Cannabis may not be legal in every US state, but the places that permit recreational use have carved out a unique corner in the travel industry.
Weed-infused tourism is a $17 billion industry despite only being legal in 19 states. As people become more comfortable experimenting with it, we’re seeing more weed-friendly travel guides for those who want to experience the high life.
Upgraded Points — a site dedicated to information on all things travel and reward programs — ranked the best and worst places for a “canna-cation” based on 26 factors including cost and weed friendly activities.
On Thursday, President Biden moved to pardon thousands with federal marijuana convictions and encourage states to follow suit. If you’re feeling more empowered to dive into the world of cannabis, here are the top 10 best cities for a ganja getaway, according to Upgraded Points.
10. Las Vegas, Nevada
Although the use of weed is prohibited in public places, Las Vegas still managed to crack the top 10 best cities. Travelers can find activities and places to stay that permit the use of cannabis — including cannabis bus tours and smoking at the Las Vegas location of popular chain Topgolf.
Overall score out of 50: 32.19
9. San Jose, California
Like another California city on the list, San Jose’s location in the Bay Area means you’re just an hour away from San Francisco. You’ve heard of food delivery services, but in San Jose you can get weed delivered to your door.
Overall score out of 50: 32.50
8. Colorado Springs, Colorado
According to Upgraded Points, Colorado is the third cheapest place to buy an ounce of marijuana for an average cost of $241.75. It’s no wonder three Colorado cities have landed on the list — including Colorado Springs.
The creative weed user might enjoy painting some “pothead pottery.”
Overall score out of 50: 33.95
7. Henderson, Nevada
Henderson landed itself in the top 10 thanks to its 118 weed-friendly Airbnb listings per 100,000 people, according to Upgraded Points.
Like others on the list, its wide offering of affordable lodging where weed is allowed earned it the seventh spot. And, of course, there are multiple local dispensaries to visit.
Overall score out of 50: 34.89
6. Scottsdale, Arizona
Located just 13 miles outside of Phoenix, Scottsdale, offers cheaper accommodations with a proximity to activities, including a cannabis-infused dinner with private chefs.
Overall score out of 50: 35.45
5. Portland, Oregon
According to Upgraded Points, Portland offers a wide variety of fun that doesn’t just allow the use of cannabis, but also includes it in the activity.
Yoga enthusiasts can enjoy ganja yoga where each session begins with marijuana use followed by a yoga class for all levels. Wake-and-bake drag shows also are not to be missed if you’re in Portland, Upgrade Points says.
Overall score out of 50: 36.09
4. Boulder, Colorado
The city of Boulder describes itself as a “perfect balance of urban and outdoors.” In addition to being able to enjoy a joint while you hike, it offers cannabis tours of local dispensaries for those who want a look behind the scenes of the industry.
Overall score out of 50: 36.70
3. Oakland, California
Coming in at number three, Oakland offers its very own Cannabis Trail — a map of cannabis-friendly businesses and activities for visitors. Situated in the Bay Area of California, the city has proximity to San Francisco and the wine country as well.
According to Upgraded Points, Oakland is the cheapest city for a four-day cannabis vacation for one person.
Overall score out of 50: 36.90
2. Portland, Maine
Like Henderson, Portland, Maine, finds itself on this traveler’s list for its many 420-friendly stays. Activities include a walking tour for the cannabis curious and many “bud and breakfasts.”
Overall score out of 50: 37.68
1. Denver, Colorado
Denver ranks number one on Upgraded Points’ list by quite a few points. According to the site, cannabis-friendly accommodations are much more affordable compared to cities like Los Angeles or Reno, Nevada.
Those planning a trip to Colorado’s capital can add a paint-and-puff class to their itinerary if they want to paint while enjoying marijuana.
Overall score out of 50: 41.19
