MIKE RICKER OPERATING PARTNER ricker@leafmagazines.com
TOM BOWERS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER tom@leafmagazines.com
DANIEL BERMAN CHIEF CREATIVE OFFICER daniel@leafmagazines.com
AMANDA LOPEZ STATE CONTENT DIRECTOR amanda@leafmagazines.com
MAKANI NELSON STATE SALES DIRECTOR makani@leafmagazines.com (808) 754-4182
BOBBY BLACK LEAF BOWL DIRECTOR & HISTORIAN bobbyblack@leafmagazines.com
KAYL WOHL COPY EDITOR kayl@leafmagazines.com
WES ABNEY ABOUT THE COVER
Swinging into the sunshine of spring is this adventurous new cover from longtime Leaf Magazines collaborator Joshua Boulet. With a humble nod to classics of cinema and literature and the special issue inside, we were pleased to create this fun and novel illustration. Boulet's creative, heartfelt and detailed work has graced the cover of our magazines for years and years, and was the illustrator for Mike Ricker's Stoney Baloney column from 2020-2025. Throughout this edition, we've sought to highlight a variety of ways to take Cannabis and make even daily life an adventure - because we all need more!
ART BY JOSHUA BOULET JOSHUABOULET.COM
CONTRIBUTORS
WES ABNEY, FEATURES ADHD DEAD, FEATURES
ANGELA-JORDAN AGUILAR, FEATURES
JESS BERNSTEIN, PHOTOS
JOSHUA BOULET, ILLUSTRATION
TOM BOWERS, FEATURES
COURTNEY CARDINI, PHOTOS
CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS, PHOTOS
WYATT EARLY, NATIONAL NEWS
NESTO FARINAS, PHOTOS
REX HILSINGER, FEATURES + PHOTOS
MICHAEL GREENMAN, VIDEO
MATT JACKSON, FEATURES + ART
JAKE KERN, FEATURES
CELESTE ORTIZ, PHOTOS
JAMIE OWENS, FEATURES
KATE RUSSELL, PHOTOS
SARAH SANDOVAL, SALES TERPODACTYL MEDIA, FEATURES + PHOTOS
BRUCE & LAURIE WOLF, RECIPES
We are creators of targeted, independent Cannabis journalism. Please email us to discuss advertising in an upcoming issue of Oregon Leaf. We do not sell stories or coverage. Email makani@leafmagazines.com to learn more about our range of affordable print and digital advertising options to help support Oregon Leaf, the state’s longest-running Cannabis magazine!
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Editor’s Note
Thanks for picking up the Adventure Issue of the Leaf!
Nothing says adventure like a packed bowl of weed, which is why we chose to have a giant nug chasing a stoner Indiana Jones throug h a vibrant scene. Have you ever been out in public, at a restaurant or the gym, when the weed that had been silently running in the background reached up and slapped you with a major case of “I’m too stoned to be in public”? I certainly have!
I’m training to climb a mountain and fight big salmon this summer, so I’ve been pushing my limits on edibles and workouts this spring. Recently I was on a 200mg leg day adventure when the edibles hit 27 minutes and 32 seconds in. At that moment, I simultaneously became aware that I had to pee, had extreme cottonmouth, was sweating profusely and had suddenly become extraordinarily tuned in to everyone around me doing gym things. My hands swell ed up with tension, music slowed down, and fight-or-flight kicked me right in the gut, along with two delicious 100mg lemonade shots from Agro Couture.
To escape the sudden madness, I found myself intensely studying Papa John’s $6.99 ad on my treadmill TV, as if I don’t hate ads. I’m such a mindless consumer that I’ll watch ads for processed doughy deliciousness even at the gym. Who knew that going 3 mph on a level-10 incline could be such an intense adventure? Twenty-three minutes later, the sound of a child’s laughter in an EDM mix snapped me back, releasing a rush of anxiety that matched the beat, pus hing my mind and body toward a peak as I finished my warmup cardio.
"I FOUND MYSELF INTENSELY STUDYING PAPA JOHN’S $6.99
AD ON MY TREADMILL TV."
I remember this intense workout because I wrote about it while freaking out on the treadmill, and when I thought of my most re cent weed adventure as a prompt for this Editor’s Note, that memory was still strong in my consciousness. While often anxiety-inducing, I do love adventur es like “Fuck, I’m too baked for Costco but want the free samples,” or the real-life reality show, “Let’s take blinker hits in Walmart and people-watch,” which is always worthy of a daytime Emmy.
My point in sharing these stories, while silly, is that life becomes an adventure with weed. It takes the daily routine of work, gym and errands and turns it into an exciting experience. Weed forces me into the moment, especially when majorly stoned, which is the opposite of the mindless escapism that the TV or alcohol offer.
Whether your adventures involve climbing high mountains or peaking your high at Pilates, smoking weed is an essential ingredient for turning ordinary moments into extraordinary memories. Like last year’s Choose Your Own Adventure cover, which you can find at leafmagazines.com, weed really is the magic wizard that is guiding us to our next epic memory!
BY THE NUMBERS
In a survey conducted by the National Library of Public Medicine, 87% of the 111 respondents reported that THC products helped them with recovery following exercise. An even higher 93% of participants felt the same way about CBD-infused products. These participants regularly engage in aerobic and resistance exercises and habitually use Cannabis. This represents a win for Cannabis consumers who exercise and an important study toward breaking the stigma of laziness surrounding stoners.
72%
According to a Cannabis Craze study by data analytics firm Technomics, this percentage of consumers said they would visit a restaurant that incorporates Cannabis in its food. This figure represents a 9.2% year-over-year increase in people interested in a culinary Cannabis experience. Additionally, 63% of consumers reported using Cannabis prior to visiting both restaurants and bars. We all know Cannabis can elevate a dining experience, which is probably why we smell something familiarly loud in the air about 63% of the time we dine out.
