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.”
The 15 Best U.S. Cities for Cannabis Tourism
“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.
The Top 10 U.S. Cities for a Recently Legal Canna-Cation
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.
