A decade ago, less than half of Americans supported the legalization of marijuana. Through tireless efforts to educate the public and push companies to standardize the quality and safe production of cannabis products, more than 90% now believe in the cause.
We can see these sentiments reflected in the 35 US states that have lifted the ban on the usage of medical marijuana. A growing number of states are also starting to loosen up their restrictions on recreational weed. The legalization of hemp-derived CBD (cannabidiol) has also encouraged more and more people to experience the therapeutic benefits of cannabinoids.
Because of these positive developments in the industry, cannabis tourism in the US is thriving. We no longer have to bring our passports to visit and have fun in a city where THC (tetrahydrocannabinol) is legal. It’s also high time to explore and discover what these “green” tourist spots offer, given that the pandemic restrictions have also eased up in most areas.
We have listed in this article the US cities where you can best and safely enjoy your favorite strains at consumption lounges, compare the product selections from different dispensaries, or even participate in events celebrating cannabis. In addition to these highlights, you will also find valuable travel tips to remember before planning your itinerary.
Top 10 Cities to Visit If You’re a Cannabis Fan
In no particular order, here are the best cannabis-friendly US cities where you can have a blast and create lasting memories.
Denver, Colorado
Colorado is one of the first two states to legalize recreational weed. Because of this, the state capital—Denver—has ample time to build and nurture a thriving cannabis community. Whether you want to go dispensary-hopping, socialize at consumption lounges or reserve a spot in the Colorado Cannabis Tours, you can quickly fill your vacation days with psychedelic experiences.
Nicknamed the “Mile High City”, Denver is also home to several cannabis-centric establishments that regularly hold festivals, concerts, and other unique events, such as the International Church of Cannabis, Marijuana Mansion, and the Red Rocks Amphitheater.
Average cost: $242 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 250+
Where to stay:
- Arrow Head Manor
- Lumber Baron Inn & Gardens
- NATIV
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Denver Biscuit Company
- Illegal Pete’s
- Snooze
San Francisco, California
The Golden City, along with the Bay Area in general, has risen among the best cities according to cannatourists. You will find a vibrant scene of cannabis-friendly spaces that you won’t likely find in other US cities. For example, San Francisco holds an annual 420 gathering in Hippie Hill at Golden Gate Park. The event is limited to people aged 21 years or older so that every attendee can shop and consume cannabis on-site.
Though many people visit San Francisco for wine tours, there’s also been an uptrend on cannabis tours. Some offer an educational route where you can learn more about the history and culture before going to VIP stops at different cannabis shops, lounges, and restaurants in the city.
Average cost: $281 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 40+
Where to stay:
- Hotel Kabuki
- Noe’s Nest Bed and Breakfast
- Sage Hen Cottage
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- El Farolito
- Bob’s Donuts & Pastry Shop
- Garaje
Chicago, Illinois
After Chicago legalized marijuana in January 2020, residents didn’t waste time enjoying their newfound freedom. Customers continue to line up in various dispensaries where they can purchase both medical and recreational weed. Local establishments, like the Lagunitas Taproom and Emporium Arcade Bar, welcomed cannabis fans since public consumption is still not allowed.
Chicago’s timing didn’t allow them to celebrate the legalization through parties and festivals because of the community lockdowns in the subsequent months. However, the 2021 Lollapalooza gained so much attention that it earned a new sales record of $128 million for recreational cannabis products. Some cannabis business owners also host events—for example, Waldo’s Forever Fest—to keep the momentum.
Average cost: $343 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 50+
Where to stay:
- Aldrich Guest House
- High Society Beds and Buds
- Wake and Bake Bud and Breakfast
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Au Cheval
- Kuma’s Corner
- Tempo Café
Los Angeles, California
LA is all about experiential cannatourism. You can go on a tour to where the cannabis farms in the state, where the most popular strains are grown. Local clubs and event organizers regularly hold 420 festivals, music events, and movie nights. The Museum of Weed also provides an interactive experience to its visitors keen to learn about the history of cannabis around the world.
