From a McDonald’s inside a historic building in New York City and a UFO-shaped restaurant in Roswell to the world’s largest McDonald’s in Florida and the famous turquoise arches in Sedona, these unique locations have become attractions in their own right.
If you’re planning a USA road trip, here are some of the most unique McDonald’s locations you won’t want to miss.
1. The McDonald’s with Turquoise Arches in Sedona, Arizona
If there’s one McDonald’s that surprises almost everyone, it’s the one in Sedona, Arizona. Instead of the iconic Golden Arches, you’ll find… turquoise arches. It’s the only McDonald’s in the world with this unique logo, making it one of the chain’s most famous and photographed locations.
Located at 2380 W State Route 89A, on Sedona’s west side, this unusual McDonald’s has become a must-see stop for visitors exploring northern Arizona.
@floridaandbeyond14 💙 Did you know the world’s only McDonald’s with blue arches is in Sedona, Arizona? 🤯 When McDonald’s wanted to open a restaurant in Sedona in 1993, the city didn’t want the iconic golden arches to clash with its famous red rock scenery. The compromise? They changed the arches to turquoise-blue instead of gold. It’s still a regular McDonald’s just with a one-of-a-kind look that has become a popular stop for visitors from around the world. 📍Sedona, Arizona #Sedona #Arizona #McDonalds #fyp #roadtripusa
♬ son original - floridaandbeyond
Why Are the Arches Turquoise?
When McDonald’s planned to open a restaurant in Sedona in the late 1980s, city officials weren’t thrilled with the idea of bright yellow arches standing out against the area’s breathtaking red rock scenery.
To blend in with the surrounding landscape, McDonald’s agreed to change its famous logo from yellow to turquoise. The softer color was considered a better fit for Sedona’s natural beauty, and it has remained that way ever since.
Today, it’s still the only McDonald’s in the world with turquoise arches.
Why Is It So Famous?
What started as a simple compromise has turned into one of Sedona’s most unexpected attractions.
Thousands of visitors stop here every year to snap a photo of the famous blue-green arches. It’s regularly featured on lists of the world’s most unique McDonald’s locations and has become a fun stop for anyone exploring Sedona or taking an Arizona road trip.
My Experience
Of course, I had to stop here during our visit to Sedona.
Inside, it’s a regular McDonald’s, but seeing those famous turquoise arches surrounded by Sedona’s incredible red rock landscape is definitely something you don’t see every day. It’s one of those quirky American roadside attractions that make a road trip even more memorable.
Would I drive hours just to see it? Probably not. But if you’re already in Sedona, it’s absolutely worth a quick stop and a photo.
My Tip
While you’re in the area, combine your visit with some of Sedona’s top attractions, including Chapel of the Holy Cross, Tlaquepaque Arts & Shopping Village, and Crescent Moon Picnic Site. They’re all just a short drive away.
Sedona is one of my favorite destinations in Arizona, so I highly recommend spending at least a couple of days here. If you’re visiting in spring or fall, be sure to book your hotel early, as accommodations fill up quickly.
2. The World’s Largest McDonald’s in Orlando, Florida
If there’s one McDonald’s I’d recommend visiting in Orlando, it’s this one. Located on Sand Lake Road, just minutes from International Drive and the major theme parks, it’s unlike any other McDonald’s you’ve ever seen.
Known as Epic McD, it’s the world’s largest entertainment McDonald’s, covering nearly 19,000 square feet. Every year, thousands of visitors stop by—not just for a meal, but to experience one of the most unique McDonald’s locations anywhere in the world.
A Giant McDonald’s Unlike Any Other
From the moment you arrive, it’s clear this isn’t your average fast-food restaurant.
The building spans multiple levels connected by stairs and an elevator, giving it more of an entertainment center feel than a traditional McDonald’s.
You’ll still find all the classics like the Big Mac, Chicken McNuggets, and Happy Meals, but that’s only part of the experience.
A One-of-a-Kind Menu
One of the biggest reasons people visit is the menu.
