Does Maryland Have Recreational Dispensaries?
Yes. Maryland legalized recreational cannabis in November 2022 under Question 4, with retail sales launching on July 1, 2023. As of March 2025, the state has over 100 licensed dispensaries, many operating as “dual-use” facilities serving both medical patients and recreational customers.
Adults aged 21+ can legally purchase and possess:
- 1.5 ounces of cannabis flower
- 12 grams of concentrates
- Edibles containing up to 750mg THC
- Up to 2 homegrown plants (out of public view).
The Maryland Cannabis Administration (MCA) regulates the industry, enforcing strict testing and tracking standards through systems like Metrc.
How to Find Recreational Dispensaries Near You?
Maryland’s dispensaries are concentrated in urban areas like Baltimore, Annapolis, and the Washington D.C. metro region, though rural zones have limited options. Here’s how to locate them:
Digital Tools
- Google Maps: Search “recreational dispensary near me” for real-time listings with ratings, hours, and photos. For example, Culta Dispensary in Baltimore and RISE Bethesda are highly rated.
- Weedmaps & Leafly: These platforms provide menus, price comparisons, and filters for deals like “25% off edibles” or “$30 grams of concentrates”. They also highlight delivery-eligible medical dispensaries.
Can You Go into a Dispensary Without a Card in Maryland?
Yes—but with limitations. Recreational customers need only a valid government-issued ID (e.g., driver’s license, passport) proving they are 21+. Non-residents can purchase cannabis, but medical products remain exclusive to cardholders.
Medical vs. Recreational Benefits:
- Medical Patients: Require a state-issued MMCC card but enjoy tax-free purchases, higher purchase limits (e.g., 8 ounces monthly), and access to delivery services.
- Recreational Users: Pay a 9% excise tax + 5.75% sales tax and face stricter purchase limits (e.g., 1.5 ounces of flower per transaction).
Exception: Adults aged 18–20 with qualifying medical conditions (e.g., chronic pain, PTSD) can access dispensaries with a medical card and physician certification.
Best Dispensaries in Maryland
Maryland’s dispensaries vary in ambiance, product quality, and pricing. Based on consumer reviews and market trends, these stand out:
The Living Room (Baltimore)
Operated by Evermore Cannabis, this dispensary is praised for its artisanal strains like Huckleberry Soda and personalized service. It also hosts educational workshops for first-time users.
Culta Dispensary (Multiple Locations)
A market leader known for premium concentrates (e.g., Culta Diamonds) and exclusive collaborations with local growers. Their loyalty program offers discounts for frequent buyers.
Liberty Cannabis (Rockville/Oxon Hill)
Luxury-focused with a sleek design and expert staff. Liberty specializes in high-THC products and offers curated bundles like “Weekend Wellness Packs” for recreational users.
RISE Dispensaries (Bethesda/Joppa)
Part of a national chain, RISE provides consistency with lab-tested products and daily deals. Their app allows pre-ordering to reduce wait times.
Columbia Care (Silver Spring)
Ideal for medical patients, Columbia Care offers low-THC/high-CBD options and hosts monthly wellness clinics.
Final Tips for a Seamless Experience
Before visiting a dispensary, verify licenses through the Maryland Cannabis Administration portal to avoid unregulated sellers. While recreational delivery remains restricted, medical patients can utilize services like Green Point Wellness’s vehicle delivery or Hi Tide’s curbside pickup 412.
Be mindful of public consumption laws—smoking in parks, beaches, or vehicles risks fines up to $150. For budget-conscious buyers, compare prices on Weedmaps and take advantage of loyalty programs like Hi Tide’s THC Rewards or Green Point’s VIP Club 412.
Finally, explore dispensaries in less tourist-heavy areas (e.g., Chesapeake Apothecary in Salisbury) for competitive pricing, as urban locations like Baltimore or Rockville often charge premiums
