The McDonald’s Museum is located along historic Route 66, on the original McDonald’s site.
The building that started it all was demolished in 1971 and the site was eventually foreclosed in 1998. Then Albert Okura, the founder of Juan Pollo chicken, bought the land and built this little museum purely for the love of the fast-food giant. He then filled the inside with Pre-Kroc memorabilia, to begin with, but the collection has been growing ever since.
‘The worlds most detailed mural’ that covers the entire exterior of the McDonald’s Museum on Route 66 is absolutely incredible. So look around before you even step foot inside, because there is a lot to see.
The rain was falling sporadically this afternoon; just as we left the car and began walking to the entrance, the skies opened again — the perfect time to step inside and have a look around. Admission is free, and you can’t beat that.
let’s go inside – McDonald’s Museum – Route 66
I’ll be honest, I wasn’t sure what in the world could be so interesting about this museum. From the first glimpse of the building though, it nudges you to keep your eyes peeled because there are so many little treasures everywhere.
This museum has a collection of memorabilia and toys from throughout the history of this storied franchise. It is a walk down memory lane, not just for the fast-food chain, but also the customer.
You will see rides and toys that will spark memories from your childhood. Seeing things in there, I once had and remembered spending time in my grandparent’s basement playing with them for hours.
There is also a small Coke exhibit with signs and old machines that in this day and age are extremely collectable.
Looking at the old photos, designs and imagery, I truly felt like we have over complicated everything in life. Things were so much simpler back then.
Look at the expressions on their faces and in their eyes. There was genuine happiness. I sometimes wish I could go inside those black and white photographs and experience the simplicity of that time.
Mcdonald’s today
Two brothers just wanted to make hamburgers to feed hungry people, so they did and their legacy has now transcended through the decades.
Who would have known, that the original barbeque restaurant that opened in 1940 selling sandwiches and shakes from friendly carhops, would become synonymous with hamburgers? That was their best selling item of course.
In 1961 Ray Kroc bought the establishment and turned it into the giant chain we know as McDonald’s today.
Could you imagine if that wasn’t the case the implications that would have had on us all? If their burgers weren’t any good and the barbeque restaurant went under, we would not have McDonald’s today. That one little change would have made a big difference to the entire world as we know it.
lasting impressions of the mcdonald’s museum
Thank you for the memories, Richard and Maurice. You allowed me the chance to recall having the time of my life riding the hamburger merry-go-round. Spending countless hours changing the costumes on all my little McNugget’s and laughing hysterically with ketchup stains on my cheeks. You have done far more than you could ever know, and that is a beautiful thing you’ve achieved for us all.
FUN FACT
Mr Okura also bought the little Route 66 town of Amboy with plans to bring some life back into the sleepy desert ghost town.
IN A NUTSHELL
- Address: 1398 N E St, San Bernardino, CA 92405
- Admission: Free – Museum is run on donations.
- Ample Parking
- Hours: Monday to Friday – 9 AM – 5 PM. Saturday and Sunday – 10 AM – 5 PM
location map of McDonald’s Museum – Route 66
- Return to Route 66 by clicking the link below
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