Cracker Barrel is a beloved American restaurant and country store chain, known for its comforting Southern cuisine and nostalgic shopping experience. Many travelers and locals alike often wonder about the best time to visit, especially when planning a breakfast stop or an early shopping trip. Understanding the opening hours of Cracker Barrel locations across the United States can save both time and frustration.

Most Cracker Barrel restaurants welcome guests early in the morning, making them a popular choice for breakfast or a quick coffee before hitting the road. The consistent scheduling of their hours ensures that whether you are traveling through a small town or a busy city, you can enjoy their signature biscuits, hearty breakfasts, and unique country-themed merchandise without uncertainty.

Knowing exactly when a Cracker Barrel opens also helps in planning family outings, road trips, or even business breakfasts. This guide will walk you through typical opening times, variations that may occur by location, and tips to make your visit smooth and enjoyable, ensuring you get the full Cracker Barrel experience right from the start of the day.

Day of the Week	Opening Time	Closing Time
Monday	6:00 AM	10:00 PM
Tuesday	6:00 AM	10:00 PM
Wednesday	6:00 AM	10:00 PM
Thursday	6:00 AM	10:00 PM
Friday	6:00 AM	10:00 PM
Saturday	6:00 AM	10:00 PM
Sunday	6:00 AM	10:00 PM

General Opening Hours

Cracker Barrel is a staple for travelers and locals alike, offering hearty Southern meals and a unique shopping experience. Knowing the general opening hours can make planning a visit much easier, whether you are stopping in for breakfast, lunch, or browsing the country store. Understanding typical daily hours, variations across the week, and differences between restaurant and store timings ensures a smoother and more enjoyable visit.

Typical Daily Opening Time for Most Locations

Most Cracker Barrel locations across the United States open early to accommodate breakfast guests and morning travelers. On a typical day, restaurants and stores open at 6:00 AM, welcoming early risers looking for a hot breakfast or a quick coffee. This early opening schedule is particularly convenient for families, commuters, and road trippers who want to start their day with a satisfying meal or pick up unique gifts from the store.

Closing times are generally consistent as well, with most locations operating until 10:00 PM. This allows guests to enjoy lunch, dinner, or late-night snacks without worry. The consistent schedule reflects Cracker Barrel’s focus on accessibility, ensuring guests can rely on similar hours whether visiting a rural town or a larger city.

Variation by Day of the Week

While Cracker Barrel maintains fairly uniform hours, there are subtle differences between weekdays and weekends that guests should be aware of. During weekdays (Monday through Friday), the early morning opening at 6:00 AM caters to regular commuters, business travelers, and locals who enjoy breakfast or coffee before starting their day. These days often see steady traffic during lunch hours and continue to serve customers until closing in the evening.

On weekends (Saturday and Sunday), the hours largely remain the same, opening at 6:00 AM and closing at 10:00 PM. However, traffic patterns often shift. Weekend mornings are popular with families and groups, so breakfast may be busier and lines longer than during a weekday. Similarly, weekends may attract more shoppers to the country store, making early arrival helpful for those looking to browse without crowds.

Difference Between Breakfast, Restaurant, and Store Hours

Cracker Barrel operates with slightly different focuses for its restaurant and store. The restaurant portion follows the general opening hours, starting at 6:00 AM and serving breakfast until the late morning, usually around 10:30 AM. Lunch and dinner are served throughout the day, with menu options extending into the evening. Some locations may adjust closing times slightly for restaurant service depending on local demand.

The country store, attached to each restaurant, generally mirrors the restaurant hours, opening at 6:00 AM. Many stores remain open until the restaurant closes at 10:00 PM, allowing visitors to shop for home décor, gifts, or nostalgic treats at almost any time during the day. On occasion, the store may stay open slightly later to accommodate last-minute shoppers, but this varies by location.

Understanding these distinctions is important for planning a visit. Guests seeking breakfast early in the morning should prioritize restaurant hours, while those primarily interested in shopping may find the store open for extended hours. Both areas maintain consistent scheduling to create a reliable and convenient experience for all visitors.

By keeping these general opening hours and variations in mind, you can make the most of your visit to Cracker Barrel. Whether stopping in for a hot breakfast, a full dinner, or a leisurely shopping trip, planning according to these schedules ensures a seamless and enjoyable experience every time.

