Las Vegas to Begin Opening Cannabis Consumption Lounges This Summer
Las Vegas, famously known as the City of Sin, has long been a destination for indulgence and entertainment. However, when it came to cannabis consumption, the rules were strict until now. This article takes you on a journey through the process that led to the legalization of cannabis consumption lounges in Las Vegas, shedding light on the regulations, key players, and what Utah residents can expect when visiting. As cannabis tourism gains popularity, the opening of these lounges will provide an exciting new experience for visitors and locals alike. And! No medical cannabis card is required.
What it Took for Vegas to Get Here
Las Vegas has come a long way from its reputation as a city of vices. In the year 2000, Nevada became the 8th state to legalize medicinal cannabis. Recognizing the economic benefits and the potential for increased tourism, the state eventually moved towards full legalization. However, one vital component was missing – a safe and legal space for cannabis consumption.
Despite the legal purchase of cannabis, it remained illegal to consume in public, casinos, rented homes, or even in one’s own car. As a result, tourists and locals resorted to unofficial consumption areas, and casinos charged exorbitant fees for consuming cannabis in their rooms. Advocates recognized the need for a solution that balanced cannabis consumption rights with public safety, leading to their tireless efforts to establish consumption venues.
Timeline
- Recreational (adult-use) cannabis legalized in 2016.
- In 2017, the City of Las Vegas almost introduced an ordinance for on-site consumption but decided to wait for guidance from the state and the Cannabis Compliance Board (CCB).
- In 2019, a Nevada bill authorized local governments to license and regulate consumption venues, imposing a 2-year moratorium and requiring a viability report from the CCB.
- Assemblyman Steve Yeager sponsored AB 341, a bill aimed at establishing consumption venues, in 2021. The Chamber of Cannabis, Nevada’s largest cannabis business trade organization, provided industry insights.
- The bill language, developed in collaboration with Assemblyman Yeager, the Chamber of Cannabis, Minorities for Medical Marijuana, and lobbyists, emphasized social equity, ensuring those adversely affected by failed drug policies had a fair chance.
- The bill proposed 40 consumption venue licenses: 20 for dispensary license holders, 10 for independent licensees, and 10 for social equity applicants.
- In May 2022, the bill passed and was signed by Governor Steve Sisolak.
- In October 2022, applications for licenses opened, attracting 80 submissions.
- December 2022 saw the City of Las Vegas, Clark County, and some northern Nevada counties opt in, while others opted out.
- As of June 2023, none of the 40 license winners had opened their doors, except for one located on neighboring tribal land, due to zoning restrictions.
How to be a Canna-tourist in Vegas
Visiting a cannabis consumption lounge in Las Vegas is an exciting experience for adults aged 21 and older. Here’s what you need to know:
- Bring your ID, even if you don’t plan to consume. Entry is permitted for adults.
- If you’re new to cannabis, don’t hesitate to ask questions. Lounge staff are knowledgeable and eager to assist.
- Whether you prefer smoking or vaporizing, lounges offer a variety of options, from pre-rolls to bongs, and even high-quality extracts like Matrix live resin dabs.
- If smoking or inhalation isn’t your preference, lounges also provide alternatives such as infused food and drinks, topicals, lotions, and more.
- Lounges use air and odor mitigation technology to ensure a pleasant experience.
- While the standard serving size is limited, you can order multiple servings one-at-a-time to suit your needs.
- The Lexi Las Vegas offers cannabis-friendly accommodation on certain floors, allowing guests to consume their own cannabis.
Visiting Other States
If you’re interested in exploring cannabis consumption venues in other locations, Denver and NYC offer unique experiences:
- Cirrus Social Club in Denver is set to open soon and promises a stunningly beautiful space for an elevated experience.
- In NYC, you can check out Work’n’roll, a cannabis co-working and business space that hosts regular events, or High Garden, a sophisticated members-only lounge with a canna-bar and frequent events.
Who’s Open Now?
While the 40 license winners are yet to open their doors, NuWu Cannabis Marketplace, located on Paiute Tribal sovereign-land near Fremont Street, has already made strides. They recently unveiled a redesigned retail shop with vendor shops, complemented by a courtyard hosting various events. Visitors can enjoy the dab bar, infused beverage bar, and live performances. Additionally, the Matrix Airstream Micro-Lounge, available for private events, offers a unique and fully equipped space. Discounts and availability can be obtained by contacting high@thegrowupcoop.com.
The Future of Vegas Lounges
The future of cannabis consumption lounges in Vegas is both easy and complicated to envision. These venues will replace traditional alcohol-serving establishments and become spaces for socialization and innovation. Restaurants will experiment with culinary cannabis, spas will offer infused wellness services, entertainment venues will host live events with laughter amplified, and co-working spaces will foster creativity and high-level discussions. This paradigm shift will not only normalize cannabis consumption but also open doors for entrepreneurs and create new revenue streams.
Impacts on the Cannabis Industry
The opening of consumption lounges in Las Vegas marks a significant milestone that will reverberate worldwide. As people consume cannabis in social settings, the stigma surrounding it will continue to dissipate. These lounges will serve as judgment-free spaces and foster innovative ways to experience cannabis. Moreover, the participation of individuals impacted by the failed “war on drugs” in the cannabis industry will promote social equity. Nevada’s progress will act as a proof of concept for other states, potentially fueling the growth of the cannabis sector. Furthermore, cannabis tourism will contribute to the evolution of Nevada’s tourism industry, offering unique experiences for visitors, including those from Utah and beyond.
The Future Is Here
Las Vegas is on the cusp of a new era with the imminent opening of cannabis consumption lounges. What began as a journey towards full legalization has led to the recognition of the economic and tourism potential of the cannabis industry. Utah residents and visitors can look forward to an exciting and safe experience in these lounges, where they can explore a range of cannabis products and enjoy a vibrant social atmosphere. As cannabis consumption becomes normalized, Nevada’s progressive approach will undoubtedly influence other states and create opportunities for economic growth, social equity, and unique tourism experiences.
Meet the Press:
Dani Baranowski is a Utah native. When she’s not writing for Salt Baked City, she is hell-bent on blazing an impactful trail in the cannabis industry. After receiving two felonies for cannabis possession in SLC in 2011, she left the Behave State for greener gardens and began cultivating neighboring Nevada’s cannabis market. She is co-founder & serves as vice president of the Chamber of Cannabis, Nevada’s largest business trade organization that took consumption lounge legalization across the finish line. Dani also co-founded and is managing partner for a sales and marketing cooperative, The Grow Up Co-op, which positions intentional brands to win in the market across the nation, and hopefully in Utah…soon!
Reach out with inquiries or partnership opportunities: chamberofcannabis@gmail.com.
