Updated on February 5, 2024.
Welcome to our guide, your compass to the top 5 best dispensaries in Calgary. With a whopping count of over 208 licensed stores in the city, it’s like a hide and seek game in 2023! But don’t worry, we’ve got your back.
Our weed detectives have put their magnifying glasses to good use. Relying on the trustworthy word-of-mouth of customer reviews and ratings, we’ve shortlisted the spots that offer top-tier products, super knowledgeable budtenders, and a shopping experience that makes you say ‘Wow’!
But we didn’t stop there. We even sneaked around social media platforms and industry-specific websites, checking out thousands of customer reviews to make sure the chosen dispensaries are worthy of your trust.
So buckle up, whether you’re a local or just stopping by Alberta’s capital city, we’re here to guide you on a fun ride to the best cannabis stores in Calgary.
Understanding customer reviews.
Since the legalization of cannabis in 2018, Calgary’s licensed dispensaries have established their reputations and matured. Assessing the reputation and service of a dispensary through customer reviews on websites is vital. These reviews offer valuable insights into past customers’ experiences including their satisfaction with product quality, variety, customer service, and the overall shopping experience.
Customer reviews also identify potential areas for improvement in the dispensary. Moreover, they enable potential customers to make informed decisions about which dispensaries to visit. It’s always recommended to consider multiple review sources to obtain a balanced perspective. Additionally, it’s also important to remember that while reviews can provide useful insights, they represent individual experiences and may not fully reflect the overall quality of the dispensary.
Top 5 best dispensaries in Calgary list.
1) Prairie Records – Forest Lawn, Calgary
Best known for its unique retail experience, powerful brand, and deep community connections.
The moment you step through the doors, you are greeted with a welcoming atmosphere reminiscent of a retro-record shop. Product information is displayed on album covers, empowering customers to explore their musical interests and strain preferences themselves. A sensory journey that celebrates the harmony of music and cannabis.
We chose Prairie Records for the following reasons:
Captivating Atmosphere: Immerse yourself in a nostalgia-filled ambiance as Prairie Records takes you on a journey back in time. With its retro-record shop vibe, curated playlists, and music paraphernalia, every visit becomes an enchanting experience.
Revolutionary Strain Selection: Prairie Records redefines cannabis browsing with their LP-sized plaques featuring detailed strain descriptions. Discovering the perfect strain becomes effortless and enjoyable, empowering you to make informed choices with confidence.
Fantastic Location: Located on vibrant International Avenue, Prairie Records enjoys a prime spot that adds an extra layer of excitement to your visit. The lively energy of the surroundings enhances your overall dispensary experience.
Visit Prairie Records and immerse yourself in their unique cannabis retail experience that combines nostalgia, exceptional strains, and a vibrant atmosphere.
Prairie Records – Forest Lawn, Calgary
- 4.9/ 5 4 Ratings
- Dispensary Storefronts
It's always a good time buying some killer strains here, never disappointed....
2) Beltline Cannabis Calgary
Best known for its outstanding customer service, having awesome Budtenders, showing care for their employees, and creating a friendly atmosphere.
Beltline Cannabis in Calgary is hands down one of the top five dispensaries in the city. Why? Well, let me break it down based on the word on the street.
First off, they’re locally owned and they genuinely care about their employees. Beltline Cannabis offers higher education opportunities for their staff to pursue their passion for cannabis. So you know you’re dealing with experts who genuinely love what they do. Seriously, everyone raves about the budtenders here, these folks know their stuff. They’re super knowledgeable and they’ll hook you up with personalized recommendations that’ll blow your mind. They’re not only knowledgeable but also super friendly and kind.
And this is so cool…they turned a historic homestead from 1908 into the first licensed cannabis retailer in Calgary. Talk about a unique vibe! The cozy atmosphere makes you feel right at home. It’s like hanging out with friends while exploring your cannabis options.
To sum it up, Beltline Cannabis rocks because of their premium customer service, local ownership, the historic vibes, their awesome Budtenders, the care they show their employees, and the friendly atmosphere. Trust me, you won’t be disappointed when you step foot in this place.
Beltline Cannabis Calgary
- 4.7/ 5 3 Ratings
- Dispensary Storefronts
They deserve a solid 5-star rating for always being there with on-point advice, helping me choo...
806 12th Avenue Southwest, Calgary, AB, Canada
3) Best Dispensary Calgary: Upstairs Cannabis
Best known for an incredible selection of products, friendly vibe, and great owners.
Looking to score the best cannabis dispensary in Calgary? Upstairs Cannabis in Ramsay is where it’s at – a true hidden gem that’s got locals and visitors buzzing. They’ve claimed their spot among the best dispensaries in Calgary, and for good reason.
Let’s start with their mind-blowing selection of brands. They’ve got it all, catering to every taste and budget. It’s like a cannabis wonderland up in there. But it’s not just the huge selection that makes it one of the best. The vibes at Upstairs Cannabis are off the charts. Picture this: tucked away on the second floor of an artsy house in Ramsay Inglewood, you’ll step into a place that feels like a secret club for the cool kids and you’ll feel right at home. The decor is on point, and the ceiling mural is pure eye candy.
