Memorial Day: What's Open Near You?

Nick Leason

-Sep 29, 2025

Navigating Memorial Day can be tricky. Many businesses close, but not everything shuts down. This guide clarifies what stays open, helping you plan your holiday whether you need groceries, want to dine out, or seek entertainment. Discover options near you and make the most of the day.

Key Takeaways

Essential Services Open: Grocery stores, pharmacies, and gas stations generally remain open on Memorial Day.
Retail Varies: Many retail stores operate with reduced hours, while some are closed entirely.
Restaurants Mostly Open: Expect most restaurants to be open, possibly with holiday menus or limited hours.
Check Local Listings: Always confirm specific hours for businesses in your area via online searches or phone calls.
Government Closures: Government offices, including DMVs and post offices, are closed on Memorial Day.
Plan Ahead: Confirm opening hours to avoid unexpected closures and make the most of your Memorial Day.

Introduction

Memorial Day, observed on the last Monday of May, is a federal holiday in the United States for honoring and mourning the military personnel who have died in the performance of their military duties. While it's a day for remembrance, many people also use it as an opportunity to gather with family, enjoy outdoor activities, or run errands. Knowing what's open and closed can significantly simplify your planning. — USPS Package Drop-Off: Find Locations Near You

This article provides a comprehensive overview of the types of businesses that typically operate on Memorial Day, offers tips for finding specific locations near you, and addresses frequently asked questions to ensure you’re well-prepared. Whether you need to pick up last-minute barbecue supplies or want to enjoy a meal out, we’ve got you covered.

What & Why: Memorial Day Openings and Closures

What is Open?

Grocery Stores: Most major grocery chains remain open on Memorial Day, though some may operate with reduced hours. This allows you to purchase food and beverages for your gatherings.
Pharmacies: Pharmacies, especially larger chains, typically stay open to provide essential medications and healthcare items.
Gas Stations: Gas stations are almost always open to cater to travelers and local needs.
Restaurants: Many restaurants choose to open on Memorial Day, often with special holiday menus or limited hours. It’s a popular day for dining out.
Retail Stores (Varies): Some retail stores, particularly larger chains, may open with reduced hours. However, many smaller, local businesses may choose to close.
Parks and Outdoor Attractions: Public parks, beaches, and outdoor recreational areas are generally open, providing opportunities for outdoor activities.

What is Closed?

Government Offices: Federal, state, and local government offices, including the DMV and courthouses, are closed.
Post Offices: The United States Postal Service (USPS) is closed, and there is no regular mail delivery.
Banks: Most banks are closed on Memorial Day, though online banking services remain available.
Libraries: Public libraries are typically closed.
Schools and Universities: Educational institutions are closed.

Why the Closures?

The closures on Memorial Day are primarily to honor the holiday's significance and allow employees to observe the day with their families. Government and educational institutions close to reflect the solemn nature of the day, while many businesses close to offer their employees a day off.

Benefits of Knowing What's Open

Efficient Planning: Knowing which stores and services are available helps you plan your day effectively.
Reduced Stress: Avoiding unexpected closures reduces stress and frustration.
Opportunity for Leisure: Understanding your options allows you to make the most of your day off, whether running errands or enjoying leisure activities.

Risks of Not Planning

Unexpected Closures: Arriving at a closed store can disrupt your plans.
Limited Options: Last-minute discoveries may limit your choices.
Wasted Time: Driving around to find open establishments can waste valuable time.

How-To: Finding What's Open Near You

Finding out what’s open near you on Memorial Day requires a bit of research, but it's relatively straightforward. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Use Online Search Engines:

Google: Search on Google using specific terms like "grocery stores open Memorial Day near me" or "restaurants open Memorial Day [your city]."
Bing and DuckDuckGo: Utilize these search engines for similar queries to cross-reference results.

2. Check Business Websites:

Official Sites: Visit the official websites of stores and restaurants you plan to visit. Many businesses post holiday hours on their homepage or in the "Contact Us" section.

3. Utilize Online Maps:

Google Maps: Use Google Maps to search for businesses and check their hours. Look for any special holiday hours listed.
Apple Maps: Similar to Google Maps, Apple Maps provides business hours and contact information.

