Blazing Trails: The Green Frontier of Cannatourism

Canna-tourism in Michigan is on the rise.

As the attitude toward the plant has become much more accepting in recent years, increasing numbers of regions are allowing for permanent consumption lounges, consumption zones at festivals, weed-friendly lodging, and more. 

Across the country, other canna-enthusiasts are blazing the path for unique experiences, like the Cannabis-Infused City Cruise Tour (which takes place in a luxury limo) in San Francisco and a Sushi & Joint Rolling class in Denver. In Oregon, you can even hire a Mobile Smoke Lounge to bring a dedicated smoke spot to your wedding. 

While we may not have all of those in Michigan just yet, the possibilities are endless, and cannatourism is already taking off in a big way—especially in Muskegon and in Northern Michigan, where local officials are smart and progressive enough to take advantage of this economic opportunity. 

From festivals to campgrounds to retreats, here are just a few of the cool cannatourism opportunities in Michigan. Of course, just remember one simple rule: Never smoke and drive.

The Bowl @ Indigrow

639 W. Clay Ave., Muskegon  |  indigrowmi.com

Indigrow gives you the whole cannatourism experience in one trip. This microbusiness grows and processes everything they sell on-site, and you can get an excellent tour of the facility to see up-close how cannabis grows and is turned into what you consume. Then, head back to the shop, pick up your products, and walk out to The Bowl, a.k.a. Indigrow’s consumption lounge! You can soak up the sun and play cornhole while puffing and passing before trekking out to the beach. Hoping to socialize? Head there from 8-10 a.m. on July 21 or 22 for Wake & Bake, featuring free doughnuts and coffee.

Rolling Embers Lounge

11261 Wilson Rd, New Buffalo  |  rolling-embers.com

The only other consumption lounge currently in West Michigan, Rolling Embers is a dispensary right near the border of Indiana. The outdoor consumption lounge includes chairs, couches, firepits, patio heaters and more. 

Kalkushka

302 S. Cedar St., Kalkaska  |  kalkushkalounge.com

Up north, cannatourism is taking over. This lounge in Kalkaska (due east of Traverse City) allows you to actually smoke inside, while drinking coffee and chatting or playing games with friends. It’s sleek and modern, yet welcoming and comfortable. Plus, they have frequent special events, such as live music, tarot readings and Puff & Paints.

Haven Campground

6609 M-72, Kalkaska  |  micamphaven.com

Have you gone camping recently, only to wonder if you’re actually allowed to smoke the joints you packed? At Haven, you don’t have to worry about it, as this rustic (meaning, no electric) campground in Kalkaska is completely cannabis friendly. They have 33 campsites of various sizes spread over 10 acres, with water, clean porta-potties, fire rings and firewood available for everyone. Throw in some cannabis and you’ve got a match made in Haven.

Cannabash

878 S. Mill Iron Rd, Muskegon Township  |  July 8, 2-10 p.m.  |  cannabashfest.com

CannaBash is the party of the summer. This ultimate smoke session features seven marijuana vendors, food trucks, on-site marijuana consumption, and live music—including the big headliner, Ludacris, closing out the night. Visitors can try samples from their favorite names in the cannabis industry while enjoying delicious local cuisine and entertainment. And just an FYI: No alcohol is allowed at this or any other cannabis consumption event.

Hoxeyville’s Dunegrass Gardens

11130 W. 48 1/2 Rd, Wellston  |  August 18-20  |  hoxeyville.com/dunegrass

Up in the Upper Peninsula, Dunegrass is a cannabis company with a huge focus on cannatourism. Go to their website and the first thing you’ll see is a big list of fun things to do in Northern Michigan, from hiking to water sports to beach life—plus a list of 420-friendly lodging. To get a taste of what they have to offer, head to Hoxeyville Music Festival and check out Dunegrass Gardens, a dedicated tent to buy and consume cannabis before heading back out for two days of Americana and Roots music.

Summer’s End Smokeout

9060 County Highway LE, Republic

Summer’s End Smoke Out will be a smoke out to remember in Upper Michigan. On August 11, Elevated Exotics is hosting this locally uplifting, end-of-the-summer bash with artists, musicians, food trucks, and craft vendors. Expect to see many one-of-a-kind experiences that will add some special sauce to the mix of events.

The Nest

Muskegon  |  derive-travel.com/the-nest

Welcome to the world of Bud & Breakfasts. The Nest is a private home on 5 acres, just off a private road in Muskegon, boasting six bedrooms and three full baths, a private pool, and ample tourism and travel destinations within 20 minutes. You can book the whole house for up to 20 guests or one of the smaller suites (with cute names like the Ganja Suite and Mary Jane Suite) for an intimate getaway. Plus, you can book special experiences like Infusion Dinners, Puff & Paints, and Paraphernalia Parties.