Atlantic City remains one of the East Coast’s most iconic destinations, drawing visitors with its casinos, nightlife, beaches, and Boardwalk attractions. Since New Jersey legalized recreational cannabis for adults in 2021, the city has also become a stop for curious travelers exploring the state’s developing cannabis market. While Atlantic City is more cannabis-accessible than many resort towns, visitors should still understand the laws and local restrictions before they plan a purchase or session.
Legal Buying for Adults 21+
New Jersey allows adults 21 and older to buy cannabis from any state-licensed recreational dispensary. Atlantic City now features a growing list of dispensaries, giving tourists multiple shopping options within city limits. Out-of-state visitors are welcome to purchase products—no residency requirement exists. A valid government-issued ID is the only requirement at checkout.
Dispensaries typically sell flower, pre-rolls, cartridges, concentrates, edibles, tinctures, and topicals. New Jersey limits purchases to one ounce of cannabis per transaction, though individual stores may enforce lower limits on certain categories. Because Atlantic City experiences heavy weekend and holiday tourism, visitors should expect lines during peak periods.
Where You Can—and Cannot—Consume
The most important rule for tourists is simple: public consumption is illegal in New Jersey. That includes the Boardwalk, beaches, casinos, hotel lobbies, sidewalks, and outdoor entertainment areas. Smoking, vaping, or consuming edibles in public spaces can result in penalties and unwanted attention.
Consumption is only allowed in:
- Private residences, with permission from the property owner
- Private areas of lodging, but only when the property explicitly authorizes smoking or vaping
Most hotels—especially casino-resort properties—treat cannabis like tobacco and prohibit smoking or vaping in rooms, balconies, and shared spaces. Even in designated smoking rooms, cannabis use is overwhelmingly restricted.
Casinos Do Not Permit Cannabis Consumption
Although state law allows adults to purchase and possess cannabis, Atlantic City’s casinos do not permit cannabis consumption anywhere on their properties. This ban includes hotel rooms, hallways, gaming floors, pool decks, parking areas, and outdoor sections controlled by the casino.
Casinos operate under strict regulatory oversight and must comply with federal rules, which still classify cannabis as illegal. As a result, the city’s major resorts enforce a zero-tolerance approach to on-site consumption and may take action against guests who violate these policies.
Driving and Transportation Rules
Driving under the influence of cannabis is illegal statewide and carries penalties similar to those for alcohol. Because many visitors travel to Atlantic City by car from New York, Pennsylvania, and Delaware, it is essential to avoid using cannabis before driving.
Other transportation rules include:
- Cannabis must remain sealed while in a vehicle.
- Consumption is illegal in any moving vehicle, including ride-shares and taxis.
- Interstate transport is prohibited, meaning visitors cannot legally take cannabis home, even to another legal state.
Staying Compliant During Your Visit
Atlantic City continues expanding its cannabis retail landscape, but the city maintains firm boundaries around consumption—especially on casino properties and public spaces. Visitors who buy legally, follow local rules, and consume only in permitted private settings can enjoy a smooth and memorable stay.
Whether exploring the Boardwalk, catching a show, or relaxing at a beachfront hotel, understanding these guidelines ensures cannabis remains an enjoyable and responsible part of an Atlantic City getaway.