Most major retail and grocery stores are closed on Christmas Day, but some convenience stores, pharmacies, gas stations, restaurants, and entertainment options do stay open with limited hours. Specific hours vary a lot by location, so it is always best to check your local store or restaurant’s website or call ahead on December 25.

Big Stores vs. Essentials

On Christmas Day 2025, large retailers and warehouse clubs like Costco and many supermarkets are closed, while a handful of convenience chains stay open.

  • Most big-box and department stores (e.g., Costco, many grocery chains) are closed all day.
  • Convenience and drugstores such as CVS, Walgreens, 7-Eleven, Circle K, and some regional gas chains (like Sheetz) are open, often with reduced or 24-hour schedules depending on the branch.
  • Many grocery stores that are open on Christmas Eve shut down completely on December 25 or keep only a few locations open.

Restaurants and Coffee Shops

A mix of sit‑down chains, diners, and coffee shops open on Christmas Day, often on shortened hours.

  • Casual chains such as Applebee’s, some McDonald’s locations, and certain pizza chains may open, but participation is location‑by‑location.
  • Breakfast and diner‑style spots like Waffle House, IHOP, and many Denny’s are known for being open on December 25, sometimes 24/7.
  • Coffee and treats: select Starbucks and Dunkin’ shops, plus some donut chains like Krispy Kreme, typically operate on limited holiday hours.

Local Spots and Takeout

Beyond big chains, a lot of the action on Christmas Day comes from smaller restaurants and neighborhood businesses.

  • Many Chinese and other Asian restaurants have a tradition of opening on Christmas, especially in dense urban “Chinatown” or international districts.
  • In larger cities, you’ll often find hotel restaurants, upscale bistros, and special prix‑fixe holiday menus available if you book early.
  • Food delivery options depend on which restaurants are open and what hours delivery apps are running in your area.

Other Places That May Be Open

If you just want to get out of the house, there are a few more categories to think about.

  • Gas stations and highway travel stops are frequently open, often with attached mini‑marts for snacks and basic supplies.
  • Some movie theaters, bowling alleys, and tourist attractions run holiday schedules and can be popular for Christmas outings.
  • Banks, government offices, and postal services are generally closed for the federal holiday.

Quick Tips for Christmas Day Plans

Because hours can change year to year and even store to store, a little planning avoids frustration.

  • Always verify: check the store or restaurant’s official site or call a specific location before heading out.
  • Expect reduced hours and limited services at pharmacies and some restaurants, even if the front doors are open.
  • In big cities, hotel restaurants and international districts are your best bet for a real sit‑down meal on December 25.

TL;DR: When asking “what places are open on Christmas Day,” think convenience stores, some pharmacies and gas stations, select chain restaurants and diners, a few coffee shops and bakeries, plus local Asian restaurants and hotel eateries—just always double‑check local hours before you go.

Information gathered from public forums or data available on the internet and portrayed here.