When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
The High Crowd Cafe
Why The High Crowd Cafe is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The High Crowd Cafe in Madison, located on State Street, stands out as a unique and vibrant destination for socializing and enjoying cannabis-infused delights in a relaxed atmosphere. With a strong 4.7-star rating from 118 reviews, the café offers a diverse menu of THC and CBD-infused beverages and foods, including lattes, lemonades, pastries, and cookies — all available with customizable THC dosages ranging from 25 to 100 milligrams. This innovative approach transforms the traditional café experience into a recreational and culinary delight, ideal for groups of friends looking to unwind or celebrate special occasions. The café’s ambiance is described as chill and welcoming, fostering a positive and inclusive environment. Whether patrons are seasoned cannabis users or curious newcomers, The High Crowd Cafe provides non-THC “virgin” drinks, ensuring everyone can enjoy the space comfortably. As Madison’s second location after its success in Chicago's Lincoln Park, this establishment signals growing local acceptance of recreational cannabis. Friendly staff and a convenient downtown location near university labs add to its appeal, making it a perfect meetup spot for both casual and more adventurous visitors seeking a new kind of social experience.
Here's what people think of The High Crowd Cafe
As of recent, The High Crowd Cafe holds a 4.7-star rating based on 118 reviews.
User reviews of The High Crowd Cafe are overwhelmingly positive, consistently praising the café’s friendly employees, relaxed vibe, and innovative product offerings. Many reviewers highlight the unique experience of consuming THC-infused beverages and edibles in a welcoming café setting, noting effects even from moderate THC dosages, which adds to the enjoyment. Patrons appreciate the variety in the menu, from fruity lemonades to rich oatmeals, all customizable to preference. Positive feedback also frequently mentions the quality and taste of the edibles and drinks, as well as the safe, third-party lab-tested products that the café guarantees. The location’s proximity to popular Madison spots and its role in normalizing cannabis use locally are also valued aspects. On the other hand, a limited number of reviews suggest some hesitancy or uncertainty for first-time visitors, mainly due to the unfamiliarity of the THC-infused concept or individual THC tolerance variations. Some users implied that the potency can be stronger than expected if not approached with care. Despite this, there are no significant negative reviews related to staff service or overall experience. Ultimately, the café receives acclaim for being a positive addition to Madison’s social and culinary scene, blending innovative cannabis culture with a friendly, approachable environment that invites repeated visits.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Leah Fletcher
Loving this place!!! I got the Purple Punch lemonade and it hit the spot, lemme tell you. Ashley’s recommendations were perfect, I devoured the Gimme S’more rice krispy. This is a great spot 🌱💜
Cristal Ruiz
Stumbled upon this spot on accident looking for “wake n bakery” today . The person working there was very helpful in letting me know what they had available and what menus I could pick from. 10/10. Would come back .
Janeli Flrs
They’re so friendly and kind here. I loved the service, they were very informative about the drink selections. It was my first time coming here with a friend and they ended up giving us one free drink! I loved the lemonade, you really can’t taste the THC in the drink. The atmosphere is very comforting and welcoming
Jordan Mitchell
My friend recently moved to Lincoln Park so we decided to check out this cute lil place! We were immediately welcomed by the manager who helped us figure out exactly what we wanted! We both got a drink, a pre-roll, a nerd rope edible, and a blueberry cheesecake. We're both only 1/4 done with our drinks and I've been trying to leave this review for the past 30 minutes.
Tara Campbell
the high crowd is my happy place! the games are so fun, the drinks are so good, and the service is amazing, specifically leah. she always has great energy and is so worth it to go there!
How to reach The High Crowd Cafe
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Website: None
Why The High Crowd Cafe may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at The High Crowd Cafe with your friends? Because it offers a truly unique and inviting experience that goes far beyond the typical café outing. Nestled in the heart of Madison on State Street, The High Crowd Cafe has earned a remarkable 4.7-star rating from over a hundred reviews, reflecting a strong community endorsement. What makes this cafe stand out is its innovative menu infused with THC and CBD, creating a welcoming space where recreational cannabis is normalized and celebrated. Whether you are an experienced consumer or curious newcomer, the cafe provides a variety of infused beverages—from lattes to fruity lemonades—that cater to different tolerances and preferences, allowing friends to share a sophisticated, relaxing experience together. The atmosphere is designed to encourage connection and chill vibes, making it an ideal spot to decompress, laugh, and bond with friends or family in a safe, social setting. Plus, even guests who prefer non-infused “virgin” options can enjoy the environment, making the gathering inclusive and comfortable for everyone present.
What kind of activities can you enjoy at The High Crowd Cafe?
The High Crowd Cafe is not just about its infused goodies; it’s an engaging space that naturally facilitates group activities and social interaction. The cafe’s welcoming ambiance, enhanced by friendly and accommodating staff, ensures that groups feel right at home whether visiting for a casual hangout or a special occasion. One of the key activities is indulging in a curated selection of THC-infused treats and beverages. These include lattes with customizable THC levels that provide that afternoon pick-me-up with a euphoric twist, as well as uniquely flavored lemonades and a variety of pastries, like the potent oatmeal raisin cookies that have become a crowd favorite. This shared consumption experience sparks lively conversations and laughter among groups as everyone can adjust their intake and experience together. Moreover, the cafe often encourages a laid-back atmosphere conducive to board games and easy-going socialization, further making it a hotspot for friends to connect meaningfully without the pressures of a loud nightclub or formal dining setting.