31
1 100% 87%
The number of state-licensed Cannabis consumption lounges still open in Nevada. You’d expect a state as wild as Nevada to have a booming market for Cannabis consumption lounges, given the various other types of partying taking place there. The problem behind the failure of this sector falls on stringent regulations for these businesses and high financial barriers to entry. You can walk down the Las Vegas strip holding a bottle of vodka, but for some reason they still don’t want you smoking weed in public.
Not a formal statistic but rather the opinion of NBA star Kevin Durant on how many NBA players smoke weed. “It’s the NBA, man. Everybody does it, to be honest. It’s like wine at this point” said Durant, who heavily lobbied NBA Commissioner Adam Silver to lift the league’s ban on Cannabis. “I just enjoy the plant. It’s as simple as that.” Need he say more? Considering players are allowed to consume alcohol and prescription medication, we think not.
Researchers with the University of Oklahoma assessed 98 Cannabis consumers who regularly engage in moderate to vigorous activity. The assessment concluded that participants on average engage in 31 more minutes of physical activity on days they consumed Cannabis products. Whether you’re going out for an easy walk around your neighborhood or smoking a fatty and hitting a PR deadlift, Cannabis may enhance the experience in a positive way.
For this dollar figure, you and nine friends can embark on the Smoky Mountain High Cannabis Dispensary & Safari Jeep Adventure Tour in North Carolina. They’ll pick you up from your hotel or campground, take you to get just the right product for your ideal day, and take you on a breathtaking safari Jeep ride through the wilderness of the Cherokee Reservation. Imagine getting blitzed and being driven around to see big beautiful mountains populated by elk, bears and tons of different species of birds. Put this tour on your bucket list.
The New York Times' sports division, The Athletic, conducted a survey with 170 professional MMA fighters and discovered that 78 of them (nearly 50%) use Cannabis. As expected, many of these fighters are using Cannabis for recovery, but several also reported using it recreationally. Whether it’s being used to relax and recover after dishing out and taking hundreds of punches to the head and body, or as an alternative to alcohol and other drugs, fighters using Cannabis is something we can all get behind.
29% $700
The amount of all active leisure travelers who are interested in Cannabis-related activities while on vacation, according to a study published by MMGY Travel Intelligence. These activities include visiting a dispensary, trying various cannabinoid-rich products and infused beverages, indulging in a CBD spa treatment or sampling Cannabis in a safe and comfortable environment.
OREGON BUDCOMPANY
Whether kayaking on Yaquina Bay or hiking the verdant trails in nearby nature preserves, Newport, Oregon, offers no shortage of coastal adventures and excitement . And what’s a better accessory for adventure than a big bag of bud or a handful of tasty edibles? That’s where Oregon Bud Company comes in.
OREGON BUD COMPANY (OBC) is a family-owned dispensary with six locations spanning the state, from downtown Portland to the Oregon coast. With roots tracing back to Telluride Bud Company, OBC’s predecessor founded in Colorado in 2010, the organization has worked for more than a decade to bring quality Cannabis to the Oregon market. The Newport store, open for nearly 10 years, has cemented itself as a mainstay for residents and tourists alike who come from near and far to find their preferred Cannabis offerings.
“Our primary focus has always been providing top-notch customer service,” General Manager Justin Briggs said. He has put great effort into shoring up a shipshape team with an emphasis on positivity, humility and compassion.
Given that this indelible seaside town has a population of just over 10,000, providing the best shopping experience helps create return customers and maintain trust.
“OUR PRIMARY FOCUS HAS ALWAYS BEEN PROVIDING TOP-NOTCH CUSTOMER SERVICE.”
JUSTIN BRIGGS, GENERAL MANAGER
“Most [businesses in] tourist towns see a large dip in sales through the wintertime, whereas our sales have stayed steady because the majority of our business is local,” Justin said.
A commitment to community remains one of the dispensary’s reported strengths. OBC hosts canned food and toy drives to support homeless shelters and food banks during the winter.
They also promote local projects and fundraisers throughout the year, like a recent pledge drive to fund a high school grad night in a nearby town. The relationship between the dispensary and the neighboring community is symbiotic, as the business has made itself both a retail fixture and a source of mutual support.
When it comes to merchandise, the outlet carries a wide array of Cannabis commodities, including flower, pre-rolls, edibles, vaporizers and concentrates. Brands like Earl Baker, Benson Arbor, Quickies and Piff Stixs are all incredibly popular with patrons and, in some cases, fly off the shelves as soon as they’re stocked.
Of interest, OBC offers an in-house brand available in each product category, allowing competitive pricing while maintaining a baseline level of quality. “[Customers] use our products to help medicate, treat mental illness and things like that,” Justin said. “So we pride ourselves in the fact that we can offer reasonable prices to people even when they are hurting financially.” By leveraging a loyalty program, daily happy hours, and allowing buyers to mix and match strains on bulk deals, the company has built a strong foundation for providing value.
No matter the thrill of choice, a quick stop at Oregon Bud Company surely makes any adventure on the coast that much more exhilarating.
BETSY INGRAHAM-MARINEAU
“MY MOM was a professional chef and baker,” Betsy says. “So I grew up loving food and cooking.” Their big backyard garden and an orchard full of fruit trees fertilized the early seeds of her passion for all things green. Her connection to the earth has always been hands-on: gardening, making pottery, cooking from scratch, and now crafting intentional Cannabis remedies.
