40 Photos Of McDonald's From The '80s And '90s To Show How Things Have Changed

You wouldn’t mix up a photo of an old-timey McDonald’s interior with any other fast food restaurant. Nobody else had the same combination of cheeseburger seats, chunky plastic toys, and a loveable colorful cast of characters: from Ronald McDonald and Grimace to the Hamburgler and Mayor McCheese.

McDonald’s has changed a whole bunch over the years. Some might like the modern look, but a bunch of us would love it if the chain went back to its old playful aesthetic. Even if that’s not possible, we’d settle for a time machine so that we can grab one last old-school Happy Meal.

It’s not just the interior and exterior of McDonald’s that’s changed. The food’s way different, too. If you think that McDonald’s fries tasted better when you were young, it’s not just your nostalgia talking. In 1992, the chain changed how they made them. They switched from beef tallow to vegetable oil.

Let’s not forget how darn awesome McDonald’s Happy Meal toys used to be. I’ve still got my collection proudly displayed on my shelf. Now, whenever I go grab a burger at McD’s and glance at their toy display, I feel a bit disappointed. Either the toys aren’t as cool as before or I grew up.

Finally, let’s remember just how amazing birthday parties at McDonald’s used to be. They were all the rage when I was growing up and they had a bit of everything. We’re pretty sure that kids have a lot of fun celebrating their birthdays at McDonald’s even now, but there’s just something missing. Or that could be the nostalgia talking.