Recreational cannabis lounges open for the first time on the East Coast in South Jersey.
New Jersey has officially marked a significant milestone in cannabis history with the opening of its first licensed recreational marijuana consumption lounges. Located at dispensaries in Merchantville and Atlantic City, these lounges are the first of their kind on the East Coast, setting a noteworthy precedent as legal cannabis consumption continues to evolve in the region.
The two new establishments—Gynsyng Dispensary in Merchantville and the High Rollers and SunnyTien dispensaries in Atlantic City—are striving to establish themselves not merely as places for cannabis consumption, but as vibrant social hubs for both locals and tourists. Management envisions a range of events including comedy nights and watch parties for local sports teams, all centered around responsible cannabis use.
Jana and Tom Murzenski, the owners of Gynsyng, have actively sought to engage the community since receiving their operating license. To mark their launch, the couple hosted an impromptu industry gathering, showcasing strong support from fellow dispensary employees, vendors, and local cannabis enthusiasts. The lounge, located just 20 minutes from Philadelphia, currently operates on Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 9 p.m. and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m., with plans to expand its hours following a grand opening celebration.
The ambiance at Gynsyng is described as cozy and laid-back, aiming to replicate the warmth of a friendly gathering spot. Furnished with couches and a television area for entertainment, the lounge intends to offer a less commercialized alternative to traditional cannabis lounges.
Meanwhile, the Atlantic City lounges—High Rollers and SunnyTien—present a more upscale experience, positioned conveniently near the beach and various entertainment venues. High Rollers and SunnyTien aspire to enhance the tourist experience in Atlantic City, integrating cannabis culture with the vibrant atmosphere of the area known for its casinos and boardwalks.
Both lounges are equipped to cater to a wide spectrum of consumers, featuring products ranging from entry-level marijuana joints to high-end equipment like the 0 Volcano vaporizer, aiming to appeal to both novices and connoisseurs alike.
As these lounges open to the public, they come with specific policies that patrons must observe. For instance, while food and drink service is not offered, guests are permitted to bring their own meals. Notably, alcohol and tobacco are prohibited on-site, and customers are required to purchase cannabis products from the dispensaries, unless they possess a valid New Jersey medical marijuana card. Furthermore, both lounges encourage guests to avoid driving after consumption, urging the use of public transportation or rideshare services.
With the introduction of these consumption lounges, New Jersey is poised to play a pivotal role in the evolving landscape of legalized cannabis on the East Coast, potentially transforming the state’s tourism and recreational offerings.
The key locations for New Jersey’s cannabis lounges include:
– Gynsyng Dispensary: 14 S. Center St., Merchantville, N.J. 08109. Operating hours are Fridays and Saturdays from noon to 9 p.m., and Sundays from noon to 5 p.m.
– High Rollers Dispensary: 120 S. Indiana Ave., Atlantic City, N.J. 08401. Open Monday-Thursday from 9 a.m. to 10 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 9 a.m. to midnight, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 11 p.m.
– SunnyTien Dispensary & Lounge: 3004 Atlantic Ave., Atlantic City, N.J. 08401. Currently operating daily from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m. with plans to expand hours.
The growing acceptance and legalization of cannabis not only reflects changing societal attitudes but also enhances local economies, providing new opportunities for businesses in New Jersey and beyond.
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