Fast food is as ubiquitous in America as cars and houses. Perhaps due to its cost and proximity to major roads, it's become a staple in some American diets and there's not a lot of reason to believe it's going away any time soon. With more than 40,000 locations worldwide, McDonald's might be among the most recognizable fast-food chains. To some, the sight of the golden arches is comforting. To others, it takes away from the landscape. One thing is for sure, you certainly can't miss one if it's nearby. Unless, of course, you're in Freeport. This McDonald's in Maine is actually hard to spot if you're not sure where to find it. It looks just like a regular house, blending into the surroundings. Could fast food in Maine be any more quintessential Vacationland?
Most people in search of a Big Mac and fries will be looking for something like this at the side of the road. The unmistakable bright yellow and red can be spotted from just about anywhere.
But, things work a little differently in Maine. Don't be on the lookout for these colors. Instead, you're going to want to keep your eyes open for an adorable historic colonial home if you're hungry for fast food in Freeport.
The local McDonald's here is housed in a home that was built more than 150 years ago in the 1800s!
When you walk inside things look a lot like they should. The large, bright menu above the cash registers. You'll also find friendly staff in the kitchen. But, the similarities in aesthetics might end there.
Rather than a plastic-feeling dining room, the one in Freeport feels like eating lunch at a friend's house. Imagine wooden chairs all pushed into large, comfortable tables.
In addition to fine wooden chairs, you'll find bay windows and curtains throughout the space.
You actually might mistake it for a local library's study area. Bright and welcoming!
But, how did this unique McDonald's in Maine come to be? The original home was built by William Gore, a prominent merchant in the Freeport area. It was turned into the town's only McDonald's in 1984.
All local buildings must conform to a local "look," which meant that adding the fast food spot would have to come with some brand changes. Among them was keeping the character of the outside of the home as well as inside.
Of course, the menu you've come to love is the same here as it is everywhere. With the exception of some regional additions. As with many regional McDonald's you might even find some local menu specialties like a lobster roll! Many people say it's just as good, if not better than some found at the seaside shacks.
Whatever you order at this unique little spot, you'll want to take photos to show people just how unique Maine really is!
This fancy McDonald's in Maine is open every day of the week from breakfast to late into the night. There's no local website, but you can give them a call at 207-865-9566 if you have questions.
The fact that Freeport is home to one of the most unique McDonald's restaurants in the world is just one reason to visit the town. But, there are also quite a few more great things to explore. In addition to nearby nature, you can also choose to explore the walkable stretch of shops and restaurants that are easily reached after your meal. If you love the idea of visiting so much that you'd like to make it a long weekend, consider a vacation rental to make it extra special.
https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/maine/walkable-town-day-trip-me/
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