Growing Greens in the Beaver State
Oregon, home to majestic Douglas firs and the enchanting Crater Lake, has long since held a reputation for its sustainability efforts and innovative industries. But, these days, it’s the state’s growing cannabis tourism that’s making waves, and rightfully so. With a delightfully laid-back culture and liberal attitude toward marijuana use, Oregon welcomes visitors to experience both its natural beauty and its high-quality bud in their own, unhurried time.
Part of the Oregon Story: The Rise of Cannabis Tourism
While the Oregon Trail has long drawn history buffs, the “green rush” offers a different kind of trip, with marijuana dispensaries and cannabis-themed excursions sprouting like, well, cannabis itself. In 2015, Oregon legalized the recreational use of marijuana, infused beverages, and edibles and opened the floodgates for “canna-tourism.” It’s a unique and vibrant facet of the state’s economy, and has introduced droves of green enthusiasts to the Cascade Range and the intricate murals of Portland’s Alberta Arts District through very different eyes.
The cannabis industry in Oregon is as diverse as the state’s natural landscapes. There are opportunities for any kind of visitor – from the newbie to the connoisseur. Maybe you’re seeking a 101 cannabis education at Medford’s Fireside Dispensary, or perhaps the draw is a “ganja yoga” class in sunny Ashland. Fans of the craft might drop by East Fork Cultivars in Southern Oregon to admire their sun-grown, CBD-rich plants. And let’s not forget – you’d be hard-pressed to find a donut shop in Portland that doesn’t have a cannabis-infused sweet treat.
Urban Exploration
A cannabis tour in Oregon isn’t just about the pot, it’s also about immersion in the bounty of the Beaver State. In Portland, after an enlightening visit to Farma (a high-end dispensary that feels more like an art gallery), you might choose to spend a mellow afternoon in Washington Park before catching a chilled-out indie gig at the Doug Fir Lounge. Or in Bend, you could savor the triple-whammy of the Bend Ale Trail, the numerous biking trails, and the quality cannabis, making it a hotspot for those who appreciate their hops and their buds in equal measure.
The Trail Less Traveled
Venturing outside the city promises a whole different canna-experience. In the tranquil Willamette Valley, for instance, Long Creek’s cultivation tours invite visitors to wander through lush, sun-drenched marijuana fields, rubbing shoulders with growers and learning about the magic that happens from seed to harvest. This is not just moseying along the coastline, folks; rather, it is a sensory journey into the heart of the growing cannabis industry in our beloved Oregon.
A Twist on Wine Tasting
Fancy freewheeling through rolling hills, sampling cannabis instead of pinot noir? Then a distinctive wine-and-weed tour might be just your glass of Tempranillo. The Potlandia Experience, for example, combines Oregon’s long-standing love of fine wine with its newfound ganja enthusiasm. Taking in a myriad of cannabis dispensaries, local wineries, and iconic food spots, the tour is the perfect initiation into Oregon’s vibrant canna-culture.
Respecting the Rules
As with any industry based on consumption, it’s important to know the rules and the etiquette required. The Oregon Health Authority and local OLCC-licensed outlets do an excellent job of providing this information. Remember, whether you’re “on the bud” at Multnomah Falls or downtown Salem, respect our beautiful places and the people you interact with. Have fun, but always consume responsibly.
The Real High: An Invigorating Economy
As more people come to understand the allure and the benefits of the cannabis plant, Oregon is poised to rise as the northwest’s hub for cannabis tourism. This blossoming industry not only offers a new perspective to locals and tourists alike, but boosts local businesses, cultivates economic growth, and funds government services.
Just like Voodoo Doughnut’s bacon-topped offering or Powell’s City of Books’ unique treasures, the charm of cannabis tourism in Oregon lies in its eclectic variety and pioneering spirit. So why not make your own trail through the Beaver State, guided by the verdant notes of Oregon-grown cannabis? Mile for mile, microbrew for microbrew, hit for hit, Oregon’s rich heritage and innovative industries — including its green giants — make it a place ripe for exploration and appreciation. Go ahead and chase that high. We’ll supply the vibes, you furnish the adventure. Here in Oregon, there really is something for everyone. Be it sipping smooth IPAs, hiking the Pacific Crest Trail, or sampling the best locally grown ganja, Oregon calls. Will you answer?