Welcome to New York City — We're So Glad You're Here
From the moment you land at JFK or step off a flight at Newark, New York City wraps around you like nothing else on Earth. The energy, the diversity, the food, the culture — and yes, if you're curious about it, the legal cannabis scene. We're Silly Nice, a Black-owned, Veteran-owned, LGBTQ+-owned, family-run cannabis brand founded right here in Brooklyn, New York. Our founders, Shane Breen — a proud U.S. Army Veteran — and LeVar Thomas have been partners for 25 years, building something they believe in deeply: small-batch, premium cannabis and hash products made with integrity, available at 150+ licensed adult-use dispensaries across New York State. If you're visiting from Rwanda and you're curious about what legal cannabis looks like in New York City, we want to be your guide. This article is written for you.
Understanding New York's Legal Cannabis Laws as an International Visitor
New York State legalized adult-use recreational cannabis in March 2021 through the Marijuana Regulation and Taxation Act (MRTA). That means any adult aged 21 and older — including international visitors and tourists — can legally purchase cannabis and cannabis products from licensed dispensaries in New York City and across the state. You do not need to be a New York resident. You do not need a medical card. You simply need to be 21 or older and present a valid, government-issued photo ID.
What ID Do You Need?
As a visitor from Rwanda, your passport is your best friend. Every licensed dispensary in New York is required to verify age before any sale, and your Rwandan passport is a perfectly acceptable form of identification. We recommend always carrying it with you when you plan to visit a dispensary. Some dispensaries may also accept other forms of internationally recognized government-issued photo ID, but a passport is the safest and most universally accepted option.
Where Can You Consume Cannabis Legally in NYC?
This is one of the most important things to know before you buy: you cannot consume cannabis in public spaces in New York City. That means no smoking or vaping on sidewalks, in parks where smoking is prohibited, on the subway, in taxis, on buses, near schools, or in any indoor public space. Consumption is permitted in private residences. If you're staying at a hotel, check their specific policy — many hotels are smoke-free and this extends to cannabis. Some cannabis-friendly lounges and spaces exist in NYC, but always verify they are operating legally. The best and safest approach is to consume in your private accommodation.
Cannabis Laws in Rwanda vs. New York City — What Visitors Should Know
We want to be straightforward with you, because we believe in honest, responsible cannabis culture. Cannabis is illegal in Rwanda. Possession, use, and trafficking of cannabis are criminal offenses under Rwandan law and carry serious legal penalties. What you do legally in New York City does not change the laws in your home country. When you return to Rwanda — or travel through other countries — you must comply with the laws of those jurisdictions. Do not attempt to travel with cannabis or cannabis products internationally. It is illegal to bring cannabis or hash across any international border, including into Rwanda. Purchasing and using cannabis legally in New York while you are visiting is one thing; transporting it is an entirely different matter and a serious federal and international offense. We share this information because we care about our guests. Enjoy legally and responsibly while you're here, and leave it behind when you go.
Buying Only from Licensed Dispensaries
New York City has both licensed and unlicensed cannabis sellers. Street sellers and unlicensed shops — sometimes called "gray market" or illegal operations — are not regulated, not lab-tested, and not safe. Products purchased there may contain harmful additives, incorrect potency labels, or worse. Always buy from a licensed adult-use dispensary. Every Silly Nice product you'll find in licensed dispensaries is independently lab-tested, small-batch, and sustainably packaged. You know exactly what you're getting. The New York State Office of Cannabis Management (OCM) maintains a list of licensed dispensaries, and you can always find locations carrying Silly Nice through our store locator at sillynice.com/store-locator.
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Find a Silly Nice Dispensary Near You
Hash has a long, global history — and if you appreciate traditional concentrate culture, we think you're going to love what we've put together. At Silly Nice, we take hash seriously. We craft our hash products in small batches with the same care and attention we give every single thing we make. For visitors curious about concentrates and hash specifically, here is what we recommend.
Frosted Hash Ball
Our Frosted Hash Ball is a work of art. Hand-pressed into a sphere and coated with a rich layer of kief, it delivers a robust concentrate experience that honors the tradition of hash-making while bringing it fully into the modern era. With 67.34% THC, 78.34% total cannabinoids, and 5.7% terpenes, this product is aromatic, flavorful, and potent. It can be broken apart and added to a bowl or joint, or enjoyed on its own by those with experience in hash. At $50 for one gram, it is a premium experience worth every cent. This is one of our signature products and one we are especially proud of.
