Local Access is our ongoing series in which notable names in the cannabis community share insider travel tips for doing their towns right.
Rich Magaña never planned to settle in Massachusetts. In fact, the Southern California native didn’t even move to the East Coast until he was in his 30s, when the COVID-19 pandemic led him to a career in cannabis.
Rich had been working as an educator in the beauty industry, but lockdown brought that path to a swift halt. “The cannabis industry came calling, and I was ready to embrace a change of pace,” he shares with HighWays Travel. A job as a brand rep eventually brought him to Massachusetts, where he spent years traversing the entire state getting to know the cannabis industry and the communities behind it.
Rich quickly grew from industry newbie to trailblazing entrepreneur. He is the founder of Queer in Cannabis, a community organization dedicated to ensuring that Queer voices are heard and celebrated throughout the industry. Most recently, he and his husband, John, launched QIC House, a cannabis brand available in dispensaries throughout Massachusetts. “We source from small indie cultivators and give back to local LGBTQ+ organizations in Massachusetts all year long,” he says.
HighWays Travel tapped Rich for his expertise on travel from Cape Cod to the Berkshires. Keep reading for his insider tips on making the most of your time in Mass.
How did you come to know Massachusetts so well?
During COVID, I landed a role as a marketing and community engagement manager at an innovative edible company that was launching in Oklahoma. They then moved me to head up one of their most coveted markets, Massachusetts. After five years of grinding for other folks. I decided to do it for myself and for the Queer community I hold so dear.
What makes Massachusetts special?
Massachusetts is special for so many reasons. We are a small state that truly captures so many different landscapes. Boston gives you a historically attuned metropolitan vibe. The Berkshires offer a small-town vibe with breathtaking lakes and skiing lodges. Then there’s Cape Cod, with her beautiful beaches, architecture, and friendly demeanor.
Massachusetts is stunning all year—although I could live without winter lol.
What’s a common misconception about Massachusetts?
That Massachusetts is one-note. We are more than lobster and the Red Sox.
How would you describe the cannabis culture in Massachusetts?
It’s passionate and diverse. Events like the Boston Freedom Rally, which will be celebrating its 37th annual rally in September 2026, are a prime example of community in cannabis.
What’s one restaurant, café, or food experience every Massachusetts visitor should try?
The best after-sesh meal is ALWAYS the Lil MAC and Monster-style fries at Ritcey East in Watertown. A stoner’s dream meal.
What’s a place most tourists miss but absolutely shouldn’t?
Please visit small towns like Rockport, Great Barrington, Provincetown, and Worcester. So much beauty and charm!
If you could send visitors to just one neighborhood, attraction, or local experience, what would it be?
Whale watching off Cape Cod in the summer, and leaf peeping in the fall.
If someone had only 24 hours in Massachusetts, how would you tell them to spend it?
Hit up Newbury Street in Boston for shopping, eating, and a dispensary visit to Rooted In Dispensary. Follow it with a J walk on Commonwealth Avenue, then go to Dani’s Queer Bar for a beverage and drag show.
What’s your favorite thing to do after consuming cannabis in your city
Enjoying a good meal with a good view.
What’s one of the best cannabis destinations you’ve been to in your travels? Why?
Amsterdam because of the people, culture, and stoner canal tours!
What’s a memorable cannabis-related travel experience you’ve had…that you’re willing to share?
My favorite canna-travel memory is smoking Hawaii’s finest overlooking the Pacific Ocean on my wedding day!
🥊 Quick Hits
☀️ Sunrise or sunset? Sunrise
🏖️ Mountains, beach, desert, or city? Beach
⛵ Plane, train, car, or boat? Boat
🌸 Edible, flower, beverage, vape, or concentrate? Flower
🍬 Favorite travel snack? Suspicious-looking gummies in a Gummy Bears bag 😉
🇮🇹 Dream cannabis travel destination? Italy
🇧🇲 Most underrated place you’ve visited? Bermuda
🌺 One destination every traveler should visit at least once? Poipu Beach, Kauai
What are your favorite spots for enjoying cannabis and exploring Massachusetts? Share your thoughts in the comments below.