Alongside the regular McDonald’s favorites, you’ll also find freshly prepared items that aren’t available at most U.S. locations, including:
- Brick oven pizza
- Made-to-order pasta
- Cakes and desserts
- Belgian waffles
- Breakfast omelets
- Seasonal specialty items
No, it’s not an Italian restaurant, but it’s definitely a fun twist on the classic McDonald’s experience, especially for families.
A Family Favorite
Another thing that sets Epic McD apart is its huge entertainment area.
Kids can burn off energy in the multi-level PlayPlace, complete with slides and climbing structures, while the arcade features dozens of video games for all ages. Some families come here just as much for the games as they do for the food.
My Experience
I’ve visited several times over the years, and honestly, I don’t come here because it’s the best McDonald’s; I come here. After all, it’s unlike any other.
The kids always love exploring the PlayPlace, and I still enjoy watching the pizzas being made and checking out the unique menu that you won’t find at a typical McDonald’s.
If you’re visiting Orlando with kids, I think it’s a fun stop, especially after spending the day at Universal Orlando Resort or exploring International Drive. It’s not a must-do attraction, but it’s one of those quirky places that adds something different to your trip.
My Tip
Visit outside of the lunch or dinner rush if you can. You’ll have more time to explore the different levels, watch the kitchen in action, and try one of the exclusive menu items without waiting in long lines.
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3. The UFO-Shaped McDonald’s in Roswell, New Mexico
You can’t visit Roswell without noticing its one-of-a-kind McDonald’s. In a city famous for the 1947 Roswell UFO incident and decades of alien conspiracy theories, even McDonald’s embraced the extraterrestrial theme.
Located at 720 N Main Street, this restaurant has become one of the most photographed McDonald’s locations in the United States thanks to its incredible UFO-shaped design.
A McDonald’s That Looks Like a Spaceship
Unlike a typical McDonald’s, this one was designed to resemble a giant flying saucer.
The building features a futuristic metallic exterior, while the PlayPlace continues the space theme with rocket-inspired structures, astronaut Ronald McDonald figures, and alien-themed decorations. It’s a fun stop for both kids and adults.
Even More Impressive at Night
If you’re visiting Roswell, try to stop by after sunset.
Once the sun goes down, the restaurant lights up with blue and green neon, making it look even more like a spaceship ready for takeoff. It’s also the best time to grab photos, as the colorful lighting really brings the building to life.
A Perfect Fit for Roswell
In Roswell, the UFO theme is everywhere. You’ll see it on street signs, murals, souvenir shops, and, of course, at the famous International UFO Museum and Research Center.
Instead of building a standard McDonald’s, the company chose to embrace the city’s identity. Since opening in 2005, it has become the only UFO-shaped McDonald’s in the world, making it a fun roadside attraction for travelers exploring New Mexico.
My Thoughts
This is exactly the kind of stop that makes a USA road trip so much fun.
Even if you’re not planning to grab a meal, the building alone is worth a quick visit. It’s quirky, unexpected, and one of those places you’ll definitely remember long after your trip.
If you’re spending the day in Roswell, I recommend pairing your visit with the International UFO Museum, the city’s many alien-themed gift shops, and the colorful murals scattered throughout downtown. It doesn’t take long to realize that Roswell fully embraces its extraterrestrial reputation and does it with a great sense of humor.
4. McDonald’s Inside Train Cars in Barstow, California
In the middle of California’s Mojave Desert, you’ll find one of the most unusual McDonald’s locations in the country. Instead of a standard restaurant, this McDonald’s is part of Barstow Station, a travel center built around several authentic railroad cars.
Located just off Interstate 15, roughly halfway between Los Angeles and Las Vegas, it’s a popular stop for road trippers crossing the desert.
Dine Inside a Real Train Car
One of the things that makes this McDonald’s so unique is where you eat.
After ordering your meal, you can take your tray into one of the restored train cars, which have been converted into dining rooms complete with tables and booths. While the menu is the same as any other McDonald’s, eating a Big Mac inside a vintage railroad car makes the experience much more memorable.
A Classic Road Trip Stop
Barstow Station has been welcoming travelers since 1969 and has grown into one of the best-known travel stops in Southern California.