Location-Specific Hours

While Cracker Barrel maintains fairly consistent hours nationwide, knowing the specific schedule for a particular location can save time and avoid disappointment. Location-specific hours are especially important for travelers, families, or anyone planning a visit around mealtimes or shopping. Various factors, including regional demand, urban density, and local regulations, can affect opening and closing times, making it essential to check in advance before heading out.

How to Find the Opening Time for a Specific Cracker Barrel

Finding the exact hours for a specific Cracker Barrel is straightforward. The most reliable approach is to use official sources, as third-party listings may not always reflect temporary changes or holiday schedules. By entering the city, state, or ZIP code, you can quickly pinpoint the nearest location and view its current hours. This ensures you know the precise times for both the restaurant and the attached country store, preventing frustration from unexpected closures.

For travelers planning a breakfast stop or late-night visit, knowing location-specific hours can be crucial. Certain locations near highways or tourist-heavy areas may adjust their schedules slightly to accommodate traffic, while quieter rural locations might follow the standard schedule without change. Checking ahead helps align your plans with each location’s actual operating times.

Using the Official Website or App for Accurate Times

Cracker Barrel’s official website and mobile app are the best tools for verifying location-specific hours. Both platforms allow users to search by location and provide detailed information on opening and closing times, holiday schedules, and even special service updates. The app is particularly handy for travelers on the go, as it can provide directions and real-time notifications about schedule changes.

Additionally, the website and app indicate whether both the restaurant and store are operating, so visitors can plan whether to eat, shop, or both. This dual functionality is helpful for family outings, road trips, or anyone looking to make the most of a visit. Relying on these official channels reduces the risk of arriving at a location that might be temporarily closed or operating under reduced hours.

Examples of Regional Differences

Regional differences in Cracker Barrel hours often arise due to population density and local demand. Urban locations in major cities may adjust opening or closing times to accommodate higher foot traffic during breakfast and dinner hours. These locations might see a longer lunchtime rush or extended evening service, reflecting the busy schedules of city residents and tourists.

On the other hand, rural or small-town locations usually stick closer to the standard 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM schedule. These areas often experience consistent customer flow throughout the day without the spikes seen in urban centers. Holiday adjustments may also differ; for example, some rural stores might close earlier on certain holidays compared to their urban counterparts.

Understanding these regional nuances allows visitors to better plan their meals, shopping trips, or family outings. For example, stopping at a city location for an early breakfast might require arriving earlier due to high demand, while a rural location might offer a more relaxed experience with less crowding.

By checking location-specific hours through the official website or app, guests ensure their Cracker Barrel visit aligns perfectly with their schedule. Whether in a bustling city or a quiet countryside, confirming exact opening and closing times guarantees access to hot meals, shopping, and the full Cracker Barrel experience without surprises.

Holiday and Special Day Hours

Cracker Barrel is a go-to destination for hearty meals, shopping, and family gatherings. During holidays and special occasions, however, the standard opening hours may change, making it important for guests to plan ahead. Being aware of holiday schedules, early closures, or delayed openings ensures that every visit is smooth and avoids the frustration of arriving when a location is closed or operating under limited hours.

Common Holiday Schedule

Cracker Barrel maintains a consistent approach to holiday hours, though some major holidays see notable adjustments. On Thanksgiving, most locations close entirely to allow staff to spend time with their families. This closure applies to both the restaurant and the country store, so guests seeking a traditional Thanksgiving meal at Cracker Barrel should plan to dine a day before or after.

On Christmas Day, Cracker Barrel also typically closes all locations. This is one of the rare occasions when the chain halts operations nationwide. Similarly, Easter Sunday often sees a full closure, although some locations may open later in the day depending on regional demand.

For other widely observed holidays, like Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, Cracker Barrel generally operates on regular hours, maintaining its 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM schedule. These days are popular for road trips and family outings, so expecting larger crowds is wise even when hours remain normal.

Early Closures or Delayed Openings on Special Occasions

Apart from full closures on major holidays, some special occasions can result in early closures or delayed openings. For example, certain locations may close a few hours earlier on Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve to give employees time to prepare for family celebrations. Similarly, some stores may open later on Easter morning to allow staff to attend religious services or participate in local community events.

