In November 2012, Washington voters took a progressive step by legalizing Initiative 502, and Colorado voters followed suit by passing Amendment 64 on the same day. The result? These two states became the first in the country to legalize recreational, adult-use cannabis. It’s been a long haul since then, and the industry has certainly evolved. Although the Washington weed scene does not have the same kicked-back vibe of California or the boutique bud market that is Oregon, it certainly has its own vibe, particularly in Seattle.
A city known for its gray days and steady nine months of drizzle, Seattle might not seem like much of a weed-centric place. Yet, the cannabis scene in the Emerald City is as cool as a spring day on Capitol Hill. So, what’s a stoner to do while visiting Seattle? Whether you’re into whale watching in the Puget Sound or tourist-hopping downtown, we’ve got a list of the best things to do while stoned in Seattle.
Washington Weed Hit List
- Washington legalized medical marijuana in 1998 through Initiative 692.
- Recreational use of marijuana was legalized on November 6, 2012, via Initiative 502.
- Adults 21 and over can possess up to one ounce of marijuana, 16 ounces of marijuana-infused product in solid form, and 72 ounces in liquid form.
- Growing weed at home for recreational use is illegal in Washington, except for medical marijuana patients.
- It is illegal to consume any cannabis in view of the public.
- It’s illegal to drive under the influence of marijuana, and there are specific limits set for THC blood concentration—five nanograms per milliliter.
- Cannabis sales in Washington are subject to a 37% cannabis excise tax at the point of sale, one of the highest in the United States. This tax generates substantial revenue for the state, funding public health programs, education, and substance abuse prevention initiatives.
- Washington State University conducts research on marijuana, focusing on its impact on physical and mental health, public safety, and quality of standards for marijuana products.
- Aside from marijuana, Washington has an industrial hemp program, regulated separately, that allows for the cultivation of hemp for commercial purposes, aligning with federal guidelines.
What to Do While Stoned in Seattle
Once you stock up on some Washington weed, you need a plan to get the most out of your high. While going with the flow is one option, be sure to avoid the neverending traffic jam that is the I-5 and stick to neighborhoods like Fremont, Magnolia, Ballard, the city center, or the waterfront. However, we’ve got a few options downtown that are not to be missed, and you can make a whole day of it.
Here are our top recommendations for what to see and do in Seattle.
Get a City Pass
Especially if you’re with a group, the CityPass is the way to go. Some people will really want to go up the Space Needle, while others prefer the Museum of Pop Culture. Why not do both? A CityPass lets you choose three to five of the main tourist attractions for a discounted price. Most are close to one another, making for an easy day touristing.
Here’s what they currently offer.
The Space Needle
It’s iconic. The views are incredible. It rotates, giving you a bit of a trippy view of the entire city and Cascades. This might seem like a cheesy tourist stop, but it’s actually pretty neat, especially on a clear day.
Seattle Aquarium
The aquarium focuses on rehabilitation and rescue, and ethical treatment of animals is the highest priority here. You’ll see tons of birds, otters, seals, octopus, jellyfish, shellfish, and fish of all kinds.
MoPop
It’s easy to lose a few hours in the Museum of Pop Culture, so give yourself plenty of time. You’ll get to learn a ton about Seattle natives Jimi Hendrix and Curt Cobain, as well as multi-genre film history, video games, and the evolution of hip-hop. Do not miss the horror gallery and the scream booth!
Harbor Tour
Get on the water and cruise around some of the city’s landmarks, learn a bit about history, and if you’re super lucky, an orca or gray whale might make an appearance.
Chihuly Garden and Glass
Explore the mesmerizing life’s work of glass artist Dale Chihuly. We’re talking about gigantic glass sculptures, both indoors and outdoors. You have to see it to believe it. Plus, the bar is adorable and kitschy, with the most unique cocktails.
Woodland Park Zoo
There are over 800 animals here, including red pandas, lions, bears, gorillas, rhinos, and more. And do not miss out on a stroll through the incredible 2.5-acre rose garden.
Pacific Science Center
There are hundreds of interactive exhibits at the science center. Get lost in the dinosaurs, learn about outer space, engineering and so much more.
Hit the Hydro Spa
While you might get soaked on a stroll in one of Seattle’s many parks, an intentional spa day has a much more appealing allure. Banya 5 is a wellness spa focusing on essential spa services like massage, facials, body scrubs, and wraps.
But the real gem is the water. The hot pool is the perfect place to start, followed by a cold plunge. And we mean cold—prepare yourself for this one. They also have a large dry sauna and a steam room with fresh eucalyptus filling the air. Take a break upstairs in the tea room, or use the stretching room to do some yoga between cycles.
Yuan Spa is another lovely hydrotherapy option. A little more upscale (with prices that reflect it), this one also features plenty of bodywork and spa services. The spa itself is gorgeous and has a total zen vibe. It’s the perfect place to show up with a buzz and let yourself melt into meditation. They’ve got hot and cold pools, steam and sauna, salt scrubs, an ice cave, and a heated Himalayan salt room.
Spend a Day in West Seattle
If you live in West Seattle, you never forget to say ‘west.’ It’s kind of like its own city, with the chaos of the traffic and busyness of city life “over there” across the bridge. The vibe here is laidback and friendly, with plenty to eat, see, and do. Not to mention some incredible Washington weed.
Take a walk along California Avenue and hit the shops. Talarico’s has the biggest pieces of pizza to crush your munchies, and Husky’s is the spot for an ice cream cone. Or, grab a sandwich and head to Lincoln Park for a picnic. This gorgeous park is huge, with many winding trails in the trees. Head down along the water’s edge of Puget Sound, and you’ll find one of the famous Nordic trolls.
Alki Beach is as close as you can get to a beach vibe in Seattle. Here, you’ll find a boardwalk with great food and drink, as well as a sandy beach to play volleyball or set up for the day to chill out and relax. Paddleboarding is popular here, and Alki Point is one of the most common places you’ll see the famous Jpod orcas swimming north and south, hunting for food.
Pike Place Market
From West Seattle, you can take a water taxi to the waterfront of Elliott Bay. From here, walk along the piers and check out the local shops, eat fresh oysters on the half shell, or take a ride on the giant Ferris wheel.
But most of all—head to the market. Pike Place Market is an iconic must-visit destination that becomes an even more immersive and sensory-rich experience when stoned. There’s an endless array of sights, sounds, and smells to immerse yourself in. And yes, this is where they toss the giant fish at the fresh fish market! It’s also where you’ll find the very first Starbucks.
Check out international cuisines, grab a pastry, listen to the local musicians, and do a little people-watching. You’ll find everything you could imagine from an open-air market right near the water.
Enjoy the Ride in the Emerald City
Seattle has a lot to offer for anyone visiting, but even locals can appreciate the sites on this list. And cannabis enthusiasts will certainly enjoy the sights and culinary delights with a smooth buzz on some fine Washington weed. So, before you head out and start exploring, grab some Old Pal. You’ll find us at Kush 21 and Floyd’s.
