So you're hitting the tables at WinStar, maybe caught a show, and you're looking to unwind with something a little different than the complimentary drinks at the bar. It’s a common scenario. You might be surprised to learn that while Oklahoma has a massive casino scene, the rules around cannabis aren't as free-wheeling as you might find in Las Vegas or certain parts of Colorado. Finding a dispensary near WinStar Casino in Oklahoma requires a bit of planning, mostly because you need a medical card to legally step inside one.
Medical Marijuana Laws in Oklahoma for Visitors
Here is the most critical thing you need to know before you start Googling directions: Oklahoma is a strictly medical marijuana state. There are no recreational dispensaries. If you are walking in off the street without a valid medical marijuana card—either an Oklahoma patient license or a valid out-of-state card—you cannot legally purchase product. Bouncers at local shops check IDs and cards at the door, much like a club checks your age.
The good news? Oklahoma offers a temporary medical marijuana license for out-of-state patients. If you have a valid MMJ card from your home state, you can apply for a temporary license through the Oklahoma Medical Marijuana Authority (OMMA) website. It usually costs around $100 and is valid for 30 days. If you don't have a card from home, you are unfortunately out of luck unless you are an Oklahoma resident with a qualifying condition. Possession without a license can lead to legal trouble, so do not try to buy illegally.
Top Dispensaries Located Close to WinStar World Casino
WinStar is located right on the Texas-Oklahoma border in Thackerville. Because of the strict licensing laws, dispensaries here tend to be focused heavily on the medical market. You won't find the flashy, tourist-trap style stores common in Las Vegas. These are legitimate pharmacies first. Here are a few solid options within a short drive of the casino floor.
The Green House Dispensary
Located about 15 minutes north of WinStar in Marietta, The Green House is a favorite for locals and visitors alike. They are known for high-quality flower and a knowledgeable staff that actually understands terpene profiles rather than just trying to upsell you on the most expensive item. They accept out-of-state temporary licenses, but always call ahead to confirm they have what you need in stock.
Peak Dispensary - Ardmore
If you are willing to drive about 25 minutes north on I-35, Peak Dispensary in Ardmore offers a much wider menu. This is a larger operation with a massive selection of edibles, concentrates, and top-shelf buds. Because it serves a larger community, the turnover is higher, meaning the product is fresher. Their loyalty program is decent if you find yourself visiting the area often.
Spencer’s Extracts
Located in Gainesville, Texas, just south of the border—wait, stop. Let’s be clear: you cannot transport cannabis across state lines. Even though Gainesville is closer, you absolutely cannot buy cannabis in Oklahoma and bring it back to Texas, nor can you buy in Texas (where it is illegal) and bring it up. All purchasing must happen in Oklahoma, and consumption should stay on private property in Oklahoma. Do not risk a federal trafficking charge for a few grams of flower.
Consumption Rules at WinStar and Surrounding Areas
You’ve got your medicine. Now, where can you actually use it? This is where many players trip up. WinStar World Casino and Resort has a strict non-smoking policy for cannabis on casino property. While you might see people smoking cigarettes in designated areas, lighting up a joint or using a vape pen in the parking lot or your hotel room is a quick way to get escorted off the property or even banned.
Oklahoma law prohibits public consumption. That means no smoking in parks, on sidewalks, or in your car while driving. Technically, you are supposed to consume in a private residence. If you are staying at the casino hotel, they are considered a private business that prohibits cannabis use. It creates a difficult grey area for tourists. The safest route, strictly speaking, is to consume at a private Airbnb or a friend’s house, never on casino grounds or in a vehicle.
Comparing Local Dispensary Options
To help you plan your run, here is a quick look at the dispensaries within a reasonable distance of the casino. Remember, operating hours can change, so always check their social media or give them a ring before driving over.
| Dispensary | Distance from WinStar | Notable Features | Requires OK Temp License? |
|---|---|---|---|
| The Green House (Marietta) | ~15 mins | High-quality flower, knowledgeable staff | Yes |
| Peak Dispensary (Ardmore) | ~25 mins | Large menu, edibles, loyalty program | Yes |
| Medmar of Madill | ~20 mins | Concentrates, competitive pricing | Yes |
Why You Can’t Just Walk In
A lot of travelers assume that because Oklahoma legalized medical marijuana, it functions like California or Nevada. It doesn't. The state has some of the strictest packaging and tracking laws in the country. Every gram is tracked from seed to sale. When you walk into a dispensary near WinStar, the budtender enters your patient ID into the state system. This prevents you from buying more than the legal limit (3 ounces of flower, 1 ounce of concentrate, 72 ounces of edibles). If you attempt to enter without a license, they will turn you away immediately. There is no “gray market” window here.
FAQ
Can I use my Texas medical marijuana card at an Oklahoma dispensary?
No. Texas has a very limited medical program (CUP) that only allows for low-THC cannabis prescriptions. Oklahoma does not recognize Texas prescriptions as valid for reciprocity. You must apply for an Oklahoma temporary medical marijuana license online through OMMA to legally purchase at an Oklahoma dispensary.
Can I smoke weed in my car in the WinStar parking lot?
Absolutely not. Consumption in a vehicle, even a parked one, is illegal in Oklahoma and can lead to a DUI. Furthermore, WinStar security patrols the lots. If they smell cannabis, they can detain you and hand you over to local police. Keep your product sealed and locked in the trunk.
Are there any recreational dispensaries near WinStar?
No. As of now, Oklahoma has not passed recreational marijuana legalization. Every dispensary in the state is medical-only. If you see ads claiming otherwise, they are likely scams or selling unregulated CBD products. You must have a valid medical license to purchase THC products.
How long does it take to get a temporary Oklahoma medical license?
Typically, the OMMA processing time for temporary licenses is 2 to 14 business days. It is rarely instant. If you are planning a trip for the weekend and don't already have your card, you will likely not get approved in time. Plan ahead and apply weeks before your visit.
Can I take cannabis purchased in Oklahoma back to Texas?
No. Crossing state lines with cannabis is a federal offense, even if you are traveling between two states where it is legal in some form. Taking THC products from Oklahoma into Texas is considered drug trafficking under federal law and can result in severe penalties.