THC
67.34%
Total
78.34%
Size
1g
Price
$50
Bubble Hash
Our Bubble Hash is made using an ice-water extraction process that preserves the full terpene profile of the cannabis plant. The result is a full-spectrum concentrate bursting with flavor and aroma — 53.32% THC, 62.86% total cannabinoids, and an impressive 6.2% terpene content, the highest terpene percentage in our entire product line. At $44 for one gram, it is our most accessible concentrate and a great entry point for visitors new to hash. If you love the taste, the smell, and the ritual of hash, Bubble Hash is where to begin. It's honest, clean, and crafted with love in Brooklyn.
THC
53.32%
Total
62.86%
Size
1g
Price
$44
Beyond our hash offerings, we carry a full line of independently lab-tested, small-batch products. Whether you prefer vaping, infused flower, or ultra-potent concentrates, we have something crafted for you.
Diamond Powder
Diamond Powder is our most potent concentrate. At 86.24% THC and 98.54% total cannabinoids in one gram, this product is designed for experienced cannabis users who know what they're doing. It can be used to top bowls or joints, or dabbed by those with the appropriate equipment. This is not a beginner product — but for those who know concentrates, it is absolutely extraordinary. Available for $50.
THC
86.24%
Total
98.54%
Size
1g
Price
$50
510 Thread Vape — Pink Stardust
For visitors who prefer a discreet, portable option, our Pink Stardust 510 thread vape cartridge delivers 81.96% THC and 88.36% total cannabinoids in a clean, easy-to-use format. At $40 for a full gram, it is one of our best-value products. Remember: vaping in public is still subject to New York City's public consumption restrictions.
THC
81.96%
Total
88.36%
Size
1g
Price
$40
2G All-In-One Vape — Alaskan Thunder Fuck
Our Alaskan Thunder Fuck 2G All-In-One disposable vape is the ideal option for visitors who want a longer-lasting, no-fuss experience. No cartridge, no battery to buy separately — it is fully self-contained, delivers 82.46% THC and 84.06% total cannabinoids across two full grams, and is priced at $80. It's the perfect companion for a longer stay in New York.
THC
82.46%
Total
84.06%
Size
2g
Price
$80
Diamond-Frosted & Live Resin Infused Flower
If you prefer a more traditional cannabis experience, our Papaya Wine Infused Flower delivers 51.22% THC and 58.63% total cannabinoids across a beautiful 3.5-gram eighth. Infused flower combines premium cannabis with concentrated extract for an elevated experience. At $60, it's a rich, aromatic, flavorful way to enjoy cannabis in a familiar format.
THC
37.32%
Total
42.90%
Size
3.5g
Price
$60
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Where to Find Silly Nice in NYC — Neighborhood Guide for Rwandan Visitors
We are proud to be available in 150+ licensed adult-use dispensaries across New York State, with strong representation throughout New York City. Here is a neighborhood-by-neighborhood look at where to explore.
Manhattan — The Heart of the City
Manhattan is home to some of New York's most prominent licensed dispensaries, concentrated in neighborhoods like the East Village, Lower East Side, Midtown, Harlem, and the Upper West Side. If you're staying in Midtown near Times Square or exploring downtown, you won't have to go far to find a licensed shop carrying Silly Nice. Manhattan dispensaries tend to be well-staffed with knowledgeable budtenders who can walk you through our full product line, including our hash offerings. Use our store locator to find the closest Manhattan location to your hotel.
Brooklyn — Our Home Borough
Brooklyn is home — literally. Shane and LeVar built Silly Nice here, and Brooklyn is where our roots run deepest. From Williamsburg and Bushwick to Crown Heights and Flatbush, Brooklyn's licensed dispensary scene is vibrant, diverse, and community-centered. If you're spending time in Brooklyn — and we highly recommend you do — ask for Silly Nice by name. Brooklyn dispensary staff often know our brand well and can help you navigate exactly what you're looking for, whether that's our Bubble Hash, our Frosted Hash Ball, or any of our other products.