HEALING ON HER TERMS
Betsy’s relationship with this particular plant had to grow over the years. “When I was younger, I was traumatized by my dad’s negative experience with Cannabis,” she shares, explaining that her father was incarcerated during the war on drugs. “Despite this hardship, my older brother has been a steadfast influence, serving both as a mentor and close friend.” He helped guide her through a painful time that initially made her hesitant to engage with the plant. But that changed when she began exploring it on her own terms and found healing in the process.
Years later, Cannabis would take on another new role, helping Betsy through an eating disorder after a doctor prescribed it as an appetite stimulant. From that point on, life would continue hurling health hurdles her way, but the plant would remain a steady sprout in the storm, always there to help her rise and re-root.
PLANT-POWERED WITH PURPOSE
These days, she and her husband Buck grow organic flower and press their own hash rosin to use in smallbatch edibles, salves and infused oils. Oregonian to the core, Betsy gravitates toward cultivars like Mount Hood Magic, which she says is “uplifting without being overwhelming and provides a comfortable body high.”
Making her own medicine is more than a creative outlet; it’s a form of empowerment. “It gives me a great sense of safety and confidence as I control the entire process from cultivation to consumption,” she says. Along the way, Cannabis has also reshaped her sense of wellness. “It has reinforced the concept that there is no single solution for life’s challenges. It has encouraged me to build a personalized, holistic approach to wellness — a patchwork of support that makes me feel truly cared for.”
Looking ahead, Betsy dreams of building a Walipini greenhouse to grow her own food year-round and becoming a more active part of Oregon’s recreational Cannabis industry.
IN THE LUSH LANDS just outside Portland, Betsy Ingraham-Marineau lives in a cozy cabin tucked below the home where she grew up. She was raised on a 4.3-acre patch of land where her parents — both potters — encouraged creativity and self-expression, sowing roots deep in the Oregon soil and seasonal rhythms of a PNW lifestyle.
Her goals remain grounded in gratitude and generosity: “I want to continue creating products that help others and contribute meaningfully to my community … and support my parents financially as they age, especially considering the sacrifices they’ve made for me.”
With a focus on community care, seasonal wellness and slowing down enough to savor what she grows, Betsy’s journey isn’t about trends or quick fixes. It’s about building a balanced life, plant by plant, step by step. When asked to sum it all up in one word, she doesn’t hesitate: “Fated.” @MOUSEHOUSE.PDX
PAPAYA JUICE LIVE ROSIN PAPAYA JUICE LIVE ROSIN
This sweet and stinky symphony from the teams at Northwest SoilTech, Northwest OilTech, and Moonwalk is an adventure of its own. Its namesake teases a tale of fruity terps, but this funky find tackles your senses with much more — starting with the soft, succulent texture that looks like sorbet on a hot day.
“...a
PAPAYA JUICE is an enticing entanglement of Papaya x GMO, bred by Oni Seed Co and selected by Washers Only. Nurtured into a vibrant version of this variety, the cultivation crew at Northwest SoilTech has amplified every last note, enveloping the consumer in a concierto of flavor.
Lifting the lid of the artadorned jar (compliments of @beyondgrasp) offers a journey from the typical Papaya push. A robust GMO-like diesel is splashed over stone fruit for a fine balance. The inhale coats every corner of the mouth, stirring the sweet stone fruit slurry in bold, unexpected contrast to the savory first impression. Like the sip of a cold smoothie, the cool juiciness careens down the throat and into the chest, where soothing silkiness continues long after the last exhale. Some tokers take to funkier finds. Some sip on sweeter slabs. But Papaya Juice brings the best of both worlds, with a punchy nose that demands your attention, followed by a refreshing finish.
@NORTHWESTSOILTECH
punchy nose that demands your attention, followed by a refreshing finish.”
INFUSED FRUIT CHEWS
Spinello Cannabis-infused fruit chews are the newest offering from the creators of Smokiez.
Powered by 100% hash rosin, these tasty little treats represent the most premium, high-quality edible the company has released to date.
THE FRUIT CHEWS are composed mainly of beet sugar and real fruit flavoring, with no high-fructose corn syrup or otherwise undesirable preservatives in the formulation. Instead, Spinello uses a natural mix of regular corn syrup (mostly just glucose) and pectin to create a more organic gelatin texture for each edible. Every product from Spinello is gluten-free and vegan, making them a feasible option for most dietary restrictions or allergies.
In the spirit of adventure, we are diving deeper into the Blueberry Indica Spinello. The taste of the gummy is sweet and faintly bitter, with an underlying flavor reminiscent of freshly squeezed blueberry juice with a touch of peach puree. The profile is similar to that of a fruit leather or a Fruit Roll-Up in a way that is sure to satisfy any consumer’s inner child.
It’s worth noting that an aspect of hash is present in the flavor expression, but it complements the profile well with a minimally acerbic aftertaste. These jellied candies are, in actuality, quite appetizing, making it a challenge not to eat more pieces beyond the amount needed for accurate dosing and medicating.
“...each indulgence generates a body-heavy, physiological sensation and a feeling of relaxing sedation.”
The effect of the Blueberry Indica Spinello is significant. Even in smaller amounts, each indulgence generates a bodyheavy, physiological sensation and a feeling of relaxing sedation. The packaging says it can take up to two hours to experience the full impact, but given the solventless inputs, the user is likely to feel initial results within the first 15 minutes after consumption. Good for unwinding after a long day or before bedtime, this is an edible that can be used for both recreational and medicinal purposes. However, user beware: These potent sweets can invoke a number of side effects when taken in higher quantities, including but not limited to glazed-over eyes, an urge to wolf down munchies and impromptu naps.
