A new study from Upgraded Points uncovers the best U.S. cities for cannabis travel, “where legal weed, premium dispensaries, and unique 420-friendly experiences offer the perfect escape.”
“Cannabis travelers are looking for an atmosphere where relaxation, adventure, and good vibes go hand in hand,” said Keri Stooksbury, editor-in-chief at Upgraded Points. “With more states legalizing recreational marijuana, Upgraded Points updated its 2022 report to take a fresh look at the best destinations for a cannabis vacation. From dispensary density to the cost of cannabis in general, we’re hoping to help you plan the ultimate ‘canna-cation.'”
Study Methodology
Fifty of the largest U.S. cities in states with legalized recreational marijuana were selected using updated data from U.S. News & World Report and the U.S. Census Bureau. Each city was evaluated by 10 key factors related to weed tourism. Scores were then assigned from 0 to 5 per factor, with 5 indicating the most favorable conditions. Weighted factor scores were summed to yield a final score between 0 and 50, with higher totals indicating greater cannabis vacation appeal.
For Airbnb accommodations, filters for “smoking allowed” and “entire home” were applied. The cost of an ounce of high-quality cannabis was factored in, and weed-friendly experiences – such as “Puff, Pass, & Paint” classes, 420-friendly comedy shows, yoga sessions, and drag brunches – were also considered. See the study online for all ranking factors.
Elevated Escapes: The Top U.S. Cities for a Cannabis Vacation
- Denver, Colorado (Score: 40.10): Denver leads with a 32% increase in weed-friendly accommodations since the 2022 study – 41 stays per 100K residents – and boasts 48 dispensaries per 100K residents and plentiful guided cannabis tours.
- Portland, Oregon (Score: 38.74): Portland features affordable lodging at just $161 per night and has seen a 20% boost in dispensary access since the 2022 study, with 55 per 100K residents, plus some of the nation’s lowest weed prices.
- Boulder, Colorado (Score: 38.70): Boulder excels with 67 weed-friendly accommodations and the highest dispensary density, at 70 per 100K residents. This is also complemented by a robust fast-food scene at 63 outlets per 100K residents.
- Missoula, Montana (Score: 36.28): Missoula offers great value with 420-friendly accommodations averaging $180 per night and a high dispensary rate of 68 per 100K residents, ensuring ample cannabis options.
- Burlington, Vermont (Score: 36.15): Burlington stands out with the highest number of weed-friendly stays, at 103 per 100K residents, and maintains a strong dispensary presence, with 52 per 100K residents, making it ideal for a laid-back canna-cation.
New Smoke Spots: The Best U.S. Cities for a Recently Legal Cannabis Vacation
To spark new trip ideas, a secondary ranking was conducted exclusively comparing cities in the 12 states where cannabis was legalized within the last 5 years.
- Missoula, Montana (#1) earns the highest spot with a score of 36.80.
- Arizona has more cities in the top 10 than any other state: Scottsdale (#2), Tucson (#4), and Phoenix (#10).
- The most recently legal city to make the list is Cleveland, Ohio (#9), where weed was legalized in 2023.
Check out the full data, visualizations, and discussion of the ranked results by visiting the study online.