Bud's Glass Joint

Bud's Glass Joint has been serving downtown Phoenix since 2012, and the word around town is that it's earned every bit of its reputation as one of the highest-rated smoke shops in the area. Regulars will tell you this is the spot in DTPHX to pick up glass, vapes, cigarettes and a whole lot more. The place is fully stocked, and the layout is part of the fun, with art covering the walls and a trendy feel that fits right in with the neighborhood. Ask anyone who shops here and the staff comes up first.

People rave about the service, and names like Greg and Sheena get mentioned by folks who keep coming back. Greg has a reputation for taking his time to walk newcomers through everything in the shop, and Sheena is the one to ask about the incense collection and a good story. One person put it simply after their first visit: best customer service from someone who doesn't expect you to buy a thing. There's a point system you can sign up for that unlocks solid discounts, plus an ATM inside for convenience.

The selection covers glass pipes and water pipes, vapes and disposables, vaporizers, cigars, rolling papers, hookah and shisha, and all the accessories you'd expect. Locals hunting for pieces from Arizona glass makers have had good luck here, and if what's on display isn't quite it, the tip is to ask about what's kept under the counter. Bud's stays open during First Friday Art Walk nights, which makes it an easy stop if you're already downtown. Parking can be tricky, but there's free parking on Fifth and lots behind the shop.

We've heard the occasional grumble about someone stepping away from the counter, but the overwhelming sense around Phoenix is that this is a genuine local favorite worth a visit.