Queens — Gateway Borough and Diverse Hub
Queens is one of the most culturally diverse places on the planet, with communities from virtually every country represented — including a thriving East African community. If you're arriving via JFK, you're landing right in Queens. There are licensed dispensaries operating throughout the borough in neighborhoods like Astoria, Jackson Heights, Flushing, and Jamaica. Queens dispensaries are a great first stop if you want to pick up something from us before heading deeper into the city.
Practical Tips for Buying Cannabis in NYC as a Visitor from Rwanda
We want your experience to be smooth, enjoyable, and fully legal. Here are the most important practical tips we can offer you.
Always Bring Your Passport
Every licensed dispensary will ask to see a valid, government-issued photo ID before completing any sale. As an international visitor, your Rwandan passport is the ideal document. Do not attempt to enter a dispensary without it — you will not be able to purchase anything, and that would be a disappointing outcome for everyone involved. Keep your passport with you whenever you plan to visit a shop.
Cash Is Always Welcome — Cards Vary
Because cannabis remains federally illegal in the United States, many dispensaries have complicated relationships with traditional banking and credit card processing. The good news: cash is universally accepted at every licensed dispensary. Most dispensaries have ATMs on-site if you need to withdraw. Some shops now offer debit card processing or cashless ATM options, but cash is always the safest, most friction-free option. We recommend arriving with some U.S. dollars in hand.
No Public Consumption — Take It Back to Your Space
We know it might feel celebratory to want to enjoy something right away after purchasing — especially in a city this electric. But consuming cannabis in public is illegal in New York City and can result in fines. Do not consume on the street, in parks where smoking is prohibited, on public transit, in vehicles, or anywhere visible to the general public. Take your products back to your private accommodation and enjoy responsibly. And never, under any circumstances, consume cannabis and then drive or operate any vehicle.
Do Not Attempt to Travel Home With Cannabis
We said it before and we'll say it again because it matters: do not attempt to bring cannabis or cannabis products across any international border. This includes flying back to Rwanda or through any transit country. Cannabis is prohibited under international law and carries serious consequences at customs. Enjoy what you purchase here in New York, and leave it behind. It is absolutely not worth the risk.
Ask for Silly Nice by Name
When you walk into any licensed dispensary in New York City or across the state, ask for Silly Nice. Our products — including our Bubble Hash, Frosted Hash Ball, Diamond Powder, Pink Stardust 510 Vape, Alaskan Thunder Fuck 2G AIO, and Papaya Wine Infused Flower — are available at 150+ licensed adult-use dispensaries statewide. Budtenders can help guide you toward the right product for your experience level and preferences. And if you want to plan ahead, use our store locator at sillynice.com/store-locator to find the nearest dispensary carrying our products before you even leave your hotel.
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Find Silly Nice Products Near You
A Personal Welcome to Every Visitor from Rwanda
We built Silly Nice because we believe that cannabis, when crafted with care and shared with transparency, has a place in a good life. Shane and LeVar have been building things together for 25 years — as partners, as businessmen, as community members, as New Yorkers. We launched Silly Nice in March 2024, and in a remarkably short time, we've grown to 150+ licensed dispensaries across New York State. That growth is built on one thing: trust. People trust what we make because we are honest about what's in it, because every product is independently lab-tested, and because we treat our customers like family.
To every visitor coming to New York City from Rwanda — whether you're here for business, for tourism, for family, or just because you needed to be somewhere new — we want you to feel welcome in our city and welcome in our world. New York has always been a place where the whole world comes together. That's why we love it. That's why we built something here. And that's why we're genuinely thrilled you made the journey.
If legal cannabis is something you want to explore while you're here, do it right. Buy from a licensed dispensary. Bring your passport. Pay with cash. Consume in private. And look for Silly Nice — a brand made by people who care, in a city that never stops moving. We'll be here when you're ready. Enjoy New York City. Enjoy it to the fullest. And if you find us on the shelf, know that a little bit of Brooklyn pride went into every single product we make. Karibu sana — you are very welcome here.
Topics
Silly Nice · Brooklyn, NYC
Black-Owned · Veteran-Owned · LGBTQ+-Owned. Founded by Shane Breen (U.S. Army Veteran) and LeVar Thomas — partners for 25 years. Adults 21+ only.