I live about ten minutes from the mall, so Ascend Chicago Ridge became “my spot” this year. I’ve been in on busy Saturdays, quiet Tuesday mornings, and one very snowy night. I’ve used the online order, the lobby line, and even had a return once. So yeah, I’ve got thoughts. If you want the nitty-gritty on another visit, I also wrote up this expanded walkthrough of Ascend Chicago Ridge.
First Impressions: Clean, Bright, Safe
The parking lot is easy. A guard checks IDs at the door. No stress there. The lobby is bright and tidy. Music is low, and the staff talk like real people, not robots. I like that. It feels open and calm, even when the line bends a bit.
Wait time? It swings. One Tuesday at 11 a.m., I was in and out in 12 minutes. On a Saturday around 3 p.m., I waited 25 minutes. Not forever, but bring patience. Or order ahead. Online pickup has saved me more than once.
The People Make It
Jazmine helped me twice. She explained terpenes (the smell stuff) in simple words. She asked about what I wanted to feel, not just what I wanted to buy. That mattered. Miguel walked me through carts and warned me about a leaky batch they had last month. Honesty counts.
One time my edible dose was wrong in the bag—5 mg instead of 2 mg. I noticed in the car, went back in, and they fixed it fast. They also tossed me a small discount for the trouble. Stuff happens. How they handle it tells you a lot.
What I Bought (And Actually Used)
- Aeriz flower, “Jenny Kush,” 3.5g: Bright lemon smell, smooth grind, clean burn. I felt clear and chatty, not stuck to the couch. Worked for a slow Sunday clean-up and a long, easy playlist. Price was high, but the quality hit right.
- RYTHM 1g vape cart, “Purple Punch”: Warm grape taste, not harsh. Two pulls and my shoulders dropped. I used it after work while cooking. No foggy hangover. My 510 battery fit fine.
- Mindy’s Gummies, 5 mg, Lush Black Cherry: Tart, not weird. Half a gummy took the edge off my back after I sat too long at my desk. A full one made sleep come easy. I woke up fine, no heavy head.
- Dogwalkers mini pre-rolls: Quick, neat, and done. I lit one while pacing my block after dinner. The cone didn’t canoe. It also didn’t blast me into space. Nice for a short break.
I also grabbed a Revolution RSO syringe once for a rough week with back pain. Tiny rice-sized dose. Earthy taste (not great), strong effect (very real). I slept like a rock.
Prices, Taxes, and That Oof at the Register
Let’s be real. Illinois taxes bite. My cart showed about $120. After tax, it was just under $150. I winced. For a clear breakdown of how Illinois cannabis taxes stack up—and why they sting—check out the charts at ARECO. That’s normal here.
For the official state rates straight from the source, see the Illinois Department of Revenue’s page on cannabis taxes.
They take cash and debit. The debit “ATM” fee was a few bucks, so cash wins if you can plan ahead.
They do have a points program. After three visits, I used points for $10 off. The text alerts help too. Some days they run simple deals, like a few bucks off certain brands. Not huge, but it helps.
Ordering, Stock, and One Little Snag
Pre-order online worked well for me. When I hit “pickup,” they usually had it ready in about 10–20 minutes. Once the site showed a strain that was gone by the time I got there. They called me, offered options, and matched the price with something close. Not perfect, but fair.
They don’t let you smell jars (state rules). So you chase labels and reviews. Ask for terpene ranges if that matters to you. Staff will tell you which batches felt “loud” or “sleepy,” which helps a lot.
Returns and Fixes
You can’t return opened weed. That’s the law. If you’re curious which sections of state legislation set those boundaries, skim this plain-language overview of the Illinois Cannabis Regulation and Tax Act before your first visit.
But I did swap a leaky cart within a week. I had the box and receipt. No drama. They tested it, nodded, and grabbed a new one. I left happy.
Small Things That Matter
- Access: Easy parking, ramp out front, wide counter space.
- Crowd: Mix of older folks, workers in scrubs, and first-timers. Everyone minds their business.
- Vibe: No hard sell. If you say “I want mellow,” they stay in that lane. Bless. Craving a breezy rooftop later? I had mixed feelings about the scene at Sunroof Chicago—worth a read before you commit. Feeling extra social after your sesh? You can scroll through these free local sex apps to see who’s nearby and up for hanging—no subscription fees or endless swiping required. Headed overseas soon and still want that same on-demand connection? Browse the locally focused listings at Backpage Lebanon to scope out nightlife hangouts, private events, and people open to meeting up—handy intel that keeps your vibe rolling even when you’re far from home.
What Could Be Better
- Weekend lines can stretch. Staff moves fast, but volume is volume.
- Some top-shelf stuff sells out by late afternoon. If you want a specific strain, go earlier.
- The debit fee adds up over time. I wish they’d lower it.
Tips From My Visits
- Order ahead when you can. It cuts the wait.
- Bring cash for the fee and for speed.
- Check your bag before you walk out. Count items, check doses.
- Ask about terpenes. Say what you want to feel. Be plain and honest.
- If you’re new, start with low-dose edibles or a light pre-roll. Write down what worked.
- If you’re planning a whole weekend in the city, my notes on affordable stays near Grant Park can help you crash close to the action without bleeding your wallet.
Final Word: Worth It, With Eyes Open
Ascend Chicago Ridge feels steady and kind. The staff knows their stuff. The store runs clean. The prices are high, but that’s the state, not just them. I keep going back because I leave with what I need and no weird pressure. And if the munchies hit afterward, check out my rundown of the best sushi in Chicago—a spicy tuna roll pairs surprisingly well with a mellow indica.
Score? I’d call it a strong 4 out of 5. If they smooth weekend waits and keep more fan-favorite strains in stock, it’s an easy 4.5. Would I send my cousin who’s nervous to shop the first time? Yep. I already did. She slept great, by the way.