Cannabis-Friendly Vacation Destinations in the U.S.
Where can you get the best ‘bud and breakfast,’ or toke and hike, or get high and discover the nearby mountain type of experience? Let’s take a look at some of the top cannabis-friendly vacation destinations in the U.S. Perhaps you will want to add some of them to your travel bucket list for 2025.
Legal States with Cannabis-Friendly Vacation Destinations
Twenty-four states now have legal cannabis in the U.S. Of course, each and every place has something special to offer to residents and visitors alike, but let’s explore some of the options for those who truly want a getaway and who may not want to get back to reality so quickly after taking the trip. What are the best cannabis-friendly vacation destinations to consider and sign-up for?
Arizona
With 300 sunny days a year and almost no real winters, Arizona can make a perfect journey all year round. Besides access to weed, you can enjoy the state’s great outdoors and mesmerizing natural landscapes. The capital Phoenix has a budding scene waiting on all cannabis connoisseurs, an urban experience that can be combined with activities such as desert hiking or a mandatory visit to the Grand Canyon. Santa Fe offers a blend of cultural richness and cannabis-friendly places to stay.
New Mexico
What began as a steady but firm push for medical cannabis eventually became a wholesome vibrant cannabis scene. Just like Arizona, resorts in New Mexico have balconies and designated consumption areas where you can indulge in the magic herb. There are diverse dispensary options in major cities, with a handsome selection of mouthwatering local cultivars. Pineapple Fruz, Mimosa, Dulce de Uva and Plasma Gas are just some of the local cannabis strains worth giving a puff.
California
When it comes to choosing cannabis-friendly vacation destinations, California is always one of the go-to options. Pretty much like Amsterdam in Europe. But California’s scene may come with even more perks than you can imagine. California is the biggest cannabis market in the world. San Diego is all about getting high by the beach. Palm Springs is for weed-friendly resorts and spa centers. In San Francisco you will find some of the most iconic lounge places. And if you are into discovering local cannabis heritage, you always have Humboldt’s County.
Colorado
One more cannabis-friendly vacation destination is Colorado of course! The first legal state has recently begun to freshen up its local offer with cannabis lounges. Visit Denver and Boulder for the full-fledged cannabis experience. Cannabis lodging can pair perfectly with skiing during winter or early spring. And having a hot springs experience in-between while ‘buzzed’ may be the ultimate getaway, or just what you needed after a difficult time in your life.
Washington
One of the first things you should do when vacationing in Washington State is visit a dispensary. Seattle has the most dispensary options, with some of the most popular being Uncle Ike, Pot Shop Seattle and Kemp. Tacoma, just 30 miles south of the capital is another exceptionally popular destination with cannabis enthusiasts. There are dozens of cannabis tours to choose from as well. Tours are organized by cannabis companies and often include visits to weed factories and educational activities about cannabis history, science and culture. But the biggest perk with Washington is being able to pair cannabis with the amazing nature all around, so checking out the great outdoors is a must on your trip to the Evergreen State.
Oregon
For many travelers who seek to enjoy weed the legal way Oregon is one of the most favorite destinations in the nation. Dashing stoner shops, moving parties on the bus, fancy spa and relaxation centers and smoke-friendly accommodation, there are multiple ways to experience Portland and its thriving local scene. If you journey to the Beaver state, don’t forget to try some locally-grown classic strains such as Wedding Cake, Blue Dream or Girls Scout Cookies. These are 10 out of 10 grade out there.
Nevada
There were complaints last year that the weed smell was so strong on the Last Vegas Formula One track that it got racers a little bit woozy. If F1 racers were not able to race out from it, probably no one can in Sin City. Las Vegas does have Planet 13 - the biggest cannabis dispensary in the U.S. where you can literally get lost in a space of roughly 112,000 square feet designed just for weed lovers. If you like cannabis and adrenaline on the slot machines, Nevada is the go-to cannabis vacation destination to unwind and have the ‘time of your life.’
Maine
If you are up for the complete opposite of Vegas, Maine is the answer. Medical cannabis was legalized in Maine in 1999 and the state has enjoyed a strong community of caregivers that gave a unique touch to the local cannabis culture. Things have changed since the launch of adult-use in 2016. But Maine remains the ultimate laidback experience where you can power your batteries along the nearby ocean and forests. You can also go places like the Mystique Way Cannabis Park in Auburn, a 32-acre park that offers a variety of cannabis activities.
How to Stay on the Right Side of the Law When Traveling?
There are more than a few cannabis-friendly vacation destinations to choose from these days, but that doesn’t mean that there are no rules in place. In most legal states, you have to be 21 or older to be able to purchase cannabis for recreational use and indulge in it. Another obvious rule is that you cannot smoke on the street or in public places. It can get you in trouble with the law. But that’s why there exist weed-friendly accommodation, cafes, lounges, parks and other amenities where you can toke safely without needing to worry that you might get in any trouble with police officers.
The ultimate tips for safe and carefree cannabis vacation:
- If you are unsure whether smoking is allowed on the spot, bring edibles, tinctures, topicals or other more secretive delivery methods.
- If you engage in outdoorsy ‘high’ trips, have water and other refreshments with you, because weed dehydrates and makes munchies.
- Check out for cannabis possession limits. This is something that could vary depending on which state you stay.
- Don’t drive under the influence. Driving under the influence is strictly against the law no matter which cannabis-friendly (or unfriendly) vacation destination you visit.
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Stephen Andrews
