Some McDonald’s Have Turquoise Arches Instead of the Classic Yellow- Here’s What it Means

Sedona, Arizona, is renowned for its breathtaking red rock landscapes, spiritual vortexes, and unique artsy vibe. Amidst this natural and cultural splendor lies a peculiar anomaly—a McDonald’s with turquoise arches instead of the iconic golden ones.

Yes, you read that right. In a world where the golden arches are as ubiquitous as the Big Mac, Sedona’s McDonald’s stands out with its distinct turquoise hue. Here’s the meaning for the color change.

The Origin of the Turquoise Arches

So, how did this turquoise twist come about? It all started in the early 1990s when McDonald’s sought to open a restaurant in Sedona. The city, however, has strict ordinances to maintain its picturesque environment and prevent any garish contrasts that might disrupt the natural beauty.

The city council and Planning and Zoning Commission insisted that McDonald’s could only set up shop if their iconic arches harmonized with the earthy tones of Sedona’s landscape​. ^(ref)​

While McDonald’s initially resisted altering its globally recognized symbol, the company eventually embraced the challenge. The result was the world’s only turquoise arches, a color chosen to complement Sedona’s scenic red rocks and the overall aesthetic of the town.

More Than Just a Fast-Food Joint

Since its opening in 1993, this McDonald’s has become more than just a place to grab a quick bite. It has evolved into a must-see tourist attraction. Visitors worldwide flock to Sedona to snap selfies with the turquoise arches, often sharing their unique find on social media platforms like Instagram and TikTok.

This unusual McDonald’s has even prompted the staff to install a sign at the checkout counter detailing the history of the arches due to the frequent questions from curious tourists.​ ^(ref)​​

An Iconic Landmark

In 2015, the original turquoise arches were replaced and donated to the Sedona Heritage Museum, where they now sit as a piece of local history.

The new arches retain the same eye-catching color but now feature backlighting, making them visible even at night, further enhancing their charm​.

Sedona’s turquoise-arched McDonald’s isn’t the only location with a unique take on the famous symbol. Other non-golden arches exist in places like Monterey, California, and on the Champs-Elysées in Paris, but Sedona’s remains the most famous and visually striking due to its perfect blend with the surrounding environment​.

Planning Your Visit

If you’re planning a trip to Sedona, make sure to add this one-of-a-kind McDonald’s to your itinerary. Located at 2380 W US Highway 89A, it’s a delightful detour whether you’re there for the spiritual energy, the stunning hikes, or the vibrant arts scene.

Just remember, while the arches might be turquoise, the menu inside offers all the classic McDonald’s fare you know and love.

So, next time you find yourself driving through Sedona, don’t miss out on the chance to visit this quirky landmark. It’s a small but fascinating piece of fast-food history nestled in one of America’s most beautiful settings.