Missouri has some of the more relaxed alcohol laws in the United States, but the rules still vary depending on where you purchase alcohol and whether you’re drinking on-site or taking it home. If you’re planning a party, traveling through the state, or simply want to avoid last-minute surprises, it’s important to know: What time do they stop selling alcohol in Missouri?
Here’s a complete breakdown of Missouri’s alcohol sale hours.
Retail Alcohol Sales (Beer, Wine, and Liquor)
Missouri allows grocery stores, convenience stores, gas stations, and liquor stores to sell all types of alcohol—beer, wine, and spirits. State law sets the following sale hours:
Retail Sale Hours:
- Daily: 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
This means most places can sell alcohol until 1:30 a.m., seven days a week. There are no statewide Sunday restrictions, making Missouri more flexible than many states.
However, local governments can pass stricter rules, so some municipalities may close earlier. But the statewide guideline allows for late-night sales almost everywhere.
Bars, Restaurants, and Nightclubs
If you are drinking at a bar or restaurant, the rules differ slightly. Establishments with a full liquor-by-the-drink license can serve alcohol at the following times:
On-Premise Service Hours:
- Daily: 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Just like stores, bars must stop serving at 1:30 a.m. Many will announce “last call” around 1:00–1:15 a.m. to comply with closing rules.
Extended-Hours Licenses
Certain entertainment districts and tourist areas—especially in cities like St. Louis, Kansas City, and Columbia—allow businesses to apply for extended hours.
Those venues may serve until:
- 3:00 a.m.
These extended permits are limited and usually apply only to nightlife-heavy zones.
Sunday Alcohol Sales
Missouri previously restricted Sunday sales, but the laws have since changed. Now:
- Stores can sell alcohol on Sundays from 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
- Bars and restaurants follow the same hours.
Some local jurisdictions may tighten these hours, but statewide, Sunday rules are almost identical to weekday rules.
Holiday Sales
Missouri is one of the least restrictive states when it comes to holiday alcohol laws. Stores and bars may sell alcohol on:
- Christmas Day
- Thanksgiving
- New Year’s
- Independence Day
- All other holidays
Whether a store or bar is open is up to the business—not state law.
Alcohol Delivery and Curbside Pickup
Missouri allows alcohol delivery, including from grocery stores, liquor shops, and restaurants. Delivery providers must follow the same legal hours:
- 6:00 a.m. to 1:30 a.m.
Age verification is required at the doorstep.
Why Understanding Local Variations Matters
While Missouri’s statewide laws are fairly consistent, local counties and cities can enforce earlier closing times. If you’re in smaller towns or rural areas, retail cutoffs may be stricter than the statewide maximum.
Whether you’re a resident planning a late-night run or a visitor enjoying Missouri’s nightlife, knowing local alcohol hours helps ensure a smooth, legal experience.