SMOKESPINELLO.COM
Hit the Road
So, you are hitting the road. Cool. It’s May, time to get some sun, some fun and some delightful Cannabis to make everything just right. Whether you are on a bike, a boat or a chair in your living room, be safe, be kind and be the best you that you can be. The chosen strain for these traveling treats is the sativa-dominant Electric Blue #3, with flavors of berry, skunk and pine. Highly uplifting, it’s a dream to smoke and even more delightful when eaten. Laurie@Laurieandmaryjane.com
A Dozen Dates
12 large Medjool dates, slit open, pits removed
1/2 cup almond butter
2 tablespoons canna-butter, melted
4 strawberries, thinly sliced 12 walnuts
1. Place the dates on your work surface. In a small bowl, stir the canna-butter into the almond butter.
2. Place a teaspoon of almond butter in each open cavity. Add a strawberry slice and a walnut.
Trail Mix
Zen
2 cups cereal of your choice
1/2 cup yellow raisins
1/2 cup dark raisins
1 cup dehydrated fruit of your choice (I used bananas and raspberries)
1/2 cup hazelnuts
1/2 cup pretzels, broken
3 tablespoons canna-butter
1 tablespoon honey
1/2 teaspoon cumin
1. In a large bowl, combine all ingredients except for the canna-butter, honey and cumin.
2. In a large frying pan, heat the canna-butter with the honey and cumin.
3. When melted, add all the ingredients and coat evenly with the infused butter. Allow to cool thoroughly before placing in an airtight container.
Lovely
Apricots
20 dried apricots
1/2 cup chocolate chips
2 tablespoons canna-butter Coconut flakes
Sprinkles
1. In a small microwave-safe bowl, melt the chocolate chips at 20-second intervals, until almost completely melted.
2. Add the canna-butter, stir and microwave 20 seconds more. Stir again to mix well.
3. Holding the apricots one at a time, dip half way into the melted chocolate.
4. Sprinkle the coconut and the sprinkles on the just-dipped apricots. Place on parchment to set.
INFUSED PRE-ROLLS
Now available in Live Resin and Live Hash Rosin.
Photo by Terpodactyl Media
“Maui Wowie, also known interchangeably as Maui Waui, has a nose that’s initially subtle, featuring a sweet and earthy pine tree aroma dressed in a delicate air of lime.”
MAUI WOWIE
CULTIVATED BY STATE 3
WOWIE
THE LEGENDARY
MAUI WOWIE IS A QUINTESSENTIAL, CLASSIC CULTIVAR WITH ONE OF THE LARGEST CULTURAL IMPACTS IN CANNABIS HISTORY.
HAVING ORIGINALLY gained popularity in the 1960s, Maui Wowie is an archetypal landrace sativa hailing from its namesake island in Hawaii. These genetics have been painstakingly preserved for more than half a century, with Jason Lampman, owner and operator of Oregon’s State 3, maintaining his own selection since the early 2000s.
So what makes the cultivar so special?
Maui Wowie, also known interchangeably as Maui Waui, has a nose that’s initially subtle, featuring a sweet and earthy pine tree aroma dressed in a delicate air of lime. Touches of sour tartness tickle the back of the nostrils, hinting at a symphony of elusive smells contained within each nug. Sure enough, breaking the buds down unleashes a nectarous concoction of pineapple, grapefruit and lemon citrus that magnifies the overall succulence and fruitiness in the fragrance. The ground product is as rich as it is ripe, conjuring a sublime mix of scents that pluck at the senses.
The flavor profile is piney and earthy, carried by an ephemeral aura of pineapple and lemon that resonates across the palate. Elements of tanginess in the expression create a textured tongue feel that tingles toward the end of the consumption process, virtually vibrating the taste buds. The smoke is noticeably smooth, with an effortless inhale mirroring the cleanliness of the grow methods used to bring this old-school paragon to life.
In terms of effect, Maui Wowie has a comforting, euphoric head high that’s considerably stimulating. This is a strain that’s been recommended for decades to medical patients looking for a reliable, “sativa-like” experience without provoking any undue anxiety — and in the case of State 3, the selection doesn’t disappoint. An adventure in and of itself, it’s hard not to imagine relaxing on a beach in Maui and puffing away on a jumbo-sized joint of this classic cultivar.
For consumers looking for old-school flower grown with love, care and an unparalleled commitment to the craft, State 3 champions the originals right here in Oregon.
@state_3
THE ADVENTURE OF MEOW WOLF
INTO THE WORMHOLE INTO THE WORMHOLE INTO THE WORMHOLE
Trying to explain Meow Wolf is like trying to describe a dream while you’re still half in it. Venturing through this immersive art environment is a journey that resists easy description. It’s not quite an art installation. It’s not a theme park. It is a full-body, sensoryflooding plunge into a shifting universe where narrative bends, time blinks and reality becomes optional.
PHOTO BY JESS BERNSTEIN
DENVER
PHOTO BY ATLAS MEDIA SANTA FE
PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS
LAS VEGAS
PHOTO BY KATE RUSSELL
WWith permanent exhibitions in Santa Fe, Denver, Las Vegas and Grapevine, Texas, Meow Wolf offers experiences that are equal parts science fiction, sacred geometry, haunted house and heady quest. It’s art at its most chaotic and interactive.
Stepping into any Meow Wolf location is a complete dislocation from reality. Upon entry, any sense of normalcy dissolves. You are pulled through a wormhole of impossible architecture, a cacophony of iridescent neon, alien symbology and tactile forests tucked behind refrigerators. Suburban homes are rigged with interdimensional surveillance. Every surface is alive with detail. Behind each doorway, real or imagined, there lies a choice. Time folds in on itself. Possibility fractures in every direction.
Unlike the linear flow of a museum or the scripted thrill of a theme park, Meow Wolf does not tell you where to go or what to feel. This is an open sandbox. You can simply walk and absorb the riot of color, sound, texture and movement, or you can go deeper. For those who choose to engage, the experience becomes a kind of lucid role-playing game, unfolding through a complex web of storylines involving alternate dimensions, lost civilizations, memory-based economies and cryptic figures like the Hallow or the Rat King. It’s a world that rewards curiosity and disregards assumption.