Now, let’s talk about the owners. They’re all about delivering the goods and giving exceptional customer service. They’ll drop cannabis wisdom on you like nobody’s business. But here’s the thing—they’re not just business owners. Oh no, they’re your new pals. They genuinely care about their customers, creating a vibe that’s more like hanging with friends than making a transaction.
Upstairs Cannabis is the real deal. They’ve got the killer selection, the friendly vibes, and the passion to make you feel right at home. Join the crew of happy customers who swear by this place. Whether you’re a local or just passing through, you don’t want to miss out on this epic experience. Upstairs Cannabis is waiting to rock your world with their cannabis magic.
Upstairs Cannabis – Calgary
- 4.8/ 5 3 Ratings
- Dispensary Storefronts
Simply because I love the people and I always get great strains....
4) Bud Bar Cannabis – 14th Street, Calgary
Best known for its accessibility, knowledgeable and patient budtenders, and seriously relaxing vibes.
Step into the world of Bud Bar Cannabis on 14th, where knowledge meets stress-free experiences. Where the friendly staff acts as mentors, patiently guiding newcomers through the wonderland of cannabis with expertise and genuine enthusiasm. The atmosphere here is stylish and laid-back, inviting you to explore an exceptional selection of products.
Located in an incredibly convenient spot, finding Bud Bar is a breeze. You know how it is sometimes, relying on GPS instructions can be a real stress-inducer. But at Bud Bar, finding it was a breeze, and that alone puts my mind at ease. Nestled in a prime area with plenty of parking, they’ve truly prioritized our convenience, and ensured a seamless and worry-free experience.
The budtenders at Bud Bar are known for their knowledge and warmth, providing clear explanations and creating a welcoming environment for everyone, from newbies to cannabis enthusiasts. Their dedication to education guarantees that each visitor leaves with newfound confidence and excitement, without any sense of rush or pressure.
With its blend of boutique chic and laid-back vibes, Bud Bar creates an inviting environment that feels sophistacated and relaxing. The clean and modern space invites us into the calm embrace of cannabis culture, making each visit a memorable experience.
In a nutshell, Bud Bar Cannabis on 14th sets the standard as one of the best.
Bud Bar Cannabis – 14th Street, Calgary
- 4.9/ 5 2 Ratings
- Dispensary Storefronts
Simple, I buy my weed in minutes here, with hardly ever any lineups. Their staffing is great, w...
5) Four20 Premium Market – Sage Hill Calgary
Best known for their outstanding customer experience, fast and convenient delivery service, and super-friendly budtenders.
Situated in Sage Hill, Four20 Premium Market has emerged as a shining star in Calgary’s cannabis scene, and rightfully so. It has captivated the hearts of cannabis enthusiasts with its profound commitment to community welfare. One of their standout features is their fast and reliable delivery network that reaches all of Calgary. Four20 has redefined industry standards, and will have your order zooming to your doorstep in a blaze of green glory!
What truly positions Four20 Premium Market at the forefront is its dedication to the community. Their annual Community Report illustrates a series of sustainable initiatives, charity drives, and efforts to promote inclusivity within the cannabis industry. Furthermore, the dispensary is acclaimed for its free patio pop-ups, offering a supportive space for fellow small businesses in Calgary. This commitment to community engagement and support reflects the core values of Four20 Premium Market, establishing it as a beacon of social responsibility and inclusivity within Calgary’s cannabis scene.
Four20 Premium Market – Sage Hill Calgary
Four20 Premium Market Recreational Dispensary and Retail Cannabis Store
Emerging dispensaries to watch.
The Canadian retail cannabis scene is continuously evolving, with brands constantly looking for ways to innovate and be uniquely different from the fierce competition in Calgary. By keeping up with these emerging trends, cannabis retailers can adapt to the changing market landscape and attract a broader customer base while providing an exceptional and forward-thinking cannabis retail experience.
Emerging dispensaries to watch in Calgary are those that focus on expanding e-commerce, providing the best weed delivery in Calgary, investing in knowledgeable staff and educational resources, offering innovative products like THC beverages and edibles, and prioritizing sustainability, social responsibility, and health and wellness. By embracing these trends, cannabis retailers can provide an exceptional retail experience and strive to be the best in the industry.
Here are the top dispensaries in Calgary to watch.
Each dispensary on this list brings something unique to the table, setting them up for future success in the thriving retail cannabis marketplace of Calgary. Keep an eye on these dispensaries as they continue to elevate the cannabis experience for customers.
Moderna Cannabis Society
Welcome to Moderna Cannabis Society in Calgary Moderna Cannabis Society is a premier boutique experience inspiring cannabis education in our community. Conveniently located at Westman Village, a vibrant lifestyle and multigenerational community. Please leave your Moderna Cannabis Society reviews; we love feedback, thanks.