Today, the complex includes several restaurants, gift shops, and convenience stores, but McDonald’s remains its biggest attraction. Whether you’re heading to Las Vegas, Route 66, or one of California’s national parks, it’s an easy and fun place to take a break.
Why Is It Connected to Route 66?
Although Barstow Station is located just off Interstate 15, the historic Route 66 passes through downtown Barstow only a few minutes away.
Because of its location, railroad theme, and the city’s rich transportation history, this McDonald’s has become a favorite stop for travelers following the legendary Mother Road.
My Thoughts
I think this is a fun place to stop if you’re driving between Los Angeles and Las Vegas.
I wouldn’t plan an entire trip just to eat here, but if you’re already passing through Barstow, dining inside a real train car is definitely more memorable than stopping at a typical highway rest area.
My Tip
While you’re in Barstow, take a few extra minutes to visit the nearby Casa del Desierto, the city’s beautifully restored Harvey House. It’s home to the Route 66 Mother Road Museum and the Western America Railroad Museum, making it the perfect place to learn more about Barstow’s railroad history and Route 66 heritage.
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5. The Historic Canal Street McDonald’s in New York City
Located in Lower Manhattan, the McDonald’s at 160 Canal Street is unlike almost any other in the country. Instead of a modern storefront, it’s housed inside a beautiful 19th-century cast-iron building, giving it a distinctive look that blends perfectly with the neighborhood’s historic architecture.
It’s one of New York City’s most overlooked McDonald’s—and one of its most unique.
A Historic Cast-Iron Facade
The building is part of Canal Street’s historic streetscape, where many of the original cast-iron facades have been carefully preserved.
Rather than replacing the building with its standard restaurant design, McDonald’s chose to work within the existing structure, preserving its historic character while creating a modern restaurant inside.
The contrast between the classic architecture and the familiar Golden Arches makes this location especially memorable.
Where History Meets Modern New York
While the interior has all the conveniences of a modern McDonald’s, the exterior still reflects the architectural style that made Lower Manhattan famous in the late 1800s.
It’s another great example of how McDonald’s has adapted to its surroundings instead of using the same design everywhere.
For architecture lovers, it’s one of the most interesting McDonald’s locations in New York City.
My Thoughts
I haven’t had the chance to visit this one yet, but I love how it captures the spirit of New York, where historic buildings stand side by side with modern businesses.
If you’re already exploring Chinatown, Little Italy, or SoHo, it’s worth looking up for a moment; you might otherwise walk right past one of the city’s most unusual McDonald’s.
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My Tip
Pair your visit with a walk through SoHo, one of New York City’s most famous neighborhoods, known for having one of the largest collections of historic cast-iron buildings in the world.
6. McDonald’s on the Las Vegas Strip, Nevada
Surrounded by world-famous resorts, casinos, and nonstop entertainment, the McDonald’s on the Las Vegas Strip has become almost as recognizable as some of its famous neighbors. Located right on Las Vegas Boulevard, just steps from The LINQ, Flamingo, Caesars Palace, Harrah’s, and the Bellagio, it’s one of the busiest McDonald’s locations in the United States.
Whether you’re exploring the Strip during the day or late at night, chances are you’ll walk right past it.
Right in the Heart of the Strip
Unlike a typical McDonald’s, this location fits perfectly into the bright, energetic atmosphere of Las Vegas.
Its modern exterior is surrounded by giant LED screens, neon lights, and the constant buzz of the Strip. It’s just a short walk from some of Las Vegas’ biggest attractions, including the Bellagio Fountains, Sphere, The LINQ Promenade, and several of the city’s most iconic hotels.
Because of its prime location, it’s a convenient place to stop while exploring Las Vegas on foot.
A Budget-Friendly Stop
Las Vegas is famous for luxury restaurants, celebrity chefs, and all-you-can-eat buffets—but those experiences can get expensive.
This McDonald’s offers a quick and affordable alternative, especially for families or travelers looking to grab a fast meal before heading back out to explore.
At almost any hour of the day, you’ll find a mix of tourists, locals, casino employees, and late-night visitors.
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My Experience
I walked past this McDonald’s during our most recent trip to Las Vegas, and it’s impossible to miss.
