For locals and tourists alike, High Rollers Dispensary & Lounge has officially broken new ground: it is among the first legal cannabis consumption lounges to open in New Jersey—and the first of its kind in Atlantic City. The lounge soft-launched quietly in the summer of 2025 after approval by the New Jersey Cannabis Regulatory Commission (NJ CRC), ushering in a fresh kind of social spot for 21+ adults.
Though New Jersey allowed recreational marijuana in 2022, public consumption remained out of bounds—until now. High Rollers, along with a handful of other lounges statewide, began to offer a legal, regulated alternative: a place to enjoy cannabis with friends inside a comfy, licensed setting.
Where and what to expect
The lounge sits inside the historic Claridge Hotel—itself a landmark near the Boardwalk—with the dispensary at street level and the 3,300-square-foot consumption area on the second floor.
Inside, the vibe leans toward a speakeasy-nightclub atmosphere: plush seating, ambient lighting, and a décor blending vintage sensibilities with modern comfort. Expert budtenders are on hand to guide patrons through strains, dosages, and methods of consumption. Premium accessories—everything from glass rigs to vapes—are available for use, making it a suitable environment for seasoned users and newcomers alike.
To enter, adults must be 21+ and purchase cannabis on-site; only authorized medical patients may bring their own product (properly labeled and compliant).
A nominal cover charge applies (around $5), but the fee is waived with a minimum purchase—a friendly policy for frequent visitors.
Importantly, the lounge operates under strict guidelines. Alcohol and tobacco are prohibited, in line with statewide regulations.
Why it matters—for tourists and locals
For Atlantic City residents, a venue like High Rollers offers a safe, legal alternative to public smoking. The city has cracked down on open consumption along the boardwalk and beaches—reportedly issuing dozens of summonses over the summer.
For visitors—of which Atlantic City sees plenty—this lounge adds a new dimension to a classic Jersey Shore getaway. Instead of only casinos, nightlife, or beach walks, there’s now a modern, curated space to unwind, socialize, or share experiences with friends in a regulated, judgment-free setting. As one lounge-goer told a local reporter, “Having a space like a bar setting … where you can come to an area with like-minded people … that’s something that was sorely missing.”
Moreover, lounges like High Rollers could curb unsanctioned public use—aligning with law enforcement’s desire to limit public cannabis consumption.
A preview—and what’s next
While High Rollers is open, its operators indicate this is just the beginning. Plans include in-house events, curated entertainment, and possibly themed nights—an entirely fresh category in Atlantic City’s nightlife.
For now, the message is clear: whether you’re a curious tourist, a local resident, or a cannabis enthusiast passing through, High Rollers offers a unique, legal, and comfortable alternative to the conventional Atlantic City experience. As the East Coast’s earliest recreational cannabis lounge scene takes shape, High Rollers may set the tone—a blend of sophistication, safety, and social connection that could change how we think about cannabis in urban coastal cities.