The spirit of adventure here isn’t manufactured. It emerges from the work itself. By giving its artists full creative freedom, Meow Wolf taps into something primal: the drive to explore, to uncover, to follow the strange path just to see where it leads. At times, it feels like wandering through a dream. At others, like stepping inside a playable graphic novel.
“AT TIMES, IT FEELS LIKE WANDERING THROUGH A DREAM. AT OTHERS, LIKE STEPPING INSIDE A PLAYABLE GRAPHIC NOVEL.”
Meow Wolf carries a clear countercultural lineage. There’s something distinctly psychedelic in the way it operates — echoes of the Acid Tests, of Kesey’s Furthur, of the Grateful Dead’s kaleidoscopic, tie-dyed visual language and embrace of spontaneity. It feels homegrown but not amateur, high-concept but never sterile.
For those engaging with Cannabis, the experience tilts even further into the extraordinary. A mild edible or a well-rolled joint can sharpen the synesthetic edges and open things up even more. Meow Wolf is one of the rare places where altered perception feels not only welcome but anticipated. The spaces are designed to overwhelm, to challenge the senses and the mind, and to pull the visitor into an active, unfolding story, not a passive walk-through.
Meow Wolf began in 2008 in Santa Fe, New Mexico, founded by a collective of creatives: Sean Di Ianni, Matt King, Corvas Brinkerhoff, Emily Montoya, Caity Kennedy, Benji Geary and Vince Kadlubek, who described themselves as “a community of punk, quirky, artistic pals.”
With backing from George R. R. Martin, who purchased and renovated an old bowling alley to house their vision, the group launched its first permanent installation, House of Eternal Return, in 2016.
Today, Meow Wolf has five locations, each distinct in aesthetic and storyline: Santa Fe’s House of Eternal Return; Houston’s The Real Unreal; Denver’s multiversal Convergence Station; Las Vegas’ Omega Mart; and Grapevine’s The Real Unreal. New locations in Los Angeles and New York City’s South Street Seaport are on the horizon.
What unites all of these exhibitions is an insistence on presence. Meow Wolf cannot be streamed. It cannot be flattened into a video or turned into background content. It demands that the visitor move, look, choose and feel. This is adventure without a map.
PHOTO BY CHRISTOPHER DEVARGAS
LAS VEGAS
BAR ORAI @bar.orai
Tucked in a side street of Manhattan, Bar Orai is known for its curated vinyl collection that leans heavily on jazz, funk and obscure soul. Word is, they snagged a few ultra-rare Japanese pressings, which pair nicely with an interior designed for minimal distraction. An intimate, low-key environment that practically begs you to settle in with a mellow strain (not currently allowed) and lose yourself in the music. Regulars say the bar’s staff is passionate about guiding you to the perfect album, making each visit feel like a personal listening session rather than background noise.
VINYL, VIBES AND VISION
AUDIO BARS SHAPING THE FUTURE OF CANNABIS LOUNGES
There’s something magical about a cozy lounge, a stack of vinyl records and the gentle crackle of music drifting through the air. While still hypothetical in many states, the idea of a proper sesh paired with top-notch sound is beginning to take shape. A handful of cool vinyl and hi-fi bars might be previewing what Cannabis-friendly listening lounges could become once the laws catch up. At their core, these spots showcase how music and socializing collide in an environment built around high-fidelity sound. As states refine their consumption laws, these audio-first venues already offer a roadmap: impeccable acoustics, curated record collections and a laid-back energy that perfectly suits a chilled-out sesh.
WAX ON HI-FI
@waxonhifi
Wax On Hi-Fi leans into California’s sunny optimism with bright decor and airy seating. Their vinyl shelves bounce from surf-rock staples to modern funk albums, reflecting the region’s breezy atmosphere. Natural light floods the space, making it a prime environment for pairing an energizing sativa or hybrid strain to elevate the mood. The open vibe suggests a daytime hangout for folks who want a sonic adventure without the nightclub energy.
IN SHEEP'S CLOTHING
@insheepsclothinghifi
Though not explicitly Cannabis-friendly, In Sheep’s Clothing has cultivated a near-religious devotion to the listening bar format. Patrons are expected to dial back phone usage and let the meticulously curated vinyl selections transport them. This place is a poster child for how minimalistic decor, high-grade speakers and a willingness to appreciate music can create something far more profound than a typical bar scene.
SHIBUYA HIFI
Named after Tokyo’s famed Shibuya district, this lounge nods to Japanese listening bars by cultivating a nearspiritual approach to audio. The seating is arranged to face the music, literally, so you’re not stuck chatting away while the vinyl spins in the background. Seattle’s music scene already thrives on indie and alternative vibes, and Shibuya HiFi offers a modern twist on that foundation. Expect to spot the occasional experimental or lo-fi album in their rotation. Some evenings are dedicated to themed playlists, floating across psychedelic rock or classic hip-hop. @shibuyahifi
GOLD LINE BAR
Located in the greater Los Angeles area, Gold Line Bar is owned and operated in part by the team behind Stones Throw Records, meaning its vinyl library is massive and meticulously curated. Hip-hop, funk, soul and worldwide rarities line the shelves.
Sometimes you’ll catch a DJ spinning an Afrobeat set; other times you’ll drop in on a night devoted to ’70s Ethiopian jazz. The interior echoes vintage record shops and laid-back living rooms, creating a space that worships sound as much as it caters to casual conversation.