With its bright Golden Arches, glowing signs, and the nonstop energy of the Strip all around it, it perfectly captures the atmosphere of Las Vegas.
It’s not the most unique McDonald’s because of its architecture—its location is what makes it special. I enjoyed stopping for a few minutes to take photos and soak up the atmosphere. It also makes a great landmark when you’re exploring the center of the Strip on foot.
My Tip
Visit after sunset when the Las Vegas Strip comes alive. Between the casino lights, giant LED displays, and constant excitement, it’s the perfect time to experience the city—and you’ll get much better photos too.
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7. The Chinatown McDonald’s in New York City
Right in the heart of Manhattan’s Chinatown, you’ll find one of New York City’s most unique McDonald’s locations. Instead of the chain’s usual modern look, this restaurant embraces the neighborhood’s culture with decorative elements inspired by traditional Chinese design.
Located at 160 Canal Street, at the corner of Broadway, it’s a fun stop while exploring Chinatown, Little Italy, and SoHo.
A Unique Interior Design
Step inside, and you’ll immediately notice that this isn’t your typical McDonald’s.
The restaurant features red lanterns, traditional Chinese-inspired décor, decorative columns, and architectural details designed to reflect the character of Chinatown while still feeling unmistakably McDonald’s.
It’s one of the few McDonald’s locations in the United States where the interior has been so carefully adapted to its surroundings.
A Landmark in Chinatown
This McDonald’s has been part of the neighborhood for decades and has become a familiar landmark for both locals and visitors.
Its location makes it a convenient place to grab a quick meal or take a break after exploring the busy streets of Chinatown or enjoying authentic Asian cuisine nearby.
While the menu is the same as any other American McDonald’s, the atmosphere is what makes this location stand out.
My Thoughts
I haven’t had the chance to visit this one yet, but I love seeing how McDonald’s occasionally adapts its restaurants to reflect the culture and history of the neighborhoods they’re in.
It may not be the most spectacular McDonald’s in the country, but it’s a great example of how the brand can blend into its surroundings while still offering the familiar experience people expect.
My Tip
If you’re already visiting Chinatown, take time to explore nearby Little Italy and SoHo as well. They’re all within walking distance, making this McDonald’s a fun and unexpected stop between three of Manhattan’s most iconic neighborhoods.
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8. The Historic McDonald’s in New Hyde Park, New York
At first glance, you’d probably never guess this is a McDonald’s.
Located in New Hyde Park on Long Island, about 20 miles east of Manhattan, this restaurant looks more like a beautiful colonial home than a fast-food chain. Housed inside the historic Denton House, it has become one of the most unique McDonald’s locations in the United States.
A Historic Home Turned McDonald’s
Built in 1795, the Denton House is one of the oldest buildings in New Hyde Park.
When McDonald’s purchased the property in the 1980s, the company chose to preserve the historic building instead of replacing it with its standard restaurant design. The original facade, shutters, columns, and colonial architecture were carefully maintained, giving the restaurant a character unlike any other McDonald’s.
More than 200 years later, it still looks much more like a historic home than a fast-food restaurant.
Blending Into the Neighborhood
Unlike the modern buildings found at most McDonald’s locations, this restaurant was designed to fit seamlessly into its surroundings.
The Golden Arches are intentionally understated, allowing the historic architecture to remain the main attraction. It’s a perfect example of how McDonald’s adapted its branding to preserve a landmark rather than replace it.
A Long Island Landmark
Today, the Denton House McDonald’s regularly appears on lists of America’s most unique McDonald’s locations. It has even been recognized by McDonald’s itself as one of the brand’s most iconic restaurants.
It’s proof that sometimes the most memorable McDonald’s aren’t the biggest or flashiest—they’re the ones with the most history.
My Thoughts
I haven’t had the chance to visit this one yet, but it’s one of the McDonald’s I’m most excited to see.
From the outside, nothing suggests you’re looking at a fast-food restaurant, which is exactly what makes it so fascinating. If you’re looking for unusual places beyond Manhattan’s famous attractions, this is a fun detour on Long Island.
