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12 Things Brits Would Be Surprised Americans Can Get Done on a Sunday

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Hey, did you know Sundays are pretty different in the US compared to the UK? While Brits might be winding down and getting ready for the week ahead, many Americans are still out and about, getting things done just like on a Saturday. From late-night grocery shopping to car repairs, the American Sunday can be surprisingly bustling. Let’s take a look at some of the things Brits might find surprising that Americans can do on a Sunday.

1. Do a full grocery shop late in the evening in many areas

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In the US, it’s not uncommon to see grocery stores bustling with shoppers late into Sunday evening. This is quite handy because it means you can run out and grab whatever you need, no matter the hour. Forgot to buy milk or missing an ingredient for dinner? No problem. Just head over to your local grocery store, and you’ll find it open and ready for your late-night shopping needs.

2. Visit huge home-improvement stores

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American Sundays are perfect for tackling those home improvement projects that have been on your mind all week. Huge stores like Home Depot or Lowe’s are open, and you can spend hours browsing through aisles of tools, paints, and garden supplies. It’s the ideal time to get inspired for your next big project at home without worrying about rushing to beat the closing time.

3. Pick up prescriptions from some late-opening pharmacies

Photo Credit: Shutterstock.

Need to pick up some meds but realized it’s already late on a Sunday? In many places in the US, this isn’t an issue. Some pharmacies stay open late, ensuring you can get your prescriptions filled no matter the day. This flexibility can be a real lifesaver when you or a family member isn’t feeling well and you suddenly need medicine.

4. Shop without Britain’s six-hour Sunday restriction for large stores

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One of the biggest shocks for Brits might be the lack of a strict six-hour shopping limit on Sundays that they’re used to back home. In the U.S., many stores stay open much longer, which means more time to shop at your own pace. Whether you’re browsing for clothes, electronics, or furniture, you can take your time and shop without watching the clock.

5. Get a car serviced at some locations

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Ever wake up on a Sunday and decide it’s time to get that oil change or tire rotation? In the US, this is totally doable. Some auto service centers are open, allowing you to care for your car maintenance without cutting into your busy weekday schedule. This convenience means your car is ready to go for the week ahead with no hassle.

6. Visit warehouse clubs for a huge weekly shop

Photo Credit: Pexels.

If you’re planning a big shopping haul, American warehouse clubs like Costco or Sam’s Club are open on Sundays. These clubs are great to stock up on bulk items, from groceries to electronics, often at discounted prices. It’s a great way to prepare for the week or even the entire month in one go.

7. Get food from drive-thrus late into the night

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Feeling peckish late at night on a Sunday? No worries. Numerous fast-food joints with drive-thru services are open late across the US. Whether it’s a burger, pizza, or something else you’re craving, you can grab it on the go without having to leave your car, making it super convenient for a lazy or busy Sunday night.

8. Buy household essentials from large stores

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Run out of toilet paper or need some last-minute cleaning supplies? On American Sundays, you can easily head to big stores like Walmart or Target and get what you need. These stores not only have a wide range of products but also have extended hours on Sundays, making it easy to shop for household necessities at almost any time.

9. Visit shopping centres for much of the day

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Spend your Sunday strolling through shopping centres, browsing stores, or even catching a movie. In the US, malls and shopping centres offer a full day of entertainment and shopping opportunities, unlike the restricted hours you might find elsewhere. It’s a great way to relax and enjoy your weekend to the fullest.

10. Have groceries delivered into the evening

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Even if you don’t feel like going out, you can have your groceries delivered right to your doorstep in the US, even late into Sunday evening. Many grocery stores offer delivery services that bring your shopping list to you. It’s super convenient, especially if you’ve had a busy weekend and just want to unwind at home.

11. Visit some 24-hour businesses

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In America, the concept of 24-hour businesses means you can pretty much get anything you need at any time. Need to grab some coffee, do a late-night workout, or even shop at a 24-hour supermarket? No problem. The city never sleeps, and neither do these businesses, making life a bit easier if you keep unconventional hours.

12. Treat Sunday almost exactly like Saturday for shopping

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In the US, there’s hardly a difference between Saturday and Sunday when it comes to shopping. Most stores are open with regular hours, and you can shop, dine, and enjoy leisure activities just as you would on a Saturday. This flexibility is great for those who work during the week and want to make the most of their weekends.


We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home.

We are Mary and Eric, the founders of Be Right Back, a blog dedicated to romance around the globe and at home. With over 10 years of experience in dating and traveling to romantic places, we share our favorite date ideas and romantic destinations to help couples level up their relationships. Having lived in and traveled through the USA, we also share our favourite things to do in the States.

With 70,000 monthly readers and 16,000 followers on social media, Be Right Back is your go-to resource for romantic trip ideas and couple activities at home and abroad.

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