Why is The High Crowd Cafe perfect for a group meetup?
The High Crowd Cafe’s setup and location make it especially suited for hosting meetups with friends or family. Being centrally located on State Street in Madison means it is easily accessible and fits seamlessly into a day dedicated to leisure or celebration. The relaxed vibe and well-thought-out interior design ensure that groups can comfortably gather around tables designed for sharing, enabling open conversation and interaction. The presence of friendly, knowledgeable staff improves the experience by helping guests select the right products based on their preferences and needs, particularly with THC dosages—a consideration vital for group settings where tolerance varies widely. Additionally, the cafe adapts to different group dynamics by offering both infused and non-infused menu options, accommodating all comfort levels and making everyone feel included. The option of THC-infused teas, lattes, and lemonades makes it easy for groups to customize their experience, from mild relaxation to a more intense effect, tailored to each individual while still sharing the communal atmosphere. In essence, the cafe strikes a perfect balance between novelty and comfort, making group meetups feel special and memorable.
How does The High Crowd Cafe create a safe and welcoming environment for all guests?
Safety and inclusivity are key priorities at The High Crowd Cafe, which adds an important layer to why it is a great spot for friends and families to gather. The cafe operates transparently by offering clear information about the THC and CBD content in its products, allowing visitors to make informed decisions tailored to their comfort and tolerance levels. Staff are trained to guide customers through their choices carefully and responsibly, ensuring no one feels overwhelmed or uncertain about their experience. Even guests who might be hesitant or skeptical about THC have the option to enjoy “virgin” beverages free of cannabinoids but still partake in the friendly, relaxed space. This approach reduces barriers for newcomers and helps demystify cannabis use in a non-judgmental way. Furthermore, the overall setting is designed for low-key socializing rather than high-energy partying, which encourages a calm environment perfect for conversation and connection. As a result, the cafe attracts a diverse crowd, from cannabis enthusiasts to the simply curious, fostering a sense of community around shared understanding and respect.
What makes the food and beverage options at The High Crowd Cafe stand out?
The High Crowd Cafe offers a menu that is distinctively crafted to merge the pleasures of traditional cafe treats with innovative cannabis infusion. This includes an array of beverages like THC and CBD-infused teas, lemonades, and lattes that can be customized in potency—from mild 25 mg doses suitable for beginners to more intense options reaching up to 100 mg for experienced users. The flavor profiles are crafted to be vibrant and compelling—offering, for instance, “definitely not your grandma’s lemonade,” with extreme and exciting taste twists that complement the relaxing effects of THC. Additionally, their baked goods, such as oatmeal raisin cookies infused with 75 mg of THC, offer another way to enjoy cannabis in a familiar and delicious format. These edible options allow groups to share a slow-savor experience, promoting conversation and camaraderie. The combination of taste, potency choices, and colorful presentation ensures that every visit feels like a sensory adventure, catering not only to the appetite but also to social wellness.
How is The High Crowd Cafe contributing to the cultural acceptance of recreational cannabis?
The High Crowd Cafe is making a bold statement in Madison’s evolving attitudes toward recreational cannabis. As one of the pioneering cafes on State Street offering legally infused food and drinks, it symbolizes a shift from stigma to normalization. By combining cannabis with casual café culture, The High Crowd creates a new social norm where adults can enjoy cannabis responsibly and publicly without any shame or secrecy. This shift helps destigmatize cannabis use for both existing consumers and newcomers, fostering an environment of education and openness. Its expansion beyond Madison to other cities like Chicago and Milwaukee further reflects its role in shaping broader cultural acceptance and the mainstreaming of cannabis-infused experiences. By positioning itself as both a community hub and a purveyor of quality infused products, The High Crowd Cafe helps reshape public perceptions and encourages dialogue about cannabis in safe, everyday settings.
Why do reviewers and customers enthusiastically recommend The High Crowd Cafe for group visits?
Customer reviews often highlight the cafe’s exceptional vibe and warm service as reasons they keep returning. The 4.7-star rating, based on over a hundred reviews, signals widespread satisfaction with both the products and the overall experience. Visitors praise not only the quality and diversity of offerings but also the “chill” and comfortable ambiance that makes it an ideal destination for group gatherings. Words like “positive addition to Madison,” “friendly employees,” and “perfect for hanging out” appear frequently, reinforcing the cafe's reputation as a welcoming environment suited to a variety of occasions, from casual meetups to celebratory events. The combination of thoughtful THC dosage options, tasty infused treats, and inclusive, knowledgeable staff often makes group coordination seamless and enjoyable. As a result, groups feel encouraged to linger longer, share experiences, and create memories in a setting that values connection and relaxation equally.
The High Crowd Cafe is much more than a coffee shop—it’s a community-driven, culturally forward venue that invites friends and family to explore cannabis in a social, fun, and responsible way. Its unique product line, combined with an inviting atmosphere and focus on inclusivity, crafts an experience that appeals to both cannabis connoisseurs and the curious alike, making it a perfect rallying spot for groups looking to unwind and bond.