Explore Los Angeles' top cannabis dispensaries, known for their quality products and equity practices. Plus, find out everything you need to know about purchasing marijuana in the state of California.
Sofia Delpueche - Staff Writer•
Prepare to explore the city’s thriving cannabis scene with our comprehensive guide to the premier dispensaries in Los Angeles. From establishments renowned for their top-quality products to those committed to equity and inclusion, we’ve curated a selection that caters to all cannabis enthusiasts. Discover an array of strains, edibles, and accessories while gaining insight into each dispensary’s efforts to support marginalized communities. Whether you’re an experienced connoisseur or new to the world of cannabis, we provide all the essential information for you to explore the best cannabis shops in the coyt.
Do you need your ID to purchase at a dispensary?
Yes, you typically need to present a valid government-issued ID proving you are of legal age, usually 21 or older, to purchase cannabis at a dispensary in Los Angeles.
Do you require a medical card to purchase at a dispensary in California?
No, you do not need a medical card to purchase cannabis at a dispensary in California for recreational use. However, if you are purchasing cannabis for medicinal purposes, you may need a medical marijuana recommendation or card.
Are dispensaries in Los Angeles cash only?
Dispensaries in LA may accept cash or debit cards, but it varies. Due to federal regulations, cash is common, but some may offer debit and credit card options.
How much marijuana can you buy in California?
In California, adults can buy and possess up to 28.5 grams (about 1 ounce) of cannabis flower or up to 8 grams of concentrated cannabis for recreational use.
What is a social equity dispensary?
A social equity dispensary is a type of cannabis dispensary that is specifically focused on promoting social equity within the cannabis industry. These dispensaries often prioritize hiring individuals from communities disproportionately affected by the war on drugs, such as communities of color, low-income communities, and individuals with prior cannabis-related convictions.
Best Cannabis Dispensaries In Los Angeles
Explore the vibrant landscape of Los Angeles’ cannabis scene with our curated selection of the city’s best dispensaries.
1. The Green Paradise
Nestled on La Brea Avenue in Mid-Wilshire, this 1,600-square-foot retail space radiates a vibrant black and green color scheme, accented by festive balloons at its entrance. Featuring a paradise theme, it offers an array of palm-tree-emblazoned merchandise including knit caps, hats, and sweatshirts.
Known for its premium indoor-grown flower selection, brands like Wonderbrett, Monogram (Jay-Z’s label), and the Cure Company grace its shelves, alongside products from social equity cultivators such as Ball Family Farms and Peakz. Conveniently, a spacious parking lot is located at the back, just off Edgewood Place, making it one of the best dispensaries in Los Angeles.
💚 Social equity dispensary
📍 Location: 1119 S La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90019
🍃 Known for: Convenient prices, great deals and high quality products
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: Yes.
2. The Artist Tree
Amidst the buzz of Western Avenue, you can’t miss the Koreatown spot of this artsy-pot shop combo, known as one of the best dispensaries in Los Angeles. Covered in a rad mural by artist Matty Mo, it’s a real eye-catcher. Inside, it’s small but cozy, with a chill loft space upstairs filled with cool art and tons of cannabis goodies. They’ve got all the classics like CBX’s Cereal Milk and even some live plants from Clone Guy Industries. Just a heads up though, parking might be a bit tricky.
💚 Social equity dispensary
📍 Locations:
– 520 S Western Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90020
-8625 Santa Monica Blvd, West Hollywood, CA 90069
🍃 Known for: Good quality products, discounts, and dedicated staff
💳 Card payments: Yes, extra fees may apply
🚗 Parking: Nearby
3. Gorilla RX Wellness
Tradition is deeply ingrained here. Kika Keith and Kika Howze, affectionately known as The Kikas, etched their names in history by inaugurating Los Angeles’ premier Black women-owned dispensary in February 2021. Today, this dynamic mother-daughter duo continues to sow seeds of empowerment within the Crenshaw community, nurturing a path for future generations of Black entrepreneurs through grassroots cannabis equity initiatives.
From the harmonious color scheme adorning the store’s interior to its curated selection of cannabis brands owned by Black and women entrepreneurs, Gorilla Rx stands as a testament to The Kikas’ dedication to innovation and advocacy, making it one of the top dispensaries in Los Angeles.
