The Maxwell House Coffee House (1955–1957) was a cozy, turn-of-the-century-themed eatery on Disneyland’s Main Street, U.S.A., serving hot coffee and light bites to guests craving a morning pick-me-up or a relaxing break. Sponsored by the iconic Maxwell House coffee brand, it was a popular spot in Town Square until its sponsorship ended, and it was replaced by Hills Bros. Coffee House in 1958.
Here are 10 fun facts about this charming, short-lived Main Street gem, brimming with 1950s nostalgia and Disneyland magic!
- Opening Day Brew: The Maxwell House Coffee House opened on December 1, 1955, just months after Disneyland’s July debut, in a prime Town Square spot across from the Mad Hatter shop. It was among 20 eateries planned to serve 15,000 daily guests.
- Perfect Location: Positioned near the park’s entrance, the coffee house was a go-to for morning guests needing caffeine before heading to Sleeping Beauty Castle.
- “Good to the Last Drop”: Sponsored by Maxwell House, famous for its “Good to the Last Drop” slogan (inspired by a 1915 ad campaign, not Teddy Roosevelt, despite 1930s claims), the shop served their signature coffee blends, pastries, and light snacks.
- Stained Glass Charm: The interior boasted elegant stained-glass tulips above the coffee bar, adding a Victorian flair to the 1890s Main Street aesthetic.
- No Balcony Access: The upstairs balcony displayed comfy chairs, tempting guests to linger, but it was off-limits for seating, reserved for decor or storage.
- Corporate Synergy: Maxwell House paid Disneyland $28,599 in lease revenue for the 1957 fiscal year, a tidy sum for the young park. The shop even hosted a Disneyland Gun Club meeting in January 1958, showing its community role.
- Quick Closure: The coffee house closed on October 8, 1957, when Maxwell House ended its sponsorship, possibly due to failed lease negotiations. Hills Bros. Coffee House took over by 1958, keeping the coffee flowing.
- Name Confusion: Officially named “Maxwell House Coffee House,” the redundant “House” sparked errors in guides and maps, which sometimes called it “Maxwell House Coffee Shop.”
- Construction Snapshot: A June 1955 photo (World Wide Photo 6892-aje) shows Walt Disney near the Disneyland railroad station with the coffee house under construction, its wood-and-steel frame rising. It was part of Main Street’s rapid buildout.
- Main Street Aesthetic: The shop’s design, sketched by artist Sam McKim, fit Walt’s rule that Main Street businesses match the era’s aesthetic.