Your visit to LA won’t be complete without having brunch at the original Cannabis Café. They serve organic food combined with just the right amount of weed to make you feel pleasantly buzzed throughout the day.
Average cost: $295 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 190+
Where to stay:
- Dream Hollywood Hotel
- Hip Hollywood Hotel
- Pot Pod Downtown
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Dirt Dog
- Lucky Boy
- Starry Kitchen
Portland, Oregon
Portland balances accessibility and affordability with its focus on farm-to-table cannabis products. The weed here costs much lower than the national average, but you won’t feel short-changed because of their quality and the stylish dispensaries where they are sold.
The City of Roses is known for its fantastic dining options and bud-and-breakfast lodgings, too. If you timed your trip right, you could also participate in Portland’s cannabis events, such as the Tokeativity, CBD Summer Camp, and Cultivation Classic
Average cost: $213 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 100+
Where to stay:
- Jupiter Hotel
- Mt. Scott Manor Bed and Breakfast
- Ocean Time Bed and Breakfast
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Luc Lac
- Pine State Biscuits
- Voodoo Doughnut
Las Vegas, Nevada
You would think that the so-called Sin City would have a long-standing affinity for weed, but in reality, Nevada legalized its recreational use only in 2017. Nonetheless, Las Vegas embraced this new trend quickly as it became home to the world’s largest dispensary—Planet 13.
In addition to having access to a diverse selection of cannabis products, you can also engage in various weed-centric activities. Many enjoy taking art lessons while lighting it up, while others prefer learning how to make cannabis-infused pastries. For a comprehensive experience, we suggest taking at least one of the many 420 bus tours around Las Vegas.
Average cost: $279 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 50+
Where to stay:
- Shalimar Hotel
- Summerlin Hotel
- The LINQ
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- CRAFTkitchen
- Earl of Sandwich
- Tacos El Gordo
Sacramento, California
This cannabis-friendly city is the best choice for anyone seeking to soak in the scenery and West Coast culture while unwinding with their favorite buds. For instance, did you know that The California State Capitol Museum in Sacramento allows its visitors to smoke weed within its bounds? You can join the free tours given every day to sight-see the art and various exhibits after having a joint.
Another important place to add to your itinerary is the KOLAS megastore. It’s the largest dispensary in the area. Aside from a wide product selection, you can also learn more about the cannabis industry and manufacturing process from the store’s lounges.
Average cost: $212 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 30+
Where to stay:
- Amber House Bed and Breakfast
- Farmhouse Enlightenment
- Sweet Leaf Retreat
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Cafeteria 15L
- Localis
- The Porch
Seattle, Washington
Seattle has a rich history of advocating for the legalization of marijuana. We can see their continued support through the annual Hempfest—considered the biggest cannabis “prostestival” in the world—and 420-friendly spaces.
Growers and retailers have tight competition here, so expect high-quality buds for a fraction of the price. Visitors should also join the many cannabis bus tours in the city to explore the farms, shops, and workshops for weed enthusiasts.
Average cost: $248 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 50+
Where to stay:
- Bacon Mansion
- Green Tortoise Hostel
- Mountain Views Treehouse
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Paseo
- Rocco’s
- Toulouse Petit Kitchen & Lounge
New York City, New York
Tourists flock to NYC every year, and with the recent legalization of recreational marijuana there, it is poised to become one of the hottest cannabis destinations in the world. It’s important to note that the state has yet to release licenses for selling recreational weed, but you’d still find many cannabis shops operating within these gray areas.
The best thing about New York’s cannabis laws is that you can smoke virtually anywhere tobacco is also allowed. That means you can puff a joint in public spaces, like Washington Square Park, clubs, and bars. You might be interested in other attractions like the Café Cannal—NYC’s first and only dining spot serving cannabis-infused food and drinks—and the Gifted BK Art Gallery or The Stone Age, which features eight cannabis-related installations.
