What is mcbarge?

The McBarge, officially named the FriendShip, was a floating McDonald's restaurant built for Expo 86 in Vancouver, British Columbia. Intended to be a showcase of futuristic technology and a unique dining experience, it ultimately failed to thrive after the Expo concluded.

  • Original Purpose: Constructed for Expo 86, it was meant to represent a cutting-edge example of fast-food architecture and dining. Its novel design and location were intended to attract visitors and offer a memorable experience during the world's fair.

  • Design and Construction: The McBarge was built on a barge and featured a distinctive two-story design. It was meant to be a permanent fixture in Vancouver's waterfront, offering panoramic views and a unique dining environment.

  • Post-Expo Decline: After Expo 86 ended, the McBarge struggled to attract enough customers to remain viable. Its location proved to be less desirable outside of the Expo environment, and various plans for its future use fell through.

  • Abandonment and Decay: The McBarge sat abandoned in Burrard Inlet for decades, becoming a local curiosity and a symbol of unrealized potential. It suffered from neglect and deterioration over time.

  • Redevelopment Efforts: In the 2010s, there were attempts to redevelop the McBarge and give it a new purpose. However, these plans faced challenges related to cost, logistics, and regulatory approvals.

  • Current Status: As of recent updates, the McBarge was moved to Maple Ridge, B.C. for refurbishment, but there has been no information about if it's going to be used as a McDonald's or something else.