In recent years, we’ve seen a lot of states across the US ease their rules and restrictions regarding cannabis use, opening the doors to medical and recreational usage for those who want or need it.
California has consistently led the way on the path to legalization, with the state’s cannabis laws being some of the most relaxed in the country. This has led to a rise in so-called “cannabis tourism,” bringing unique benefits to CA cities like Los Angeles.
What Is Cannabis Tourism?
Before we look at the distinct benefits that cannabis tourism can bring, it’s important to understand what the term actually refers to. In essence, cannabis tourism is basically when tourists travel to a specific place with the aim of enjoying its relaxed cannabis laws.
In recent years, we’ve seen US states like Colorado becoming popular cannabis tourism destinations, and there are also international locations, like Amsterdam, where travelers head to smoke joints or sample cannabis products without the fear of legal repercussions.
The Benefits of Cannabis Tourism
Cannabis tourism brings a range of benefits, both for the tourists themselves and the people and businesses in the locations that they choose to visit. Here are just some of the key advantages being enjoyed by LA and other cannabis tourism hotspots:
- Stress-Free Cannabis Enjoyment for Tourists: The biggest benefit of cannabis tourism for the tourists themselves is that it allows them to try cannabis products and experiences, even if those experiences aren’t allowed in their home states or countries.
- A Boost for Local Businesses: More cannabis tourism also provides big benefits to local cannabis businesses. Cannabis cafes and dispensaries will receive greater numbers of customers, more sales, and bigger profits.
- Increased Tourist Numbers: Cannabis tourism also often leads to more tourism for a city or area in general. People may come for the cannabis but then stay to experience other things, like beaches, restaurants, landmarks, and attractions.
- Diverse and Unique Experiences: Another fun factor about cannabis tourism is the diverse forms it can take and the unique experiences it can provide to visitors, from cannabis tours and cruises to cannabis-infused wine tastings or edible samples.
- Discovering New Locations: Cannabis tourism can also help tourists discover and visit places that they might not have otherwise visited. Many people have discovered beautiful regions in South America, for example, through cannabis tourism.
A History of Marijuana Laws in California
California has always led the way when it comes to marijuana law. The Golden State set the standard for other states to follow way back in 1996 when it brought in new laws to allow for medical marijuana usage with the Compassionate Use Act (Prop 215).
In 2003, the state went further, with its Medical Marijuana Program Act introducing patient medical marijuana cards and the ability for patient collectives to cultivate and distribute marijuana to members.
In recent years, California has continued to pave the way towards making marijuana more accessible through the Medical Cannabis Regulation and Safety Act and the Adult Use of Marijuana Act. Thanks to this, California recreational marijuana laws allow adults aged 21+ to possess and use cannabis recreationally.
Experiencing Cannabis Tourism in Los Angeles
The innovative, bold, and pioneering approach of California towards marijuana law has made the state and its cities prime destinations for cannabis tourism. And, in a city like LA, the opportunities and experiences available for cannabis tourists are diverse and exciting.
Cannabis Events and Activities
LA is a major hub for cannabis events. This can include everything from scientific conferences exploring the benefits and uses of medical cannabis to new Los Angeles dispensary openings, get-togethers for cannabis lovers, cannabis wellness experiences, and even cannabis brunches or art shows, too. The options are endless and the calendar is always full of cannabis events.
Cannabis-Friendly Accommodations
There is an increasing number of cannabis-friendly hotels and accommodation options in California cities like LA. These hotels allow for guests to smoke or use cannabis on the premises, making life much more comfortable for those who rely on cannabis to ease the symptoms of health conditions or anxiety.
California Cannabis Tours
Visitors might also like to book their spot on an LA cannabis tour. These guided tours will take you across the city, stopping off at key cannabis stores and locations along the way where guests can sample various products and learn more about cannabis usage and benefits. Some tours even leave the city behind to visit real cannabis farms and learn how cannabis grows.
Overall, there can be no doubt that the rise in cannabis tourism is good news for LA. With tourists having yet another reason to visit the city, local businesses can expect to receive even more customers, and travelers have an even wider range of cannabis-inspired activities and attractions to enjoy on their next visit.
