Inland Center

Immerse yourself in the atmosphere where a world-changing history began. Inland Center in the city of San Bernardino is more than just a shopping space; it is a site with deep historical significance. This is where the very first McDonald brothers' restaurant was once located, serving as the foundation for the entire modern fast-food industry in the USA and beyond.

Today, this site attracts tourists as an important milestone in American culture. Once a simple roadside diner, it became famous for its iconic hamburgers that cost just 15 cents. For many travelers, this is a must-see stop on their itinerary, allowing them to see the origins of a global corporation.

Although the landscape has changed over time, the significance of this site for business history remains unchanged. It is a true monument to the entrepreneurial spirit that transformed a small family business into a world-renowned cult phenomenon.

For those planning a visit, below is the essential contact information for the shopping center and historical site.

A visit to this site offers a unique opportunity to literally touch a legend. The main highlight is exploring the historical exhibits that tell the story of the fast-food chain's first steps. Visitors can see replicas of equipment and learn what the original establishment looked like during the years when the fast-food industry was just beginning to emerge.

Special attention should be paid to the collection of vintage kitchen appliances. Standing out among the exhibits are the multimixers for six cups, developed by Ray Kroc. Comparing these devices with older models clearly shows how technical progress helped speed up service and scale the business to global proportions.

In addition to the historical component, visitors can stroll through the modern galleries, take commemorative photos by the markers, and feel the contrast between the quiet 1940s roadside diner and the rhythm of modern-day San Bernardino.

Reaching this iconic landmark in San Bernardino is easy, as it is conveniently located. If you are traveling by car, use the address 500 Inland Center Dr—the site is situated near major highway interchanges, making it easily accessible from anywhere in the city.

For those using public transport, local bus routes stop in the immediate vicinity of the shopping center. You can also use taxi services or popular rideshare apps, with the trip from the city center taking only a few minutes.

The history of this site is inextricably linked to the emergence of the world's largest fast-food empire. It began as a modest roadside diner owned by the McDonald brothers. Their innovative approach to food preparation caught the attention of Ray Kroc, who at the time was selling milkshake mixers.

Kroc was struck by an unusual order: the brothers had purchased several "Multimixers" at once, capable of making six servings at a time. After traveling in person to meet the owners of such an efficient business, Ray Kroc realized he was looking at a gold mine. It was here that the negotiations began, forever changing global food culture.

In 1954, Kroc officially bought the franchise from the McDonald brothers, and later all rights to use the brand for what was then a significant sum of cash. What started as a local project in San Bernardino, thanks to Kroc's determination and the brothers' technology, grew into a global network familiar to every inhabitant of the planet.

To explore the historical references and get acquainted with the legacy of this site, it typically takes about 1 to 2 hours. This is plenty of time for a leisurely stroll and to learn about the origins of the legendary brand.

If you plan to combine your historical excursion with shopping at the modern center or having lunch, your visit could last half a day. In any case, this place is well worth a short stop during your trip through California.

When planning your visit, take note of the operating hours to ensure you have time to see everything. From Monday to Saturday, the doors are open from 10:00 AM to 8:00 PM.

On Sunday, there are reduced hours: you can visit from 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM. We recommend arriving in the first half of the day to explore all the details in a relaxed atmosphere without rushing.

Exploring the surroundings of Inland Center allows you to dive deeper into the atmosphere of Southern California and discover other interesting locations in the city. Nearby, you will find many sites reflecting both the region's historical heritage and modern leisure opportunities.