The Rise of Cannabis Tourism in Washington State
In the years since its legalization, cannabis has swiftly transformed from a social taboo into a booming, legitimate business across the United States. Washington State, one of the early adopters of legal recreational marijuana, has seen a particularly notable rise in cannabis tourism. With attractions including dispensaries, consumption lounges, and cannabis-themed events, the industry is raking in millions and drawing thousands of visitors to the state each year.
Washington State’s Initiative 502, whichpassed in 2012, legalized possession of recreational marijuana for adults 21 and older, paving the way for marijuana dispensaries to open their doors to the public in 2014. Since then, the growth of thecannabis industry has been a significant boon for both the state and local economies. In 2018 alone, Washington collected over $367 million inlegal marijuana income and license fees, with total sales reaching almost $1 billion.
The incredible growth has spurred a new frontier in tourism: cannabis-centered attractions and events. For many visitors, the legal marijuana dispensaries are a novel and intriguing draw, prompting the rise ofcannabis tourism. Similar to wine tours that take participants on guided visits to local wineries, thepot travel market is capitalizing on Washington’s relaxed marijuana laws to offer visitors a unique and memorable experience.
Tourists interested in learning more about the process behind the production and growth of legal marijuana can book one of the numerous guided tours available. Not only do these tours showcase a variety of cannabis products and dispensaries, but they also frequently feature visits to cultivation facilities and stops at cannabis-friendly accommodations. Companies likeKush Tourism offer tours that cater to different interests and budgets, giving visitors the opportunity to see behind the scenes of a burgeoning industry.
Moreover, cannabis-themed events have also become staples of theWashington State social calendar, drawing tourists from across the country. One famous event is the annualSeattle Hempfest, the world’s largest three-day celebration advocating the decriminalization of marijuana, which has been held since 1991. 2019 saw the first-everCannabis and Comedy Festival in Seattle, which was organized to celebrate and educate on the benefits of cannabis. These types of events offer a unique opportunity for cannabis enthusiasts to gather in a supportive and informative environment.
Where there’s a demand, entrepreneurs are quick to provide a supply. A market for cannabis-themed lodging has also taken root, with several rental properties openly advertising theirmarijuana-friendly policies for guests to consume their legally purchased products on-site. For example, Mountain Views Tree House Joint, a cannabis-friendly glamping site, allows guests to enjoy the natural beauty of Washington State while partaking in their choice of recreational marijuana.
However, it’s important to recognize that there are still limitations on what legalization means for both residents and visitors. While sales and private consumption of marijuana are legal in the state, public usage is not. In response to this restriction, a growing number of “consumption lounges” have sprung up across Washington, where adults can smoke or consume cannabis products in a relaxed, social setting.
With its many cannabis-focused attractions and events, Washington State has successfully attracted a significant portion of the ever-growing and lucrative cannabis tourism market. As the industry continues to grow and expand, it’s clear that Washington will remain at the forefront of marijuana-related travel and recreation.