Did you know that there are currently more than 7,000 cannabis dispensaries across the United States? This number is growing by the year, so there’s no denying the popularity of cannabis.
If you’re reading this article and live in Nevada, you likely want to know more about how to buy cannabis from a cannabis dispensary in Nevada, either for medical or recreational reasons. If you’ve never been to a cannabis dispensary before, it can be a little nerve-wracking to visit one for the first time.
However, there’s no need to fear visiting a dispensary. As long as you keep reading this guide, you’ll learn all about what a cannabis dispensary is, what to expect when visiting one, and how to prepare, as well as what you can buy during your visit.
If you’re ready to learn more about how cannabis dispensaries work, then keep reading.
What Is a Cannabis Dispensary?
A cannabis dispensary is simply a location where marijuana can be bought and sold legally. Some states only allow medical marijuana dispensaries, while others, such as Nevada, have legalized both medical and recreational dispensaries.
As the name suggests, medical marijuana dispensaries disperse marijuana for those who have medical conditions and have obtained proper documentation, often called an “mmj card” or “medical marijuana card” from their doctor.
On the other hand, recreational dispensaries are much more relaxed. You don’t need documents from your doctor to get what you want. All you need is your driver’s license to prove that you are at least 21 years of age or older.
Recreational dispensaries can be much more fun than medical dispensaries, because, rather than treating marijuana as a medicine, it is treated more like a common commodity. Inside a recreational dispensary, you’re likely to find all sorts of interesting products including brownies, cookies, gummies, vapes, joints, and more.
That’s quite the variety!
Is there anything you should prepare for when going to a dispensary? Let’s take a look at a few pointers when shopping in a dispensary.
Before You Go to Any Cannabis Dispensaries
Before you visit a cannabis dispensary, it’s important to be prepared. If you’re going for medical reasons, be sure to have your medical documents on you, along with your driver’s license. There’s nothing more frustrating than arriving at a dispensary, only to be unable to purchase cannabis because you forgot proper documentation.
Also, be sure to check the dispensaries in your area. Some may be strictly recreational, while others are strictly medical. On the other hand, some dispensaries, like SoL, may be separated into both medical and recreational sides, so make sure you visit the proper area when you arrive.
An important note: most dispensaries do not accept credit or debit cards. For this reason, be sure to have cash on you.
At The Dispensary
You’re finally at the cannabis dispensary of your choice. Now what?
Cannabis flower is most likely going to be the most popular product in the dispensary. The different strains are usually displayed very openly, either on shelves or in jars, and you can find the name of each strain on designated labels. However, in the age of COVID many dispensaries have removed these displays.
Remember that the budtender (the person behind the counter who helps you pick out what type of product you want) is there to guide you with all your needs. You can ask the budtender all your questions about the various types of strains. This is a great help if you’re unsure which kind of strain would be best suited for your specific needs.
You can ask the budtender to get a closer look at some of the strains and even ask to smell them. This is excellent for examining the unique colors and textures of certain cannabis strains, as well as picking up the different scents of the flowers. This can help you gauge which strains might be best for you.
You can also ask the budtender which form of cannabis might be right for you. It can be hard to decide between flower, oil, gummies, tinctures, waxes, or vape cartridges when you don’t know much about them.
For example, depending on your lifestyle, you might prefer edibles that are slow to act, usually peaking a few hours after consumption. On the other hand, you might prefer a stronger strain that works instantly, keeping you glued to the couch for a few hours.
Leaving The Dispensary
Make sure you leave the dispensary with exactly what you came there for. This is important to remember because cannabis dispensaries usually don’t offer returns.
While this can be aggravating, it allows you to find the kind of cannabis products you like and dislike. For those that you dislike, take note, as to not purchase them again.
If you don’t want to, or can’t get to, a dispensary near you, many dispensaries offer delivery options to bring your order directly to you. This is great for those days when you don’t feel like getting dressed. Helpful Tip – put on pants before your delivery driver arrives!
Your Guide to Cannabis Dispensaries
Now that you know all about cannabis dispensaries, you can visit one feeling less apprehensive. You know what to do before getting into your car, what to do once you arrive, and what to do when you leave.
If you’ve been thinking about visiting your local dispensary, don’t waste any more time, and get going! We invite you to take the short, scenic drive on old 395 and come visit us out in Washoe Valley. We guarantee our Reno dispensary is unlike any other in the area!
