The staff is very accommodating and knowledgeable. I needed a strain that was good for pain relief, the bud tender knew exactly what I needed. They explained to me how certain strains and the turpines act, and how helpful the strain I picked might be. They explained what effects I could expect, noting one strain may Knock me out, while another helps with pain and would help with my energy levels. I will note that at one point there was an employee that was very loud and abrasive, however she no longer seems to be there. Everyone there has been nothing but respectful, attentive and courteous. The shop is clean, and they have a really good selection of both weed products as well as glass to choose from. No waiting outside in the cold like some other places I've been. This is the place I recommend to anyone visiting from out of town.

Ratings and reviews of Stage One Dispensary - Albany
I live within the delivery range of Stage One but far enough out that driving to Rensselaer can be a real time taker. I tried the "Delivery" option and they were so accommodating. They called me back to make sure they had the correct address, and assured me my order had gone through. Very polite and professional - thank you so much Stage One.
I have been here once before my visit today. While the first time I just did a pick up (which was extremely easy and quick). today I actually browsed their amazing selection as well had a wonderful talk with one of the bud tenders about the water pipes that they had available. The staff are very nice and knowledgeable, one of them actually took the time out of their very busy day to explain how gravity water pipes works! Amazing place found my new number one spot!
NIce! I didn't take the time to look around since I pre-ordered thru leafly. What I saw was so much nicer than...an area dispensary known for having to wait outside. What little I checked-out was well-presented, colorful, cheery, and well-lit. My kind-of-specific mental health needs (lemon haze related for autism) were satisfied at non-"pretty bud" vanity prices with a "ready-to-roll" product. So great to be able to research and find suitable products and not have to be "satisfied" with whatever is in the baggie.
Visiting Stage One has been such a privilege. From my first visit it has been nothing but cool people, great service and great quality of life. Fellow colleagues and customers have high regards for their products as well as the quality of service in both front and back of house. I can’t say enough good things about this company, definitely check them out if you’re in the capital region!
Great place, awesome location just outside of the city of Albany, first time was a great experience and so was the second. Really happy to see Rythm brand strains; the different durban's, the sour diesel and the Jack Herer. Everything is excellent! When you have a spinal cord injury this stuff is the medicine you need to help with pain and insomnia!
Lovely space, So much to look at! Unique glass pieces, gravity hookahs, fun vintage memorabilia , and of course, the weed! Staff is friendly and eager to help. Budget isn't an issue here, the budtenders can find the best deal for whatever you're looking for, they know the menu and the prices, they can help you find the right thing for you and your wallet. These people are in this business because they are truly passionate about cannabis and all the wonderful benefits of it, It's nice to find a spot that feels like a friends house, instead of a bank or apple store.
Love the budtenders here, they know what they are talking about and love the atmosphere! Plus my order was ready to pickup super fast.
This is hands down the best dispensary I’ve been to on the east coast . From the moment you walk in you’re just immersed in such a positive environment. All of the budtenders are very patient, understanding & most importantly very knowledgeable on the product they are selling (which I can’t say for most ) wether you’re an experienced smoker or just trying for the first time this is definitely where you wanna be. ( btw almost any price range has a good value for what your paying ) :)
Seeds in my last purchase, yikes! I'm not sure I believe the potency labels either! I've bought about 5 different strains so far. Only 1 lived up to it's review on Leafy. I will keep trying though because what's the alternative? But SEEDS (in Sticky Buns), come on now!
Hands down the most knowledgeable and experienced dispensary staff in the capital region. Cool store vibes, nice selection, great music. My budtender (Ryan? Brian? Something like that) was extremely knowledgeable and very clearly experienced in the cannabis industry, which was a really nice change of pace from other dispensaries in the area.
Best dispensary in NYS! Bud tenders are super chill. Everyone seems pretty cool! Won't go anywhere else.
Best bud tenders in the state so helpful and nice
Good service
Great dispensary with extremely helpful stuff that’s willing to answer any questions and guide you! There’s great variety and quality of products!
Stage One Dispensary is great. The staff are excellent and the atmosphere is happy, warm and positive. Always a good time. Great selection as well Happy to have them!
Wonderful people and real good product!!
Amazing atmosphere And knowledgeable budtenders.
Bought from them at the farmers market. All i wanted was something good and i was given stuff that smells like hay. This will not even be smoked. Shame on you leal for getting away with selling absolute mids. Also budtenders, be honest if it isnt good just say it i would have got something else
Had a great experience visiting this storefront. Quality of service was outstanding. Product is good.
I had amazing experience in this store. All the bud tender in the shop they were very helpful to find what I wanted and waiting time for my order was fast even I had lots of different items. High quality NY grown weeds and amazing local dispensary. I’ll definitely come back again when my weed jar is empty:)
Super nice employees! Off street parking.
Just some really good people.
Bought some pre rolls and this was totally not weed. Don't buy