Dairy Queen is closing some locations in the United States, with reports indicating closures tied to franchise decisions in different markets. Fast Company reports that three Dairy Queen stores in Alaska—located in Anchorage, Wasilla, and Palmer—shut down during the current month. The Anchorage Daily News attributes the closures to actions by the franchise owner of those locations, according to a Dairy Queen representative quoted by the outlet. Fast Company also notes that recent reductions follow earlier closures in Texas, where over 40 locations reportedly closed in early 2025 amid a remodeling disagreement between Dairy Queen and franchisee Project Lonestar.
The Washington Times reports that Dairy Queen franchisees have shuttered at least 46 locations nationwide since early 2025, and describes the latest round as leaving only one Dairy Queen restaurant in Alaska. While Fast Company says Dairy Queen’s online store locator appears to show outdated Alaska listings, it also states that the company says it has more than 7,800 locations worldwide. Despite the closures, Fast Company reports Dairy Queen is planning to open new DQ Grill and Chill restaurants in Puerto Rico, including 20 openings between now and 2036.
