Cannabis Tourism & Market Trends: Exploring Demand, Destinations, and Growth (July 2025)

Cannabis Market Trends Are Evolving in 2025

Cannabis tourism is moving beyond novelty and entering a growth stage driven by legalization, wellness travel, and immersive experiences. Whether you’re a travel operator, cannabis business, or curious adventurer, here’s what you need to know about this niche but fast-growing market.

The Numbers Behind the Movement

The global cannabis tourism market grew from approximately $10.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach nearly $23.7 billion by 2030, at a compound annual growth rate of around 12 %. 

Destination marketing firms and cannabis-friendly lodging platforms report increasing bookings in locations like Colorado, Oregon, Vermont, and parts of California. 

What Cannabis Tourists Are Seeking

• Access to curated experiences: farm tours, dispensary education sessions, cooking with cannabis.
• Cannabis-friendly stays: boutique bud-and-breakfasts or hotels offering private consumption spaces.
• Wellness and leisure: yoga retreats or spa treatments infused with cannabis.

One message board commentator summarized it:

“I flew to Portland not just for weed—but for the dispensary tours and lounges. It felt upscale, educational, not just a smoke stop.”

Case Studies: Top U.S. Destinations

Portland, Oregon

Portland pioneered the scene with consumption lounges like Flight Lounge, and bike‑based cannabis tours. Travel Portland officially lists “safe spaces for cannabis consumption,” and affordable lodging options make it an accessible destination for cannabis tourism.

Boston & Colorado

Boston ranks low in cannabis tourism despite dispensaries due to limited lounges and high lodging prices—approximately 10 cannabis‑friendly accommodations per 100,000 residents, average nightly rates north of $280.

In contrast, Colorado cities like Boulder and Denver dominate cannabis travel thanks to relaxed state laws, city tours, and a range of cannabis-related events and lodging.

Global Examples & Challenges

In the Netherlands—and especially Amsterdam—the legacy cannabis café culture drives massive tourism. Yet city officials are increasingly wary, even rolling out online quizzes to discourage stoner tourism tied to party culture.

Meanwhile, destinations such as Thailand and Germany are emerging as global hubs, offering wellness retreats, farm‑to‑table experiences, and newly legalized cannabis consumption platforms.

Insights From Travelers & Online Communities

Real-life reviews amplify this trend:

“My Airbnb host in Colorado recommended a green‑licensed yoga retreat—one of the most relaxing weekends I’ve had.”

“In Amsterdam you expect chaos but the cannabis cafés felt dated—Portland’s upscale lounges felt more curated.”

Business Implications & Takeaways

• Entrepreneurs: Consider building cannabis-friendly lodging, guided tours, or themed retreat packages.
• Hospitality operators: Market 420-friendly packages, partnering with dispensaries or hemp wellness brands.
• Destination promoters: Be transparent about local laws — public smoking remains illegal in many jurisdictions.

Regulatory Considerations

Public consumption remains restricted in most states; 420-friendly rentals cater to consumption inside private spaces. Regulation still varies widely—laws shift quickly, and community resistance can emerge.

Integrating cannabis experiences into standard tourism channels (like well-regulated tasting tours and educational programs) helps gain community buy-in and avoids nuisance concerns.

Bottom Line

Cannabis tourism in 2025 is evolving from fringe curiosity to experiential lifestyle travel. With the right strategy—ethically curated experiences, legal clarity, and wellness focus—it offers real opportunities for economic and cultural growth. But it demands thoughtful design: respect local regulations, prioritize quality over novelty, and remain sensitive to resident concerns.

*These statements have not been evaluated by the United States Food and Drug Administration.