Vansterdam: A stoner’s guide to visiting Vancouver

It’s no secret that the city of Vancouver, CA., also known as VanCity or Vansterdam, welcomes stoners with open arms. Although marijuana will be legal in a few short months, Vancouver has always possessed a chill, laid back vibe when it comes to smoking green. Below are a few weed-friendly hotspots for any stoner’s visiting the city for the first time.

Vapour Lounges

Naturally, many people who want to smoke weed in Vancouver love the relaxed atmosphere of a local vape lounge. There are quite a few choices in the city, but the locals usually seek out the grandfathered spots along Pot Block: the 300 block of West Hastings. Although none of these lounges sell weed, rules and regulations may change closer to the October legalization.

Owned and operated for over 18 years, the New Amsterdam Cafe is a must-see for any pot-friendly visitor. Not only is this small cafe a lounge to indulge in all your sticky green desires, but it is also showcasing a lot of cultural elements that the city has to offer — great food, amazing beverages and talented local art. Not to mention they have a unique collection of merchandise for sale designed by local, original artists. So, if you’re looking for a spot to smoke weed in Vancouver, whether you want to try toking up in the fun ambience or simply meet locals at the classic spot, then the New Amsterdam Cafe is worth adding to your personal walking tour.

There are two Cannabis Culture Lounges — one is also located on Pot Block while the other sits on the popular Davie Street — that are very popular toking spots for locals. For a small fee of $5.00, anyone over the age of 19 is able to use the lounge to hangout, roll a joint or challenge others to a game of pool. Needless to say, the main attraction luring in locals and tourists is the volcano vaporizers, which is a weed smoking technology that gently heats your herbs and fills a balloon with vapor.

There are a few other lounges in the city so just walk around and explore.

Where else is smoke-friendly?

People in Vancouver don’t really like when you smoke publicly, that goes for cigarettes as well. Our beaches and parks are technically smoke-free. But, if you are mindful of who is around you, there are tons of beautiful spots to blaze.

• Stanley Park: This 405-hectare public park that borders downtown Vancouver is a must-see stunning backdrop for anyone visiting the city. Since it’s so big, there are tons of trails to get lost, have a few puffs and not bother anybody.
• Queen Elizabeth Park: Just a short ride on transit from the downtown core, this park is a major draw for nature lovers. Grab a blanket, bring along your frisbee (they have free disc golf) and relish in the floral display of the city garden.
• Wreck Beach: This clothing optional hot-spot is easily accessible by transit for anyone visiting the City. Naturally, nudists believe in body acceptance and most of the recreational locals are okay with you smoking pot on the beach. Just be sure to clean up after yourself.

Are there any other weed-friendly hotspots that are a must-see when you visit Vansterdam? Tell us all about it in the comments section below.