My Tip
If you’re a fan of unique McDonald’s locations, combine a visit to the Denton House McDonald’s with the Times Square and Canal Street locations. Each one has its own history, architecture, and personality, showing just how different McDonald’s restaurants can be across New York.
9. The Colonial-Style McDonald’s in Freeport, Maine
At first glance, you’d probably drive right past it without realizing it’s a McDonald’s.
Located in Freeport, Maine, a charming coastal town best known as the home of L.L.Bean, this restaurant looks more like a classic New England home than a fast-food chain. With its white clapboard siding, dark shutters, pitched roof, and timeless architecture, it blends perfectly into its surroundings.
Designed to Match the Town’s Character
Freeport is famous for its historic downtown and outlet shopping, so McDonald’s couldn’t simply build one of its standard restaurants here.
Instead, the company designed a building inspired by traditional New England colonial architecture, allowing it to fit naturally into the town’s historic streetscape.
The Golden Arches are much more subtle than usual, and without the McDonald’s sign, many people would never guess what the building is.
A Perfect Fit for New England
Unlike the modern McDonald’s restaurants you’ll find along America’s highways, this location uses classic materials and understated architecture that reflect the charm of coastal Maine.
It’s one of the best examples of how McDonald’s has adapted its design to respect the local character of a community while still maintaining its iconic brand.
A Popular Stop in Freeport
Every year, thousands of visitors come to Freeport to shop at the famous L.L.Bean flagship store and explore the town’s many outlet stores.
For travelers who enjoy discovering unusual roadside attractions, this McDonald’s has become one of the town’s hidden gems.
My Thoughts
I haven’t had the chance to visit this location yet, but I think it’s one of the most elegant McDonald’s on this list.
It proves that a McDonald’s doesn’t have to stand out to be memorable. Instead of dominating the landscape, it blends beautifully into the historic character of the town.
If you’re exploring the coast of Maine or taking a New England road trip, it’s a fun and unexpected place to add to your itinerary.
My Tip
While you’re in Freeport, spend some time exploring downtown, browse the legendary L.L.Bean flagship store, and visit the many outlet shops that have made this small Maine town a popular destination for travelers.
10. The McDonald’s Built Over the Highway in Vinita, Oklahoma
If you’ve ever wanted to eat a Big Mac while watching cars and semi-trucks drive directly beneath you, the McDonald’s in Vinita, Oklahoma, is the place to do it.
Located inside the Will Rogers Archway, this unique McDonald’s spans the Will Rogers Turnpike (Interstate 44) between Tulsa and the Missouri state line. It’s one of the most unusual McDonald’s locations in the United States—and it’s still serving customers today.
Built Right Over the Highway
The building itself is part of what makes this location so memorable.
Originally opened in 1957 as the Glass House Restaurant, the structure was designed to connect both sides of Interstate 44 by literally crossing over the highway.
Inside the restaurant, large glass windows allow travelers to watch traffic flowing beneath them while they eat. Even decades later, it’s still one of the few places in America where you can enjoy a meal suspended above a major interstate.
Once the World’s Largest McDonald’s
For many years, this location proudly held the title of the world’s largest McDonald’s.
That title now belongs to Epic McD in Orlando, Florida.
Today, the Will Rogers Archway is much more than just a McDonald’s. The bridge now includes additional restaurants, shops, convenience stores, and a gas station, making it one of the most unique highway travel plazas in the country.
An Oklahoma Road Trip Icon
In 2014, the entire complex was renovated and renamed the Will Rogers Archway, honoring Oklahoma native Will Rogers, one of America’s most famous humorists and entertainers.
With its panoramic windows overlooking the interstate and its unusual location, it remains one of the most memorable roadside stops in Oklahoma.
My Thoughts
I haven’t visited this McDonald’s yet, but I think it’s one of the most creative concepts on this list.
Watching thousands of vehicles pass underneath while you eat is definitely not something you experience every day. I probably wouldn’t drive hours just to see it, but if you’re traveling between Tulsa and Missouri, it’s a much more interesting stop than a typical highway rest area.
My Tip
Although many travelers associate it with Route 66, this McDonald’s is actually located on Interstate 44, not directly on the historic Mother Road. If you’re exploring Route 66, it’s still an easy and worthwhile detour thanks to its unique design.
