About Starbuds
Starbuds (sometimes styled “Star Buds”) is a recreational cannabis dispensary serving Seattle’s Lower Queen Anne neighborhood. It is located at 522 Queen Anne Ave N, Seattle, WA 98109 (starbud.com ). According to the company, it moved from a former Kirkland store to this Queen Anne storefront. Today Starbuds offers a “premium selection” of cannabis flower, pre-rolled joints, edibles, vape cartridges, topicals, tinctures and smoking accessories (starbud.com ). Inside, Starbuds is designed as a clean, modern retail space: the store’s own description notes an “open floor plan” so customers can “comfortably shop from counter to counter” (starbud.com ). Customers report friendly, knowledgeable budtenders (“every Star Buds customer is like family” and staff are “experienced, and ready to help” (starbud.com )) who take time to answer questions about strains and products.
The Starbuds brand has roots in Seattle’s early cannabis scene. The original Starbuds dispensary on Capitol Hill (at East John St and 24th Ave E) launched around 2013 as a medical cannabis cooperative. In its early days it focused on patient care – staff described helping patients by providing relief, from elderly and cancer-stricken customers to others in pain, often seeing “tears in their eyes” at the difference the medicine made (www.capitolhillseattle.com ). That Capitol Hill store ceased operating by 2016 amid Washington’s rec market licensing changes (www.capitolhillseattle.com ), but the Starbuds name reappeared in Queen Anne later on. (The Starbuds website still emphasizes community service and quality cannabis products at the new location (starbud.com ) (www.capitolhillseattle.com ).) In sum, Starbuds is notable locally as a community-friendly dispensary in a historic 1930s brick storefront (www.loopnet.com ) (www.capitolhillseattle.com ), offering a wide selection of products and laid-back customer service in Seattle’s cannabis scene.
Events and Programming
Unlike traditional music halls or theaters, Starbuds is primarily a retail shop, but it occasionally hosts special events. For example, Seattle-area cannabis product vendors sometimes hold pop-up sessions or product demos at Starbuds. In February 2025, Starbuds hosted a Smokiez edibles pop-up from 3–6pm, where customers could sample and purchase new edible products (smokiez.com ). The store also runs frequent in-store promotions (daily product deals or vendor days) – for instance, its website advertises rotating “product specials” each day and a customer loyalty rewards program (starbud.com ) (starbud.com ). Around holidays like 4/20 there are often bigger sales or themed giveaways, though exact events vary by year. Starbuds does not normally schedule concerts as part of its regular programming, but one notable past show was a Seattle-area hip-hop performance – rapper Edboii Corleone appeared at Starbuds Queen Anne on April 20, 2025 (www.shazam.com ), indicating the shop can host live local music acts on occasion. In general, most events at Starbuds are informal (vendor demos, product launches, or occasional small shows) rather than ticketed theatrical performances.
Tickets and Booking
Starbuds operates as an open dispensary without any entry fee or cover charge. You do not need a ticket or reservation to walk in on normal business hours – simply arrive and browse the menu. In fact, Starbuds’ listing indicates it is open 11:00 AM to 7:00 PM every day of the week (www.bestmarijuanaguide.com ). No membership or special pass is required; any customer age 21 or over (with valid ID) can enter and purchase. The store even offers flexible ordering options: customers can browse the full menu online or by app and place orders in advance. According to Starbuds’ website, they provide “order online with in-store and curbside pickup,” which is a convenient way to guarantee certain products during busy times (starbud.com ). Special promos and loyalty rewards are announced on-site and online, but there are no traditional “ticket prices” – the only cost is the price of the cannabis products themselves. (To plan purchases, note that mid-range cannabis flower is typically around \$8–\$15 per gram, pre-rolls under \$10 each, and edibles/\u00a0cart prices in the \$10–\$20 range, though actual prices will vary by product and promotion.)
Seating and Layout
The Starbuds store is arranged like a standard small retail dispensary, not a theater. There is open standing space for customers to circulate between product displays and service counters, but no fixed seating or auditorium. As noted, the dispensary’s “open floor plan” design means the layout is more like a boutique shop: glass display cases line the walls and counters, showcasing flower, vapes, edibles, and accessories. Customers typically stand or lightly browse at eye level – there aren’t rows of chairs or VIP sections. Acoustic considerations are minimal since it’s a quiet retail environment; background music may play softly, but there’s no stage or amplified sound system for live shows. In practice, the “best spots” in the venue are simply near the counter when it’s your turn to check out, or near different merchandise sections when shopping. If using a wheelchair or stroller, the flat open space allows easy movement (the wide aisles accommodate general admission access). There are no obstructed sightlines or poor seats to avoid, because everyone stands at the same level. In short, Starbuds’ space is optimized for browsing products, not for viewing performers, so “seating” is not a factor here.