@goldlinebar
For now, keep these vinyl bars on your radar for a taste of what’s possible. The next wave of Cannabis consumption lounges may be taking notes, ensuring that before too long, we’ll all be able to fire up our favorite strain while a perfect groove supplies sonic goodness from the speakers.
LOS ANGELES
SEATTLE
LOS ANGELES
LOS ANGELES
TOKE +TASTE
Food can be a portal, transporting you across time and space with a whirlwind of flavors, aromas and textures. When used with intention, Cannabis enhances this adventure, deepening your perception and heightening tastes and sensations. THC is more than an extra layer to a dish; it interacts with food in ways both subtle and profound.
AN EDIBLE can lengthen the arc of a meal, expanding your appetite across courses. A well-timed joint before eating can amplify deeper, richer flavors or prepare the mind for an immersive dining experience. The key is balance: knowing when to let Cannabis take the lead and when to let the food speak for itself.
Different dining styles call for different approaches. Some meals demand precision and restraint, while others invite indulgence and excess. The right Cannabis pairing amplifies the best aspects of the experience without overpowering the meal.
Dim sum is a playground for post-edible exploration. A high dose taken well in advance aligns perfectly with the arrival of steaming baskets and crisp, golden bites. This style of dining invites you to follow your crav-
ings across courses of pillowy char siu bao, crispy scallion pancakes and xiao long bao that burst with hot, savory soup. The variety of flavors and textures matches the ever-swelling peak of an edible, keeping the experience dynamic and engaging. New York’s Jing Fong offers the quintessential dim sum experience in a vast dining hall packed with rolling carts and endless choices, an adventure in itself. For Korean barbecue, the act of cooking at the table is just as integral as the meal itself. A premium joint beforehand sets the stage, allowing the ritual of lighting up to mirror the anticipation of fire hitting the grill. The lingering effects of a strong indica or hybrid seamlessly blend with the primal satisfaction of grilling meats tableside, where smoke, char and umami richness mingle.
The same principles apply to any open-flame-driven feast. If Korean barbecue isn’t a local option, a Brazilian steakhouse or Texas-style barbecue market offers a similarly indulgent experience. For authenticity, Los Angeles’ Park’s BBQ serves premium cuts with deep, smoky flavors that thrive under Cannabis’s influence.
Omakase unfolds in a carefully deliberate sequence, each course a study in balance. The delicate layering of flavors — from pristine cuts of fish to seasoned rice touched with vinegar and soy — rewards an attuned palate.
A low-dose edible or tincture can sharpen your focus without overwhelming any senses, allowing the nuanced interplay of textures and tastes to unfold as intended. Too strong a dose will blur the finer details, muting the sharpness of yuzu or the umami depth of aged soy. The goal is refinement, heightening awareness without distortion.
For those seeking an omakase experience at the pinnacle of craftsmanship, Sushi Nakazawa in New York offers a journey through impeccable technique and flavor.
“THE VARIETY OF FLAVORS AND TEXTURES MATCHES THE EVER-SWELLING PEAK OF AN EDIBLE, KEEPING THE EXPERIENCE DYNAMIC AND ENGAGING.”
Tasting menus present a unique opportunity to pair Cannabis course by course, allowing the effects to unfold in tandem with the meal’s progression. A hybrid strain, taken in measured doses throughout dinner, shifts the state of mind alongside the flavors. The key is pacing, ensuring Cannabis enhances rather than overshadows the natural rhythm of the meal. Chicago’s Eden is redefining this format, incorporating Cannabis-infused elements into their High-Minded Events.
Their farm-to-table approach, paired with an immersive chef-driven experience, allows precise pairings to shine in an intimate dining setting.
For immersive dining experiences like Medieval Times, where spectacle and atmosphere outweigh subtlety, Cannabis’s more psychoactive effects can elevate the grandeur. A high-dose edible paired with a pre-meal joint primes the senses for the theatrics, making the experience feel larger than life.
In settings where refined palates take a back seat to maximum excitement, Cannabis helps heighten the absurdity and immersion. Medieval Times or Rainforest Cafe locations across the country provide the perfect setting to lean into this kind of time-warped, theatrical dining.
Introducing Cannabis into the culinary experience unlocks new potential. Thoughtfully paired, THC transforms a meal from something consumed into something fully experienced, stretching flavors, melding sensations, and turning every bite into a moment of discovery.
BOWL APPEAL
Korean Barbecue
A premium joint enhances the rich umami, smoke and char of tableside grilling.
Notable Location: Park’s BBQ, Los Angeles
Dim Sum
A high-dose edible taken in advance stretches appetite and enjoyment across a variety of dumplings and crispy bites. Notable Location: Jing Fong, New York
Omakase
A low-dose edible or tincture sharpens focus without dulling delicate flavors of fresh fish and aged soy.
Notable Location: Sushi Nakazawa, New York
Tasting Menus
A carefully paced hybrid strain evolves with each course, enhancing flavors without overpowering.
Notable Location: Eden, Chicago
Immersive Dining
High-THC edibles and a pre-meal joint amplify the spectacle, making every element feel larger than life. Notable Locations: Medieval Times, Rainforest Cafe, nationwide
EDEN
RAINFOREST CAFE
SUSHI NAKAZAWA
BUDS + BACKWOODS
What’s better than a wake-and-bake? A wake-and-bake by a lake! Mary Jane and Mother Nature are fine friends, and more campsites are opening their doors to Cannabis enthusiasts these days than ever before. But despite many states legalizing recreational use, it’s not as simple as rolling out the tent and roll up a joint. Here’s your guide to responsible trailblazing.
THE LEGAL LANDSCAPE
National Parks and National Forests
Cannabis is strictly illegal on federal lands. That means no puffing or packing in National Parks or National Forests, even if you’re in a state where sale and use are legal. Violating these rules can lead to serious fines or worse.