These variations are more common in areas with smaller populations, where staffing needs and local customs play a significant role. Urban locations may still maintain standard hours on these days due to higher customer demand, while rural locations often adjust schedules more noticeably. Checking ahead is crucial, especially during these transitional periods around major holidays.

Cracker Barrel often updates holiday hours on its official website and mobile app, making these tools the most reliable sources for accurate information. By consulting these resources, guests can confirm whether a location will be open, and if so, the exact times for both the restaurant and the store. Planning ahead reduces the chance of disappointment, especially for families counting on a holiday meal or visitors hoping to shop for seasonal gifts.

Understanding holiday and special day hours allows guests to enjoy the full Cracker Barrel experience without surprises. Being aware of common closures, early closings, or delayed openings helps in planning meals, road trips, and shopping trips efficiently. This foresight ensures that no matter the occasion, whether it’s Thanksgiving, Christmas, Easter, or another special day, guests can still savor the comforting meals, country shopping, and welcoming atmosphere Cracker Barrel is known for.

Factors That Affect Opening Hours

Cracker Barrel’s opening hours are generally consistent across the United States, but several factors can influence the schedule at individual locations. One of the most common factors is regional demand. Urban locations often experience higher foot traffic, which can lead to slightly extended hours during peak times, especially for breakfast and dinner. In contrast, rural or small-town locations may adhere strictly to the standard 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM schedule, as customer flow tends to be more predictable.

Local regulations also play a role in determining hours. Certain states or municipalities have restrictions on operating times for restaurants or retail establishments, particularly on holidays or Sundays, which can result in adjusted openings or early closings. These rules ensure compliance with local labor laws and community standards.

Another consideration is seasonal traffic patterns. Locations near highways, tourist attractions, or seasonal destinations may adjust hours to accommodate travelers during peak travel seasons. For example, a Cracker Barrel near a major ski resort might open earlier during winter mornings, while a location in a vacation-heavy area could see extended hours in summer.

Holidays and special events are another factor affecting hours. Major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter often result in full closures, while smaller holidays or local events may lead to early closures or delayed openings. Cracker Barrel communicates these adjustments through its official website and app to keep customers informed.

Tips for Visiting Early

Visiting Cracker Barrel early in the morning can be a rewarding experience, especially for breakfast lovers and travelers looking to start their day on the right note. One of the key advantages of arriving early is avoiding long wait times. Popular locations, particularly near highways or in urban areas, can get busy soon after opening. Arriving shortly after 6:00 AM ensures a seat without the hassle of waiting, allowing you to enjoy a leisurely meal.

Planning ahead is crucial for a smooth early visit. Checking the specific location’s opening hours via Cracker Barrel’s official website or app helps prevent surprises, as some locations may have slightly adjusted schedules due to regional demand, staffing, or local regulations. This step also ensures that both the restaurant and country store are ready for guests, especially if you plan to shop after breakfast.

Menu preparation is another consideration for early visitors. Most breakfast items are available as soon as the restaurant opens, but some seasonal or specialty dishes may take longer to prepare. Arriving early increases the likelihood of getting your preferred breakfast items before peak hours.

For families or travelers with children, early visits offer a calmer atmosphere. The quieter environment allows kids to enjoy the space without the crowding that builds later in the morning. It also provides time to browse the country store comfortably, as fewer shoppers are present right at opening.

Lastly, consider parking and traffic patterns. Arriving early often means easier parking, especially at busy locations near highways or tourist destinations. It also allows for a smooth start to your day if you’re continuing a road trip or heading to nearby attractions.

By following these tips—arriving shortly after opening, checking hours in advance, and planning around menu and crowd patterns—visitors can make the most of an early Cracker Barrel experience. From fresh, hot breakfast to a quiet shopping trip, starting the day early ensures a relaxed and enjoyable visit.

Additional Services and Hours

Cracker Barrel is more than just a restaurant; it offers a variety of additional services that enhance the overall experience for guests. Beyond dining and shopping in the country store, many locations provide takeout, online ordering, and catering services, each with hours that may differ slightly from the standard restaurant schedule. Takeout typically follows regular restaurant hours, allowing guests to enjoy Cracker Barrel meals at home or on the road, while catering orders often require advance notice and scheduling.

