The Museum is a recreation of the first McDonald's Restaurant opened in Des Plaines, IL, by McDonald's Corporation founder, Ray Kroc, on April 15, 1955. The customer service and food preparation areas contain original equipment used in the days when fresh potatoes were peeled, sliced, blanched and fried; milkshake mix and syrup were whipped up on the Multi-mixers; Coca-Cola and root beer were drawn from a barrel, and orangeade from the orange bowl. The all-male crew is represented by mannequins dressed in the 1955 uniform—dark trousers, white shirts, aprons, and paper hats. The basement features a historical display of photos, memos, early advertising, memorabilia, and a short video presentation.
The museum offers exhibits and a short film.