State Parks
These rules vary from state to state. Even if Cannabis is legal in the area, it may be prohibited in state or even county-specific parks, so it’s always best to check specific park regulations first.
Private Campgrounds
Some private campgrounds still strictly prohibit Cannabis or smoking in general, but some are going green and catering entirely to Cannabis (see sidebar).
TOKE RESPONSIBLY
Fire Safety First
Consider your environment before lighting up. Avoid combustibles in high-risk areas, and check your area’s current fire danger levels. Opt for vaporizers or edibles in dry seasons, and make sure anything you discard is completely extinguished before packing out.
Pack It In, Pack It Out
It should go without saying, but here we are. Please don’t leave behind roaches, packaging or anything else, so come prepared with a safe receptacle to retain these items.
Be Nice Neighbors
Remember, not everyone shares your love for the leaf. Keep smoke, noise and other scents contained to your own campsite, and always consider your neighbors.
Leave No Trace Stay on designated trails to preserve the environment. And if you’re a bit stoned, be careful that you’re not disturbing wildlife or wandering off-course.
Camp Laughing Grass
A cozy, 21-and-older campground located in Harrison, Maine, where you can enjoy riverfront views from tents, cabins, A-frames, and glamping setups surrounded by plenty of open-air space to light up. camplaughinggrass.com @camp_laughing_grass
The Grassy Knoll
This Muskegon, Michigan, location is an operating dispensary with an adjacent 5-acre field that’s partnered with local event planners to cater to campers and events alike. It offers RV parking and tent sites “where nugs and nature meet.” muskegoneventplace.com @muskegoneventplace grassyknollmuskegon.com @tgk_231
GANJA GEAR
WHEN
Sol Spirit Retreats
Sol Spirit in Willow Creek, California, is an operating Cannabis farm that offers all-inclusive adventure. Experience farm-to-table meals, cultivation tours and the beauty of Northern California’s Emerald Triangle landscape from onsite “luxury bell tent accommodations." solspiritretreats.com | @solspiritretreats
420 Treehouses
If you’re looking for an odd adventure, Oregon never disappoints. This Takilma location (that doubles as a medical grow) offers nontraditional glamping experiences, like treehouses and the “USS Mary Jane,” a sleepable sailboat suspended 35 feet up in a tree! 420treehouses.com @420treehouses
Start with Storage A smell-proof pouch, cooler or hard case with humidity control will keep your herb fresh and discreet. A metal water bottle will provide a safe passage for ashes.
Manage Your Method
Portable vaporizers, e-rigs, travel pipes, compact grinders, small rolling trays and stuffable paper cones can be game-changers. A windproof lighter or hemp wick is always handy for lighting up on a breezy day.
Mountain Refuge Ranch
This stunning, small campground is located on private property and offers panoramic views from cliffside sites of the Selkirk Mountains in Metaline Falls, Washington. While the campground is not cannaspecific, the owners maintain an open, smoke-friendly policy and discourage the presence of children due to the elevated location. mountainrefugeranch.com @mtnrefuge
Consider Your Course If you need a more low-key approach or are adventuring during high fire danger, explore edibles. Want to prevent pain and put some pep in your step? Try topicals!
SACRED FLOW & ELEVATED PLAY
A CANNABIS-INFUSED ACROYOGA JOURNEY IN THE RIVIERA MAYA
THE SWEET, sticky scent of sun-cured Mexican flower filled the air as we passed the dutchie to the left, barefoot and beaming under the watchful gaze of Mama Frida, peering through the aerial hoops. With each exhale, the worries of the world drifted further away, replaced by giggles, bright eyes and the knowing spark of something magical unfolding. We were in the heart of Playa del Carmen, Mexico — the tropical evening breeze carried the jungle’s vibrant resonance, setting the tone for an AcroYoga adventure that is sure to lift us into a whole new dimension.
OUR CREW gathered like cosmic puzzle pieces — entrepreneurial travelers, healers, athletes and artists seeking connection and elevated movement. Ready to embrace an afternoon of trust, flight and shared joy, the only requirement was to lead with an open heart and conscious body movement. We were nestled in the vibrant sanctuary of Plano Zero, a creative movement and art space tucked into Centro Playa.
Surrounded by colorful murals, jungle greenery and a warm embrace of all artistic expressions, Plano Zero holds space for movement, arts, sound journeys, sacred smoke and creative communion. It’s one of the few spots in the Riviera Maya that openly honors plant medicine and freedom of self-expression.
We lit our sacred herb with reverence and playfulness, letting the Cannabis tune us in.
The local flower — earthy, sun-grown, with a citrus twist — was a heart-opener and a body-whisperer, helping us melt resistance and soften into presence. It was the perfect companion for our next adventure: AcroYoga.
BEYOND THE HANDSTANDS
balancing acts, Acro is about connection — to ourselves, our partners and the infinite dance of giving and receiving.
In Acro, there are three primary roles: base, flyer and spotter — each vital to the alchemy of lift-off. The base provides grounded support (think stable legs and open palms), the flyer surrenders to flight (with core strength and trust), and the spotter holds the container of safety and awareness. It’s a tribal dance of co-creation, an elevated metaphor for community and consciousness.
Our session was part of the Kate in Paradise Acro class, a heart-led gathering that brings together international AcroYoga nomad Kate and local teachers and enthusiasts. Kate has partnered with Plano Zero to offer her elevated movement workshops semiannually in Playa del Carmen. In partnership with Vamos Experiences, you can catch her AcroYoga retreats in tropical destinations worldwide.
Rooted in the blend of classical yoga, acrobatics and Thai massage, AcroYoga is a mix of movement and trust. Born in the early 2000s, it brings together the grounding wisdom of yoga with the dynamic play of circus arts.
