Visit Massachusetts through Cannabis Tourism
Cannabis tourism is a burgeoning industry brought on by cannabis’ continued decriminalization and legalization throughout the United States. In Massachusetts in particular, legislation passed in 2016 opening up the adult-use or recreational cannabis market, in the following years – 2017 and 2018, a slew of new dispensaries and cannabis-related businesses began emerging. Cannabis tourism is centered around cannabis consumption, appreciation, and culture. Whether this tourism includes visiting dispensaries to sample their products, or visiting a farm to observe how cannabis is grown, cannabis tourism in Massachusetts opens the door for new businesses and new streams of income for residents.
Though Massachusetts has enjoyed a legal adult-use market for the past several years, recreational dispensaries are far fewer than medical dispensaries. Visitors to Massachusetts should take note that you must be 21 to purchase cannabis products and may only hold up to one ounce of flower but not more than 5 grams in the form of concentrates. Additionally, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public or on federal lands, so unfortunately, you won’t be able to spark up at the beach or at any of our great historic sites. However, if you do some digging, you can potentially find a cannabis-friendly lodging and as long as you’re permitted to consume on private property, you can enjoy your haul within legal purview.
As the cannabis industry and community grows, it’s important that we discuss cannabis friendly tourism in Massachusetts. As one of the largest markets on the East Coast with an already thriving tourism industry in the state, it’s only a matter of time before cannabis enthusiasts begin incorporating their favorite product into their travels. At Bud’s Goods, we’re already seeing an influx of cannabis tourism at our locations in Worcester, Abington, and Watertown, and we foresee Massachusetts becoming an even more popular destination for tourists looking to enjoy cannabis culture.
What to Expect Visiting Dispensaries in MA
If you’re visiting Massachusetts and decide to seek out quality cannabis products, look no further than our own Buds Goods’ dispensaries. Bud Goods has three cannabis dispensaries open for recreational, adult-use consumers to shop and explore. Choose your nearest shop with options in Watertown, Worcester, or Abington and dive into our great quality cannabis products for equally great prices. Shop for prerolls and purchase Lil Jay’s, our own line of prerolls conveniently stored in a pocket-sized tin, or choose from our selection of flower. Bud’s Everyday flower, or Bud’s Finest for the cannabis connoisseurs. If you’re seeking the best bang for your buck, try the People’s Eighth, aka, Lil Buds, the most affordable eighth in Massachusetts!
If it’s your first time shopping at a Massachusetts cannabis dispensary, there are some essential guidelines to follow.
- You must be 21 with a valid ID to purchase cannabis. It’s illegal to consume onsite, in your car or in public places, so be mindful and keep your goods packed until you get to your destination!
- Most dispensaries are cash only and do not accept debit or credit cards. At most locations, there will be an ATM onsite, but coming prepared will only save you time. At Bud’s Goods, we accept cash, debit cards, and IBEX Lightning Pay (bitcoin).
- Last but not least, regardless if you are a Massachusetts resident or an out-of-state visitor, there are purchasing limits applied when shopping for cannabis. If you’re unsure about any requirements or limits, ask your budtender and they can elaborate on local laws or restrictions.
At Bud’s Goods, we have a staff of friendly, knowledgeable budtenders who are happy to guide you through our product selection or educate you on any laws pertaining to enjoying your cannabis while staying in the state.
What to Bring for Weed Tourism in Massachusetts
When you visit a Massachusetts dispensary, be sure to bring along a photo ID like a resident’s card, state issued driver’s license, or valid passport. Also, ensure that you have adequate cash or a debit card on hand, since most if not all dispensaries do not accept credit cards. If you do not have proper identification or payment methods, you will unfortunately be unable to purchase cannabis at any state licensed dispensary.
Once you’ve gathered the proper identification and payment methods, it would be wise to consider any accessories you may need to enhance your cannabis experience. Whether you’re looking for rolling papers, pipes, or a rig for your concentrates, certain accessories may be a necessity. If you plan on consuming flower, consider a grinder, rolling papers, and a lighter. If you prefer concentrates, you may need a vape pen battery or a dab rig to consume your purchases. At Bud’s, we carry papers, lighters, cones, bongs, chillums, and more, so we’ve got you covered, no matter what your favorite consumption method is.