💚 Black women-owned
📍 Location: 4233 S Crenshaw Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90008
🍃 Known for: Knowledgeable and dedicated staff, safe place with a great community
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: Yes
4. Mecca Mid City
With friendly budtenders radiating big feminine energy, Mecca is your ultimate destination for cannabis essentials. Despite parking across the street not being super convenient, Mecca’s staff is ready to assist you with flowers, pre-rolls, edibles, and vaporizers. Whether it’s “Two 4 Tuesday” or “Weed of Fortunate Saturday,” expect more than you imagined.
💚 Women-owned
📍 Location: 5738 W Washington Blvd., LA, CA 90016
🍃 Known for: Great deals, an extensive selection of buds, and friendly staff
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: Across the street
5. Green Qween
Making its debut in May 2022, they bring a refreshing perspective to the city as a main downtown LA dispensary. Led by Queer and POC individuals, this socially-conscious dispensary holds a special focus on amplifying LGBTQ+ brands while fostering a consistently inclusive environment.
Their commitment to honoring queer history and identity shines through their thoughtfully curated product selection, support for local artists, and community-driven initiatives, such as their partnership with DTLA Proud. Green Qween is truly a standout establishment in the heart of LA.
💚 Queer and POC-led
📍 Location: 1051 S Broadway, Los Angeles, CA 90015
🍃 Known for: Queer visibility, great brand variety, and happy hour deals
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: Yes.
6. Josephine and Billie’s
Echoing the spirit of the Harlem Renaissance speakeasies, this “cannabis teapad” serves as a vibrant space for exploration and BIPOC celebration. As a Black and women-owned dispensary in Los Angeles, it channels the essence of the Jazz Age with art deco-style wallpaper, sumptuous velvet seating, and the timeless melodies of Billie Holiday.
Offering an extensive variety of flowers, including top labels like Ball Family Farms and Jay-Z’s Monogram, alongside boutique brands such as Honeydew Farms and Drew Martin, there’s something for every palate. With unbeatable prices for top-tier quality and the added convenience of private parking, a visit to their exquisite South LA location guarantees an unforgettable experience.
💚 BIPOC women-owned
📍 Location: 1535 W Martin Luther King Jr Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90062
🍃 Known for: Excellent prices, high-quality products, and a wide variety
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: Yes
7. ASHE Society
ASHE Society was founded by Elaine Lu, a cancer survivor who left the corporate world to create a welcoming and informative cannabis experience. ASHE Society boasts a bright, airy atmosphere, over 1,300 lab-tested products from 120+ brands, and friendly budtenders to guide you. This female-run business is passionate about education and giving back to the community, ensuring everyone benefits from the cannabis industry.
💚 Women-owned
📍 Location: 3601 W Garry Ave, Santa Ana, CA 92704
🍃 Known for: Great deals, delivery service, and wide product selection.
💳 Card payments: No
🚗 Parking: Yes
8. Wyllow
Renowned for their potent, small-batch cannabis, Wyllow is a bi-cultural and woman-owned cannabis brand, and one of the best dispensaries in LA, offering a diverse range of strains to suit every palate. From citrusy hybrid sativas to fragrant lavender-scented indicas, they cater to various preferences.
Alongside their own aromatic blends, Wyllow stocks an extensive selection of indie cannabis brands, including Old Pal and Raw Garden. Please note that street parking is the only option available.
💚 Women-owned
📍 Location: 2622 S Robertson Blvd, Los Angeles, CA 90034
🍃 Known for: Great selection of products and brands, knowledgeable staff
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: No
9. Erb and Arbor
Situated in the heart of the San Fernando Valley, this 3,000-square-foot space is a favorite among locals, just across from the L.A. Kings Valley Ice Center.
Adorned with faux ferns and a striking neon sign, it offers a curated selection of house brands like Erb & Arbor, of course, and Mariment flower, along with a wide array of concentrates and vape cartridges. With dedicated parking and upcoming delivery service, it’s a convenient choice for Valley residents.
✊ Social equity dispensary
📍 Location: 8717 Van Nuys Blvd, Panorama City, CA 91402
🍃 Known for: Great deals, dedicated staff, and safe place
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: Yes
10. Hierba
In Boyle Heights, this dispensary fully embodies the local atmosphere with its vibrant Calavera Catrina mural and colorful interior decor. Offering THC-infused aguas frescas, artisanal gummies, and cannabis-infused chocolates, it’s a true homage to the community. Additionally, customers can support local organizations with every purchase by dropping a disc in designated jars near the entrance.
💚 Social equity dispensary
📍 Location: 2625 E Cesar E Chavez Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90033
🍃 Known for: Good price-quality ratio, deals, and dedicated staff
💳 Card payments: Yes
🚗 Parking: Yes
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