If you visit Sedona, Arizona, one McDonald’s looks very different from the rest. Instead of the familiar golden arches, this location features turquoise ones. As the article notes, “Unlike the typical golden arches that symbolize the fast-food giant, the McDonald’s in Sedona stands out with its captivating turquoise arches.”

The reason comes down to Sedona’s famous scenery. The city is known for its dramatic red rock landscape and has strict rules to protect its natural beauty. When McDonald’s planned to open there in 1993, “city officials feared that the bright yellow color would clash horribly with the vivid red rocks.”

Rather than reject the restaurant, the city and company looked for a compromise. They settled on turquoise arches, a color that fit better with the surroundings. According to the article, “Turquoise…not only complemented the red rock landscape but also added a touch of uniqueness.” The choice showed Sedona’s commitment to blending buildings into nature.

The result quickly became popular. “Visitors from all around the world were captivated by the harmonious blend of colors.” Today, the turquoise-arched McDonald’s is more than a fast-food stop—it’s a local landmark and a reminder that even global brands can adapt to respect natural beauty.