Getting There and Parking
Starbuds is located at 522 Queen Anne Ave N , Seattle, WA 98109 (starbud.com ), in the Lower Queen Anne (Uptown) area. This is a block south of the Seattle Center (home of the Space Needle and Climate Pledge Arena) – in fact real-estate listings note the building is “one block from Climate Pledge Arena and Seattle Center” (www.loopnet.com ). The venue’s entrance faces Queen Anne Avenue. For drivers, on-site parking is very limited: the building itself (a 6,000 sq ft brick storefront built in 1930 (www.loopnet.com )) has roughly 2 parking spots per 1,000 sq ft, or about a dozen spaces total (www.loopnet.com ). There may also be a few unmetered street spaces on Queen Anne Ave, but these often have posted time limits. Nearby public parking garages (for Seattle Center events) offer paid parking options a couple blocks north. Rideshare or taxi drop-off is easiest right on Queen Anne Ave at the store front.
Public transit access is very good. The Seattle Center monorail station (at 5th Ave & Mercer St, leading downtown Westlake Center) is only about 0.3 miles (6 blocks) from Starbuds, making downtown transfers easy. Several Metro bus routes serve that area as well – for example, the #2 (to West Seattle via downtown) and #13 (to Fremont) stop within a few blocks of Queen Anne Ave & Mercer, and routes like the #3 or #4 on 5th Ave N. The area is famously walkable with a “Walkscore” of 96 (a true walker’s paradise) (www.loopnet.com ), so it is convenient to combine a Starbuds visit with other Seattle Center attractions. Always check transit schedules, though; after evening events buses and monorail still run (until midnight or later on weekends) that can take you back to downtown and surrounding neighborhoods.
Inside the Venue
【74†L35-L39†embed_image】Inside Starbuds you’ll find a clean, well-lit retail environment optimized for browsing cannabis products. The entry is staffed by security who will check your ID (Washington law requires a valid photo ID, age 21+ for recreational sales). After ID is scanned, you’ll step into the main sales floor. The image above illustrates a typical dispensary interior – notice the open display cases along the wall – and Starbuds’ layout follows this model. Glass counters hold flower and edibles under lock, marijuana hardware and accessories are on nearby shelves, and a budtender stands ready behind the counter to answer questions and make sales. The atmosphere is casual: lighting is bright for product visibility, with perhaps gentle ambient music playing quietly. There is usually a short waiting line during busy times; a few stools or benches may be available near the entrance or waiting area, but seating is limited.
Customers will encounter standard checkpoints: Starbuds enforces a bag policy (large bags or coolers may be inspected or discouraged for security), and most dispensaries (including Starbuds) don’t allow photography or video recording inside. Consumption of cannabis on the property is strictly prohibited by law (you must take any purchased cannabis off-premises). You should not bring outside cannabis into the store, and any medical equipment or drug paraphernalia must be sealed or stored (even rolling papers are usually on sale inside rather than allowed from outside). Aside from that, visitors are free to consult the digital or printed menu, ask staff about strains and effects, and then make selections at the counter. Starbuds has a cash register area at the front; like most dispensaries, it may accept credit/debit (often with a fee) and typically has an ATM on site for cash purchases. Restrooms are usually available for customers (ask the staff) and sometimes a water cooler or snack options (again ask; some shops sell bottled drinks or candy). Overall, plan to bring just yourself, your ID, and payment – the venue provides for the rest.
Nearby Amenities
Because Starbuds sits in a busy entertainment district, many amenities surround it. On Queen Anne Ave and the adjacent blocks you’ll find casual eateries and bars perfect for pre- or post-visit. Popular nearby spots include Shultzy’s Sausage House (a BBQ and sandwich shop), 5A Deli (counter-serve sandwiches), Mirchi Masala (Indian cuisine), and low-key pubs and cafés. Directly adjacent to the Seattle Center are restaurants like Collections and The Brooklyn (luxury dining) and family-friendly diners. The Seattle Center’s own offerings (Seacrest Park tiki bar, a World’s Fair souvenir cafe, etc.) are within a few minutes’ walk.
