Cannabis Dispensaries in New York - Everything You Need to Know

Visiting a weed dispensary for the first time can be intimidating and overwhelming, especially if you're new to the world of cannabis. However, with a little preparation and understanding of your cannabis goals, you can make your dispensary experience more enjoyable and fruitful. Here are some essential tips to consider before your visit:

Understand Your Cannabis Goals:

It's crucial to establish what you're looking to get out of your cannabis experience. Are you a medical marijuana cardholder seeking relief from specific symptoms, or are you a recreational user interested in exploring the effects of different strains? Knowing your purpose will help the budtenders guide you better.

Consider Your Consumption Method:

Understanding how you prefer to consume cannabis is essential in choosing the right product. Whether you prefer smoking, vaping, ingesting, or using tinctures, there are different products available to suit your preferences.

Plan Your Consumption Time:

Knowing when you plan to consume cannabis can also influence your purchase decision. If you want to remain functional throughout the day, opt for products that won't cause excessive intoxication and have a balance of THC:CBD.

Consider the Experience You Want:

Some users are interested in the psychoactive effects of THC, while others seek the diverse cannabinoids and terpenes in marijuana. Decide what experience you want to have to make the right choice.

Be Prepared to Ask Questions:

If you're a beginner, do some research and don't hesitate to ask questions. The budtenders at the dispensary are there to help you and provide expert advice on cannabis products. They can guide you based on your comfort level and interests.

Consider Sativa, Indica, or Hybrid Strains:

Sativa and Indica strains have different effects, and hybrids are a mix of the two. Understanding these differences can help you select strains that suit your preferences and desired effects.

THC, CBD, or Both:

Pay attention to the THC and CBD content in products, as they play a significant role in their effects. Higher THC percentages generally lead to more potent results, but individual responses may vary based on factors like weight and tolerance levels.

Understand How to Dose Cannabis:

For beginners, it's essential to start with a low dose and gradually increase if necessary. This is especially crucial with edibles, as they can take longer to take effect.

More Common Dispensary Questions:

You might have additional questions related to your dispensary visit, such as age requirements, the need for a medical card, and cannabis delivery options. Don't hesitate to inquire about these details in advance to feel comfortable with your visit and purchase.

Your First Dispensary Visit: The most crucial aspect of your first dispensary visit is to ask questions. The expert budtenders at the dispensary are ready to guide your cannabis experience positively. Whether you're a newcomer or an experienced consumer, dispensaries welcome everyone and aim to provide the best service and product recommendations.

Finding the Right Dispensary: Look for a dispensary that makes you feel welcome and comfortable. Use dispensary location finders to discover nearby stores and explore their menus online in advance to get an idea of available products.

Bring Essentials: Don't forget to bring a valid government-issued photo ID to verify your age and, if necessary, your medical marijuana card. Also, remember to carry cash as many dispensaries still cannot accept credit card payments.

Dispensary Security: Due to federal restrictions, dispensaries have certain security measures in place. Expect to be asked for identification details and adhere to their policies to ensure a smooth shopping experience.

Dos and Don'ts: Do come prepared with questions and an open mind to explore new products. Don't break dispensary rules or expect budtenders to provide medical advice. Enjoy your cannabis experience responsibly and with the assistance of expert budtenders.

Currently, there are 20 legal dispensaries open across the state of New York. Here’s a complete list of all legal and licensed dispensaries open in New York as of July 2023.

1. Housing Works Cannabis

Address: 750 Broadway, New York, NY 10003 W: https://hwcannabis.co/

2. Smacked Village

Address: 144 Bleecker Street, New York, NY 10012https://getsmacked.online/

3. Just Breathe

Address: 75 Court Street, Binghamton, NY 13901 https://justbreathelife.org/

4. Union Square Travel Agency (USQTA)

Address: 62 E 13th Street, New York, NY 10003 https://www.unionsquaretravelagency.com/

5. William Jane Corporation

Address: 119-121 E State Street, Ithaca, NY 14850 https://williamjane420.com/

6. Good Grades LLC

Address: 162-03 Jamaica Avenue, Jamaica, NY 11432 https://www.goodgradesnyc.com/

7. Upstate Canna Co.

Address: 1613 Union Street, Schenectady, NY 12309 W: https://upstate-canna.co/

8. Dazed

Address: 33 Union Sq. W, New York, NY 10003. W: https://dazed.fun/

9. GOTHAM NY

Address: 3 E 3rd Street, New York, NY 10003 W: https://gotham.nyc

10. Stage One Cannabis

Address: 810C Broadway, Rensselaer, NY 12144 https://stageonedispensary.com/

11. Flynnstoned

Address: 219 Walton Street, Syracuse, NY 13202 https://flynnstoned.com/

12. Greenery Spot

Address: 246 Main Street, Johnson City, NY 13790 https://www.greeneryspot.com/

13. Statis Cannabis

Address: 817 E Tremont Avenue, Bronx, NY 10460 https://statiscannabis.com/

14. Strain Stars

Address: 1815 Broadhollow Road, Farmingdale, NY 11735 https://strainstarsny.com/

15. Sacred Bloom

Address: 1308 Vestal Pkwy E, 1st Floor, Set D, Vestal, NY 13850 https://sacred-bloom.com/

16. DANK 716

Address: 501 Main Street, Buffalo, NY 14203 W: https://716dank.com

17. SESH NYC***

Delivery Only: https://myseshnyc.com/

18. The Cannabis Place***

Delivery Only: https://thecannabisplace.org

19. Elevate ADK***

Delivery Only: https://elevateadk.com/

20. Legacy Dispensers***

Delivery Only: https://legacydispensers.com

21. Herbal IQ

Address: 6055 Transit Rd, Depew, NY 14043 W: Herbaliq.org

*** denotes Delivery Only.

Additionally, all regulated, licensed dispensaries must also post the Dispensary Verification Tool near their main entrance - see email below. It is advised to avoid any establishment that does not have this verification displayed in their storefront.

At today’s OCM meeting on July 19, 2023, 212 new CAURDs licenses were issued for a total of 463 now in the state of New York.

With these 20 legal dispensaries now open in New York and more on the way, as well as the possibility of cultivators selling cannabis directly to consumers via Farmers Markets, fairs, festivals and events, recreational weed has become as accessible as can be for residents and visitors alike.

Visiting a weed dispensary in New York can be an enjoyable and educational experience. With the proper identification, cash on hand, and a plan in mind, you can make the most of your visit to one of the currently open and legal dispensaries in the state. Remember to respect the dispensary's rules and regulations for a seamless and enjoyable experience.

As the cannabis industry continues to grow and evolve, visiting a dispensary offers the opportunity to explore a range of products and find what works best for your preferences and needs. Happy exploring!