Cannabis in Arizona and Phoenix: Dispensaries, Desert Trips and What Tourists Must Know

Arizona voted in November 2020 with Proposition 207 to legalise recreational cannabis. Since then, a large and competitive market has developed — with one important catch for tourists: not all cities have opted in. Scottsdale, a popular destination for golfers and partygoers, has banned cannabis sales entirely by using the opt-out provision in state law.

Phoenix: Big, Affordable, Well Stocked

The state capital has become one of the most affordable cannabis markets in the USA. High licence numbers and strong competition have kept prices comparatively low. Tourists will find dispensaries in virtually every part of the city — from Downtown Phoenix to Tempe and Mesa.

Scottsdale: Why Are There No Dispensaries?

Arizona Prop 207 allows cities and counties to ban recreational cannabis sales by opting out. Scottsdale exercised this option. The result: not a single dispensary in the city may sell recreational cannabis. Anyone staying in Scottsdale must travel to Phoenix, Tempe or Mesa — each 15-30 minutes away by car.

What About Medical Cannabis in Scottsdale?

Medical dispensaries that were already licensed in Scottsdale before the opt-out took effect may continue to operate — but only for patients holding a valid Arizona Medical Marijuana Card. As a tourist without a card, you cannot access them.

Sedona and the Grand Canyon: Federal Land — No Cannabis

Many Arizona visitors combine their stay with trips to Sedona or the Grand Canyon. This is crucial: both areas are largely situated on federal land — national parks and national forests. Federal law applies there. Cannabis is strictly prohibited, including for personal use.

• Grand Canyon National Park: federal territory, cannabis banned
• Sedona (Coconino National Forest): federal territory, cannabis banned
• Antelope Canyon: Navajo Nation land, subject to its own laws — cannabis banned
• Saguaro National Park near Tucson: federal territory, cannabis banned

Top Dispensaries in the Phoenix Area

• Harvest House of Cannabis: Large chain, many locations, tourist-friendly
• JARS Cannabis: Competitive prices, broad range
• Nature's Medicines: Upmarket, excellent service
• Sol Flower: Community-focused, social equity oriented
• AZ Natural Selections: Craft cannabis, smaller quantities, high quality

Prices and Taxes in Arizona

Arizona levies 16% excise tax on recreational cannabis, plus state sales tax (5.6%) and local taxes. In practice, expect to pay around 20-25% above the listed price. A gram averages $10-15 — cheaper than California or New York, but more expensive than Oregon.

Do's and Don'ts for Arizona Tourists

• Always carry your passport (age 21+ verification)
• Do not look for dispensaries in Scottsdale — there are none for tourists
• Do not pack cannabis before national park excursions
• Do not consume or transport in a hire car
• Dispose of any remaining product before your return flight from Phoenix Sky Harbor

For more context, see our US Cannabis Guide for Tourists, US Cannabis Laws State by State and our California Cannabis Guide.