Buchanan, Michigan: A Cannabis-Friendly Hidden Gem

When Michigan legalized medical and recreational cannabis, Buchanan embraced the opportunity. As several dispensaries quickly set up shop, Buchanan earned the nickname “Bu-Cannabis”. Buchanan is now a budding destination for cannabis tourism offering small-town charm, scenic beauty, and rich history. It was named “The Nicest Place in America” by Reader’s Digest in 2020. Unlike larger cities, Buchanan combines the appeal of cannabis culture with a peaceful, slower-paced atmosphere.

Buchanan Dispensaries

7Engines

Inspired by the native Potawatomi peoples’ ideal of Seven Generation Sustainability, 7Engines offers some of Michigan’s finest selection of scientifically pure strains. This dispensary provides flowers, pre-rolls, vape cartridges, edibles, concentrates, and premium CBD products.

Cannavista Wellness

This medical and recreational marijuana provisioning center combines a restored historic location with a team of knowledgeable consultants dedicated to guiding customers toward quality cannabis products for enhanced well-being. Browse products and order online and your order will be ready for pickup in about 30 minutes!

High Profile Dispensary

This premium cannabis store curates top-quality flowers and products from leading brands. Experienced budtenders are dedicated to delivering a welcoming, tailored experience for every customer. All visitors from beginners to experienced connoisseurs are welcome!

Lifted Craft Cannabis

This in-house grow and dispensary specializes in high-quality, small-batch flowers, along with a curated selection of edibles, cartridges, and concentrates from top brands across the state. Holding a micro-business license, they uniquely cultivate the cannabis they sell in the same building as the dispensary, ensuring freshness and quality. Shop in-store or preorder online for pickup.

Pinnacle Emporium Buchanan

Known for quality and innovation, this retail cannabis brand has become one of Michigan’s most trusted sources for top-tier cannabis and cannabis-derived products at reasonable prices. While 100% legal, their eccentric, one-of-a-kind emporium will take you back to a time when buying cannabis was done in secret.

Redbud Roots

As one of Michigan’s premier craft cannabis cultivators, processors, and suppliers, this location offers over 30 medical and adult-use products spanning the full spectrum of cannabis options.

Zen Leaf

Recognizing the unique needs of each individual, the knowledgeable cannabis advisors at Zen Leaf strive to improve the health of visitors by sharing the science behind marihuana and providing customers with top-quality products, strains, edibles, and educational materials.

They create a comfortable, welcoming environment for an easy and enjoyable cannabis shopping experience focused on wellness and satisfaction. 

Tips for Cannabis Tourists

Cannabis use is permitted only in private residences. Public consumption is prohibited, so visitors should be mindful of local rules and regulations to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience. Check with cannabis-friendly accommodations in advance to verify their policies on cannabis use. Read more tips before visiting a dispensary in our blog.

Things to Do in Buchanan

Buchanan is full of outdoor, cultural, and culinary experiences. After your dispensary visit, stay and explore its scenic beauty and local community.

Buchanan is known for its walkable and bikeable environment, especially the McCoy Creek Trail, a paved path through downtown, Spafford Woods and E.B. Clark Woods. This accessible trail features exercise stations, benches, and fishing spots, with plans to extend it toward River Saint Joe Brewery and Fernwood Botanical Garden and Nature Preserve. 

Explore Mt. Tabor Trails, a 3.5-mile trail between Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant and Round Barn Estate, offering year-round hiking and snowshoeing through the woods and vineyards, creating a unique “sip and hike” experience. The Mud Lake Bog Nature Preserve also provides a half-mile boardwalk where visitors can spot wildlife and unique plant species.

Enjoy water activities on the St. Joseph River, McCoy Creek, and nearby lakes. Bring your kayak, canoe, or paddleboard for scenic paddling opportunities, with public boat launches on the St. Joseph River and several inland lakes perfect for fishing and boating.

Take the Trails Challenge while exploring Buchanan. Snap a photo in front of each trailhead sign and upload it to the Visit Southwest Michigan app. With just five trail check-ins, you’ll complete the challenge and earn prizes.

For a more thrilling experience, Redbud MX hosts pro and amateur motocross racing events, drawing racing fans for national and international competitions.

Scenic and Seasonal Activities

Take a spring or fall color tour around “Redbud City” to see seasonal blooms and the changing autumn leaves. Buchanan is a Designated Tree City USA, known for its vibrant landscapes and conservation efforts. Visitors can enjoy scenic drives, paddles or hikes through trails and waterways that showcase Southwest Michigan’s natural beauty.

Bear Cave, is the only naturally formed cave in the lower peninsula. It is open seasonally during campground hours and features stunning glacial formations and an intriguing history, including its use in the Underground Railroad. It will reopen for the 2025 season—please check the website for exact dates.

Parks and Family Spots

Buchanan’s parks offer a variety of recreational spaces. Veterans Memorial Park, called Duck Pond Park by locals, is a family favorite where children can feed ducks and spot ducklings in the spring. Field of Dreams Dog Park is a great stop for visitors with pets, while Old City Hall Park features a gazebo and butterfly garden.

Arts, Culture, and Community Events

Visit the Roti Roti Art Center of Buchanan for exhibitions and classes or explore Pear’s Mill, a historic gristmill offering free seasonal tours with historical demonstrations. The Common, downtown Buchanan’s outdoor amphitheater, hosts summer events, including outdoor movies, concerts, and a Farmers' Market featuring local produce, crafts, and food trucks from May to mid-October. Check out the Creative Connections Challenge to earn prizes for visiting local galleries, museums, and performance venues.

Join the Murals Challenge and uncover local stories captured in vibrant murals! Snap a selfie at each location and check in on the Visit Southwest Michigan app to earn prizes. Don’t miss the BMX World Champion Mural celebrating Buchanan native Hannah Roberts and the McCoy Creek Trail Mural honoring Buchanan’s industrial roots.

Drinks & Dining

Buchanan’s culinary scene offers a mix of local flavors. Favorites include Gary Z’s Sub Shop, Fifteen-2-Twelve by Evelyn Mae's BBQ, Cameron's Restaurant, Cafe Italiano at The Sweet Shop, McCoy Creek Tavern, Union Coffee House, and Gustavsen Cafe. Enjoy a craft beverage with your meal at River Saint Joe Brewery, Lehman's Brewery & Farmhouse, and Tabor Hill Winery & Restaurant which are part of the Makers Trail, Southwest Michigan’s renowned network of 40+ wineries, breweries, distilleries, and cideries.

At each Makers Trail stop, visitors can use the Makers Trail Passport to check in by scanning a QR code. This Passport challenge, running from September through April, offers reward levels based on the number of unique check-ins, encouraging visitors to explore the region’s diverse craft offerings. Learn more by reading our Best Wineries and Best Craft Breweries blogs. 

Plan Your Stay

Buchanan is the perfect setting for anyone looking to experience cannabis tourism in a slower-paced environment. Its blend of local history, culinary variety, outdoor beauty, and cannabis-friendly establishments make it an inviting destination for a memorable weekend. Whether you're visiting for the cannabis culture, the art and history, or the peaceful natural settings, Buchanan welcomes you to explore all it has to offer. To make the most of your trip, book a room and immerse yourself in the town’s unique combination of charm and relaxation.

Book a Hotel