| Document and Entity Information Document | Apr. 08, 2020 |
| Cover page. | |
| Title of 12(b) Security | Common Stock, $0.01 par value |
| Amendment Flag | false |
| Entity Emerging Growth Company | false |
| Pre-commencement Issuer Tender Offer | false |
| Pre-commencement Tender Offer | false |
| Soliciting Material | false |
| Written Communications | false |
| Entity Incorporation, State or Country Code | DE |
| Document Type | 8-K |
| Document Period End Date | Apr. 8, 2020 |
| Entity File Number | 1-5231 |
| Entity Tax Identification Number | 36-2361282 |
| Entity Address, Address Line One | 110 North Carpenter Street |
| Entity Address, City or Town | Chicago |
| Entity Address, State or Province | IL |
| Entity Address, Postal Zip Code | 60607 |
| City Area Code | 630 |
| Local Phone Number | 623-3000 |
| Entity Registrant Name | MCDONALDS CORP |
| Entity Central Index Key | 0000063908 |
| Trading Symbol | MCD |
| Security Exchange Name | NYSE |
