McDonald’s is a global brand known for its iconic golden arches and consistent menu, but some locations around the world take the familiar fast food experience to a whole new level. From historic buildings to futuristic designs, McDonald’s has created unique and often surprising locations that stand out from the typical fast food joints. Here’s a look at some of the most unusual McDonald’s locations, ranging from castles to skyscrapers, offering a truly memorable experience for visitors.
1. McDonald’s in the Shape of a Castle – Mont-Saint-Michel, France
One of the most striking McDonald’s locations is found in Mont-Saint-Michel, France, a picturesque island commune surrounded by the sea. This McDonald’s, located near the famous medieval abbey, stands out for its distinctive design. The fast food restaurant is housed in a building that resembles a castle, with stone walls, turrets, and an overall medieval architectural style. Though the inside has the familiar McDonald’s layout, the exterior fits seamlessly with the historic surroundings. This location is a favorite among tourists visiting the abbey, who enjoy a unique fusion of contemporary fast food in a historic, almost fairy-tale setting.
2. McDonald’s in the Heart of a Skyscraper – The Hong Kong Location
In the bustling metropolis of Hong Kong, McDonald’s has taken over a prominent space in one of the city’s skyscrapers. This McDonald’s is located on the 15th floor of the Nina Tower, one of the tallest buildings in the region. Visitors need to take an elevator up to reach the restaurant, offering a spectacular view of the city below while enjoying a meal. The location is especially popular with locals and tourists alike who appreciate the chance to experience McDonald’s with a unique twist — dining in the sky with a panoramic view of Hong Kong’s vibrant cityscape.
3. McDonald’s in a Windmill – Beverwijk, Netherlands
Another unique McDonald’s location is in Beverwijk, Netherlands, where the fast food chain has converted a traditional windmill into a restaurant. The windmill, which is several centuries old, was repurposed to house a McDonald’s, blending traditional Dutch architecture with the contemporary appeal of the global fast food brand. The combination of the iconic windmill and the familiar McDonald’s logo makes this location stand out. Visitors can enjoy the charm of the windmill while savoring their favorite burgers, creating an interesting contrast between old-world charm and modern convenience.
4. McDonald’s in an Airplane – Taupo, New Zealand
For aviation enthusiasts and McDonald’s fans alike, the McDonald’s in Taupo, New Zealand, offers a truly unique dining experience. This McDonald’s is housed in a decommissioned Boeing 737 airplane, which was converted into a restaurant. The airplane’s exterior remains intact, but inside, it’s been reconfigured with seating areas that allow customers to dine while surrounded by airplane-themed decor. The location has become a favorite among tourists and locals who enjoy the quirky atmosphere of dining inside an actual airplane.
5. McDonald’s in a Historic Building – Stockholm, Sweden
In Stockholm, Sweden, McDonald’s has managed to integrate itself into the city’s rich architectural history by setting up shop inside an old cinema. The building, which dates back to the early 20th century, features grand arches, high ceilings, and intricate detailing, making the McDonald’s here one of the most visually impressive in the world. The cinema was repurposed into a McDonald’s in the early 2000s, with careful attention paid to preserving the building’s original charm while adding modern touches. This location provides a blend of history, culture, and fast food in one spot, making it a must-visit for those interested in architecture and design.
6. McDonald’s in the Shadow of the Great Wall – Beijing, China
In Beijing, China, McDonald’s has set up a remarkable location at the base of the Great Wall of China. This McDonald’s location offers a view of one of the most iconic landmarks in the world. The design of the restaurant fits well with the historical surroundings, and it caters specifically to tourists visiting the Great Wall. Customers can enjoy a meal while taking in views of the ancient structure, combining the cultural significance of one of the Seven Wonders with the comfort of a fast food meal.
7. McDonald’s in the Vatican – Vatican City
Perhaps one of the most unexpected locations for a McDonald’s is in Vatican City, a place known for its religious and historic significance. The McDonald’s here is strategically located just steps from St. Peter’s Basilica, making it a popular spot for tourists and pilgrims. While it may seem unusual to have a fast food joint so close to the Vatican’s sacred grounds, the restaurant provides a convenient stop for visitors looking for a quick meal in the heart of the city. The McDonald’s in Vatican City is an example of how the brand has adapted to various cultures while maintaining its global presence.
8. McDonald’s in an Ancient Roman Bathhouse – Bath, England
In Bath, England, McDonald’s has taken over a former Roman bathhouse, providing a unique blend of ancient history and fast food. Bath is famous for its Roman baths, which are some of the best-preserved in the world. The McDonald’s restaurant here is set inside a building that once housed these historic baths, offering a truly unexpected contrast between ancient Roman architecture and contemporary fast food. The location preserves the charm of the original structure, with elements of the Roman baths incorporated into the design, making it one of the most unusual McDonald’s locations in the world.
9. McDonald’s in the Ice – Jukkasjärvi, Sweden
In the small village of Jukkasjärvi, Sweden, McDonald’s took part in one of the most surreal dining experiences possible – eating in an ice restaurant. The location is housed inside the Icehotel, a world-famous hotel made entirely of ice and snow. During the winter months, McDonald’s sets up a pop-up restaurant inside the Icehotel, offering a menu that’s consistent with its usual fare, but served in an ice-cold environment. The icy surroundings and the chance to dine in a building sculpted from snow make this McDonald’s location an unforgettable experience for those who can brave the cold.
10. McDonald’s in a Former Church – Bogotá, Colombia
Another unexpected McDonald’s location is in Bogotá, Colombia, where a former church was converted into a McDonald’s restaurant. The building features beautiful stained glass windows, high ceilings, and classic architectural details that were preserved during the conversion. The church’s traditional features are juxtaposed with the modern and familiar design of the McDonald’s brand, creating an unusual but interesting contrast. This location stands as a reminder of how the brand has managed to blend into different cultures and settings, no matter how unconventional the space may seem.
11. McDonald’s with a Scenic View – Sedona, Arizona, USA
Located in the heart of Arizona’s Red Rock Country, McDonald’s in Sedona offers customers a unique dining experience surrounded by natural beauty. This location stands out because of its design, which was tailored to fit the stunning landscape. The restaurant features large windows that provide diners with views of the striking red rock formations that make Sedona famous. It’s not every day you get to enjoy a burger while surrounded by such breathtaking scenery, making this McDonald’s an exceptional stop for those exploring the area.
Conclusion
McDonald’s has managed to carve out a niche for itself by creating some of the most unusual and memorable locations around the globe. From castles and churches to airplanes and ice hotels, these unique McDonald’s locations offer a fun twist on the typical fast food experience. Each location has its own special appeal, drawing in visitors who want to experience something out of the ordinary. Whether it’s the historic backdrop, a quirky design, or simply the chance to enjoy fast food in a breathtaking setting, these locations have cemented their place as some of the most unusual McDonald’s restaurants in the world.