvements using technology.
3. What is Magna’s Historic District status?
In 2021, Magna’s Main Street was added to the National Register of Historic Places, allowing it to receive federal grants and tax credits for preservation efforts.
