Is McDonald’s Open on Thanksgiving?
Many people search is McDonald’s open on Thanksgiving because they want a quick meal during travel or family gatherings. Most McDonald’s locations open on Thanksgiving Day, but hours often change because many restaurants follow franchise schedules.
In this guide, you will see typical McDonald’s Thanksgiving hours, city trends, and the fastest ways to confirm your local McDonald’s timing.
Quick Answer: Is McDonald’s Open on Thanksgiving?
Most McDonald’s restaurants open on Thanksgiving, but many operate reduced hours.
Airport, travel, and busy urban locations are more likely to open.
Franchise-owned stores may open late or close early.
McDonald’s Thanksgiving Hours 2025 (Typical Times)
Every store sets its own holiday hours.
Here is the most common Thanksgiving pattern:
| Day | Status | What to Expect |
|---|---|---|
| Thanksgiving Eve | Open | Some stores close early |
| Thanksgiving Day | Open (varies) | Many open early and close early |
Typical Thanksgiving Day hours:
- Opening: 5 am to 7 am
- Closing: 12 pm to 6 pm
- Drive-thru: May stay open longer in busy areas
- Delivery: Depends on local partner availability
Always check your store, as hours vary.
Why McDonald’s Hours Change on Thanksgiving
McDonald’s uses a mix of company-operated and franchise-operated stores.
This means every restaurant sets its own hours based on:
- Staffing availability
- Local holiday demand
- Travel activity in the area
- Store ownership rules
- Nearby mall or retail partner schedules
- City or county holiday policies
Because of this, two McDonald’s stores in the same city can follow different hours.
Which McDonald’s Stores Are Most Likely to Open?
Some locations stay open more consistently on Thanksgiving.
More likely to open
- Airport McDonald’s
- Travel plaza locations
- Hospitals or medical centers
- Busy downtown locations
- Tourist zones
- Grocery-partner McDonald’s locations
More likely to close or reduce hours
- Small-town restaurants
- Suburban stand-alone stores
- Low-traffic locations
- Franchise stores prioritizing staff holidays
McDonald’s Thanksgiving Hours in Major U.S. Cities
Use this quick overview to understand what most customers see:
| City | Expected Status | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| New York City | Many open | Travel hubs and Times Square open |
| Los Angeles | Mixed | Airports and downtown stay open |
| Chicago | Mostly reduced | Some suburbs close early |
| Houston | Many open | Local hours vary by owner |
| Phoenix | Good chance open | Tourist zones run earlier hours |
| Miami | Many open | High demand in travel areas |
| Seattle | Mixed | Franchise rules vary |
These patterns help set expectations, but every store chooses its own hours.
Drive-Thru and Delivery on Thanksgiving
Many McDonald’s drive-thru locations open on Thanksgiving.
Some may close earlier than usual because of limited staffing.
Delivery through apps may be available, but menu items can vary.
Menu Availability on Thanksgiving
Most stores keep the full core menu, including:
- Burgers
- McChicken and McCrispy
- Fries
- Breakfast items (in select locations)
- Drinks and McCafé options
Small stores may offer limited menu items because of shorter shifts.
How to Check McDonald’s Thanksgiving Hours Near You
Use these quick steps:
1. McDonald’s App
Search your store to see Thanksgiving hours, drive-thru hours, and which services are active.
2. McDonald’s Store Locator
Enter your ZIP code to see each store’s holiday schedule.
3. Google Maps
Many McDonald’s locations update holiday hours on their profile.
4. Call the Store
This gives the most accurate, last-minute update.
Tips for a Smooth Thanksgiving Visit
- Check hours at least one day before Thanksgiving
- Expect early closing in suburban and rural areas
- Go early to avoid long lines
- Use mobile order for faster pickup
- Try airport or travel plazas for more reliable openings
- Expect reduced staff and slower service in some stores
If you also want to compare coffee options on this holiday, you can check the complete Starbucks Thanksgiving hours guide to see which stores open early in your area. Many coffee lovers also check Dunkin’ Donuts Thanksgiving hours, especially if they want a quick donut or a faster drive-thru option on November 27.
FAQs
Is McDonald’s open on Thanksgiving 2025?
Yes, many McDonald’s restaurants open on Thanksgiving, but hours vary.
What time does McDonald’s open on Thanksgiving?
Most stores open between 5 am and 7 am.
Does McDonald’s close early on Thanksgiving?
Yes, many stores close between 12 pm and 6 pm.
Are McDonald’s drive-thrus open on Thanksgiving?
Many drive-thrus open, but hours may differ from inside dining.
Does McDonald’s offer delivery on Thanksgiving?
Delivery may be available if the store and delivery partners are operating.
Why do some McDonald’s stores stay closed?
Franchise owners choose hours based on staffing and demand.
Is the full menu available on Thanksgiving?
Most stores offer the full core menu, but items can vary.
Conclusion
Most McDonald’s locations open on Thanksgiving, but many run reduced hours depending on ownership and local demand. The best way to confirm your nearest store is by checking the McDonald’s app or the official store locator. With a quick check, you can plan your Thanksgiving meal without any surprises.
