Prince Akeem, played by Eddie Murphy, is dissatisfied with his arranged marriage and the subservient lifestyle that comes with being royalty in Zamunda. He decides to travel to America to find a woman who loves him for who he is and not his status and wealth.
Akeem and his best friend Semmi, played by Arsenio Hall, travel to Queens, New York, where they rent a rundown apartment and take jobs at a fast-food restaurant. Akeem adopts the guise of a poor foreign student in order to attract potential brides who are not interested in his wealth.
As Akeem begins his quest for love, he encounters a number of colorful characters in his new environment. These include his landlord (John Amos), who is also the owner of the fast-food restaurant where Akeem works, and his daughter Lisa (Shari Headley), who catches Akeem's eye.
Akeem initially struggles to win Lisa's affection, as she is already dating the arrogant and wealthy Darryl (Eriq La Salle). However, Akeem persists in his pursuit of her, eventually winning her over with his sincerity and charm.
Meanwhile, Akeem's father (James Earl Jones) becomes aware of his son's activities in Queens and dispatches a team of royal servants to bring him back to Zamunda. Akeem must navigate the challenges of balancing his desire for love with his obligations to his country and his family.
In the end, Akeem proves himself to be a true prince by following his heart and standing up for what he believes in. He and Lisa are united in love, and Akeem returns to Zamunda as a wiser and more compassionate ruler.