Life for Canadian cannabis retailers changed dramatically on October 17, 2018, when marijuana became legal in all provinces and territories for persons aged 18 and over. This decision made Canada the second country in the world where this narcotic plant is allowed for recreational purposes. The next year, 2019, was the first full year of legal cannabis retail in the country. As a result, real brands, entire networks and franchises have appeared on the market.
Our guide presents the most popular stores in Canada that will surprise you not only with a wide variety of goods but also with a stunning interior.
Rules for Buying and Using Cannabis in All Provinces
Canada has legalized medical marijuana (aka cannabis) after 95 years of prohibition. Activities of cannabis stores and its usage are licensed and regulated by the federal government. However, each province and territory has its own rules for purchasing and using cannabis and other soft drugs.
Below you will find detailed information on each of the provinces.
| Provinces and Territories | Permitted Age | Where to Buy | Where to Smoke | Cultivating |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| British Columbia | 19+ | all private, state online and offline stores that have the appropriate license | prohibited in cars, in places where children are frequent, and in places where it is forbidden to smoke tobacco | can be grown in places closed to the public, up to four bushes |
| Alberta | 18+ | all private, state online and offline stores that have the appropriate license | prohibited in cars, in places where children are frequent, and in places where it is forbidden to smoke tobacco | allowed to grow up to four bushes, while the landlord can prohibit or restrict the cultivation |
| Saskatchewan | 19+ | all private online and offline stores that have the appropriate license | on the territory of private property; smoking near minors is prohibited | allowed to grow up to four bushes, while the landlord can prohibit or restrict the cultivation |
| Manitoba | 19+ | all state and online stores that have the appropriate license | on the territory of private property | prohibited |
| Ontario | 19+ | all online and offline private stores having the license | on the territory of private property, while the landlord may prohibit or restrict the usage | up to four bushes allowed |
| Quebec | 18+ | all state and online stores that have the appropriate license | only where it is allowed to smoke tobacco products, excluding universities and CEGEP campuses | prohibited |
| New Brunswick | 19+ | all state and online stores having the appropriate license | on the territory of private property | up to four bushes allowed |
| Nova Scotia | 19+ | all state and online stores having the appropriate license | only where it is allowed to smoke tobacco products, while the landlord can prohibit or restrict the usage | up to four bushes allowed |
| Prince Edward Island | 19+ | all state and online stores having the appropriate license | on the territory of private property, while the landlord may prohibit or restrict the usage | it is allowed to grow up to four bushes if they are out of the minors’ reach |
| Newfoundland and Labrador | 19+ | all private and state online stores having the appropriate license | on the territory of private property | up to four bushes allowed |
| Yukon | 19+ | all state and online stores having the appropriate license | on the territory of private property, while the landlord may prohibit or restrict the usage | can be grown in places closed to the public, up to four bushes |
| Northwest Territories | 19+ | all licensed private liquor shops and state online stores | on the territory of private property; smoking is also allowed on paths, highways, streets, roads and parks when no public events are held there | up to four bushes allowed |
| Nunavut | 19+ | all online stores having the license | not allowed in public areas, except for specially designed cannabis smoking lounge areas | not banned, but local authorities are considering regulating cannabis cultivation |
Canada’s Best Cannabis Stores to Visit
Most of these brands have stores in many provinces. All of them boast high ratings and professional staff and will definitely win your heart with a variety of products and stunning interiors.
Delta 9 Cannabis Store
Well-known Canadian chain of stores in Alberta, Saskatchewan and Manitoba. Quite a rich assortment of cannabis products and accessories for marijuana smoking. The bright design and huge TV screens that give the impression of being in the clouds immediately attract visitors’ attention.
What Customers Say
“Great pricing as well as great always going over the top staff. Always the best product, and they understand when you tell them what and why you want a certain type of product.” – Robert Lapeire.
THC Canada – Cannabis Store
This cannabis store in Vancouver is the benchmark for all Canadian retailers. It was one of the first to develop an impressive and most extensive cannabis menu in the country. This menu continues to attract real connoisseurs of cannabis and everything related to it. Well-known entrepreneurs, athletes and other influential figures have promoted the brand many times.
What Customers Say
“It is amazing how clean this place is. These guys have the friendliest staff I have ever encountered in my whole life.” – Ivan.
Hemisphere Cannabis Co.
These are shops with quality goods and attractive interior design, where goods are laid out so that you cannot help but choose something for yourself. Visitors leave these stores only with a good mood and a desire to come back again.
What Customers Say
“Super nice and helpful staff! Austin and Nicky were so kind and provided great recommendations and info on their specials. Great dispensary among the many on Avenue Road, but Hemisphere stands out for sure!” – J Berns.
Spiritleaf
With 100 stores already operating, this cannabis chain is the largest in Canada. In addition to a wide range of products, Spiritleaf stores will surprise you with their interiors: here, you will see different wood textures, various panels and many green plants. The interior of some shops resembles a typical holiday village. According to the creators of the brand, visiting one of the stores, you will want to see them all.
What Customers Say
“Not many stores are run with the love and passion that Clifford has. It is really clear how much he cares about curating and maintaining an amazing menu. Anytime I am in the area, this is the only store I will go to.” – Sameer Padamsey.
Fire & Flower
One of the largest chains in Canada, positioning itself as an exclusive cannabis dispensary. Shops of this brand are available in almost all provinces. Stores lure visitors with not only a wide range of products but also with attractive interiors with huge wood panels, various chandeliers and orange accents.
What Customers Say
“Such a beautiful store and such helpful, knowledgeable staff! Great selection of products as well as competitive pricing! I will definitely be back and let all my friends know about your location. Thanks for being awesome.” – Marissa Hauck.
City Cannabis
First and one of the largest chains of cannabis products and accessories in British Columbia. The brand stores are a kind of oasis right in the middle of the city: a cozy space with lush greenery is the key characteristic of their interior. This is the place where everyone can hide from the crazy rhythm of city life.
What Customers Say
“The staff is the best I have ever experienced in a cannabis shop. Next time I am in the city, I will go out of my way to go to this store for the staff alone. Lots of options and products I had not seen at other stores.” – Alysha Dupuis.