"Cannabis gave us permission to be fully present and playful. It softened the hard edges of performance and perfection and reminded us that joy is the real
We flowed through warmups, barefoot on the mat, feeling the earth beneath and the sky within. The tropical magic of the Riviera Maya held us in resonance as we lifted each other higher — first into bird pose, then star, and finally into floating therapeutic flows that reawakened the child within.
And here’s where the plant medicine truly shined.
Cannabis, like many herbal allies, is more than a buzz; it’s a sacred connector that helps dissolve the ego, ease social tension and amplify our sense of wonder. When used with intention, it awakens the inner child — the one who’s not afraid to fall, who plays without judgment, and who sees movement as magic. In the sacred space of Acro, that energy becomes fuel for flow.
We weren’t just stretching; we were expressing. Laughing. Exploring shapes and sensations with curiosity. Cannabis gave us permission to be fully present and playful. It softened the hard edges of performance and perfection and reminded us that joy is the real medicine. We were moving together as one tribe, one breath, one shared dream of what it means to lift each other up.
So, OG's, if you find yourself in Playa del Carmen looking for something more than just margaritas and beach bars, seek out the tribe at Plano Zero. Bring your medicine, your mat and your open heart, and be ready to fly.
Disclaimer: Cannabis can be a powerful plant ally for flow, connection and creativity, but it should be used with caution, especially when combined with physical movement. Only experienced Cannabis consumers who are also familiar with the fundamentals of AcroYoga should partake before engaging in elevated partner play. As always, listen to your body, communicate with your partners and choose safety over sensation. Elevated consent is the highest form of trust. Cannabis is not provided or accessible at Plano Zero. Simply put, the creators of Plano Zero respect the symbiosis between plant medicine and art. The current legal regulatory system allows for CBD-only consumption in Mexico.
For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children. Do not drive a motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana.
For use only by adults 21 and older. Keep out of reach of children. Do not drive a motor vehicle while under the influence of marijuana.
Firefly Glass NICK NOWAK
Nick Nowak first lit the torch in 2007, just 18 years old and driven by curiosity. Back then, it was all about soft glass beads — small, delicate creations that marked the start of a much bigger journey. Over time, what began as a fascination evolved into a calling. Now known in the art world as Firefly, Nick crafts intricate glasswork from his home studio tucked away in the northwest suburbs of Chicago.
NATURE IS HIS MUSE.
Animals, in particular, have always captured his imagination.
“I’ve always found animals to be something I love creating,” Nick explains. “I’m constantly inspired by them — their form, their movement, the spirit they carry.” That inspiration breathes life into each piece, with every curve of glass reflecting his deep appreciation for the natural world.
Looking ahead, Nick’s calendar is filling up with exciting collaborations. One of the highlights is a joint show with his longtime friend and fellow artist Jeff Heath (@jeffheathbar), set to debut on July 12.
Hosted by Woody’s Glass Gallery (@woodysglassgallery), the event will take place at Ignite Glass Studios (@igniteglass) in downtown Chicago — a space known not just for its sleek gallery but also for its dual glassblowing studios, accommodating both soft glass furnace work and Boro torch techniques.
For Nick, this upcoming show is more than an exhibition — it’s a milestone. “I’m really looking forward to building up a strong body of work and releasing it there,” he says. With each new piece, he continues to push his craft, blending technical skill with heartfelt inspiration.
From humble beads to breathtaking animal forms, Nick’s journey on the torch is a glowing testament to passion, growth and the art of fire and glass.
FIREFLYGLASS.BIGCARTEL.COM | @FIREFLY_GLASS
“I’ve always found animals to be something I love creating.”
When it comes to Cannabis usage, not all endocannabinoid systems move at the same speed. We all know people who blast off from 5mg of THC and those for whom the dose has to be more like an elephant tranquilizer. We also know that things like live resin gummies hit differently than rosin gummies. So given the wild differences, we’ve long believed that weed is semi-immune to a dosing standardization that goes beyond the vague guardrails we have in place: “You can always take more, not less,” “Start with five and move up by five,” and even “puff, puff, pass.”
However, this study from 2024 has popped up and it’s looking to change the paradigm on how certain doses of THC might compare to each other. Outlined in the April ’24 issue of the Journal of Psychoactive Drugs, researchers from the University of British Columbia are suggesting that one of the biggest blind spots in the effort to create a standardized dose of THC is tolerance.
A sample group of people ages 18 to 93 with a history of Cannabis use that ranged from low to high doses had their habits studied across seven different modes of use (bong, pipe, dab, edible, etc.). Using this data, they claim to have created the initial version of what they’re calling the Index of Cannabis Equivalence (ICE).
dardized dosing, it can help facilitate efforts in regulation, research and the creation of guidelines for using Cannabis.
The one bias they’ve identified is that they did focus on individuals with lower tolerances, and so for people in the elephant tranquilizer group, the research is still out.
“...one of the biggest blind spots in the effort to create a standardized dose of THC is tolerance.”
This new index has led them to boldly declare that two puffs on a joint, pipe or vaporizer (flower or concentrate) is the equivalent to one bong hit, one 5mg edible, or a one-fourth of a dab. The research team believes that through the creation of stan-
But, the findings from this study are tailored toward creating a baseline guide for people who might not own three Blazer torches and a Toro glass bong. So is there a way to say two puffs is all a person needs when they’re starting out? Well the ICE will help people figure out how much of that dab to inhale if a 5mg piece of chocolate is their usual jam. The index certainly starts to clear away some of the fog around dosing and gives us something that we can use to show people blunts and beverages aren’t so different after all.
Source Study: "The Index of Cannabis Equivalence (ICE): A User-Centered Approach to Standardization of Cannabis Dose–Response, Journal of Psychoactive Drugs