Average cost: $381 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: None at the moment but soon
Where to stay:
- Luxury 420BNB
- Stay Lit Guesthouse
- The Standard
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Crif Dogs
- Katz’s Delicatessen
- Pies-n-Thighs
Phoenix, Arizona
Arizona legalized medical marijuana in 2010, and it would take them another ten years to do the same for the recreational variants. However, because of the passionate business owners, Phoenix, along with many cities in the state, did their best to immediately start catering to the massive demand for cannabis of all kinds among the residents and tourists.
In addition to numerous dispensaries and head shops, a weed-centric hotel has been recently launched in Phoenix. It’s not only the first of its kind in the state but also in the entire southwestern part of the country. It’s exciting to explore this budding cannabis haven, given how driven everyone is to make up for the lost time.
Average cost: $292 per ounce of high-quality cannabis
No. of licensed dispensaries: 70+
Where to stay:
- Midtown Garden Hotel
- Red Roof Inn
- The Clarendon Hotel and Spa
Best spots to satisfy the munchies:
- Cheba Hut “Toasted” Subs
- Giant Hamburgers
- Postino Arcadia
Travel Tips for Cannabis Users
Even though several states have legalized the consumption of marijuana for recreation—even more for medical purposes—the relevant laws can vary slightly from one city to another. To ensure that you can travel safely and within the legal limits, keep in mind the following pieces of advice:
Double check the relevant laws in your destination
Yes, our recommendations for the top cities for cannabis tourism only include states where weed is legal. However, laws and regulations can change rapidly. Do a quick search on your browser to find the latest updates before booking your trip.
Another reason to err on the side of caution is the smoking or vaping laws in different states. Almost every state prohibits smoking or vaping in outdoor public spaces. Your joint might be completely legal, but the smoke you’re emitting can get you in trouble.
Look for cannabis-friendly accommodations
If you’re planning to stay overnight, at the very least, take an extra step by reserving a place that welcomes cannatourists. Though the state considers cannabis legal, not every landlord or accommodation agrees with it. After all, getting the smell out of the sheets and curtains can be a nightmare.
We recommend checking out the home-share platforms that specialize in cannabis-friendly listings. If that’s not an option or you can’t find any property that matches your preferences, go ahead and look for other listings but be sure to speak with the property owner or manager about your intention to bring and use cannabis during your stay. Some lucky folks have come across fellow cannabis fans who throw in their favorite products and smoking paraphernalia as welcome gifts to their guests.
Don’t operate a vehicle while you’re “high”
If you plan to go on a road trip, you should never put yourself at serious risk by trying to drive. No matter how high your threshold is, any form of THC can impair your judgment and motor skills. Furthermore, a lot of people are caught every day for this very act, and you don’t want to ruin your entire itinerary by getting busted. Stay sober if you’re traveling alone, or designate a driver if someone else is coming along with you.
Ask for recommendations from the local dispensaries
Some people enjoy taking spontaneous holidays. They pack and go to their dream destinations without much thought about what to do when they get there.
Sounds familiar?
If it does, you can maximize your enjoyment while saving time and effort by heading to the nearest dispensary. Strike a conversation with the owner or budtender. They will often welcome inquiries about the best strains to try or where the cannabis café or consumption lounge is.
So, What are You Waiting for?
We have certainly come a long way in how we view and use cannabis. It’s exhilarating to witness the country—and the world at large—open up to the wonders THC, CBD, and other cannabinoids can bring into our lives.
Though we’re still waiting for the remaining states to loosen their restrictions on marijuana, that should not keep you from enjoying the places that already do. Start by picking any of the best cannabis-friendly cities listed in this article. Do your research and plan your trip accordingly. Remember the travel tips we shared earlier to ensure everything will go smoothly for you.
