New York is one of the most populous and diverse states in the United States, with a rich history and culture. It is also home to the largest city in the country, New York City, which is known for its iconic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and diverse cuisine. But did you know that New York is also a weed capital? Yes, you read that right. New York has a booming cannabis industry, with both medical and recreational use legalized since 2021.
In fact, New York has the highest annual consumption of marijuana of any city in the world, with an estimated 77.44 metric tons. That’s more than twice as much as Los Angeles, the second-highest consumer. But which county in New York is the weed capital of the state? The answer might surprise you. It’s not Manhattan, Brooklyn, or Queens. It’s not even the Bronx or Staten Island. It’s Sullivan County, a rural area in the Catskill Mountains, about 100 miles northwest of New York City. Here’s why.
Sullivan County: A History of Cannabis Cultivation
Sullivan County has a long and storied history of cannabis cultivation, dating back to the 1960s and 1970s, when hippies and counterculture activists flocked to the area to escape the urban chaos and enjoy the natural beauty. Many of them brought seeds and plants with them, and started growing their own cannabis in the woods, fields, and farms.
Some of them even formed communes and cooperatives, such as the legendary Rainbow Farm, which was raided by the police in 1973 and resulted in the arrest of 39 people and the seizure of 6,000 plants.
Despite the legal risks, cannabis cultivation continued to thrive in Sullivan County, as growers developed new strains and techniques, and formed a tight-knit community of cannabis enthusiasts. Some of the most famous strains that originated from Sullivan County include Sour Diesel, Chemdog, and OG Kush, which are still popular today.
Sullivan County: A Hub of Cannabis Innovation
Sullivan County is not only a place of cannabis history, but also a place of cannabis innovation. Since the legalization of recreational marijuana in New York, Sullivan County has emerged as a hub of cannabis entrepreneurship, with dozens of licensed dispensaries, cultivators, processors, and manufacturers operating in the area. Some of the most notable cannabis businesses in Sullivan County include:
Catskill Hemp Co.: A family-owned and operated hemp farm that produces high-quality CBD products, such as oils, tinctures, gummies, and topicals. Catskill Hemp Co. also offers educational tours and workshops on hemp cultivation and processing.
High Peaks Cannabis: A vertically integrated cannabis company that grows, processes, and sells premium cannabis products, such as flower, pre-rolls, concentrates, and edibles. High Peaks Cannabis also operates a state-of-the-art extraction facility that uses CO2 and ethanol to produce pure and potent extracts.
Sullivan County Cannabis Co.: A craft cannabis company that specializes in small-batch, artisanal cannabis products, such as infused chocolates, caramels, honey, and tea. Sullivan County Cannabis Co. also collaborates with local artists and musicians to create unique and immersive cannabis experiences.
Sullivan County: A Destination for Cannabis Tourism
Sullivan County is not only a weed capital, but also a destination for cannabis tourism. With its scenic landscapes, charming towns, and cultural attractions, Sullivan County offers a variety of activities and experiences for cannabis lovers. Some of the highlights include:
Bethel Woods Center for the Arts: A cultural and performing arts center that is located on the site of the original Woodstock festival in 1969. Bethel Woods features a museum, a pavilion, and a festival site that host concerts, festivals, and events throughout the year. Bethel Woods also offers cannabis-themed tours and exhibits that explore the history and impact of the Woodstock generation and the cannabis culture.
Roscoe Beer Co.: A craft brewery that produces award-winning beers, such as the Trout Town Amber Ale, the Brown Ale, and the Rainbow Red Ale. Roscoe Beer Co. also hosts cannabis-themed events, such as the annual 420 Fest, which features live music, food trucks, vendors, and cannabis education.
The Kartrite Resort & Indoor Waterpark: A family-friendly resort that features a 80,000-square-foot indoor waterpark, a spa, a golf course, a bowling alley, and a arcade. The Kartrite also offers cannabis-friendly accommodations, such as the Cannabis Suite, which comes with a vaporizer, a grinder, a rolling tray, and a stash box. The Kartrite also partners with local dispensaries and delivery services to provide guests with convenient and discreet access to cannabis products.
Conclusion
New York is a weed capital, and Sullivan County is the weed capital of New York. With its rich history, vibrant industry, and diverse attractions, Sullivan County is a place where cannabis lovers can find everything they need and want. Whether you are looking for quality products, innovative businesses, or fun activities, Sullivan County has it all. So, what are you waiting for? Pack your bags, grab your stash, and head to Sullivan County, the county that will blow your mind. You won’t regret it.