If you’re not from an area where cannabis is legal, you may never have visited a dispensary before. Since cannabis is legal in Nevada, there are plenty of dispensaries in Las Vegas that sell weed products for recreational use. Purchasing cannabis in a dispensary is the safest, easiest, most convenient, and legal way to buy cannabis.
Las Vegas is, of course, a party city, and for this reason, there’s been a massive increase in cannabis tourism to the city since weed was legalized there in 2017.
If you’re visiting a dispensary for the first time, it’s easy to be overwhelmed by the huge variety of cannabis products on the shelves, but we’re here to help you navigate your visit easily! Whether it’s what you need to prepare for a visit (yes, you can’t just turn up empty-handed!), or understanding the “do’s and don’ts” of visiting a dispensary, we have it covered in this guide to visiting a Las Vegas Dispensary for the first time.
Choosing a Dispensary
Of course, when it comes to visiting a dispensary, you first must choose which one to visit. Rather than simply stepping foot inside the first one you see, think about what is important to you if you’re new to consuming cannabis, what kind of product you may be looking for, and how you plan to enjoy it.
Visiting a dispensary can be quite intimidating for first-timers, as there’s usually a large selection of flower varieties, different concentrates, and a range of other edibles. Be sure to thoroughly research different varieties of cannabis products before shopping and get a good idea of which consumption method might be the right choice for you.
It’s a good idea to take a look at the dispensary’s menu online before you visit, as this can give you a good idea of what products are on offer, their prices, their availability, and also reviews of previous customers.
Some of our favorite Las Vegas dispensaries include:
How to Prepare for Your First Visit to a Dispensary
What ID Do I Need to Bring?
Similar to anywhere else in the U.S. selling products for adults (such as bars and clubs), cannabis dispensaries in Las Vegas are limited to those over the age of 21. A valid form of ID will be required to enter and purchase cannabis products.
If you’re shopping for recreational use (as most of you will be), a security guard at the door or reception desk will check your ID. If you’re traveling from the US, bring a passport, driver’s license, state-issued ID card, or any other government-issued photo ID. If you’re traveling from another country, bring your passport with you, as other forms of ID may not be accepted at some establishments.
Medical cannabis users need to bring an up-to-date medical marijuana card.
How do I Pay?
Be sure to bring enough cash along for your dispensary visit, as many dispensaries don’t accept cards due to weed still being illegal federally. Some select dispensaries may have found loopholes that allow customers to pay by either credit or debit card, or they may have an ATM inside for customers to use but don’t rely on this.
What to Consider Before Visiting
On arrival at the dispensary, you’ll be approached by, or taken to a budtender, who will be responsible for helping you choose your product and walking you through your purchase. This person will be able to answer any questions you may have, but they’ll also be asking you a few questions to help ensure you’re purchasing the right product for your needs, so be sure you have a good idea of some answers for questions such as:
- What are you looking for?
- How do you usually consume cannabis?
- What kind of “high” would you like to experience?
- How long would you like your high to last?
- Do you have any concerns about consuming cannabis recreationally?
While the budtender will know the products in their store very well, they’ll need to ask these questions to recommend the right product for you.
Dos and Don’ts of Visiting a Dispensary
No matter if it’s your first time visiting a dispensary or if you’re a seasoned consumer, it’s important to follow proper dispensary etiquette. Here are some of the most important tips to follow during your visit.
Do Make Yourself Comfortable
While visiting a dispensary, especially for the first time, can be a little bit intimidating, it’s essential to make yourself comfortable. Don’t be afraid to ask the budtender questions; they’re here to help you – not to judge you! The more relaxed you can be, the more pleasant of an experience you’ll have, and the more confident you will feel coming back in the future.
Don’t be Rude
Suppose you’re visiting a dispensary for the first time. In that case, you may have a preconception, as many people do, that budtenders are constantly stoned, dismissive, and unhelpful, but this is usually anything but true! While many budtenders enjoy cannabis themselves, they work in dispensaries because they have expert knowledge of the product.
Rudeness may lead to rushed service in hopes you’ll leave faster.
Don’t be a Potency Snob!
One of the key components of cannabis is THC, but THC is just one of the many factors that produce the qualities of a high. It’s okay to mention if you’re looking for something quite potent (if you use it recreationally already), but don’t assume that numbers are everything.
Don’t Talk About Plans for Illicit Activity
All dispensaries are under constant surveillance. For this reason, be sure not to insinuate that you will be committing a felony (purchasing for someone underage, plans to transport the product to a state where usage is illegal, etc.).
Do Tip
Most budtenders pride themselves on their knowledge and expertise and often enjoy providing customers good service. If this service is up to standard, show appreciation for their help by leaving a tip.
Don’t Hang About
Dispensaries tend to be small. To be considerate of other customers, leave the store once you have completed your purchase- don’t hang about looking at other products.