Cannabis Tourism: Opportunities, Ethics, and Experiences
As cannabis legalization expands, cannabis tourism has rapidly become more popular. Whether you’re traveling within the United States or abroad, people are seeking more weed-friendly destinations. Cannabis tourism has quickly become a major sector of the travel industry, providing travelers with access to cannabis culture that may be considered illicit in their home state or country. The first step to understanding cannabis tourism is to know which states and countries it’s legal to purchase and consume cannabis. Keep in mind there are caveats for each country and state.
Cannabis Tourism
Amsterdam is the most popular 4-20-friendly destination in the world. Dozens of cannabis cafes line the streets and offer the opportunity to smoke and eat cannabis-infused baked goods. Purchasing cannabis is as simple as ordering off a menu. Within Amsterdam, there are 4-20 friendly hotels, hostels, and events. The Bulldog and Barney’s Coffeeshop continue to be two of the most internationally well-known cannabis coffee shops.
Jamaica: While cannabis in Jamaica is recreationally illegal, it continues to be a huge part of the culture and a commonly consumed substance. For over 200 years, Rastafarians have used cannabis (locally known as ganja) for spiritual ceremonies. Cannabis was made completely illegal in 1913 and only became decriminalized in 2015. Despite the legal ramifications, the plant is still heavily intertwined with the culture. Possession up to 56 grams is punishable by a fine of $5 US dollars and is considered to be a petty offense if you’re able to purchase cannabis recreationally, head to Epican, Island Strains Herb House, and Kaya Herb House.
California: Many tourists travel to California for cannabis tourism. California is one of the largest cannabis-producing regions in the country and home to the infamous Green Triangle. After being legalized in 2016, California continues to be one of the biggest destinations for cannabis tourists. Hundreds of dispensaries and cannabis brands specific to California can be found throughout the state. California is also home to some of the largest 420-friendly events (Hall of Flowers, High Times Cannabis Cup, and Northern Nights Music Festival) and 420-friendly hotels (The O Spa, Flamingo Resort, The Sandman, and more.
Colorado: As the first state in the US to legalize weed, Colorado continues to be the leader in cannabis tourism. Whether it’s cannabis-friendly lodging, tours, and even 4-20 friendly party buses, colorado continues to be the leader in cannabis tourism. The most well-known cannabis holiday, 4-20, is extremely popular in Colorado. Thousands of people gather in fields to consume cannabis.
Although cannabis may be recreationally or medically legal, you must review the laws in depth in order to stay safe and remain legally compliant
Countries Where Weed Is Legal
Weed is recreationally legal in Canada, Georgia, Germany, Luxembourg, Malta, Mexico, South Africa, Thailand, Uruguay, United States (24 States), and Australia (Varies by Jurisdiction) and considered to be the best weed-friendly countries in the world.
Weed is medically legal in Albania, Argentina, Australia, Barbados, Brazil, Canada, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Ecuador, Finland, Georgia, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Lebanon, Luxembourg, Malawi, Malta, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, North Macedonia, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Portugal, Rwanda, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, San Marino, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Switzerland, Thailand, Ukraine, the United Kingdom, United States (38 States), Uruguay, Vanuatu, Zambia, and Zimbabwe.
Map of Countries Where Weed is Legal
See below for a map where weed is legal throughout the world.
Countries Where Weed Is Illegal
As of October, 2024, the use of recreational cannabis is considered illegal in most countries. Some countries have decriminalized cannabis possession, which means that users who are in possession of weed may be fined. The majority of the world still considers cannabis highly illegal. Countries including the United Arab Emirates, Indonesia, Singapore, Saudi Arabia, Russia, and France have the strictest weed laws. Punishments include everything from 1 year of jail time to the death penalty. Despite cannabis being decriminalized in America, US citizens are not exempt from these punishments and they often make examples out of foreigners.
States in the US Where Weed Is Illegal
Weed is recreationally legal in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York, Oregon, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and Washington.
Weed is medically legal in the states above, as well as, Hawaii, Louisiana, Mississippi, North Dakota, Alabama, Arkansas, Kentucky, Oklahoma, Pennsylvania, New Hampshire, Florida, South Dakota, Utah, and West Virginia.
Map of United States Where Weed is Legal
As mentioned above, weed is recreationally legal in 24 states and medically legal in 38 states. State laws vary on how much cannabis you can purchase, the types of cannabis you can purchase, and how you can purchase cannabis. See below for a map where weed is legal throughout the United States.
As legalization grows, tourists are increasingly seeking more opportunities to engage with the cannabis industry. Whether it’s traveling internationally or exploring locally, including consumption lounges, hotels, tours, festivals, and concerts, it continues to grow. Whether you’re planning a trip entirely dedicated to exploring cannabis or simply looking for a fun activity, the options are endless. Just remember to stay informed about local laws and regulations, and note that it remains illegal to fly with cannabis.
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Disclaimer: The content provided in this article is for informational purposes only. Please consume cannabis responsibly and follow all local laws and regulations.
Photo by Maarten van den Heuvel on Unsplash
Jamesy0627144, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
