McDonald’s has been a huge big part of American life and the world over for so many years that it can be hard to imagine life without it.

Today we’re going to explore another aspect of the fast-food franchise: the unusual facts that most people don’t know about the famous food company.

 

1. A start

McDonald’s is renowned for its hamburgers, fries, and milkshakes, but it began its life as a BBQ joint in San Bernardino, California, in 1940.

It wasn’t until 1948 that brothers Richard and Maurice McDonald changed over to burgers.

2. The arches

The Golden Arches of McDonald’s are so famous that a survey of 7,000 people in 7 foreign countries showed that 88% of them were able to recognize the famous logo.

Only 54% identified the Christian cross.

 

3. Two exceptions

The renowned Golden Arches around the world are yellow but in two places it’s different.

One place in Paris has white arches to blend in with its surroundings on the Champs-Elysees.

The second place is a McDonald’s in Sedona, Arizona, which has a turquoise arch to give it a Southwest touch.

4. It’s not the biggest…

Many people believe that McDonald’s is the largest restaurant chain in America.

Which is not correct. That honor really belongs to Subway, which has around 45,000 locations.

McDonald’s has around 36,000.

5. Maybe someday…

McDonald’s has a veggie burger…but it’s not available in the U.S.

For now, you can buy one of them in India.

 

6. That’s crazy.

Believe it or not, McDonald’s is the world’s largest toy distributor.

The organization gives away 1.5 BILLION toys each year with Happy Meals.

 

7. There’s a Big Mac Museum.

The museum is in North Huntingdon, Pennsylvania, and you can see all sorts of amazing artifacts like a 14-foot tall Big Mac.