Check Today’s Opening Hours for REI Stores

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Quick answer

• Store hours can change. Always check online.
• Most REI stores open between 9 AM and 10 AM local time.
• Weekend hours might be shorter.
• Holiday hours are often different.
• Some stores have special event hours.
• Look up your specific store’s page for the most accurate info.

What to check first (do this before you drive out)

Before you head out to REI, do a quick digital check. It saves you a wasted trip.

• Land manager / legality: This isn’t about land managers like USFS or BLM. This is about REI’s own business hours. They are the “land manager” of their store. Legality here means checking their stated hours.
• Access/road conditions: Again, not about trails. This is about getting to the store. Is the mall or shopping center where it’s located having any access issues? Sometimes construction or special events can mess with parking or entrances. Unlikely, but worth a thought if you’re going to a super remote REI. (Just kidding, they’re all in civilized places).
• Fire restrictions + weather + wind: For REI, this translates to: are there any local events, sales, or unexpected closures that might affect their hours? Think big sales, or maybe a weird power outage. Weather’s less of a direct impact unless it’s a hurricane, but it’s good to keep in mind for any travel.
• Water plan + waste plan (Leave No Trace): Not applicable for store visits. Your “waste plan” is just not littering in their parking lot. Your “water plan” is bringing a water bottle if you plan to shop for a while.
• Safety (wildlife, distance to help, comms): Safety at REI means being aware of your surroundings in a retail space. Keep your phone charged in case you need to look up something else or call someone. Distance to help is usually pretty close in a shopping center.

Step-by-step (field workflow)

Here’s how to nail down those REI hours.

1. Go to the REI website.

• What “good” looks like: You’re on the main REI.com page.
• Common mistake: Typing “REI” into a search engine and clicking the first ad that looks right. Stick to the official site.

2. Find the “Store Locator” or “Find a Store” link.

• What “good” looks like: It’s usually in the header or footer of the page.
• Common mistake: Getting sidetracked by all the cool gear on the homepage. Focus!

3. Enter your zip code or city/state.

• What “good” looks like: A list of nearby REI stores pops up.
• Common mistake: Typing in a street address. Zip code is usually faster and more reliable.

4. Select your specific store.

• What “good” looks like: You’re on the individual store’s page.
• Common mistake: Clicking on a store that’s further away than you intended. Double-check the name and location.

5. Look for the “Hours” or “Store Hours” section.

• What “good” looks like: A clear list of opening and closing times for each day of the week.
• Common mistake: Skimming and assuming all days are the same. They often aren’t.

6. Check today’s date specifically.

• What “good” looks like: You’ve confirmed the hours for this particular day.
• Common mistake: Just glancing at the general weekly hours and not noticing a holiday or special event adjustment.

7. Note any special holiday hours.

• What “good” looks like: You’re aware if it’s a shorter day or if they’re closed for a holiday.
• Common mistake: Showing up on a major holiday like Thanksgiving or Christmas and finding it closed.

8. Look for any “Special Hours” notices.

• What “good” looks like: You see a banner or note about an upcoming sale, event, or temporary change.
• Common mistake: Missing a temporary closure notice for inventory or staff training.

9. Bookmark the store’s page (optional but smart).

• What “good” looks like: You can quickly access this info next time.
• Common mistake: Having to search for it all over again every single time.

Common mistakes (and what happens if you ignore them)

Mistake	What it causes	Fix
Relying on outdated general hours	Driving to a closed store, wasting time and gas.	Always check the specific store’s page online before you leave.
Not checking holiday hours	Arriving on a holiday to find the store unexpectedly closed.	Look for holiday hour notices on the store’s page.
Confusing weekday and weekend hours	Arriving too early or too late on a Saturday/Sunday.	Note the distinct hours listed for weekend days.
Ignoring “Special Hours” notices	Missing a temporary closure or early closing for an event.	Read all notices on the store’s page carefully.
Assuming all REI stores have the same hours	Going to the wrong store or finding it closed when another is open.	Use the store locator and check the <em>specific</em> store’s page.
Not checking before leaving the house	The classic “driving for nothing” scenario.	Make it a habit: a 30-second check saves a 30-minute drive.
Mistaking mall hours for store hours	The mall might be open, but the individual store isn’t yet.	Focus on the <em>store’s</em> listed hours, not just the shopping center.
Not having a backup plan if the store is closed	Frustration and a wasted trip.	Have another errand or activity in mind if your REI trip fails.

Decision rules (simple if/then)

• If it’s a major holiday (like Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day), then assume the store might be closed or have very limited hours because most retail businesses do.
• If you’re going on a Sunday, then check the weekend hours specifically because they are often different from weekdays.
• If you see a banner on the store’s page mentioning “Special Event Hours,” then read it carefully because it might mean an earlier closing.
• If you’re unsure about any day, then check the store’s specific page before you leave your house because it’s the most reliable source.
• If you’re planning a trip on a weekday morning, then expect most stores to open between 9 AM and 10 AM local time, but always confirm.
• If you’re looking for late-night shopping, then you’re probably out of luck; REI stores generally close by 8 PM or 9 PM at the latest.
• If you’re driving from a distance, then double-check the hours right before you get in the car, just in case of last-minute changes.
• If you need to return an item, then make sure you know the store’s hours so you don’t miss the return window or the store’s closing time.

FAQ

What time does REI usually open on weekdays?

Most REI stores open their doors between 9 AM and 10 AM local time on weekdays. It’s always best to confirm the exact time for your local store.

Are REI store hours different on weekends?

Yes, weekend hours can vary. Many REI stores have slightly shorter hours on Saturdays and Sundays, so check the specific listing for the day you plan to visit.

Does REI close early on holidays?

REI typically observes major holidays. They may be closed entirely or have significantly reduced hours on holidays like Thanksgiving, Christmas, and New Year’s Day. Always verify holiday hours.

How can I find the hours for a specific REI store?

The best way is to use the “Store Locator” on the official REI.com website. Enter your location, find your store, and check its dedicated page for the most current hours.

What if the store’s website says one thing, but I heard something else?

Trust the official store page on REI.com. Information from other sources might be outdated or incorrect. The website is your most reliable source for current operating hours.

Can I call the store to ask about hours?

You can, but checking the website is usually faster and more reliable. Store phone numbers are available on their individual pages if you prefer to call.

Do REI stores ever have special event hours?

Yes, sometimes REI stores adjust their hours for special sales events, community gatherings, or other circumstances. Look for announcements on their store page.

What this page does NOT cover (and where to go next)

• Specific inventory or product availability. (Check product pages online or call the store).
• Detailed information on REI membership benefits. (Visit the membership section of REI.com).
• Local trail conditions or outdoor activity recommendations. (Consult local park services or outdoor forums).
• Reviews of specific outdoor gear. (Look for product reviews on REI.com or outdoor gear review sites).