4. Check Social Media:

Facebook: Many businesses update their Facebook pages with holiday hours.
Instagram and Twitter: Check for posts or stories about Memorial Day hours.

5. Call Ahead:

Direct Contact: Call the business directly to confirm their hours. This is the most reliable method to avoid surprises.

6. Use Apps and Online Directories:

Yelp: Yelp often includes updated hours and reviews for local businesses.
Other Apps: Check apps like OpenTable for restaurant hours and reservations.

7. Local News and Community Websites:

Local News Sites: Check local news websites for announcements about holiday hours.
Community Forums: Local community forums or groups may have discussions about what’s open.

Examples & Use Cases

Example 1: Last-Minute BBQ Supplies

Scenario: You're hosting a Memorial Day BBQ and realize you're out of charcoal and hamburger buns.

Solution: Use Google Maps to find nearby grocery stores. Call the closest one to confirm their hours. If they’re open, you can quickly grab what you need and return home without a major disruption.

Example 2: Dining Out

Scenario: You want to take your family out for a Memorial Day dinner.

Solution: Check restaurant hours on Yelp or OpenTable. Look for restaurants offering special Memorial Day menus. Make a reservation to ensure you get a table.

Example 3: Running Essential Errands

Scenario: You need to pick up a prescription on Memorial Day.

Solution: Use Google to find the nearest pharmacy. Check their website or call to confirm they are open. If it’s a chain pharmacy, it’s likely to be open, but double-check to be sure.

Use Case 1: Planning a Day Trip

If you’re planning a day trip, check the hours of attractions and rest stops along your route. Many tourist destinations may have special holiday hours. Knowing this in advance helps you avoid closed attractions and ensures a smoother trip.

Use Case 2: Local Events

Many communities host Memorial Day parades or events. Check local news and community websites for schedules and locations. Plan your day around these events to participate in honoring the holiday. — Bissonnet Street Houston: Your Complete Guide

Best Practices & Common Mistakes

Best Practices

Plan Ahead: Start checking hours a few days before Memorial Day to avoid last-minute surprises.
Cross-Reference Information: Don’t rely on just one source. Check multiple sources to confirm hours.
Call if Unsure: If you’re unsure about a business’s hours, call them directly. It’s better to be safe than sorry.
Be Flexible: Have backup plans in case your first choice is closed. Identify alternative locations or activities.
Check for Holiday Menus: If dining out, check if restaurants are offering special Memorial Day menus or promotions.

Common Mistakes

Assuming Regular Hours: Don’t assume businesses will operate on their regular hours. Many adjust their schedules for the holiday.
Relying on Old Information: Information from previous years may not be accurate. Always check current hours.
Ignoring Travel Time: Factor in travel time when planning your day, especially if businesses are operating with reduced hours.
Not Making Reservations: If dining out, make reservations to avoid long wait times or fully booked restaurants.
Forgetting Essential Items: Make a list of essential items you need to purchase to avoid last-minute trips to the store.

FAQs

Are grocery stores open on Memorial Day?

Yes, most major grocery store chains are open on Memorial Day, though some may have reduced hours. Check with your local store for specific hours.

Are pharmacies open on Memorial Day?

Yes, many pharmacies, particularly larger chains, remain open on Memorial Day to provide essential medications and healthcare items.

Are restaurants open on Memorial Day?

Yes, most restaurants are open on Memorial Day, often with special holiday menus or limited hours. It’s a popular day for dining out, so reservations are recommended. — Nike Outlet Return Policy: Everything You Need

Are government offices open on Memorial Day?

No, federal, state, and local government offices, including the DMV and courthouses, are closed on Memorial Day.

Is there mail delivery on Memorial Day?

No, the United States Postal Service (USPS) is closed on Memorial Day, and there is no regular mail delivery.

Are banks open on Memorial Day?

No, most banks are closed on Memorial Day, though online banking services remain available.

Conclusion

Planning your Memorial Day activities requires a bit of preparation to ensure you know what's open and what's closed. By using online search engines, checking business websites, and calling ahead, you can avoid unexpected closures and make the most of your day. Whether you’re running errands, dining out, or attending local events, a little research can go a long way.

Before heading out, take a moment to confirm the hours of the places you plan to visit. Enjoy your Memorial Day, and remember to honor those who have served our country.

Last updated: October 26, 2023, 21:12 UTC