The laws and regulations surrounding cannabis use are not the same across the whole United States. You probably know that some states have legalized recreational cannabis use, while others have not. But did you know that across the states, there are also different rules for consumption lounges? Whether you’re a cannabis lounge pro or you’re not quite sure what they even are, we’ll take you through everything you need to know.
Not familiar with cannabis lounges? No worries!
A cannabis lounge is a place where people can legally enjoy their cannabis products while socializing and kicking back. You might think of it similarly to a bar but with cannabis instead of alcohol. You may even be able to purchase food and beverages at consumption lounges, making it a full and fun way to hang out while enjoying your cannabis.
These lounges can be a great destinations for spending the night out with friends, meeting new people, or just relaxing and enjoying cannabis in a legal, social space.
Consumption lounges have also been around in different formats for longer than you might think! Before Prohibition, several cities across the US had “hashish clubs” or “hemp retreats” that were early versions of the modern lounges that we now have.
Now, consumption lounges are gaining popularity across the country. As cannabis business owners move into the hospitality industry (including celebrities like Woody Harrelson), all the states are establishing their own regulations around what these lounges can look like.
Thinking about visiting a cannabis lounge? Here are a few things to keep in mind before you go!
You don’t need to worry about bringing your own bong or pipe if you don’t want to, because cannabis lounges are equipped! If you’ve ever wanted to try out something new without purchasing it, trying out what a consumption ounge has to offer can be a great solution!
Unlike bars where you can purchase alcohol, you typically cannot purchase marijuana itself. This rule is because of the particular licensing needed to sell cannabis. Instead, you typically eed to bring your own.
However, some consumption lounges do! Some lounges are connected to/coupled with dispensaries. In that case, you can purchase your marijuana onsite and then enjoy it there too! Some lounges also sell food. However, if one of these establishments sells non-infused food or drinks, it typically qualifies as a cannabis café, as consumption lounges have legal restrictions against serving food.
Because of the licenses needed to establish and run consumption lounges legally, you can feel secure that the purchases you make there are also regulated, and the people working there are cannabis experts. Feel free to talk to them and ask questions about the lounge’s offerings. You might learn something new!
As a generally cannabis-friendly state, California has helped pioneer the consumption lounge experience in the United States. However, if you’re taking an international trip, you’ll be able to visit some of the oldest consumption lounges in the world. Countries like Denmark, Spain, and the Netherlands have legalized cannabis lounges. Amsterdam is especially famous for their “coffee shops,” where people can gather and socialize while legally enjoying cannabis.
Are you wondering if your state has a consumption lounge or interested in traveling to a state where you can find one? While you might think that every state that has legalized cannabis also has consumption lounges, this is not the case. Currently, there are ten states where you can visit legal cannabis lounges:
Although these are the only states where you can currently find legal lounges, the law surrounding cannabis legalization is changing all the time. Hopefully, more and more states will join this list! Additionally, if you live in one of the states listed above, be sure to stay up-to-date with the laws surrounding consumption lounges so you can be fully prepared when you plan to visit.
Even if you love smoking at home, a cannabis lounge can be a super fun way to enjoy cannabis while gathering with friends or meeting new people.
Have you been to a cannabis lounge? Let us know below about your experience!
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