FOOD NEWS
The First McDonald’s Restaurant Is An Unofficial Museum You Are Able To Visit
BY AUSTIN HAVENS-BOWEN
The First Original McDonald’s Museum is an unofficial museum located not far from Route 66 in San Bernardino, California. It sits on the site of the first McDonald’s restaurant.
The first restaurant was opened by brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald in 1940. The original building was torn down in 1972, but some parts of the original floor are on display.
While McDonald's has no affiliation with this gallery, it seems they are at least aware of it. It's open seven days a week from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and admission is free.
The museum has an old-school McDonald’s sign along with a faded statue of Officer Big Mac. Inside, there are Happy Meal toys, collectibles, photos, uniforms, and vintage menus.
The exterior boasts murals of Ray and Maurice McDonald, the chain’s characters, and vintage cars. There are statues and playground equipment from other McDonald’s locations.