For coffee and snacks, there are sidewalk cafés and local chains along 5th Ave and Queen Anne, plus the Space Needle’s Observation Deck and Chihuly Garden Lounge nearby for a splurge. If you need a hotel, options include the Budget-friendly MarQueen Hotel (on 5th Ave N) or downtown hotels (Four Seasons, Edgewater, or Marriott Waterfront) a mile south. Public restrooms, playgrounds, and cultural attractions (MoPOP, Pacific Science Center) at Seattle Center are an easy walk away. As a tip, arriving 15–30 minutes early is wise when events are scheduled (like sports games or concerts at Climate Pledge Arena) because traffic and parking fill quickly. After visiting Starbuds, the late-night monorail and frequent bus routes (for example, the Night Owl buses) can get you back downtown or to Capitol Hill and the University District even after midnight.
What Makes This Venue Special
Several unique factors distinguish Starbuds Queen Anne from just any other storefront. Architecturally, it occupies a quaint 1930-era brick building, giving it a bit of historic character amidst modern shops (www.loopnet.com ). Culturally, Starbuds has deep ties to Seattle’s cannabis history – originally a patient-focused co-op, it carries forward a community-minded philosophy. Staff often recount how they helped patients with serious illness find relief at the first store (www.capitolhillseattle.com ), a legacy of compassion that few retailers emphasize. The store’s bright, approachable vibe – “friends treating customers like family” – has earned local loyalty. It also emphasizes veteran support (offering a military discount (starbud.com )), which reflects its roots as a veteran-owned operation.
Starbuds has also made news beyond Seattle. In 2024 it became the defendant in a high-profile Starbucks trademark lawsuit. The coffee giant alleged Starbuds’ logo – which depicts a mermaid almost identical to their own green siren – infringed Starbucks’ mark (trademarklawyermagazine.com ). That nationally covered case brought attention to the tiny Queen Anne dispensary, illustrating how a small local shop can end up in big legal battles. Finally, locals love that Starbuds is both neighborhood-friendly and event-connected. It’s not unusual to find a local hip-hop artist performing there (Seattle’s Edboii had a show on 4/20/25 (www.shazam.com )) or sponsored trivia nights or pop-up markets. All of these quirks – historic space, patient service legacy, veteran ties, and even a Starbucks saga – give Starbuds a personality beyond a simple storefront, making visits there memorable for both seasoned cannabis users and curious visitors.
Visitor Tips and Information
When planning a trip to Starbuds, remember to bring a valid ID for everyone 21 and up. Washington law requires a photo ID for cannabis purchases, and staff will check it at the door. Do not attempt to enter with illegal drugs or alcohol. Dress is completely casual (no special attire needed), but keep personal bags minimal. Starbuds allows service animals, but no pets or outside food/drink. Although there is no formal coat/security check, the staff may ask to briefly inspect large bags or containers just to comply with regulations. The store enforces sanitary rules (e.g. no smoking or vaping of cannabis on the premises) – you must take any consumption off-site.
Try visiting at off-peak times (weekday mornings or early afternoons) if you want faster service. Evening and weekend hours can be busy, especially just before sunsets or when big events occur in Seattle Center. Starbuds runs daily product specials and a loyalty program – always ask the budtender about current deals (for example, certain edibles might be on sale or buy-one-get-one promotions available) (starbud.com ). Veterans should ask about the military discount. The staff are typically very helpful – if you have questions about a strain’s effects or CBD options, don’t hesitate to ask. It’s best to save leaves of absence with enough time, as not all products are always in stock; if you need a specific strain or edible, you can check Starbuds’ online menu or call ahead. Finally, note that Starbuds’ hours have been listed as daily 11am–7pm (www.bestmarijuanaguide.com ), but some online directories (MapQuest listings) have recently marked the store as “Closed” (www.mapquest.com ). To avoid confusion, consider calling the store at (206) 705-9333 (www.mapquest.com ) before you go, or checking their social media (if available) for the latest status. Always exit thoughtfully: possession limits (1 ounce?) apply, so don’t carry more flower in the store than legally allowed outside, and keep your receipt until purchase is complete.