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11. The Colonial-Style McDonald’s in Independence, Ohio
If you’re driving through Independence, just outside Cleveland, Ohio, you could easily pass this McDonald’s without realizing what it is.
Instead of the familiar modern design, this location looks like a beautiful Colonial-style home, complete with red brick walls, white shutters, a traditional pitched roof, and classic American architecture. It’s often listed among the most unique McDonald’s restaurants in the United States.
Designed to Blend Into the Community
Like several historic towns across America, Independence wanted new buildings to match the local architectural style.
Rather than constructing its standard restaurant design, McDonald’s created a building inspired by traditional Colonial architecture. The result is a restaurant that blends naturally into its surroundings instead of standing out.
The Golden Arches are still there, but they’re much more subtle than at a typical McDonald’s.
Easy to Miss Until You Notice the Logo
That’s exactly what makes this McDonald’s so interesting.
At first glance, it looks more like a bank, a law office, or a historic public building than a fast-food restaurant. Only after spotting the McDonald’s sign do most visitors realize what it actually is.
Its understated design has made it a favorite stop for road trip enthusiasts and travelers searching for unusual McDonald’s locations.
One of Ohio’s Hidden Gems
Although it’s not as famous as the McDonald’s in Sedona or Roswell, it’s become a favorite among people who enjoy discovering unique McDonald’s restaurants across the country.
It’s another great example of how the company has adapted its architecture to respect local communities instead of using the same design everywhere.
My Thoughts
I haven’t had the chance to visit this one yet, but I really like the idea behind it.
It may not be as eye-catching as some of the other McDonald’s on this list, but it proves that not every McDonald’s in America looks the same. If you’re traveling through the Cleveland area, it’s a fun little stop that’s worth a few minutes.
My Tip
If you’re visiting Independence, consider combining your stop with a visit to Cleveland or Cuyahoga Valley National Park, located about 20 minutes away. It’s a great way to turn a quick roadside stop into a full day of exploring Northeast Ohio.
12. The Lodge-Style McDonald’s Near Yellowstone, Montana
Just outside the North Entrance of Yellowstone National Park, in the small town of Gardiner, Montana, you’ll find one of the most understated McDonald’s in the United States.
Instead of the chain’s familiar modern look, this restaurant was designed to blend into the rugged mountain landscape surrounding Yellowstone. With its natural wood exterior, pitched roof, and lodge-inspired architecture, it feels more like a mountain cabin than a fast-food restaurant.
Inspired by the Rocky Mountains
To match the style of nearby buildings, McDonald’s chose natural wood siding and rustic materials that reflect the lodges and cabins found throughout the Yellowstone region.
The Golden Arches are still there, but they’re much more subtle than at a typical McDonald’s. The overall design fits perfectly with the area’s outdoor atmosphere, making the restaurant feel right at home among the surrounding mountains.
Blending Into Yellowstone’s Landscape
Located just minutes from Yellowstone’s North Entrance, this McDonald’s serves thousands of park visitors every year.
Rather than standing out, the building was carefully designed to complement the breathtaking scenery of forests, rivers, and mountains that make Yellowstone one of America’s most iconic national parks.
It’s another great example of how McDonald’s has adapted its architecture to reflect the character of its surroundings.
My Thoughts
I haven’t had the chance to visit this location yet, but I think it’s one of the most beautiful McDonald’s on this list.
I always enjoy seeing restaurants that embrace the local landscape instead of using the same design everywhere. If you’re planning a Yellowstone or Rocky Mountain road trip, this is a fun place to stop even if it’s just to admire the architecture and grab a quick photo.
My Tip
While you’re in Gardiner, take some time to explore the town and drive through Yellowstone’s North Entrance, one of the most scenic gateways into the park. It’s the perfect way to start your Yellowstone adventure.
13. The Oldest Operating McDonald’s in Downey, California
If you’re a McDonald’s fan or simply love American history, this is one stop you won’t want to miss.
Opened in 1953, the McDonald’s in Downey, California, just southeast of Los Angeles, is the oldest operating McDonald’s in the world. Unlike most modern locations, it has preserved much of its original design, making it a true time capsule from the early days of fast food.