The country store at each Cracker Barrel location is another key service, offering unique gifts, home décor, nostalgic candies, and seasonal items. Store hours generally align with the restaurant, opening at 6:00 AM and closing at 10:00 PM, but some locations may adjust slightly for holidays or special events. Checking the store’s hours online before visiting ensures that you can plan your shopping trip without encountering unexpected closures.

Cracker Barrel also provides holiday-themed promotions and seasonal items, which may have limited availability. These items can often be found in the store or ordered through the official website, and knowing the hours helps maximize your chances of grabbing special products before they sell out.

Online and mobile services have become increasingly popular, allowing guests to place orders, schedule pickups, or browse store items remotely. These services typically operate within standard business hours, though some may have specific cutoff times for same-day orders or delivery. Using the official app or website is the most reliable way to confirm availability and hours for these services.

Finally, certain locations may offer special events or community activities, such as live music mornings, holiday gatherings, or local fundraisers. These events can influence opening or service hours, so staying informed through Cracker Barrel’s official communications ensures a smooth and enjoyable visit.

Understanding additional services and their hours allows guests to fully take advantage of everything Cracker Barrel offers, from fresh meals to unique shopping and community experiences, making each visit more convenient and enjoyable.

Frequently Asked Questions

What Time Does Cracker Barrel Open on Weekdays?

Most Cracker Barrel locations across the United States open at 6:00 AM from Monday through Friday, making it a reliable choice for early risers. This schedule is especially convenient if you want to start your day with a hearty breakfast, a fresh cup of coffee, or a quick stop at the country store for unique gifts and snacks. Opening early also benefits travelers on the road who need a convenient meal before hitting the highway.

While 6:00 AM is the typical opening time, it’s important to remember that minor variations can exist depending on the location. Urban areas with higher customer traffic may adjust their hours slightly to accommodate early commuters, while smaller towns often follow the standard schedule without changes. Closing times usually remain consistent at 10:00 PM, giving you plenty of flexibility for lunch, dinner, or late-night shopping.

Checking the official website or mobile app before visiting ensures that you have accurate hours for both the restaurant and the store, especially during holidays, special events, or local circumstances. Planning ahead helps you avoid arriving too early or late, ensuring a smooth and enjoyable experience. Early visits also give you the advantage of shorter wait times, freshly prepared food, and a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere, which makes your weekday visit much more pleasant.

Are Cracker Barrel Hours Different on Weekends?

Weekends at Cracker Barrel generally follow the same opening and closing schedule as weekdays, with most locations opening at 6:00 AM and closing at 10:00 PM. This consistency makes it easy to plan a visit whether you’re stopping in for breakfast, lunch, dinner, or shopping in the attached country store. However, weekend mornings are typically busier than weekdays, especially at popular locations near highways, tourist areas, or in urban centers. Arriving shortly after opening can help you secure a table quickly and avoid long lines.

Although the core schedule remains the same, some high-traffic or urban locations might adjust hours slightly based on local demand. For instance, breakfast service may extend a little longer or the store might open slightly earlier to accommodate weekend travelers and families. Rural locations, in contrast, usually stick closely to the standard hours because traffic patterns are more predictable and consistent.

Planning a weekend visit also gives you the chance to enjoy the quieter store experience in the early hours, allowing you to browse gifts, home décor, and seasonal items without heavy crowds. Checking the Cracker Barrel website or app before your visit ensures you have the most accurate information, particularly during holidays, local events, or peak travel periods. By planning ahead, you can maximize both your dining and shopping experience.

Does Cracker Barrel Open on Holidays?

Cracker Barrel is open most of the year, but major holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and Easter are exceptions. On these days, locations generally close completely, giving staff the opportunity to spend time with family. If you’re planning a special meal or a visit to the store during these holidays, it’s important to plan ahead and adjust your schedule. Missing these closures can be disappointing, especially during peak holiday travel times.

For other holidays such as Memorial Day, Independence Day, and Labor Day, most Cracker Barrel locations maintain regular hours, typically opening at 6:00 AM and closing at 10:00 PM. While the standard schedule continues, higher visitor traffic is expected, particularly for breakfast and lunch, as many people take advantage of long weekends for road trips or family outings.

