WASHINGTON -- Ever since the legalization of recreational use of marijuana in 2014, entrepreneurs in D.C. have been popping up to take advantage. That includes a growing number of people, who are creating "420-friendly" rentals, that they post on websites like AirBNB.
Ayana Everett is one of those people, showing us around her Brookland rental, she's listed with the apt name, The High Escape.
"You can escape from your every day life," she said. "And get high. And escape. So pun intended all around."
She's one of many cashing in on legalization, by offering weed-friendly rentals. Everette not only uses traditional rental sites like AirBNB, but also 420-specific sites like "Bud and Breakfast."
"Twenty years ago," she said. "What you would do when you go to a hotel is put a wet towel down, and hope for the best."
Now weed users are coming out of the shadows. Everett has had visitors from across the region, and the country.
"I've had someone say we're taking a vacation from the kids this weekend. So they decided to check in here. It's a little more comfortable than a hotel, because you can light up."
It is still illegal to sell weed in the district, but many of these rentals offer "gifts" of small portions of pot, along with the stay. At the High Escape, Everette is offering two "fat" pre-rolled joints as an apology for construction next door.
Everette isn't alone. At the Cozy Canna-Inn, off of Minnesota Avenue, you can find a karaoke machine, painting area, massage table, hot-tub, and full-service salon, for the price of $420. Guests also get two joints and an edible, like a rice crispy treat, as a gift.
Inside Look; Cozy Canna-Inn
"It's just like being at your grandmother's house," said Mika'la Sharpe, the co-owner. "With the Southern hospitality. But you can smoke."
Sharpe said the rental is meant to offer a relaxing getaway from those near and far.
"It's just where people can come and be theyself (sic)," she said. "Relax and be theyself. We don't mind. It's fine. Have a good time."
So, will D.C. be the new Denver of the East? These two rental owners hope so.
"I don't even give it 20 years," said Sharpe. "I give it the next three years.
"We're here," said Everette. "And we're not going anywhere. And now that the law allows us to do what we're doing, even more will jump on that bandwagon for sure."