Do I need a ticket or reservation to visit Starbuds Seattle?
Starbuds is a retail dispensary, not a ticketed performance, so you can simply walk in during business hours (listed as 11 AM–7 PM daily (
www.bestmarijuanaguide.com )). There is no cover charge or ticket to enter. Just bring valid ID (21+ for recreational purchases) and payment for any products you want to buy. If the store has special events (like product pop-ups), they usually announce those ahead of time – often no RSVP or separate ticket is needed beyond showing up in time for the event.
How do I get to Starbuds Seattle by public transit?
Starbuds’ location at 522 Queen Anne Ave N is very transit-friendly. The Seattle Center monorail station (to downtown Westlake) is about a 5–10 minute walk north. Several Metro bus routes run nearby: for example, #2 (Madrona–Alki) and #13 (Fremont–Beacon Hill) stop along 5th Ave N and Denny Way, and you can walk a block west. The #3 on 5th Ave N and Denny, and the #4 on 3rd Ave, also serve the Seattle Center area (within 2–3 blocks). Check the Metro Trip Planner or Google Maps for specific schedule and connections. Biking and scooters are common around Lower Queen Anne too – a bike rack is likely available nearby. Overall the area is highly walkable (rated a 96/100 walkscore (
www.loopnet.com )), so you can connect easily from downtown or Capitol Hill. If in doubt, ride-share drop-offs on Queen Anne Ave in front of the store are convenient.
Is parking available at Starbuds and how much does it cost?
On-site parking at Starbuds is extremely limited. The building has roughly a dozen parking spaces (about 2 spots per 1,000 ft² of space (
www.loopnet.com )) and those often fill up quickly. Street parking on Queen Anne Ave N is available but watch posted signs – time limits (2-hour or similar) usually apply. You may need to park farther away or use paid garages if the on-site spaces are full, especially during events. There is no dedicated valet. If you drive, plan to arrive early or use nearby city lots (like Seattle Center’s parking garages) and then walk a few blocks. Many regulars rely on transit or ride-shares given the parking crunch.
What payment methods can I use at Starbuds?
Starbuds accepts major forms of payment. Most customers pay with debit or credit cards (though some cards charge a fee at dispensaries). The store likely also has an on-site ATM for cash transactions (many Seattle dispensaries list “ATM available” as an amenity (
greensiderec.com )). It’s wise to bring cash just in case, but you can generally pay by card at the register. Checks or digital wallets are usually not accepted for cannabis purchases in Washington State. If you use a credit card, note that your bank treat it like a cash advance, so some choose to use an ATM once in the store.
Do I have to bring my ID or medical card?
Yes – Washington law requires a valid photo ID for anyone entering a dispensary. For recreational sales, you must be age 21 or older, with government-issued ID (driver’s license, state ID, or passport) showing your birth date. If you are a medical patient under age 21 with a state-issued medical cannabis authorization, bring that card and a doctor’s note as well. Starbuds will check ID at the door and/or at checkout, so make sure everyone in your party has their IDs ready.
Can I bring additional guests, including minors?
Only customers who meet the minimum age can enter. Recreational guests must be 21+ (or 18+ with a medical card). No one under 21 is allowed inside unless they are a registered patient. Children cannot accompany adult shoppers. (Service animals are typically allowed.) Have your group sorted before you arrive: anyone under 21 will be turned away.
What is the smoking/vaping policy inside Starbuds?
Starbuds prohibits any on-site consumption of cannabis or other drugs. It’s illegal to smoke, vape, or ingest cannabis products inside the store or on the sidewalk right outside. You must make any use of purchased cannabis off-premises. Starbuds is a retail setting with polite staff, so expect them to enforce this strictly. If you want to sample a cannabis vape or smoke, do so only after you’ve paid outside the premises where it’s allowed.
Are backpacks or bags allowed inside Starbuds?
Light bags and purses are generally fine, but large coolers or oversized backpacks might get a quick security glance. Some dispensaries have a bag-check or ask customers to leave bulky gear at the front. To avoid delays, it’s best to bring just essentials. The staff may simply inspect your bag at entry for any outside cannabis (not allowed), but they won’t hold it for you. In practice, most people carry a small bag or nothing at all while shopping.