Some holidays can also bring early closures or delayed openings. For example, Christmas Eve or New Year’s Eve might see restaurants closing a few hours earlier, while Easter morning may have later openings at certain locations. Checking the official Cracker Barrel website or mobile app provides accurate, location-specific information, ensuring you don’t arrive at a closed store or restaurant. Planning ahead guarantees that you can enjoy your meal, shop in the country store, or make the most of a road trip without disruption.

How Can I Find the Opening Time for a Specific Cracker Barrel?

Finding the exact hours for a specific Cracker Barrel location is simple and ensures that your visit goes smoothly. The most reliable method is to use the official Cracker Barrel website or mobile app, where you can enter a city, state, or ZIP code to get location-specific opening and closing times. This includes information for both the restaurant and the attached country store.

Using these official tools is especially important because some locations may slightly adjust hours based on regional demand, holidays, or staffing considerations. Urban locations with higher traffic might open earlier or stay open longer, while rural areas generally follow the standard 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM schedule. Checking in advance prevents surprises, like arriving too early or too late for your meal or shopping plans.

The website and app also show holiday hours and special events, which is helpful if you plan to visit during peak seasons, major holidays, or local celebrations. Travelers on the go can use the app for real-time updates, directions, and to confirm whether both the restaurant and store are operating. By verifying hours in advance, you can schedule your visit efficiently, ensuring access to breakfast, lunch, dinner, or a quiet shopping experience. Planning this way makes your Cracker Barrel visit stress-free and enjoyable.

Do Store and Restaurant Hours at Cracker Barrel Differ?

For the most part, Cracker Barrel restaurant and store hours are the same, typically opening at 6:00 AM and closing at 10:00 PM. This alignment ensures that guests can enjoy a full meal and then browse the country store without worrying about one area closing before the other. However, slight differences can occur occasionally, particularly during holidays, special events, or staffing adjustments.

Some locations might keep the store open slightly later than the restaurant, giving you extra time to shop after dinner, while others may close the store earlier to allow employees to prepare for closing or holiday schedules. The key to avoiding inconvenience is checking the specific location’s hours via the official website or app, especially if your visit coincides with seasonal promotions or busy travel periods.

Knowing the difference between restaurant and store hours is particularly important for planning family visits, shopping trips, or road trip stops. If your primary goal is shopping, confirming store hours ensures you won’t arrive when the store is closed. Similarly, checking restaurant hours guarantees a fresh breakfast, lunch, or dinner without unexpected closures. Proper planning maximizes your experience at Cracker Barrel and ensures you enjoy both the meals and the shopping opportunities the location offers.

Are There Regional Differences in Cracker Barrel Opening Times?

Yes, regional factors can influence opening hours at Cracker Barrel. Urban locations in cities with higher traffic may adjust hours slightly to meet customer demand, especially for breakfast and dinner. These locations often experience more foot traffic, so opening a bit earlier or closing later helps accommodate commuters, tourists, and families.

In contrast, rural or small-town locations usually follow the standard 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM schedule. Traffic tends to be more predictable, and fewer visitors require adjustments to the hours. Seasonal travel also plays a role. Locations near tourist destinations or highways may alter hours during peak seasons, such as summer vacations or winter ski trips, to better serve travelers.

Other factors like local regulations, holidays, and staffing can also affect regional hours. Some areas may have restrictions on operating times or require early closures on certain holidays. Checking the official website or app ensures you have the most accurate, location-specific information, helping you plan meals, shopping, or road trips efficiently. By accounting for these regional differences, you can avoid surprises and enjoy a seamless Cracker Barrel experience no matter where you are in the country.

Conclusion

Understanding Cracker Barrel’s opening hours can make your visit smoother, whether you’re stopping for a hearty breakfast, a relaxing lunch, or browsing the country store. Most locations open at 6:00 AM and close at 10:00 PM, offering consistent hours across weekdays and weekends. While standard hours apply to both the restaurant and the store, slight variations can occur due to regional demand, holidays, or special events.

Checking location-specific hours through the official website or mobile app ensures you arrive at the right time, avoiding surprises from early closures or delayed openings. Being aware of holiday schedules, regional differences, and additional services allows you to plan your visit efficiently and enjoy the full Cracker Barrel experience. From early morning breakfasts to evening shopping, having accurate timing helps you maximize your visit. With a little planning, every trip to Cracker Barrel can be convenient, enjoyable, and stress-free.