Look Out For *This* When in Massachusetts for Cannabis Tourism
When searching for a dispensary, be sure to check that they are, in fact, state licensed. It is unwise to purchase products off of the street since you cannot verify the product’s integrity or authenticity. Some ways that you can ensure you’re buying authentic products is by shopping at a legal recreational dispensary. Furthermore, many brands display QR codes on their packaging that will allow you to see its COA, or Certificate of Analysis, so you know exactly what you’re consuming. By shopping at a quality dispensary, you can rest assured that you’re purchasing high quality, authentic cannabis products from some of Massachusetts’s best purveyors.
What is and isn’t Allowed
Once you purchase your cannabis, there are rules to follow once you leave the dispensary.
- Your cannabis products must remain sealed, and you cannot display or consume cannabis in public. It’s your best bet to wait until you arrive at your destination where cannabis consumption is permitted to start checking out your purchase.
- Additionally, it is illegal to cross state lines with cannabis, even if your home state has its own legal program.
- Finally, you cannot mail your cannabis products home, either. As per federal law, cannabis cannot be transported across state lines in the mail or otherwise.
At this point in time there are a large variety of cannabis products available for purchase in Massachusetts. This options include:
- Cannabis drinks : these are beverages like seltzers that are infused with THC or other cannabinoids.
- Flower: cannabis flower available in the form of whole buds, prerolls, or preground.
- Concentrates: rosins, resins, shatter, wax, and other forms of cannabis in concentrated forms which must be consumed via a vape pen or a dab rig.
- Vapes: cannabis concentrates available in the form of cartridges or disposal pens.
- Edibles: cannabis products mean to be eaten via baked goods, candies, or gummies.
- Tinctures: Cannabis in liquid drops.
- Topicals: Cannabis to be applied on the skin via lotions, balms, or salves.
If you’re traveling with your kids, it may be in your best interest to learn How To Be Discreet With Cannabis Around Your Children, and make sure to reseal your products within their child-proof packaging.
Breaking the laws surrounding cannabis consumption in Massachusetts can be met with a fine, but harsher criminal penalties are in place for trafficking or distributing cannabis illegally.
Cannabis Tourism in Different Cities in MA
Best Cannabis Destinations in Worcester
If you’re traveling through Worcester, Massachusetts, we’re happy to report that you’ll be right near one of our Bud’s Goods locations at 64 W Boylston Street. There are a variety of things to see and do in this area, including some unique cannabis-friendly locales.
To start, there’s The Summit Lounge. A members-only private club that allows consumption on-site. If you’re interested, a quick interview with a team member and a small fee allows you to hang out at the lounge, relax, and consume your favorite cannabis products.
If you prefer to spend time outdoors, visit nearby Elm Park. If you’re lucky enough to be there in the summer, you can catch a show as part of the park’s summer concert series. Note that you’re not supposed to consume in public, so you may prefer to pop an edible and enjoy the ride from a blanket on one of the park’s well-maintained lawns.
Cannabis-friendly destinations in Abington and Watertown
Heading east towards the Atlantic Ocean and Massachusset’s grand coastline you’ll come across Watertown and Abington, home to two more Bud’s Goods locations. We can keep you stocked up throughout your trip in Massachusetts, or get you prepared for your journey through Boston or Cape Cod. However you decide to discover the Bay State, you can find prime locations to enjoy your cannabis buzz.
While you’re in the area, stop by Island Grove Park to enjoy nature or a dip in the pond during the summer months, grab a bite at Luci’s Pizza, or if the weather isn’t ideal, go bowling at Webster Timber Lanes. Again, it is illegal to consume cannabis in public, so it’s your best bet to enjoy your cannabis at home and then catch a ride to your next destination.
