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First Original McDonald's Museum: A Fast-Food Time Capsule

Relive fast-food history at the First Original McDonald's Museum in San Bernardino, celebrating the iconic chain's humble Route 66 beginnings.

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Relive the golden age of fast food at the First Original McDonald's Museum in San Bernardino. Located on the site of the first McDonald's, this unofficial museum showcases memorabilia from the early days of the iconic restaurant chain, offering a nostalgic glimpse into its humble beginnings.

A brief summary to First Original McDonald's Museum

  • Monday 10 am-5 pm
  • Tuesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Wednesday 10 am-5 pm
  • Thursday 10 am-5 pm
  • Friday 10 am-5 pm
  • Saturday 10 am-5 pm
  • Sunday 10 am-5 pm

Local tips

  • The museum is not affiliated with McDonald's, so don't expect to find the current menu. This is all about the history!
  • Check out the exterior murals and statues for fun photo opportunities with classic McDonald's characters.
  • Combine your visit with a stop at a nearby operating McDonald's to compare the past and present of the Golden Arches.
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Getting There

  • Public Transport

    From the San Bernardino Transit Center, connect to the sbX bus (Green Line) heading north. Exit the bus at Baseline Street and N E Street, a short walk south to the museum. OmniTrans bus fares are typically around $1.75 for a single ride.

  • Walking

    If you are near downtown San Bernardino, walking to the museum is an option. From the intersection of Baseline Street and Mount Vernon Avenue, head east on Baseline Street, then turn left onto N E Street. The museum will be on your left. The walk is approximately 1.5 miles and should take about 30 minutes.

  • Driving

    The First Original McDonald's Museum is located at 1398 N E St, San Bernardino, CA 92405. From I-215, exit at Baseline Street and head east. Turn left onto N E Street; the museum will be on your left. Parking is available on-site and is free. Keep in mind that parking can be limited during peak hours.

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Discover more about First Original McDonald's Museum

Step back in time at the First Original McDonald's Museum, an homage to the birthplace of the world-famous fast-food empire. Located in San Bernardino, California, this museum stands on the very spot where brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald launched their revolutionary restaurant in 1940. Originally a barbecue restaurant, the brothers streamlined their menu in 1948 to focus on burgers, fries, and milkshakes, pioneering the 'Speedee Service System' that would redefine the restaurant industry. While this isn't an official McDonald's Corporation venture, the museum is a labor of love, packed with pre-Ray Kroc memorabilia. Inside, you'll discover a treasure trove of McDonald's history, including vintage Happy Meal toys, advertising materials, and historic photos. See early menus, cash registers, and even a prototype ketchup dispensing gun. The exterior is just as fun, featuring a vintage McDonald's sign, statues of classic characters, and colorful murals celebrating Route 66 and McDonald's history. The museum offers a fascinating look at the rise of an American icon and is a must-see for fast-food enthusiasts and history buffs alike.

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