Stepping onto the property feels like traveling back to the 1950s.
A Restaurant Frozen in Time
The building still features its original Golden Arches, vintage signage, and classic architecture that defined McDonald’s during its earliest years.
From the moment you pull into the parking lot, it’s easy to imagine what grabbing a burger was like more than 70 years ago.
Inside, you’ll also find historic displays and memorabilia that celebrate the evolution of one of the world’s most famous restaurant chains.
A Must-Visit for McDonald’s Fans
Today, the Downey location is considered an American roadside landmark.
Visitors from around the world come here to admire its vintage design, take photos beneath the original arches, and experience a piece of fast-food history that’s still serving customers every day.
For anyone planning a California road trip, it’s a fun and memorable stop that’s unlike any other McDonald’s.
My Thoughts
I haven’t had the chance to visit this one yet, but it’s probably the McDonald’s I want to see the most.
More than just a restaurant, it’s a true piece of American history. Seeing one of the oldest surviving McDonald’s locations still operating today is a reminder of how a small California burger stand grew into one of the world’s most recognizable brands.
My Tip
If you’re visiting Southern California, combine your stop in Downey with the Historic Original McDonald’s Museum in nearby San Bernardino. Together, they offer the perfect opportunity to explore the fascinating history of McDonald’s from its earliest beginnings.
Bonus: Visit the Historic Original McDonald’s Museum in San Bernardino
If you’d like to learn more about the origins of McDonald’s, make time for the Historic Original McDonald’s Museum in San Bernardino, California.
Although the original restaurant is no longer operating, this free museum showcases the history of the brand through vintage signs, old menus, Happy Meal toys, photographs, advertisements, and a fascinating collection of McDonald’s memorabilia.
It’s the perfect companion to a visit to the historic Downey McDonald’s and offers a deeper look at how one small burger stand became one of the world’s largest restaurant chains.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the world’s largest McDonald’s?
The world’s largest McDonald’s, often nicknamed Epic McD, is located in Orlando, Florida, on Sand Lake Road near International Drive. It covers nearly 19,000 square feet and features a unique menu with pizza, pasta, desserts, and a huge arcade.
Why does the Sedona McDonald’s have turquoise arches?
The Sedona McDonald’s is the only one in the world with turquoise arches. When the restaurant was built in the late 1980s, city officials wanted it to blend in with Sedona’s famous red rock landscape. McDonald’s agreed to replace its traditional Golden Arches with turquoise ones, and they’ve remained that way ever since.
What is the oldest operating McDonald’s?
The oldest operating McDonald’s is located in Downey, California. Opened in 1953, it still serves customers today and retains much of its original architecture, vintage signage, and historic charm.
Where can you visit the original McDonald’s?
The original McDonald’s restaurant no longer operates, but you can visit the Historic Original McDonald’s Museum in San Bernardino, California. The free museum tells the story of the McDonald brothers and the early days of the company through vintage signs, menus, photos, advertisements, and memorabilia.
Which McDonald’s is shaped like a UFO?
The Roswell McDonald’s in New Mexico is the only UFO-shaped McDonald’s in the world. Inspired by the city’s famous alien history, it features a flying saucer design and lights up at night with colorful neon.
Why are some McDonald’s in the USA so different?
Some McDonald’s locations were specially designed to reflect their surroundings or preserve historic buildings. Others became local landmarks because of their unusual architecture, such as the Happy Meal McDonald’s in Dallas, the train car McDonald’s in Barstow, or the colonial-style restaurants in Maine, Ohio, and New York.
From turquoise arches in Sedona and the world’s largest McDonald’s in Orlando to a UFO-shaped restaurant in Roswell and a historic 1953 location in California, these unique McDonald’s prove that not every Golden Arches restaurant looks the same.
Whether you’re planning a cross-country road trip or simply enjoy discovering quirky roadside attractions, these one-of-a-kind locations are worth adding to your travel bucket list.
Have you visited any of these McDonald’s? Or do you know another unique location that deserves a spot on this list? Let me know in the comments!</p>
