McTrain? McDonald’s Turned Into a Train

McDonald’s turned into a train in Barstow, CA. Discover the Route 66 icon—and what it teaches restaurant owners and consultants. Visit TheRestaurantCompany.us.

McDonald’s Turned Into a Train

Yes—it’s real. The McDonald’s Train Barstow California location looks like a train station, feels like a train ride, and lets customers eat McDonald’s inside actual train cars. Built along historic Route 66, this iconic restaurant proves that when food meets experience, people don’t just stop—they remember, film, and share.

Recently featured in a video by @TheAutoPIAN, the Barstow McDonald’s has become a viral reminder that smart restaurant concepts never go out of style.

The McDonald’s Train on Route 66 in Barstow, California

This isn’t a pop-up or temporary stunt. The Barstow location is a fully built, stationary themed restaurant designed around classic American rail travel. 

Built From Real Train Cars

• Repurposed authentic train cars used as dining rooms

• Guests sit inside railcars while eating McDonald’s

• Windows, seating, and layout reinforce the train illusion

It’s not an active train stop—but it feels like one.

A Route 66 Landmark

• Located directly on historic Route 66

• Includes a traditional railroad water tower

• Designed like a classic train depot

Interestingly, while trains don’t run through it, Greyhound buses do stop here, keeping the spirit of travel alive.

Why This McDonald’s Became a Destination

Most McDonald’s are convenient.This one is memorable.

People stop here because:

• It’s unexpected

• It’s nostalgic

• It’s share-worthy

• —customers aren’t just eating; they’re experiencing something. That difference matters.

What Restaurant Owners Can Learn From This

The McDonald’s Train Barstow California location quietly delivers a masterclass in restaurant growth.

Key Lessons for Restaurant Owners

• Experience increases dwell time and repeat visits

• Theme doesn’t need luxury—just clarity and commitment

• Unique environments generate free marketing through social sharing

Many independent restaurants already have a story or space like this—they just don’t know how to unlock it.

Why This Matters for Future Restaurant Consultants

If this concept excites you, that’s not an accident.

Aspiring restaurant consultants should notice how:

• A global brand adapts to a local environment

• Operations remain efficient despite creative design

• Brand consistency survives unique execution

Consultants don’t just fix problems—they help owners see opportunities hiding in plain sight.

➡️ Curious about building a career in restaurant consulting?Visit TheRestaurantCompany.us to explore industry insights and opportunities.

(FAQ)

Is the McDonald’s Train in Barstow an active train station?

No. It’s a stationary themed restaurant built from real train cars, not an operating rail stop.

Where is the McDonald’s Train located?

In Barstow, California, directly on historic Route 66.

Can you really eat inside a train car?

Yes. Guests dine inside repurposed train cars for a full train-themed experience.

Why did McDonald’s build a restaurant like this?

To create a memorable, location-driven experience for travelers and tourists.

How does this relate to restaurant consulting?

It shows how strategy, branding, and experience design drive long-term restaurant success.

Conclusion: A Train, a Brand, and a Bigger Lesson

McDonald’s turned into a train—and in doing so, turned a simple meal into a story people still talk about.

For restaurant owners, it’s proof that growth often comes from rethinking experience, not just menus.For future restaurant consultants, it’s a reminder that the best concepts succeed where creativity meets execution.