In one of Jim Carrey’s first serious roles, 1998’s The Truman Show is about one man’s life as a television show that the whole world is watching. Everyone in his life is an actor, and every event is scripted. Eventually, he starts to understand and must find a way to get out of this television show.
The movie famously used the real-life community of Seaside, Florida, as the backdrop, standing in for fictional Seahaven. Seaside became the first widely recognized New Urbanist town in the country, known for its large open public square, coordinating architectural styles, and walkability. It was its appearance in the film that put it on the map for tourism. Several locals even appeared as extras.
Looking for more locations from The Truman Show? 30A.com has a guide.
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The Truman Show Filming Locations
“Truman House”
Located at 31 Natchez Street is the pastel-hued home that stood in for Truman’s house in the movie. The number may not match, but that’s a reminder of its Hollywood debut. Built in 1993, it’s on a quiet street a few blocks from the center of town. It’s currently operated as a vacation rental so guests can spend the night inside, where you’ll find a poster from the movie on the wall.
Coleman Tower
You won’t find any skyscrapers in Seaside, but the beachfront towers indicating beach access are as close as it gets. The Coleman Tower is the most recognizable and features heavily in postcards of the community, as well as in the background of several scenes in The Truman Show. Designed by architect David Coleman, it takes on an obelisk-type shape.
Central Square
The Central Square is a horseshoe-shaped plaza across the street from the beach, where you’ll find the majority of the commerce in Seaside. This includes bars, restaurants, and shops like 87 Central Square and Airstream Row, a series of food trucks serving different types of cuisine.
Modica Market serves as the community’s only grocery store. The shop even appeared in the movie. There’s also an amphitheater with performances for kids. The square hosts a seasonal farmer’s market, summer movies under the stars, and even a silent disco. It’s seen in the backdrop of the movie.
Ruskin Place
An elaborate metal sign indicates the boundaries of Ruskin Place, with its pocket park, art galleries, and boutiques. In the film, it was the setting for Seahaven Life & Casualty. The Rubeo Architects sign is a holdover from the movie.
Looking for more Seaside spots to explore? Don’t miss a peruse around Sundog Books, one of the longest-running businesses in town. Snap a photo at the post office, one of the most photographed in the country. Grab a tropical drink for happy hour at Daytrader Tiki Bar before catching the sunset and crab cakes at Bud & Alley’s. In addition to the abundant rental homes, visitors can stay at The Court.
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