Bow Retail Cannabis store
Welcome to Bow Cannabis. We are not selling an image, lifestyle or promises. We are a family owned local Cannabis retailer that listens; providing your products how you like them. We will provide quality products, variety and helpful advice at competitive prices. Please leave your Bow Cannabis reviews; we love feedback, thanks.
Celestial Buds – Calgary
Welcome to Celestial Buds in Calgary. Come as you are. Whether it’s your very first time visiting, or you’re a regular at Celestial Buds, when you step through our doors, we want to ensure a feeling of ease and comfort. From our friendly and helpful team, to an extensive selection of cannabis products and accessories, […]
Omkara Cannabis – Calgary
Welcome to Omkara Cannabis – Calgary, Alberta Looking for quality Cannabis to satisfy your everyday needs? Then you have to look no further because you are in the right place! At Omkara Cannabis, we offer you unique and quality Cannabis that meets and exceeds your expectations! Conveniently located in Calgary, we pride ourselves in providing […]
The legal landscape of cannabis dispensaries in Calgary.
Cannabis is legal in Canada, including Calgary, Alberta under the Cannabis Act that came into effect on October 17, 2018. Dispensaries must be licensed by the provincial government of Alberta, under the Alberta Gaming, Liquor & Cannabis (AGLC). The law permits both online sales, mail order and same day delivery services in Calgary to be provided by private, licensed cannabis stores.
Cannabis dispensaries in Calgary must follow a bunch of rules:
What you can and cannot do when it comes to smoking weed in Calgary.
What you can do:
- You can smoke or vape cannabis anywhere tobacco smoking is allowed, it’s not allowed on school properties or even on the adjacent streets.
- You can smoke and vape cannabis in private residences, many outdoor public places, designated smoking guest rooms in hotels, motels, and inns.
- You can carry up to 30 grams of cannabis or its equivalent in public.
What you can’t do:
- You can’t consume cannabis products in undesignated public spaces.
- No one can use cannabis in a vehicle. Not even passengers.
- You cannot smoke or vape cannabis in indoor common areas, in condos, apartment buildings, and university/college residences, enclosed public places and work places, non-designated guest rooms in hotels, motels, and inns.
- You can’t smoke or vape cannabis at school, or on school grounds.
Conclusion – What to look for in a quality dispensary.
When looking for the best dispensaries in Calgary, there are several key factors to consider. First and foremost, evaluate the range and quality of products offered, ensuring that the dispensary has a diverse selection of strains, cannabis brands, and products that cater to different needs and budgets.
Customer reviews and ratings are valuable indicators of a dispensary’s reputation within the community. By considering both positive and negative feedback from fellow customers, you can gain a well-rounded understanding of the dispensary’s overall quality and service.
Equally important is the budtender’s knowledge and friendliness. Your budtender plays a significant role in guiding you towards the right products based on your specific preferences and needs. Their expertise and helpfulness can greatly enhance your dispensary and product experience.
By taking all these factors into account, you increase your chances of finding the best dispensaries in Calgary that meet your expectations and preferences. So, happy shopping to all Calgarians and visitors alike! May your explorations through Calgary’s cannabis scene be filled with awe-inspiring moments, epic strains, friendly vibes, and unexpected delights that will make you say, “Damn, this is some next-level ganja!”
Cheers,
Anna Gray
All dispensary reviews and ratings in Calgary.
Here are more cannabis stores in Calgary with their customer reviews and final ratings. You can also filter and search for your best match, prices, near me, and what’s open now.
Dank Cannabis Parkdale
- 5.0/ 5 6 Ratings
- Dispensary Storefronts
Its easy to order once you're all set up, and the drivers are on time and good people....
Dank Cannabis Ogden
We strive to be the best dispensary in Canada and will not disappoint!
Dank Cannabis Dover
We strive to be the best dispensary in Canada and will not disappoint!
1990 Kensington Rd NW, Calgary, AB T2N 3R5, Canada
Canna Cabana – Marlborough, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – Westbrook, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
110 37 Street Southwest, Calgary, Alberta T3C 1R3, Canada
Canna Cabana – Varsity, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
130 Crowchild Trail Northwest, Calgary, Alberta T2N 4R9, Canada
Canna Cabana – Southland, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – Silverado, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, a recreational dispensary in Airdrie AB
19369 Sheriff King St, Southwest Calgary, De Winton, Alberta T0L 0X0, Canada
Canna Cabana – Shawnessy, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – Rundlehorn, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – Roxboro, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – North Hill, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
1535 19 Street Northwest, Calgary, Alberta T2N 2K2, Canada
Canna Cabana – Midnapore, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – Macleod 7400 Plaza, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – Haysboro, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – Falconridge, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
Canna Cabana – East Village, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
624 8 Avenue Southeast, Calgary, Alberta T2G 0M1, Canada
Canna Cabana – East Lake, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
10822 50 Street Southeast, Calgary, Alberta T2C 2X8, Canada
Canna Cabana – District, Calgary
Welcome to Canna Cabana, Canada's leading Cannabis Store