Cannabis tourism destinations in Boston
Boston is a bustling city with beautiful historic buildings and landmarks and a vibrant community. Voters overwhelmingly backed legalization in 2016 and have since been waiting for the days of cannabis consumption lounges, cannabis yoga classes and the like to arrive in their city. As the state’s government deliberates over the legislation, Bostonians must bide their time by sampling the city’s variety of dispensaries and finding ways to explore their city with a pleasant high.
Some of the top dispensaries in the city include
- Seed: Recreational Cannabis Dispensary
- Cannabist Boston Dispensary
- Ascend Cannabis Dispensary
- Berkshire Roots Dispensary.
In addition to the aforementioned recreational dispensaries, there are a plethora of medical dispensaries also situated in the greater Boston area, but in order to shop there, you must be a registered medical patient and resident of the state.
If you want to explore Boston’s many historic sites, parks and recreation areas, it’s your best bet to get high before you head there, as not to break any local regulations pertaining to public consumption.
Weed Destinations in Springfield
If you’re shopping for cannabis in Springfield, Massachusetts, be sure to check out some of the best dispensaries in the area including
- INSA Cannabis Dispensary
- Liberty Cannabis
- 6 Brick’s – with reviewers boasting “greatest dispensary of all time”.
If you’re a sports fan, enjoy your cannabis and then head to Naismith Basketball Hall of Fame, or the Springfield Museums. Springfield is also home to the Dr. Seuss National Memorial Sculpture Garden, a place to see whimsical presentations of some of your favorite childhood stories.
Must-See Tourism Destinations While Stoned in MA
Massachusetts is a state rich in history, culture, and natural beauty – from historic landmarks to natural wonders, there are tons of must-see destinations dispersed throughout the Bay State.
There’s plenty to do while you’re stoned here – keep your mind and body occupied with the many fascinating historical sites and beautiful natural landscapes throughout the state. For starters, Boston, the state’s capital city, is steeped in history and offers attractions like the Freedom Trail, a 2.5 mile trail that winds through 16 historically significant sites, or satiate your munchies and shopping needs by visiting the Quincy Market. Surrounding Boston is nearby Salem, famous for the Witch Trials of 1692, and Plymouth, the landing site of the Pilgrims in 1620. Fans of the beach will appreciate Cape Cod and its many quaint beach towns, in addition to Martha’s Vineyard, and Nantucket. Whereas fans of the mountains can hike and explore the sprawling Berkshires.
With many dispensaries all over the state, visitors have more than enough options when it comes to purchasing Massachusetts cannabis products. Cannabis tourism in Massachusetts is unique – with a special focus on craft cannabis and social equity initiatives, cannabis tourists will see first-hand the dedication and craftsmanship that goes into New England’s premier cannabis destination. Visit Massachusetts for premium cannabis, enjoy a casual buzz and navigate through the state to experience nature, history, culture, and more.
See You Here!
Massachusetts is a state brimming with quality tourist attractions as well as high quality cannabis. Exploring the state means enjoying a slew of significant sites, natural landscapes, and quaint towns. While you discover the Bay State, you can make your way to a variety of recreational cannabis dispensaries selling various cannabis products from across Massachusetts. While you’re here, it’s important to familiarize yourself with the local laws in place in terms of purchasing, storing, and consuming your cannabis products. Remember, no matter how friendly the area seems, consuming cannabis in public is illegal. It’s best to consume your products at your destination and then venture outside.
The future of cannabis tourism in Massachusetts has yet to be known, but with plans to expand the market to include cannabis consumption lounges and activities, it’s only a matter of time before even more people flock to Massachusetts to enjoy its craft cannabis, diverse community, and abundance of historic sites and natural beauty.
When you visit Massachusetts, learn about some of the most popular strains in MA while you’re here and support legal and responsible cannabis consumption by visiting state licensed recreational dispensaries. If you choose to shop with us at Bud’s Goods, you’ll be shopping for some of the best cannabis products available in Massachusetts, at fair prices, with the guidance of top-notch, friendly and knowledgable budtenders. We look forward to serving you on your journey through Massachusetts!