Is Starbuds wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Starbuds is on the ground floor with an open layout, so it should be wheelchair accessible. Customers do not have to climb stairs to enter. The doorways and aisles are generally wide enough for a standard wheelchair to pass (reflecting the “open floor plan” design (
starbud.com )). Accessible parking is limited due to the small lot, but a wheelchair user can be dropped off at the front curb. If you need assistance, the staff are usually very accommodating (Starbuds emphasizes friendly service to all patrons (
starbud.com )).
Is Starbuds still open (or has it closed)?
As of the latest reports, some business listing sites show Starbuds (Star Buds) as closed (
www.mapquest.com ). However, this contradicted much of the venue information during 2023, so it may have changed status. To be safe: call ahead at (206) 705-9333 (
www.mapquest.com ) or check a recent online review before going. If it is temporarily closed, Seattle has other dispensaries in Queen Anne (like Greenside) nearby. Always verify current hours and open status since retail operations can change.
What are typical prices at Starbuds?
Product prices vary, but Starbuds tends to be mid-range for Seattle. Expect cannabis flower around \$10–\$15 per gram (with discounts for larger quantities). Pre-rolled joints often run \$5–\$10 each. Edibles (like gummies) and vape pens typically range \$10–\$25. Daily price specials may bring items as low as \$5 each (for example, a photo on social media might advertise “\$5 pre-rolls on Tuesdays” or similar deal). Starbuds also has a loyalty program and rotating deals which customers mention in reviews (
starbud.com ). The only way to know exact pricing is to check the current menu online or at the counter. There is no surcharge – you pay the listed product prices plus Washington sales tax on cannabis.
Does Starbuds have a loyalty program or discounts?
Yes. Starbuds advertises daily specials and a loyalty rewards program to regular customers (
starbud.com ). For example, certain days might feature percentage-off deals on edibles or cartridges. They also explicitly offer a military/veteran discount (
starbud.com ). If you visit, ask the budtender about any ongoing promos. The loyalty program typically gives you points or credit toward future purchases. Details can vary, so it’s best to inquire in-store or on their website.
Can I use mobile ordering or delivery for Starbuds?
You should be able to order Starbuds products online for pickup. The Starbuds website allows online ordering with options for in-store or curbside pickup (
starbud.com ). (However, Washington rules require in-store verification; you can’t skip the ID check completely.) As for delivery, Washington law allows licensed cannabis delivery, but Starbuds’ own site doesn’t advertise direct delivery service. Instead, third-party services might offer delivery from Starbuds if they have a partnership. To check, use a legal cannabis delivery marketplace or app. Always verify you’re using state-licensed services. If in doubt, simply go inside to browse and purchase.
Are food or drinks sold inside Starbuds?
No, Starbuds focuses on cannabis products only. You won’t find a café or food menu inside. They might sell small pre-packaged snacks (like candy or pretzels) that pair with cannabis, but preparing food or serving drinks is not allowed by regulations. Water or refreshments are generally not provided (except maybe a water cooler for bottle filling, which some dispensaries have; you can ask). Plan to eat or drink elsewhere before or after your visit if needed – the Seattle Center has plenty of options just a block away.
Is photography or video allowed inside?
Most dispensaries, including Starbuds, do not allow photographing or video recording inside the store. This is for privacy and compliance reasons. Staff and customers typically prefer to keep the environment confidential. If you want a photo, step outside. (There are no special exhibits or lobby areas to photograph anyway – the focus is on the products behind glass.) The image above is a generic stock photo of a dispensary interior for reference.
Are customers required to wear masks or follow health protocols?
Current public health rules vary, but as of 2023 Seattle has generally relaxed indoor mask mandates. Starbuds may not require masks for vaccinated patrons, though rules can change. Check local guidelines at the time of your visit. Regardless, staff may have their own policy – if you prefer to wear a mask or use hand sanitizer, most dispensaries provide sanitizer at the entrance. It’s courteous to be mindful of personal space, but otherwise Starbuds will likely operate as any retail store does in post-COVID Seattle.
Is there an age minimum or membership required for entry?
To enter Starbuds (and all cannabis stores), you must be at least 21 years old unless you have a valid Washington medical cannabis card (ages 18–20 with medical approval). No membership is needed for recreational customers. The store is open to the general public. However, if Starbucks or other nearby bars have separate policies (like private clubs), those do not affect Starbuds. Just bring a photo ID to prove your age at the door and at checkout – that’s required.
